PANJIM: Goa gave a roaring welcome to over 2,000 Harley owners and their families as they came together for the Harley Owners Group (HOG) India 3rd National Rally and India Bike Week, last evening. Celebrations were special as the brand also celebrates the completion of 5 years in India. The rally that was held yesterday at the India Bike Week grounds, saw Harley-Davidson celebrating with customers united by a common bond and shared passion for freedom, adventure and the open road.
“In the last 5 years of our presence in India, we have been happy with the progress we have made. We are currently the leaders in the heavyweight motorcycle market in India. Last year, we launched the Street 750 and currently, it is the number one premium motorcycle in the country. This year, we will be producing the Street 750 in India and exporting it to European countries,” said Anoop Prakash, managing director Harley-Davidson India.
Speaking about the association with India Bike Week that begins today, Prakash said, “We will continue to be the lead sponsors of the event and we are expecting an attendance of around 8 to 10 thousand people.”
Srinivas Reddy, dealer principal Goa Harley-Davidson, said, “It is a big celebration not only for us and the brand but for the entire biking community. When you buy a Harley, it is the brand that that you are buying. Occasions like these allow us to give back something to the rider.”
Recently, Royal Enfield raced past Harley Davidson in global sales. When asked if Harley is looking at changing its strategy to regain its lead position, Prakash said, “You cannot compare a Mercedes to a Maruti. Harley Davidson is not about volume but about quality of lifestyle and the experience. We are a premium motorcycle brand and we will continue the same.”
According to an official spokesperson of Harley Davidson, customers and dealers will get the chance to showcase their creativity and display their passion for self-expression at India Bike Week 2015.
Harley owners will participate in the HOG Custom Contest, and will compete to be crowned with the title of the ‘Best Customized Motorcycle’. This year, the HOG India National Rally will also see Harley-Davidson dealers from across the country participate in the first-ever Dealer Custom Contest for the Street 750 and a custom Street 750 designed by Rajputana Custom Motorcycles.
