Big Dog Motorcycles was an American manufacturer of semi-custom, mid-priced motorcycles, based in Wichita, Kansas. The company was founded in 1994. In 2006, Big Dog manufactured its 20,000th motorcycle. Financial problems forced the company to close in 2011.
Big Dog produced a single motorcycle in its first year, affectionately known as “Old Smokey”; its over-sized fenders and classic cruiser style would point the way for all of the company’s later products. By 1997, the company had reached $2 million in sales, and in 2000, the company had expanded so much that a move to a new, 110,000-square-foot (10,000 m2) factory and world headquarters (since expanded to 175,000 square feet) was required. As of 2007, the company had over 100 associated dealers, and employed over 300 people. All of their current motorcycles utilize S&S V-twin engines, 6-speed transmission, one-piece fuel tank, wide rear tires, and extensive use of chromed components.
Big Dog produced a single motorcycle in its first year, affectionately known as “Old Smokey”; its over-sized fenders and classic cruiser style would point the way for all of the company’s later products. By 1997, the company had reached $2 million in sales, and in 2000, the company had expanded so much that a move to a new, 110,000-square-foot (10,000 m2) factory and world headquarters (since expanded to 175,000 square feet) was required. As of 2007, the company had over 100 associated dealers, and employed over 300 people. All of their current motorcycles utilize S&S V-twin engines, 6-speed transmission, one-piece fuel tank, wide rear tires, and extensive use of chromed components.
