Harley Thriving on the Islands of Hawaii
Kona Harley-Davidson looks to spread more of the Ohana spirit to the motorcycle community in Hawaii.
Riding is a way of life that offers a certain sense of freedom that you can’t get anywhere else. It’s that very sensation that puts us on a bike everyday. We can’t escape its grasp. And apparently, neither can a new generation of riders. And with a new generation of motorcyclists rising, millennials are seeking that same sense of freedom, just at a lower cost. Harley-Davidson, the primary target for cost-of-entry complaints, recognizes the changing market and is making the necessary adjustments. And on the islands of Hawaii, Pacific Business News shares that business is thriving.
Kona Harley-Davidson is the latest addition to the Hawaiian islands motorcycle industry. Opening earlier this month, it becomes the sixth Harley-Davidson dealer in the state and second dealership found on the “big island.” The 1,017 square-foot establishment is located along the Kohala Coast is the King’s Shops shopping center of Waikoloa, HI. The new retailer supplies the classic Harley bikes we’ve all come to know and love while providing some Kona exclusive merchandise designed to represent the Ohana culture of the islands. Men’s and women’s apparel will also be available alongside riding gear.
Lynn Rostau, Kings’ Shops general manager, shared her excitement with the new addition to the shopping center. “We are pleased to have this great new retail experience as a new addition to Kings’ Shops…The Harley-Davidson brand is a well-known name that will resonate with both the visitor and local customers.”
Hawaii is well known as a tourist destination. Many of those tourists are sure to leave their bikes back home, but may not have to skip out on riding. Harley offers a rental program in many locations across the globe. Ideally, this would be an option for the new Kona store, allowing visitors and locals alike to enjoy the Harley-Davidson experience at all times. Unfortunately, a management representative was not immediately available for comment to confirm or deny.
While these may be turbulent times to the motorcycle industry, business continues to expand for Harley-Davidson.