This book seems to say that Evel K was sponsored by HD, at least at one point around 1971 and
probably throughout most of his career. ???
http://books.google.com/books?id=fBn...age&q=&f=false

I grew up really enjoying watching EK and, I could be wrong but, I seem to remember
a real connection with him and the mention that he rode only Harley etc...
I have no problem believing they sponsored him and were proud of him, and still are,
and that he has had a pretty visible part in their legacy.
I would say he was one of the most visible HD riders of the times.
He really didn't have to be a standup pitchman for the brand.
Just his popularity and the fact he rode HD for his stunts
most likely did have a positive effect on sales for Harley.
I can't think of anybody else that stood out like him.

 

He spent all his bike selling himself, if Honda gave him money he would have rode a Goldwing

 

I seem to remember reading that his favourite jump bike was the Triumph Boneville T120 but Triumph would not sponsor him and that's how he ended up jumping Harley's as they did want to.

 

He was a showman, an actor, he made his living doing stunts. Didn't matter what make of bike he ran.

 

I did not know EK rode Harley's
Shows how much attention I paid to him. Nadda!