HARLEY DAVIDSON MUSEUM

While in Milwaukee in June for a writing conference, I finally managed to make it to the new Harley Davidson Museum. The last time I was in Milwaukee, they had just finished building it and the grand opening wasn’t until the following week so I wasn’t able to go on a tour. Needless to say when we arrived, the parking lot was full of motorcycles, probably mostly Harleys. The building overlooks the river and the sleek and shiny architecture it presents is appropriate for its appearance. There are two restaurants, Motor and Café Racer, serving delicious sandwiches and entrees that are true American Classics. On the outside patio overlooking the river,the décor is all about Harley Davidson motorcycles and engine parts. Exhibits proudly display the start of the Harley Davidson Motorcycle up to current day displays. Rooms filled with antiques from days gone by graduate up to the newest Harleys on the market. The museum encompasses 20 acres of exhibits and displays 450 motorcycles. They offer classes to the motorcycle enthusiasts and rent out space for special events and parties. If you want to experience riding a motorcycle, their is an interactive ride called Jumpstart where you can sample what riding a motorcycle would be like. And if you happen to own a Harley you can belong to a special group of Harley owners called HOGS (Harley Owners Group) and be entitled to special offers and discounts. We can’t forget the gift shop filled with almost anything they can put their Harley logos on ensuring we will want to buy them. Clothes are the most popular mainly shirts, jeans, jackets and boots. I have had the pleasure of knowing many guys who own motorcycles and know first hand how much pride they take in owning a Harley Davidson. It was extremely interesting to walk through the museum and see how the bicycle has evolved into the motorcycles we have today. The paint designs are all extremely unique and the bikes are loaded with chrome and leather. The motorcycle symbolizes freedom to many. Especially men. It allows them to feel the wind on their face and know they can go anywhere. I understand that part, but it also has the stigma of the bad boys which attracts the women seducing them into wanting what they shouldn’t want. Riding on a Harley can be exhilarating but I think it is the danger that keeps me from getting on them very often. One wrong turn by a car or truck driver can be the end to your life, because on a motorcycle the chances of surviving an accident are so very slim. I am sure I will get on one again, but I will never become addicted to riding mototcycles. The idea of the tough guys on the motorcycles is exciting and seductive but the idea of being alive tomorrow is even more enticing.