BP: Media Impact

My artifact can connect to the media in many ways since it in itself is a product of cultural demand. The Harley Davidson brand has been advertised through posters, commercials, and probably the most impactful- movies. It was the media storm that surrounded the brand and motorcycles as a whole in the 1950s, which got Harley its reputation of rebellious and reckless. The movie The Wild One, that followed this media created stereotype, epitomized the cool, bad boy that motorcycles were meant to appeal to.  Even thought the movie was well received, the label of outlaw did not sit well with previous motorcycle enthusiasts. This media declaration was so powerful that it nearly bankrupted the company. It also gave way to a time where Harley was most strongly associated with biker clubs and outlaws.

Once Harley regained control in the 1980s they fully embraced this corrupt identity that previously plagued them. Their bikes became bigger and flashier than ever. This worked for the brand for several decades until the 2000s. However, with the 21^st century came an entirely different set of values, along with a nostalgic look back to the past. In the late 90s Harley riders had lost their edge, and were more of a way for a lawyer to embrace his wild side than a means of outlaw transportation. The brand used the media to revamp their image, and reinstate the fundamentals that facilitated their creation. Through newspaper articles and websites Harley launched their new line of retro bikes. They were sleek, black, and meant to attract a younger audience.

Clearly the media has accompanied the Harley Davidson brand along ever step of their development. In some ways it hurt sales and production, and in others it has helped these motorcycles to discover the true essence of what it means when the rubber meets the road. Ultimately, the stigmas attributed by the media in the 1950s saved the brand in the 2000s. Without media impact the Harley brand may never have achieved the popularity they now hold today.