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Harley-Davidson CEO Unveils ‘Bold New Direction’ for Legendary Brand, Opening Doors for a Fresh Wave of Fans to Experience Its Bikes

Harley-Davidson CEO Unveils ‘Bold New Direction’ for Legendary Brand, Opening Doors for a Fresh Wave of Fans to Experience Its Bikes

HARLEY-Davidson is gearing up for an exciting new chapter that aims to attract a fresh wave of enthusiasts.

This renowned motorcycle manufacturer, a favorite across the United States, will gain significant visibility in Europe through one of the world’s leading racing competitions.

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1nHQmv_112hAYoQ00
Harley-Davidson is embarking on an exciting new initiative next year in collaboration with MotoGP. Credit: Harley Davidson
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The brand’s CEO, Jochen Zeitz, believes this will enhance their global racing aspirations. Credit: MotoGP
https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4G9MJY_112hAYoQ00
This initiative will feature racers using specially equipped Harley-Davidson Road Glide bagger motorcycles. Credit: Harley Davidson

According to ESPN, Harley-Davidson and MotoGP—the top motorcycle road racing series—have announced a support championship set to debut in 2026, showcasing teams racing bagger bikes at grand prix events across Europe and North America.

Riders will compete on race-configured Harley-Davidson Road Glide bagger motorcycles, designed for long-distance travel.

This 12-race series will be held at six grand prix events within the MotoGP schedule, with an estimated six to eight teams featuring two riders each.

No specific venues have been confirmed yet, although it is widely expected that one will be the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz stated: “This represents a bold new direction for Harley-Davidson’s global racing initiatives.”

“With this series, we are thrilled to introduce a new form of racing to an international audience.”

As noted by AutoSport, he added, “The bike will reach speeds exceeding 300 km/h, weigh around 280 kg, and generate 200 bhp.

“These are powerful machines that will take to the tracks in Europe and North America.”

This announcement follows the opening of a new Harley-Davidson dealership in a key US location, overcoming various hurdles to bring the vision to fruition.

To celebrate its grand opening, a notable figure made a special appearance, kicking off this exciting new phase for the store.

On its inaugural day in business, the celebration attracted a large crowd of fans and community members, complete with live entertainment and food vendors.

The festivities concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the dealership’s official launch.

Located in Greene County, Virginia, the new Stonewall Harley-Davidson dealership was visited by Karen Davidson, a prominent figure in the Harley-Davidson community, who participated in the ceremonial “chain cutting.”

Davidson is the great-granddaughter of a co-founder of Harley-Davidson and the daughter of Willie G. Davidson, a legendary designer and icon associated with the brand.

Along with the chain-cutting, she engaged with fans and signed copies of the memoir ‘Ride Free’ by Willie G. Davidson.

Harley-Davidson Store Closures in 2024

There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships throughout America.

However, several stores have closed for various reasons during 2024, often without providing an explanation.

Here are some Harley-Davidson locations that have ceased operations this year and the reasons for their closure:

A location in San Francisco closed in June 2024 after 110 years due to “chaos” caused by new management.

Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed in September 2024 with no explanation provided.

Harley-Davidson’s legacy location in New York City closed on September 28, 2024, with the owner citing economic challenges.

Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, shut down in October 2024 after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley-Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.

Another Illinois dealership closed in November 2024.

Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.

In 2025, Hideout Harley-Davidson in Missouri announced its closure at the end of March.

Categories
Harley Davidson News

Harley-Davidson CEO Unveils ‘Bold New Step’ for the Iconic Brand, Opening Doors to a New Generation of Fans

HARLEY-Davidson is poised to take a “bold new step” that will introduce them to a fresh audience.

The iconic motorcycle manufacturer, cherished throughout the US, will gain substantial visibility in Europe thanks to one of the globe’s most celebrated racing series.


Harley-Davidson CEO Unveils ‘Bold New Step’ for the Iconic Brand, Opening Doors to a New Generation of Fans

3

Harley-Davidson is set to embark on a “bold new step” as it partners with MotoGP next year
Credit: Harley Davidson

Three men standing between two motorcycles, announcing Harley-Davidson's partnership with MotoGP.

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The brand’s CEO, Jochen Zeitz, center, believes this will enhance their global racing ambitions
Credit: MotoGP

Motorcycle racer leaning into a turn.

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Riders will race on specially prepared Harley-Davidson Road Glide bagger motorcycles
Credit: Harley Davidson

According to ESPN, Harley-Davidson and MotoGP, the leading motorcycle road racing series, have unveiled a support championship set to launch in 2026, where teams will race bagger motorcycles at grands prix across Europe and North America.

This series will feature riders racing specially prepared Harley-Davidson Road Glide bagger motorcycles—designed for long-distance tours.

The 12-race championship will be hosted at six grands prix throughout the MotoGP season, with an expected six to eight teams, each with two riders, participating.

No specific race venues have been confirmed yet, but it is speculated that one location will be the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

In a statement, Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz stated: “This marks a bold new chapter for Harley-Davidson’s global racing aspirations.”

“We are thrilled to introduce a new style of racing to an international audience with this new series.”

As reported by AutoSport, he continued: “The motorcycle will reach speeds over 300 km/h, weigh approximately 280 kg, and generate 200 bhp.

“These are truly powerful machines that will hit the tracks across Europe and North America.”

This initiative comes shortly after the opening of a new Harley-Davidson dealership in a crucial area of the US, overcoming various hurdles to bring it to fruition.

To celebrate the grand opening, a well-known personality appeared to kickstart this exciting new phase for the store.

Harley-Davidson reveals a brand-new bike that pays tribute to an iconic model as fans rave over this ‘masterpiece’

On its opening day, an event that attracted a large gathering of enthusiasts and local community members featured live music and food vendors.

This celebration culminated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official launch of the dealership.

The new Stonewall Harley-Davidson dealership, situated in Greene County, Virginia, was notably visited by Karen Davidson, a significant figure within the Harley-Davidson community, who took part in the ceremonial “chain cutting”.

Davidson is the great-granddaughter of one of Harley-Davidson’s co-founders and the daughter of Willie G. Davidson, a legendary designer associated with the Harley-Davidson brand.

In addition to the chain-cutting, she engaged with fans and signed copies of her grandfather’s memoir, *Ride Free*.

Harley-Davidson Closures in 2024

There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships throughout America.

However, several stores have shut down for various reasons in 2024, with little explanation provided.

Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have closed this year and their reasons for shutting:

A San Francisco location ceased operations in June 2024 after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ caused by new management.

Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed its doors in September 2024 with no reason provided.

Harley-Davidson’s historic location in New York City closed on September 28, 2024, with the owner citing economic difficulties.

Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October 2024 after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley-Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.

Another Illinois dealership shut down in November 2024.

Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.

In 2025, Hideout Harley-Davidson in Missouri announced its closure at the end of March.

Categories
Harley Davidson News

New Harley-Davidson Dealership Opens in U.S. City After 3-Year Journey—Celebrity Spotted at Grand Opening!

Sure! Here’s a rewritten version of the content retaining the original HTML tags:

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    <p>A NEW Harley-Davidson dealership has proudly opened in a pivotal area of the US, successfully navigating numerous obstacles to bring it to fruition.</p>
    <p>In celebration of the grand opening, a well-known personality made a special appearance to inaugurate the store’s thrilling new journey.</p>
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                <img alt="Man on phone in front of orange Harley-Davidson motorcycle." height="366" width="649" data-credit="CBS" src="https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?strip=all&amp;w=649" data-caption="A new Harley-Davidson dealership has officially opened in a key city in the US" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 335px, (max-width: 520px) 480px, (max-width: 660px) 620px, 940px" srcset="https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=940 940w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=335 335w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=480 480w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=620 620w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=1880 1880w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=670 670w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=960 960w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=1240 1240w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=2820 2820w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=1005 1005w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=1440 1440w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=1860 1860w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=3760 3760w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=1340 1340w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=1920 1920w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807406.jpg?w=2480 2480w" loading="lazy" role="img"/>
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            <p><span class="article__gallery-count-value">3</span></p>
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            <span class="article__media-span">A new Harley-Davidson dealership has officially opened in a key city in the US</span>
            <span class="article__credit">Credit: CBS</span>
        </figcaption>
    </figure>
    <figure class="article__media">
        <div class="article__media-img-container open-gallery" data-index="2">
            <a href="#">
                <img alt="Man in sunglasses and Harley-Davidson shirt outside dealership." height="367" width="651" data-credit="CBS" src="https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?strip=all&amp;w=651" data-caption="The store's owner revealed they overcame numerous challenges to make it a reality" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 335px, (max-width: 520px) 480px, (max-width: 660px) 620px, 940px" srcset="https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=940 940w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=335 335w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=480 480w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=620 620w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=1880 1880w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=670 670w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=960 960w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=1240 1240w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=2820 2820w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=1005 1005w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=1440 1440w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=1860 1860w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=3760 3760w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=1340 1340w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=1920 1920w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807367.jpg?w=2480 2480w" loading="lazy" role="img"/>
            </a>
            <p><span class="article__gallery-count-value">3</span></p>
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        <figcaption class="article__media-caption">
            <span class="article__media-span">The store's owner revealed they overcame numerous challenges to make it a reality</span>
            <span class="article__credit">Credit: CBS</span>
        </figcaption>
    </figure>
    <figure class="article__media">
        <div class="article__media-img-container open-gallery" data-index="3">
            <a href="#">
                <img alt="Stonewall Harley-Davidson dealership signage." height="366" width="651" data-credit="CBS" src="https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?strip=all&amp;w=651" data-caption="The store's grand opening was even welcomed by a famous face" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 335px, (max-width: 520px) 480px, (max-width: 660px) 620px, 940px" srcset="https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=940 940w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=335 335w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=480 480w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=620 620w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=1880 1880w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=670 670w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=960 960w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=1240 1240w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=2820 2820w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=1005 1005w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=1440 1440w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=1860 1860w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=3760 3760w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=1340 1340w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=1920 1920w, https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/stonewall-harley-davidson-opening-990807370.jpg?w=2480 2480w" loading="lazy" role="img"/>
            </a>
            <p><span class="article__gallery-count-value">3</span></p>
        </div>
        <figcaption class="article__media-caption">
            <span class="article__media-span">The store's grand opening was even welcomed by a famous face</span>
            <span class="article__credit">Credit: CBS</span>
        </figcaption>
    </figure>
    <p>On Saturday, the dealership celebrated its inaugural day in <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/topic/business/" target="_blank" aria-label="(opens in a new tab)" rel="nofollow sponsored nocode noreferrer noopener">business</a>, attracting a large turnout of enthusiasts and local community members.</p>
    <p>The event featured live music and food vendors, culminating in a ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the dealership's official launch.</p>
    <p>For Evan Bache, one of the dealership’s owners, it represented a significant milestone following a prolonged journey.</p>
    <p>He expressed: “It’s taken about three years to reach this moment. The path here was a long and arduous journey, but we made it—and the Harley community is with you wherever you go.”</p>
    <p>The new Stonewall <a aria-label="(opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.the-sun.com/topic/harley-davidson/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored nocode noreferrer noopener">Harley-Davidson</a> dealership, situated in Greene County, <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/topic/virginia/" target="_blank" aria-label="(opens in a new tab)" rel="nofollow sponsored nocode noreferrer noopener">Virginia</a>, was honored by the presence of Karen Davidson, a prominent figure in the Harley-Davidson community, who took part in the ceremonial "chain cutting."</p>
    <p>Davidson is the great-granddaughter of one of Harley-Davidson's co-founders and the daughter of Willie G. Davidson, a legendary designer and icon within the Harley-Davidson brand.</p>
    <p>In addition to the chain-cutting, she engaged with fans and signed copies of her memoir, "Willie G. Davidson: Ride Free."</p>
    <p>The dealership's owners also expressed their gratitude to the Buffalo Soldiers for managing traffic, along with a group of combat veterans who participated in the National Anthem ceremony.</p>
    <p>This <span id="d15977a5-1f28-4d40-9605-ea4e5f400ddb" class="suggested-link">news</span> comes amidst challenges for the motorcycle giant, including rumors of a prospective $1 billion sale of its financial branch.</p>
    <div id="bc-video-6371513382112" class="brightcove">
        <span class="article__bc_video-caption">Harley-Davidson's CEO faced criticism from dealers over 'constant pushing' as a seller's warning is issued on the brand's 'cultural shifts'</span>
    </div>
    <p>According to Business Times, unnamed sources suggest a potential interest in selling its Financial Services, which encompasses regional banks, private equity firms, and private credit entities.</p>
    <p>Additionally, they are in search of a new CEO, as Jochen Zeitz announced his resignation this month after leading the company for five years.</p>
    <p>Meanwhile, a new <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/topic/law/" target="_blank" aria-label="(opens in a new tab)" rel="nofollow sponsored nocode noreferrer noopener">law</a> has taken effect this week, imposing significant penalties on drivers of certain vehicles unless they conduct safety briefings for customers prior to the trip.</p>
    <p>These briefings, covering emergency exit protocols, fire extinguishers, and window-breaking tools, will resemble those provided before airplane departures.</p>
    <p>This legislative change follows a tragic 2018 accident involving an upstate limousine, which resulted in the death of 20 individuals, including four sisters.</p>
    <p>Federal investigations revealed that state regulators repeatedly failed to adequately oversee the vehicle, which was poorly maintained.</p>
    <p>The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) concluded that the crash likely resulted from the operators' “egregious disregard for safety,” leading to brake failure on a steep downhill stretch.</p>
    <p>The law came into effect on April 23 in <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/topic/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York</a>, mandated by the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).</p>
    <div class="article-boxout">
        <p>
            <h3 class="article-boxout__headline t-s-border-color">Harley-Davidson closures in 2024</h3>
        </p>
        <div class="article-boxout__content theme__background-color-rgba-20">
            <p class="article__content--intro">There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.</p>
            <div>
                <p>However, several locations have closed in 2024 for various reasons, often without explanation.</p>
                <p>Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson dealerships that have shut down this year and their reasons for closure:</p>
                <p>A San Francisco location closed in June 2024 after 110 years, citing <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12116485/motorcycle-dealership-closes-mechanic-decades-chaos-final/" rel="">'chaos' due to new management</a>.</p>
                <p><a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12372094/harley-davidson-dealership-closure-florida/" rel="">Miracle City Harley-Davidson</a> in Titusville, Florida, closed in September 2024 with <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12378847/harley-davidson-warranty-complaint-dealership-store-closure/" rel="">no explanation</a>.</p>
                <p>Harley-Davidson's <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12544079/final-hours-harley-davidson-dealership-closing-nyc-sale/" rel="">historic location in New York City</a> ceased operations on September 28, 2024, due to <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12528008/harley-davidson-dealership-closing-new-york-city-queens/" rel="">economic challenges.</a></p>
                <p>Reiman's Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, closed its doors in October 2024 after the owners <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12729120/harley-davidson-dealership-illinois-selling-roger-reiman/" rel="">sold the business</a> to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.</p>
                <p>Another <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12964005/harley-davidson-dealership-closure-years/">Illinois dealership closed</a> in November 2024.</p>
                <p>Additionally, a dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/12771993/harley-davidson-dealership-closing-west-bend-wisconsin-milwaukee/" rel="">temporarily shutting down for the season</a> from November 2 until April 1, 2024.</p>
                <p>In 2025, <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/motors/13710761/hideout-harley-davidson-joplin-missouri-dealership-closed/">Hideout Harley-Davidson</a> in Missouri announced it would close at the end of March.</p>
            </div>
        </div>
    </div>
</div>

Feel free to adjust any part further if needed!

Categories
Harley Davidson News

Herfoss Secures Fifth Place in Opening Daytona KOTB Qualifying

Kyle Wyman secures pole position for Harley-Davidson, with rookie Loris Baz taking second on the grid

The 2025 Moto America season gets underway this weekend at Daytona International Speedway, as Troy Herfoss embarks on his title defense in the King of the Baggers class.

Herfoss, riding an Indian Challenger supported by S&S Cycle, placed fifth in the first qualifying session, trailing leader Kyle Wyman of Harley-Davidson by 1.126 seconds. Despite having limited practice time leading into the race weekend, rookie Loris Baz showed impressive form by qualifying in second. He was closely followed by James Rispoli on his Harley and Herfoss’ teammate, Tyler O’Hara. “It’s really exciting! I’ve always wanted to race here. In this first session, there’s so much to learn about the banking. We’re doing well in Q1, but we’re facing some tire issues,” Baz remarked, referencing the notable tire wear as the track conditions evolve. Additionally, riders contended with windy weather, leading many to spend extended time in the pits.

Herfoss Secures Fifth Place in Opening Daytona KOTB Qualifying
Troy Herfoss showcasing the number 1 plate on Daytona’s banking

Earlier in the day, O’Hara led the opening practice session, with Herfoss following closely in second place. Loris Baz wasn’t the only newcomer, as fellow MotoGP veteran Bradley Smith made his debut, finishing tenth with a time that was three seconds off the pole, riding the Dynojet entry for Harley-Davidson.

This season, both Herfoss and O’Hara will reduce their commitments by stepping back from the Super Hooligans class to concentrate on the King of the Baggers competition.

As Supersport takes the spotlight at Daytona, Tyler Scott (Vision Wheel M4 Ecstar Suzuki) claimed provisional pole, surpassing defending Daytona champion Josh Herrin from Warhorse Ducati. Richie Escalante made his mark in third position on the second Vision Wheel Suzuki, while racing icons Peter Hickman (PHR Performance) and Michael Dunlop (Milwaukee Ducati) placed eleventh and fifteenth, respectively. Shane Lloyd-Maggs represents Australia, currently sitting in 22nd place on his privateer Yamaha.

More action is slated for tomorrow, with an additional qualifying session, a Challenge race, and the first championship race set to begin around 7 AM Australian time.

King of the Baggers Daytona Qualifying

PosNameMakeTime
1K. WymanHD1:50.041
2L. BazIND0.95
3J. RispoliHD1.081
4T. O’HaraIND1.126
5T. HerfossIND1.479
6C. PetersenIND2.375
7K. OhnsorgIND2.697
8H. GillimHD3.077
9R. LandersHD3.114
10B. SmithHD3.707
11J. LewisHD5.016
12C. WestHD
13M. FlindersHD

Categories
Harley Davidson News

Well-Known Harley-Davidson Dealership Relocating to New Site with Improved Layout – Opening Delayed for Several Months

A beloved Harley-Davidson dealership is preparing for a relocation, but won’t be operational for several months.

The Big Moose Harley-Davidson in Portland, Maine, will be moving from its current location on Riverside Street to Main Street in Gorham, approximately 20 miles away, in a deal worth $2.85 million.

Well-Known Harley-Davidson Dealership Relocating to New Site with Improved Layout – Opening Delayed for Several Months

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Big Moose Harley-Davidson in Portland, Maine is relocating to a new site just outside of the cityCredit: Google Maps

The new site, previously a furniture store, spans nearly four acres and boasts significant visibility, with thousands of vehicles passing daily, as reported by Maine Biz.

Charles Day, who facilitated the deal, stated: “This property, due to its size and current condition, which allows for efficient organization, was particularly appealing.

“Additionally, the location sees strong traffic.”

The new dealership will be in capable hands, as the purchasing entity, 673 Main Street LLC, is owned by Al Contois and Shawn Lillie, who also run a flagship dealership, Seacoast Harley-Davidson in North Hampton, New Hampshire.

They also operate additional locations in Rochester, New Hampshire, and Revere, Massachusetts.

Altogether, these four dealerships, featuring Harley-Davidson motorcycles, merchandise, parts, and accessories, are part of the New England Motorcycle Group.

This move presents an opportunity for more space and a fresh beginning for the dealership, as the Portland rental was becoming inadequate for the business.

As a result, Contois and Lillie opted to purchase and renovate a new site, with over a year spent in search of the ideal location.

“The design flow is better,” remarked Contois. “This store is essentially a large box, making it much easier for us to organize.”

The store’s design will follow a template from a Harley-Davidson in Milwaukee, which includes guidelines for both exterior and interior styles, along with specific signage requirements and finishing details for both inside and outside.

Harley-Davidson enthusiasts highlight a significant ‘oversight’ by the brand following a decline in stock and permanent dealership closures

Interior demolition of the building is anticipated to commence soon.

Contois expressed optimism about moving in by the end of October.

The existing staff will remain intact, with 15 employees transferring from Portland.

Overall investment for the new site, including property acquisition, is projected to be around $7 million.

Contois is optimistic about the relocation, citing license registration data indicating that numerous riders reside in the Gorham region, which is more conveniently located for riding compared to their current site.

“When you think about it, riders typically don’t take their motorcycles into downtown Portland,” he said.

“Usually, those who live in Portland prefer to ride into the surrounding areas.”

Jensen noted: “The roads in that area offer safer riding conditions than those in Portland.”

“This provides us the chance to appeal to younger individuals in their mid-20s to early 30s.”

From the town’s perspective, the arrival of this business in Gorham is also a positive development.

Jensen added: “This area has excellent visibility for businesses.

“Big Moose, in particular, will greatly enhance the curb appeal.”

Harley-Davidson Closures in 2024

There are more than 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships nationwide.

However, numerous stores have shut down for various reasons throughout 2024, often without explanation.

Here’s a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have closed this year along with their reasons:

The San Francisco location shut down in June after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ resulting from new management.

Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, closed in September with no explanation provided.

Harley-Davidson’s historical location in New York City ceased operations on September 28, as the owner cited economic difficulties.

Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, closed 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.

Categories
Harley Davidson News

Chris Stapleton Announces 2025 All-American Roadshow Tour Featuring Exciting Opening Acts

Chris Stapleton Announces 2025 All-American Roadshow Tour Featuring Exciting Opening Acts


In 2025, Chris Stapleton is all set to kick off his All-American Roadshow Tour once again, bringing along an exciting lineup of opening acts who will get the chance to perform in front of enthusiastic audiences. Having transformed from an underdog challenging the norms of Bro-Country to a prominent figure in mainstream country music, Stapleton’s style leans more towards Americana.

The tour will feature talented openers such as Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, The War & Treaty, Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs, Marcus King, Nikki Lane, Grace Potter, Maggie Rose, Brittney Spencer, and Allen Stone. Kicking off on June 4th, the tour will continue through October across the United States, with fans in Australia and New Zealand also having the chance to see Stapleton in late February and March.

In addition to his arena and amphitheater performances, Stapleton will take part in the inaugural Harley Davidson Homecoming Festival in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 12th. The festival will also feature Hank Williams Jr. as a headliner, with more acts expected to be announced. For more events, check out Saving Country Music’s 2025 Festival Guide.

Members of Chris Stapleton’s fan club will receive early access to tickets starting January 14 for the newly added dates, with general sales commencing on January 17 at chrisstapleton.com/tour.


Chris Stapleton 2025 Tour Dates:


bold = new

February 25 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena
February 26 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena
February 28 – Boondall, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
March 1 – Boondall, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
March 4 – Sydney Olympic Park – Qudos Bank Arena
March 5 – Sydney Olympic Park – Qudos Bank Arena
March 7 – Auckland, New Zealand – Spark Arena
March 8 – Auckland, New Zealand – Spark Arena
June 4 – Greenville, SC – Bon Secours Wellness Arena†
June 7 – Charlottesville, VA – John Paul Jones Arena‡
June 12 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena+
June 18 – Greensboro, NC – First Horizon Coliseum^
June 20 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena^
June 27 – Tinley Park, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre#
July 11 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre‡
July 12 – Milwaukee, WI – Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival
July 23 – Belmont Park, NY – UBS Arena~
July 25 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden~
August 1 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center**

August 8 – Phoenix, AZ – Desert Diamond Arena‡‡
August 15 – Salt Lake City, UT – Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre*
August 22 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena**
October 10 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live

*with special guest Marcus King
†with special guest Nikki Lane
‡with special guest Brittney Spencer
+with special guest Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs
^with special guest Maggie Rose
#with special guest The War & Treaty
~with special guest Grace Potter
**with special guest Allen Stone
‡‡with special guest Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives