Cuba – Harley-Davidson’s Forgotten Riders
Now more than ever Harley-Davidson is a global brand. They operate in over a hundred countries in every continent of the globe, and have legions of fans wherever you may go.
In fact, the Harley-Davidson company logo is one of the best-recognized logos in the world, right up there with Coca-Cola and Ferrari. That being said, just because the iconic Wisconsin motorcycle builder is world-famous, it doesn’t mean they’re able to penetrate every market. Even when such market is filled with adoring fans—like Cuba.
Before the trade embargo between the United States and Cuba existed, the gorgeous island enjoyed a prosperous relationship with Harley-Davidson. This lovely documentary by, TIME, explains that even the national police rode around in Harleys back then, and that much of the pre-dictatorship middle-class had a wild infatuation with the brand. Unfortunately, this and many things came crashing down when Fidel Castro rose to power in 1959.
This eye-opening documentary shows how Cubans have to mend their beloved motorcycles over and over, and over again, many times relaying on non-motorcycle products to double as engine parts. One of the kind men interviewed on this documentary speaks about having to run bikes on donated old tires, and even fixing engine blocks with hardened cardboard.
Perhaps the most beautiful and touching part of the documentary, is seeing Cuban riders smile and enjoy their rides regardless of the condition they’re in. It goes to show that number one, we’re extremely blessed, and number two, we shouldn’t take our nice and shiny Harley-Davidson dealerships for granted!
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