A MASSIVE Harley-Davidson dealership has reopened after abruptly closing its doors for several weeks, with customers’ bikes still inside.
The expansive 30,000-square-foot establishment features over 100 Harley-Davidson motorcycles and more than $3.5 million in inventory.
San Jose Harley-Davidson is situated in San Jose, California, part of the San Francisco Bay Area.
The dealership, one of the largest Harley-Davidson locations in Northern California, ceased operations on December 21, 2024.
“To the Harley-Davidson community that San Jose H-D has served, we thank you for your years of support and shared enthusiasm,” the dealer stated on their Facebook page on the closure day.
It was announced that new ownership would take effect on January 14.
After a few delays, the store officially reopened on January 21, with the prior owner’s endorsement.
The new owners, Mike Genthner and Jess Bettencourt, have been part of the Harley-Davidson family since 1997.
They already operate Oakland Harley-Davidson in Oakland, California, also located in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Upon taking over, Genthner and Bettencourt pledged to reach out to customers whose bikes were in the store during the December closure.
They also committed to fulfilling pending special orders, work order deposits, and honoring gift cards.
Both Genthner and Bettencourt, native Californians, have been involved in their family businesses from a young age.
The two acquaintances met in high school, united by their passion for motorcycles and the Harley-Davidson brand.
Genthner and Bettencourt manage daily operations at Oakland Harley-Davidson and actively engage with both staff and customers.
San Jose Harley-Davidson patrons have expressed positive sentiments about the ownership transition on the store’s Facebook page.
“The new owner I spoke with is very customer-oriented,” noted one fan.
“He took my bike from SJ service to Oakland, and they’re almost done after a week.”
“Thank you for continuing to honor the gift cards and maintaining the business,” another commented.
In additional Harley-Davidson updates, customers can now receive an upgrade designed to enhance performance, aesthetics, and sound.
Moreover, the motorcycle titan has unveiled a new special model – specifically for law enforcement.
Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson, situated near Los Angeles, has recently introduced a Pan America 1250 Special concept bike featuring flashing red and blue lights, multiple saddlebags, and sirens.
This model also features enhanced ground clearance and improved suspension for various terrains.
Additionally, Harley-Davidson owners have been urged to take prompt action following reported thefts of multiple motorcycles.
Harley-Davidson Closures in 2024
There are more than 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
Nevertheless, several locations have closed throughout 2024 for various reasons, often without a clear explanation.
Below is a summary of some Harley-Davidson locations that have shut down this year and the reasons behind their closures:
The San Francisco location closed in June after 110 years due to “chaos” caused by new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed its doors in September with no explanation provided.
Harley-Davidson’s iconic location in New York City closed on September 28, with the owner citing economic challenges.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Furthermore, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
