The longest-standing family-operated Harley-Davidson dealership in the United States has been sold after more than 70 years of successful operation.
The devoted owners, passionate about Harley, have passed on their legacy to a dealership group as they prepare for retirement.
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Credit: Google Maps
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Credit: Getty
The Cox family has been at the helm of the Rock Hill shop in South Carolina, a suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, since 1961.
However, motorbike enthusiast Carson Baker, a prominent figure in the automotive sector, finalized the purchase this past week.
Now, Jan Cox, one of the co-owners, looks forward to retirement and hopes that Baker will achieve the same level of success her family had.
“We had a remarkable journey serving riders from York County, Charlotte, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, and beyond,” Cox shared with PowerSports Business.
“We genuinely hope that the new owner receives the same warm welcome as we did while continuing this service.”
Cox expressed heartfelt gratitude to their customers and is eager to keep tabs on the family’s additional store in Asheboro, North Carolina.
“The loyalty and commitment you have shown us are deeply appreciated,” she noted.
“We are excited about what lies ahead for our Asheboro location.”
Recil Cox, the founder of the family enterprise, initially juggled his day job at a textile mill to keep the business afloat.
Once the Harley dealership began to turn a profit, Recil was able to devote himself to his passion project full-time.
“Finding three generations of family business ownership is rare these days,” remarked Stephen Cox, who manages the family’s second location in Asheboro.
“The unparalleled customer loyalty and a dedicated team that upholds both the Cox name and Harley-Davidson’s legacy are truly special.”
Baker has since rebranded the store as Dog House Harley-Davidson of Rock Hill and included it in his expanding dealership collection.
The new owner emphasized his passion for automotive sales and his drive to keep growing.
“We’re actively seeking more locations and are working on new deals,” he informed PowerSports Business in January.
“I live and breathe this industry. I work seven days a week, and I’m passionate about it.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team.”
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships nationwide.
However, several stores have shut down for various reasons in 2024, often with little to no explanation.
Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have closed this year and the reasons, if any, cited for their closures:
The San Francisco location closed its doors in June after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ caused by new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, shut down in September without providing any reason.
Harley-Davidson’s historic location in New York City closed on September 28, with the owner referencing 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.
Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
Some Harley-Davidson shops are permanently closing, a trend that enthusiasts claim poses problems for bikers.
Other fans have celebrated following the release of new branded car accessories.
Additionally, there are opportunities for Harley fans to secure assistance in purchasing their dream motorcycle.