A longstanding Harley-Davidson dealership is closing, signifying a significant moment for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Hideout Harley-Davidson will permanently close its doors on March 31, 2025.
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Credit: EPA
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Credit: Google Maps
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Credit: EPA
The Joplin dealership has been a staple for riders in southwest Missouri for many years.
“After proudly serving the SWMO Community and helping riders find their Freedom on the open road, we’ll close our doors for the final time on Monday, March 31st – Forever grateful for the memories and journeys shared,” the dealership stated.
This news was made public on Tuesday, March 4.
In order to reduce inventory, Hideout Harley-Davidson is offering substantial discounts on bikes and parts until the end of March.
The news has left many fans disheartened, with many considering the store’s contribution to the local community.
“Wow!! Never thought I’d see this happen,” expressed one surprised customer.
Another attributed the brand’s struggles to various factors: “Their target market has aged out. With interest rates being super high and the used Harley market being very plentiful, that spells disaster for discretionary products.”
Some speculated about the dealership’s inventory, with one asserting, “Downstream casino bought four of them and are going to give them away.”
Many expressed sorrow over the loss of a cherished gathering place.
“SO sad to hear that they are closing. Loved going there,” lamented one enthusiast.
“Really sad. They were one of the few stores that helped bring the community together and put on events,” another fan remarked.
Riders who depended on the dealership for training were particularly disheartened.
“I’m more sad about the fact we’ll be losing the motorcycle safety driving class,” one commented.
Some pointed to competitive pressures and management issues as contributing factors.
“They couldn’t really compete with other dealerships that are within an hour or two away. They also got rid of most of the good employees and lost customers by doing that,” claimed a user.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across America.
Nonetheless, numerous stores have closed for a variety of reasons throughout 2024 – some without providing an explanation.
Here’s a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have shut down this year along with their reasons for closing:
The San Francisco location closed in June after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ stemming from new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, shut its doors in September with no explanation provided.
Harley-Davidson’s historic 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.
Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON REVENUE SLUMPS
The dealership’s closure coincides with Harley-Davidson’s ongoing significant decline in sales and revenue.
Several Harley-Davidson dealerships across the US closed last year, including sites in New York City, San Francisco, and Titusville, Florida.
The company recorded a 60% dip in revenue and sold 53% fewer motorcycles in the last quarter of 2024 as opposed to 2023, according to News Atlas.
North America experienced a 13% drop in sales during the final three months of 2024.
The company attributes the decline to economic volatility and increased interest rates.
Harley shipped 148,862 motorcycles globally in 2024, a 17% reduction compared to the prior year.
As dealerships grapple with excessive inventory, Harley announced intentions to scale back shipments.
The company anticipates revenue will either remain flat or decrease by another 5% in 2025.
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Credit: Alamy
