Harley-Davidson is one of the world's most famous motorcycle companies. It began in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1903, when William Harley and the Davidson brothers started building motorcycles in a small wooden shed. Their early motorcycles were simple, but the company continued to develop its designs and increase production.

Harley-Davidson became famous for its powerful engine, distinctive sound, and reliable motorcycles. Motorcycle racing also helped the company build a strong reputation. Over time, Harley-Davidson motorcycles became associated with the open road, freedom, adventure, and independence.

After the Second World War, American motorcycle culture became increasingly popular. Motorcycle clubs appeared across the United States, and the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club was founded in California in 1948. Harley-Davidson motorcycles became strongly associated with the biker culture of the period.

However, Harley-Davidson and the Hells Angels are separate organizations. Harley-Davidson is a motorcycle manufacturer, while the Hells Angels is a motorcycle club. The Hells Angels developed a controversial reputation because of criminal activities involving some members. This helped create an image of motorcycles, rebellion, danger, and outlaw culture.

For Harley-Davidson, this connection was both useful and complicated. The image of freedom and rebellion attracted customers, but the company also needed to avoid being defined by criminal stereotypes. Today, Harley-Davidson has a broader identity based on riding, travel, friendship, community, and personal customization.

Harley-Davidson produces motorcycles for different purposes. Some are designed for touring and long-distance travel, while others are better for everyday riding. Riders can customize their motorcycles by changing parts such as the seat, exhaust, handlebars, or paint.

For someone buying a motorcycle, style is not the only consideration. Maintenance, insurance, fuel consumption, weight, comfort, and safety are also important. A powerful motorcycle may look impressive, but a beginner might prefer a smaller and lighter model.

Buying a used motorcycle can save money, but the buyer should check the engine, brakes, tires, service history, and overall condition carefully.

For many riders, motorcycles are more than transportation. They represent freedom, independence, adventure, and personal identity. Harley-Davidson's history shows how a small American company became a global symbol of motorcycle culture.

2. VOCABULARY MATCH — PART A

Match the words with the correct meanings.

Words	Meanings
1. engine	a. A person who rides a motorcycle
2. touring	b. The process of making products
3. reliable	c. The part of a motorcycle that produces power
4. biker	d. Changing something to suit your personal taste
5. customization	e. Travelling long distances, especially by motorcycle
6. production	f. A two-wheeled vehicle with an engine
7. shed	g. A small building used for storing things or working
8. maintenance	h. The general opinion people have about someone or something
9. reputation	i. Regular work needed to keep a vehicle in good condition
10. motorcycle	j. Able to be trusted to work correctly

3. VOCABULARY MATCH — PART B

Match the words with the correct meanings.

Words	Meanings
1. develop	a. A motorcycle that was owned by someone else
2. identity	b. The ability to make your own decisions
3. open road	c. To change or improve something over time
4. used	d. A person who purchases something
5. freedom	e. The way a person or group sees itself
6. safety	f. A road or journey with few restrictions
7. rebellion	g. Resistance against rules or authority
8. powerful	h. Protection from danger or injury
9. independence	i. Having a lot of strength
10. buyer	j. The ability to act without depending on others

4. SYNONYM MATCH

Match the words with the correct synonyms.

Words	Synonyms
1. reliable	a. famous
2. powerful	b. purchaser
3. reputation	c. dependable
4. maintenance	d. self-rule
5. freedom	e. strong
6. buyer	f. upkeep
7. develop	g. identity
8. famous	h. improve
9. independence	i. liberty
10. identity	j. image

5. HARLEY-DAVIDSON TIMELINE

Put these events in the correct order.

A. Harley-Davidson becomes a global motorcycle brand.

B. William Harley and the Davidson brothers begin building motorcycles.

C. The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club is founded in California.

D. Harley-Davidson becomes associated with American biker culture.

E. Harley-Davidson increases its production.

F. Harley-Davidson becomes famous for its motorcycles and distinctive image.

Discuss

Which event was most important?
Which event changed motorcycle culture the most?
Which period of Harley-Davidson's history would you like to experience?

6. MOTORCYCLE PARTS

Match each motorcycle part with its function.

Part	Function
1. engine	a. Helps the rider steer
2. brakes	b. Holds fuel
3. handlebars	c. Produces power
4. tires	d. Protects the rider's head
5. fuel tank	e. Helps the motorcycle stop
6. seat	f. Allows the rider to sit
7. exhaust	g. Carries gases away from the engine
8. helmet	h. Touch the road and provide grip

SPEAKING

Choose three motorcycle parts.

Explain:

What they do
Why they are important
What could happen if they were damaged

7. WHAT KIND OF MOTORCYCLE WOULD YOU BUY?

Imagine you are buying your first motorcycle.

A. CRUISER

A large motorcycle with a relaxed riding position.

Good for: comfort, style, and long rides.

B. NAKED BIKE

A simple motorcycle with relatively little bodywork.

Good for: city riding and everyday use.

C. TOURING MOTORCYCLE

A motorcycle designed for long-distance travel.

Good for: road trips and travelling.

D. SPORT BIKE

A motorcycle designed mainly for speed and performance.

Good for: fast riding and sharp handling.

E. ADVENTURE BIKE

A motorcycle designed for roads and less-developed surfaces.

Good for: travel and exploration.

F. CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE

A motorcycle with a traditional or old-fashioned design.

Good for: style and motorcycle culture.

DISCUSS

Which type interests you most?
Which would be best for city riding?
Which would be best for travelling around Spain?
Which would be easiest for a beginner?
Which would probably be the most expensive?
Which would attract the most attention?
Which would you feel safest riding?
Which motorcycle best matches your personality?

8. BUYING YOUR FIRST MOTORCYCLE

You have €8,000 to spend.

You have four choices.

OPTION A

A new motorcycle for €7,500.

OPTION B

A five-year-old Harley-Davidson for €7,000.

OPTION C

A €4,500 used motorcycle from another manufacturer.

OPTION D

An €8,000 Harley-Davidson with very high mileage.

Your decision

Choose one option.

Explain:

Why did you choose it?
What are the advantages?
What are the disadvantages?
What risks are you accepting?
What would you check before buying?
What would you do with any money left over?

9. THE USED MOTORCYCLE PROBLEM

You are looking at a used motorcycle.

The seller says:

"It's in perfect condition. You can buy it today."

But you notice:

The tires look old.
The engine makes a strange noise.
The service history is incomplete.
The brakes feel weak.
There are scratches on the fuel tank.
The motorcycle has very high mileage.
The seller cannot clearly explain why they are selling it.

What would you do?

Choose one:

A. Buy it immediately

B. Ask for a lower price

C. Take it to a mechanic

D. Ask for more documents

E. Walk away

Explain your decision.

10. HARLEY-DAVIDSON AND THE HELLS ANGELS

Harley-Davidson and the Hells Angels have one of the most famous connections in motorcycle culture.

The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club was founded in California in 1948. Harley-Davidson motorcycles became strongly associated with the club and with the wider image of the American outlaw biker.

However, Harley-Davidson and the Hells Angels are separate organizations.

Harley-Davidson is a motorcycle manufacturer.

The Hells Angels is a motorcycle club.

The connection developed because Harley-Davidson motorcycles were widely used by members of motorcycle clubs and became part of the visual image of American biker culture.

This created a powerful image of:

Freedom
Rebellion
Leather jackets
Large motorcycles
Tattoos
Long roads
Independence
Adventure

However, the Hells Angels also developed a controversial reputation because of criminal activities involving some members.

This means that the image of the Harley-Davidson biker can be complicated. For some people, it represents freedom and adventure. For others, it represents danger and rebellion.

Today, Harley-Davidson has a much broader image. Its customers include people who simply enjoy motorcycles, travelling, customization, friendship, and the experience of riding.

DISCUSS

Why do you think motorcycles became symbols of rebellion?
Why did Harley-Davidson become connected with this image?
Does riding a Harley-Davidson make someone a rebel?
Can a company control how customers use its products?
Do you think the Hells Angels connection helped Harley-Davidson?
Could the connection also damage the company's image?
Why are people sometimes attracted to rebellious lifestyles?
Can something be both dangerous and attractive?

11. MYTH OR REALITY?

Decide if each statement is TRUE, FALSE, or NOT GIVEN according to the reading.

Harley-Davidson began in Milwaukee.
The first motorcycles were built in a large factory.
Harley-Davidson started in the early 1900s.
The Hells Angels was founded in California.
Harley-Davidson and the Hells Angels are the same organization.
Harley-Davidson became associated with biker culture.
Every Harley-Davidson rider belongs to a motorcycle club.
Harley-Davidson only produces touring motorcycles.
A motorcycle buyer should think about maintenance and safety.
A used motorcycle can be cheaper than a new one.

Follow-up

Choose two statements and explain your answers.

12. DESIGN YOUR DREAM MOTORCYCLE

Imagine that a motorcycle company has asked you to design a new motorcycle.

ENGINE

Small / Medium / Large

STYLE

Classic / Modern / Aggressive / Elegant

SEAT

One person / Two people

MAIN USE

City / Touring / Adventure / Weekend riding

SPECIAL FEATURES

Choose three:

GPS
Heated grips
Large storage boxes
Bluetooth
Phone holder
Cruise control
Advanced safety system
Automatic transmission
Low fuel consumption
Adjustable seat

COMPLETE THE PROFILE

Motorcycle name: __________________

Price: __________________

Engine size: __________________

Target customer: __________________

Main advantage: __________________

Main disadvantage: __________________

PRESENT YOUR MOTORCYCLE TO THE CLASS.

13. THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON BUSINESS CHALLENGE

Imagine you work for Harley-Davidson.

Young people are increasingly interested in different types of transport, and you need to attract a younger generation of riders.

Choose THREE strategies.

A. Make smaller motorcycles.

B. Reduce prices.

C. Develop more electric motorcycles.

D. Improve smartphone technology.

E. Create motorcycles designed for city riding.

F. Offer cheaper financing.

G. Organize motorcycle trips for younger riders.

H. Create more modern designs.

I. Work with motorcycle influencers.

J. Offer beginner riding courses.

K. Create a motorcycle-sharing service.

L. Keep the traditional Harley-Davidson image.

Your task

Explain:

Why would your ideas attract younger riders?
How much might they cost?
What problems could they create?
Would they change Harley-Davidson's traditional identity?

14. ROLE PLAY: BUYING A MOTORCYCLE

STUDENT A — THE BUYER

You want to buy your first motorcycle.

You have €7,000.

You want:

A reliable motorcycle
Something comfortable
Good appearance
Reasonable maintenance costs
Something suitable for Barcelona

You are worried about buying something too powerful.

Your objective:

Find the best motorcycle for your needs.

STUDENT B — THE MOTORCYCLE DEALER

You want to sell the buyer an expensive motorcycle.

You believe it is:

Powerful
Beautiful
Reliable
Comfortable
Perfect for long trips

However, it is above the buyer's budget.

Your objective:

Convince the buyer to spend more.

STUDENT C — THE MECHANIC

You do not care about appearance.

You care about:

Engine condition
Tires
Brakes
Maintenance
Mileage
Safety

Your objective:

Make sure the buyer does not make a bad decision.

15. SHOULD YOU BUY A HARLEY?

Your friend wants to buy a Harley-Davidson as his first motorcycle.

He has never owned a motorcycle before.

He says:

"I don't care about the price. I just want a Harley."

You disagree.

Give your friend advice.

Talk about:

Experience
Engine size
Weight
Insurance
Maintenance
Fuel
Parking
Safety
Riding position
Cost of equipment
Used motorcycles

FINAL DECISION

BUY IT

DON'T BUY IT YET

Explain your recommendation.

16. COMPLETE THE SENTENCES

Word Bank

engine • brakes • helmet • maintenance • tires • touring • reliability • buyer • used • customization • freedom • reputation

The __________ produces the power needed to move the motorcycle.
Good __________ are essential for stopping safely.
A motorcycle rider should always wear a good-quality __________.
Old __________ can be dangerous, especially on wet roads.
Regular __________ can prevent expensive mechanical problems.
A __________ motorcycle may cost less than a new one.
Harley-Davidson has a strong __________ among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Motorcycle __________ allows riders to change the appearance of their bikes.
Some riders choose __________ motorcycles because they want to travel long distances.
A careful __________ should inspect a motorcycle before buying it.
Many people associate motorcycles with personal __________.
A company's __________ can take many years to build.

17. BUILD A MOTORCYCLE BUDGET

You have €10,000.

You want to buy a motorcycle and the equipment you need.

Item	Your Budget
Motorcycle	€________
Helmet	€________
Jacket	€________
Gloves	€________
Boots	€________
Insurance	€________
Maintenance	€________
Security/lock	€________
Emergency money	€________
TOTAL	€10,000

Discuss

Which item deserves the most money?
Where would you try to save money?
Would you buy new or used equipment?
Would you spend all €10,000?
How much emergency money would you keep?
What would you do if the motorcycle suddenly needed a €1,000 repair?

18. MOTORCYCLE SAFETY SCENARIOS

SCENARIO A — THE NEW RIDER

You have just bought your first motorcycle.

Your friend says:

"Let's take it on the motorway tonight. You'll get used to it quickly."

Would you go?

Explain your decision.

SCENARIO B — BAD WEATHER

You planned a 300-kilometre motorcycle trip.

Heavy rain begins after 100 kilometres.

Would you:

A. Continue

B. Stop and wait

C. Find a hotel

D. Turn around

Explain your choice.

SCENARIO C — THE PASSENGER

Your friend wants to ride on the back of your motorcycle.

You have never carried a passenger before.

What should you consider before saying yes?

SCENARIO D — THE PHOTOGRAPH

You stop beside a beautiful road.

Your friend wants to take a photograph while standing in a dangerous position near the road.

What would you do?

Explain why.

19. MOTORCYCLES: FREEDOM OR TRANSPORT?

Divide the class into two groups.

GROUP A — MOTORCYCLES REPRESENT FREEDOM

You believe motorcycles represent:

Freedom
Adventure
Independence
Friendship
Travel
Individuality
Escape from routine

Your task:

Convince the other group that motorcycles are more than transportation.

GROUP B — MOTORCYCLES ARE MAINLY TRANSPORT

You believe motorcycles are primarily practical vehicles.

You argue that they:

Are useful in cities
Can save time
Need less parking space
Can be economical
Are convenient

Your task:

Convince the other group that the romantic image of motorcycles is exaggerated.

20. FINAL DISCUSSION — WOULD YOU BUY A MOTORCYCLE?

Imagine that you have decided to buy your first motorcycle.

You have enough money, you have your licence, and you have completed your training.

Now you must make your final decision.

Discuss:

What type of motorcycle would you buy?
Would you choose Harley-Davidson or another manufacturer?
Would you buy new or used?
What engine size would you choose?
How much would you spend?
Would appearance or reliability be more important?
Would you customize your motorcycle?
Would you ride mainly in the city or outside the city?
Would you take long motorcycle trips?
Would you ride alone or with friends?
Would you join a motorcycle club?
What attracts people to motorcycle culture?
Why do you think Harley-Davidson has survived for more than a century?
Why did Harley-Davidson become connected with rebellion?
Do you think this connection helped or damaged the brand?
Can a motorcycle really represent freedom?
Is owning an expensive motorcycle worth the money?
Would you rather have a beautiful motorcycle or a practical one?
What is most important for a new rider: style, power, comfort, reliability, or safety?
If you could own any motorcycle tomorrow, what would you choose and where would you ride it?