Harley-Davidson first used its famous Bar & Shield logo in 1910.
The emblem became one of the most recognizable symbols in motorcycling. Its basic design places the word “Harley-Davidson” inside a horizontal bar crossing a shield, creating a compact mark that could be applied to motorcycles, advertising, parts, and later merchandise.
The logo appeared after the company had already begun manufacturing motorcycles but before Harley-Davidson became a dominant national brand. It helped establish a consistent visual identity as the company expanded its dealer network and promoted its motorcycles across the United States.
The Bar & Shield is often confused with the company’s later eagle imagery and other model-specific graphics. Those designs are also strongly associated with Harley-Davidson, but the Bar & Shield remains the company’s core corporate emblem. Its long use is one reason the logo is closely linked with the brand’s historical identity.