Motorcycles progressively changed over time. In the 19th century, early versions were introduced in Europe and later in the United States, although the first motorcycle was designed by American inventor Sylvester Howard Roper in 1867. Find out more about the history of motorcycles and other interesting facts at la-future.
The popular mode of transport and its history
The first steam motorcycle was presented in 1867 by Sylvester Roper, and within the next ten years, various designs of self-propelled motorcycles were developed. In 1885, Gottlieb Daimler and his colleague Wilhelm Maybach designed the renowned Petroleum.
In the late 1880s, dozens of companies were founded in Germany and the United Kingdom to develop self-driving motorbikes, which quickly expanded to the United States. For example, the first production motorcycle was built at the Charles Metz factory in Waltham, Massachusetts. In 1901, Indian Motorcycle introduced the first motorbike powered by a gas engine.
The most famous American manufacturer was Harley Davidson. Historically, most inventors who began manufacturing motorbikes went on to build cars or other vehicles. Others, for example, William Harley and the Davidson brothers, focused solely on motorcycle production.
First races
The American Federation of Motorcyclists was established in 1903. That year saw the first races. Early models could reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. Later, racetracks were constructed throughout the United States, including in California. Races on paved surfaces were known as speedway, while those on unpaved tracks were known as track races.
After the First World War, wooden tracks became popular. Participants in the race moved faster and required more expensive maintenance. Such competitions resulted in frequent accidents, and occasionally even deaths.
Since then, the American Federation of Motorcyclists has taken steps to improve safety by authorizing official races.
The motorcycle culture
When it comes to the development of Los Angeles, the motorcycle culture is difficult to overlook. It remains a part of the Los Angeles identity. Citizens often hear the sound of several dozen engines roaring in unison.
Being a member of Los Angeles’ motorcycle culture offers a unique experience full of freedom and friendship. Some bikers compare riding a motorcycle in the city to a concert or performance that everyone watches with interest.
There are numerous reasons why motorcycle culture has gained popularity in Los Angeles:
- due to the mild climate, which is warm and dry for most of the year. As a result, the city’s favorable climate makes it ideal for motorcycling.
- the diverse landscape (which includes the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific beaches) makes Los Angeles an ideal destination for exploring new places on a motorcycle.
- there are numerous major motorcycle communities in Los Angeles where you can communicate with other motorbike enthusiasts and share your passion with them. For example, the city’s motorcycle riders arrive in the Crenshaw district and then take the 1190, 91 motorway every Sunday. Then, community members head to “stunt spots,” which are empty streets with no traffic.
- the city occasionally hosts motorcycling events. For example, the 84th Sturgis Black Hills Rally.
In the film and music industry, motorcycles are regarded as a symbol of freedom and rebellion, as well as a way of emphasizing one’s individuality. All of this contributes to their popularity among Los Angeles residents.
As a result, American motorcycles have a long history that continues to evolve to this day.
