I think Harley see's it's self as a premium brand, like Lexus or Mercedes Benz. At the same time they want to maintain a little of the bad boy image, good for business.
In reality I don't think it works. Every Harley enthusiast I know liked it better before. When the dealerships were like a second home. A place to hang, have a cup of coffee, talk with the parts guy, check out bikes, see riding buddies. The focus was on American motorcycles and riding.
Now they might as well be Hyundi dealers. No need explaining, we all know what Im talking about. It's all about one thing $$$. Nothing more or less. Sad really!
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Not all the dealers are like this. Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson (SMHD) is what most would call one of the New Mega stores. SMHD opened Sept of 2004 in an old Lowes. The owner, Scott is an avid rider. He leads rides once and a while, most people can not keep up with him in the curves. It is a very friendly store, with knowledgeable staff, be it sales floor or parts or service. Most all ride.
SMHD has something they call project Ridemore. Its a store sponsored ride, with Staff leading the ride, and staff as tail gunner. Its a 200 to 300 mile ride on obscure back roads, to some place interesting and lunch. This is done every week. It's not a HOG ride, as it is a a skilled rider level ride moving at a good clip though the curves. Some times there are two Ridemore rides in a week.
There is also a weekly HOG lunch ride, usually close to 200 miles.
There are concerts every Saturday night through out the riding season, some free, some with cover charge depending on the band. If there is a charge, its 5 dollars off if you ride. Some times they have Friday concerts. During riding season they have a Thursday bike night.
They also sponcer other rides, and they have bike shows. They always try to have something fun, riding related.
They have a on site bar, and BBQ restaurant.
I'm sure a lot of this and has friendly Staff is why he has won Best Dealer. The owner is very active in his store.
Lots of people like to hang out there. We often stop by after a ride for a beer and cigar.