Informative Speech 9-15-2020

Question 1

Title, Attention Getter

Answer 1

For the Love of Harley Davidson.

It’s recognizable. Distinctive, guttural with a rumble that vibrates you to the core. (Audio clip - HD rumble)

Question 2

Specific Purpose

Answer 2

To Inform the Audience on the History of Harley-Davidson Motorcycles.

Question 3

Central Idea

Answer 3

From very humble beginnings, H-D has grown into one of the largest motorcycle mfgs in the world.

Question 4

Credibility

Answer 4

I visited the Harley-Davidson Museum in MKE, WI 6 years ago and fell in love. And after becoming a women ride and purchasing my 2nd motorcycle, I’ve become immersed in the culture and lifestyle of Harley-Davidson.

Question 5

Preview

Answer 5

Today I want to share some significant dates throughout HD history and show you how the bikes have progressed over the years.

So get your helmet and goggles on and let’s ride!

Question 6

Main I

Answer 6

The first ever blueprint design of an engine built for a bicycle was created by William S. Harley in 1901. This little shed in a friend’s backyard was the start of Harley-Davidson.

Question 7

Sub-point 1

Answer 7

It wasn’t until 2 years later, that the 1st H-D Motorcycle was introduced to the public. Created by WS Harley and Arthur Davidson, Serial Number One was unveiled to the public in 1903. This was the model that started it all.

Question 8

Sub-point 2

Answer 8

By 1909, H-D introduced the V-Twin Engine for their motorcycles. It was a 45 cu. in. engine that produced a whopping 7 horsepower. More over, this engine paved the way for the V-Twin engine that is on every Harley today.

Question 9

Sub-point 3

Answer 9

You probably recognize this symbol. The iconic bar & shield logo was first used in 1910 and then patented a year later.

Question 10

Sub-point 4

Answer 10

10 years later, in 1929, H-D created their 1st series the D Series. These sported the 45 cu.in. engine that eventually became known as the Flathead.

Question 11

Sub-point 5

Answer 11

Between 1939-1941, Harley introduced the UL Model. These bikes had more robust engines in both a 74 cu.in. and 80 cu.inc. V-Twins AND they added a 4-speed transmission.

Question 12

Main point 2 - Modern Era

Answer 12

Starting in the 1950’s, Designs became more advanced, streamlined and had more engine choice.

Question 13

Sub-point 1

Answer 13

1952-1956, after WWII, when civilian motorcycle mfg. could begin again, H-D launched the K-Model. This new design was lighter on a new frame and had a newly engineered engine that ran cooler. These bikes also were the 1st to have rear suspension.

Question 14

Sub-point 2

Answer 14

The X Series was launched in 1957 and became widely popular. Also known as the Sportster, this motorcycle was easier to handle, more economical and had a huge variety of engine sizes. This quickly became one of the most popular Harley-Davidson motorcycles and is still that way today.

Question 15

Sub-point 3

Answer 15

Following the same-handling and power line as the Sportster, The FX Superglide hit the market in 1971. Created by Willie G. Davidson, the Superglide was built on a stripped down touring chassis and featured custom-paint. This FX platform was constantly changing over the next 3 decades until mfg. discontinued in 2018.

Question 16

Sub-point 4

Answer 16

1984 brought us the famed Softail models to the H-D stable. With hidden shocks and rear suspension un the bike mount and huge hydraulic forks in the front, the Softail was made for cruising. Quite a bit has changed with today’s Softail - namely with the introduction of the Softail slim (this is my baby.) New frame, lighter weight and one big mono-shock under the seat.

Question 17

Sub-point 5

Answer 17

The last model was the Touring bikes in the 80’s. 1980 Harley introduced the ‘Tour Guide’ with it’s saddle bags, the trunk option and super comfy seating. These bikes are the luxury ride of the motorcycles. Today you can some similarities, for instance with the 2020 Road Glide with the shark nose front, larger saddle bags and the tour-pack trunk, these bikes can be customized and set up for any long road trip in style.

Question 18

Conclusion

Answer 18

As you can see, Harley-Davidson has evolved and grown over the almost 1 1/4 centuries, starting from the motorized bicycle to some of the most sought-after motorcycles in the world. A lot may has changed over the years, but one thing remains the same - “Live to Ride, Ride to Live.’