Motorcycles recognized as part of American History

The first of 85 million classic "American Motorcycles" commemorative stamps were revealed August 7 at the 66th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The stamps are available for purchase starting today.

We may never see a Gold Wing Stamp being the parent company is based in Japan.  However, the Gold Wing is made here in Ohio along with many other Honda products that are built by americans and ridden by americans.  We felt this article was still very interesting based on the fact our US Postal Service has never had a motorcycle stamp of any kind before now.  Finally motorcycles are recognized as part of our american history.

Heres what the US Postal Service came out with for the first time in our history, motorcycles are indeed a part of our american culture.  With current gas prices that can only grow larger.

The 1918 Cleveland, 1940 Indian Four and 1965 Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide that modeled for the stamps were showcased in Sturgis. The fourth stamp, depicting a circa 1970 Chopper, was computer generated by a stamp artist.

1918 CLEVELAND

This single-cylinder cycle was built by the Cleveland Motorcycle Manufacturing Co. of Cleveland, OH. Advertisements claimed this 2.5- horsepower, single-cylinder motor could travel 75 miles on a gallon of gas and reach speeds of up to 40 mph. Weighing around 150 lbs. and selling for $175, the Cleveland was both lightweight and affordable, making it a popular motorcycle for its time. The Cleveland A2 that modeled for the stamp is owned by Penny Nickerson of Long Island, NY, and was used for dispatch duty in World War I.

1940 INDIAN FOUR

This 1940 four-cylinder streamlined bike features skirted fenders that partially covered the wheels, a controversial design innovation that soon became an Indian motorcycle trademark.

1965 HARLEY-DAVIDSON ELECTRA-GLIDE

With features such as whitewall tires, extensive chrome, large fenders and spacious fiberglass saddlebags, the Harley-Davidson featured on this stamp is considered by many to be one of the company's most iconic motorcycles

1970 CHOPPER

The circa 1970 chopper featured on this stamp was "invented" on a computer by the stamp artist in consultation with professional chopper builders. Although lacking various safety features such as mirrors and turn signals that are usually required under current laws, this chopper would have been legal to ride circa 1970.

The digital illustrations featured on the American Motorcycles stamps were created by Steve Buchanan of Winsted, CT. The illustrations are based on existing restored motorcycles, reference photographs and consultation with owners and experts. Some colors and design features have been altered for artistic purposes or to maintain historical accuracy.