Bike Company Names and Logos - Origins, History, Explanation

The logo and name are enough for petrolheads to identify the best-performing two-wheelers. Bike enthusiasts or not, some bike companies are so famous that everyone recognizes them. These logos and names are what make these bike companies distinct and popular. 

But, if you call yourself a true bike aficionado, you might be curious to know the story behind your favourite bike company's logo and name. This article enlists four leading bike companies and the history and explanation behind their names and logos!

Also Read: Most Expensive Bikes in the World: From Vintage Collectibles to a Sculpture on Wheels - List 2022

Harley Davidson

Harley Davidson's logo has undergone several changes since the first Harley motorbike was introduced in 1910. But all the designs bear that beautifully crafted shield in the centre with the letter bar spelling out Harley Davidson. The winged version did not appear until 1934, with spread out eagle wings, signifying emancipation and freedom to go wherever the bike takes you.  

But regardless of the version, the logo has attained cult status across the world with many fans even tattoing it on their bodies.

Photo Credit: unsplash.com

Ducati

This bike company has the most elegant name and logo in the auto industry. The brand was founded in 1925 by Antonio Cavalieri Ducati and his three sons. It's not very hard to comprehend that the name ‘Ducati' comes after its founders.

The initial Ducati logo features two ‘S' characters that cross each other over standing an electricity symbol. The company started with radio capacitors. Expansion and growth inspired a change in the logo—the new logo in 1931 features ‘Ducati' within a rectangle.

The Ducati logo has a contemporary appeal that looks like an inverted red-coloured triangle. Within the triangle lies the Ducati inscription with a flashy curve line. This curve line represents the speedster abilities of Ducati's bikes.

Photo Credit: wallpapercave.com

BMW

BMW's clever naming and logo design has set the benchmark for the rest of the players in the auto industry. Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH is the full form of BMW, which means Bavarian Engine Works Company. The name comes from BMW's origin in the German state of Bavaria. The term also indicates the brand's original product offering – engines for different applications.

It is worth mentioning that BMW didn't have a logo in its initial periods. The BMW logo represents white propeller blades in a blue sky. In a nutshell, it is a reminder that the brand started as a manufacturer of military aircraft engines. Moreover, the use of white and blue is also associated with the brand's roots in Bavaria.

Photo Credit: unsplash.com

Now not only can you identify famous bike brand logos and names, but you are also aware of all the history behind them!