Riders celebrate 105 years of Harley

MILWAUKEE, Aug. 30 (UPI) -- Thousands of hog-straddling Harley-Davidson enthusiasts rolled through Milwaukee Saturday, celebrating the 105th anniversary of the classic American motorcycle.

They paraded along the lakefront and cruised between the Summerfest grounds and Veterans Park, cheered on by non-riders who appreciated the motorcycle's history, not to mention the influx of spending by the bikers, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported.

Vannettsa Valentine of Milwaukee was slapping hands with bikers who drove past her.

"I've lost count of where they all come from," she said. "I wanted to welcome them to Milwaukee."

The bikers -- from across the United States -- were in many cases gaily attired. Some wore green-and-white wigs, fur hats and Viking helmets while one wore a tuxedo and another sported a Betty Boop outfit.

They gave out candy and beads, blew bubbles and waved flags indicating where they were from.

Among the riders was Willie G. Davidson, head of the company's styling department.

"Awesome atmosphere," said 12-year-old Teriana Carter. "I love the motorcycles and the different flags."

The day's events were to be capped by a concert by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band.