August …the 1960’s
• 1970: On the Bonneville Salt Flats, the world record for land speed by a motorcycle is set on a 16 foot Streamliner powered by a single Sportster engine, and averaged just over 265 mph.
• 1971: Dec 24th…the world welcomes Julio Valdenegro III…yep, our “Julio”. In response to the customization craze, Harley-Davidson introduces the FX 1200 Super Glide combining the XL front end with the frame and powertrain of the FL series…and the Cruiser class was born. The first year of Harley-Davidson snowmobile production.
• 1973: Motorcycle production is upgraded when all assembly operations are moved to a modern 400,000 SF plant in York PA. All other production operations remain in Milwaukee and Tomahawk. The Capital Drive plant in Milwaukee begins production of engines.
• 1977: Harley-Davidson introduces the FXS Low Rider to the public. So named for placing the rider in a lower seating configuration that in the past with drag style handlebars.
• 1979: Introduction of the FXEF Fat Bob…”Fat” because of the dual gas tanks, and “Bob” for the bobbed fenders.