The history of motorcycles began in the late 19th century with the invention of a steam-powered velocipede by Sylvester Roper in 1867. By the early 20th century, Harley-Davidson had become the largest motorcycle manufacturer, selling their motorcycles in 67 countries by 1920 after being founded in 1903 by William Harley and the Davidson brothers. Indian and Harley-Davidson were the last remaining American motorcycle manufacturers by 1931, in a two-company rivalry that lasted until 1953 when Indian closed and Royal Enfield took over the Indian name.

1. Bike ride
The history of the motorcycle begins in the second half of the 19th century.

2. American Sylvester Howard Roper (1823-1896) invented a two-cylinder,
steam-powered velocipede in 1867.

3. The first company to construct bicycles with pedals called velocipede.

4. By 1920, Harley-Davidson became the largest manufacturer, with their motorcycle
being sold by dealers in 67 countries.

5. In 1903, William Harley and his friend Arthur and Walter Davidson
Launched the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

6. By 1931, Indian and Harley-Davidson were the
only two American manufacturers producing
commercial Motorcycle.

7. This two-company rivalry in the United States remained until 1953.

8. When the Indian Motorcycle Factory in Springfield, Massachusetts closed
and Royal Enfield took over the Indian name.