Harley-Davidson is one of the most popular motorcycle brands in the world. It has a huge fan following here in the Middle East too. Its high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and powerful cruisers have been the reason behind the smiles on many faces for years. However, it seems that the American motorcycle company wouldn’t be able to do so in the near future as rumours suggest that Harley-Davidson will soon wrap up its business in the region.
Based on Bike Nation’s close sources, some of the Harley-Davidson dealerships in the Middle East have been intimated by the company to cease business operations. We aren’t aware of the timeline yet. Also, speculations are that after its exit, HD is likely to continue to provide service and spare parts support for two years.
It is to be noted that there is no official statement from Harley-Davidson in this regards. Bike Nation will try to reach out to the company’s MENA office to gain more information and clarity on this matter.
However, we wouldn’t be surprised if the rumour turns out to be true. The iconic company had already bid adieu to the Indian market earlier this year. The decision was made under The Rewire strategy outlined by the company’s new Chairman and CEO, Jochen Zeitz.
Harley-Davidson, however, signed a partnership with Indian two-wheeler giant Hero MotoCorp, under which the latter will handle the sales and service of the former in India. The new agreement also states that Hero MotoCorp will sell parts and accessories, as well as general merchandise, riding gear and apparel through a network of brand-exclusive Harley-Davidson dealers and its existing dealership network. Perhaps, the American motorcycle company would do something similar here in the Middle East.
Harley-Davidson’s departure from the Middle East would result in an increasing demand for other cruiser and touring bikes from brands such as Indian Motorcycle and BMW Motorrad. This is also going to impact the prices and resale value of HD motorcycles in the region.
