The iconic Harley-Davidson Fat Boy from the movie Terminator 2 was put up on auction recently.
It fetched a price higher than it was estimated.
The Fat Boy arguably became famous after its appearance in the movie.
Remember Terminator 2: Judgment Day?
The movie began like one of those bar jokes: A T-800 walked nude into a bar.
Anyway, he scanned the patrons one by one, while they stared at him in bewilderment. He picked out a biker dude and delivered one of the ballsiest lines in Hollywood, “I need your clothes, your boots and your motorcycle,” demanded the T-800 said in a thick Austrian accent (SkyNet must’ve been programmed by Hitler, such). In the ensuing bar fight, the bike gang got a beat down, ending with the biker donating his clothes and motorcycle… willingly.
He walks out the bar and scanned the bikes parked outside, picking out a Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy. The T-800 gave it a smoky burnout and powerslid away (called “drift” these days), to George Thoroughgood’s iconic song, “Bad to the Bone.”
That very motorcycle was ridden by Arnold Schwarzenegger himself in the movie and was part of the “Icons & Legends of Hollywood” auction recently. Against an estimated sale of between USD 200,000 to 300,000, it sold way over at USD 480,000.
The Fat Boy had been launched in 1990, just ahead of the movie’s release in 1991. As a result, the Fat Boy became of Harley’s best-selling models until this very day. Even Harley’s employees attributed the bike’s success to the movie, which was itself one of the highest grossing movies of all time.
Later in the film, the bike was also part of one of the most thrilling and hence iconic vehicle chase scenes of all time, when Arnie’s character, the T-800, rescued a young John Connor on a Honda XR from being crushed by the T-1000 on a big rig tow truck.
Also listed among the items on auction was the “punk” leather jacket worn by Arnie’s character in the film, along with all the bloody bullet holes. It sold for USD 24,000!
H-D expert Bündnerbike together with Swiss watchmaker Carl F. Bucherer has probably created the most expensive Harley-Davidson in the world.
The Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S Blue Edition comes with over 360 diamonds, custom watches, and jewellery.
Those who are interested in the Blue Edition can get it for a cool £1.4 million (around RM7.42 million).
We’ve seen, witness, and ridden some of the world’s most expensive bikes in the world. The most expensive one that has graciously received our behinds would be the Honda RC213V-S which is a cool RM1 million each but one look at this particular custom Harley-Davidson and it takes the whole lot. (more…)
The Street Glide is the most popular of the Harley-Davidson touring models.
It is popular for its classic good-looks, especially that “bat wing” fairing.
Other than the design, the Street Glide is almost identical to the Road Glide.
But it seems to handle better than the Road Glide in corners.
Jumping from the Road Glide to the Street Glide was a revelation of sorts. I have never been a fan of the latter, but have to admit that it rides pretty damn good. But before going forward, below is a video review of the bike.
The classic rounded headlight together with the fork mounted fairings are almost unchanged since it was first introduced back in 1969. The fairing was and is still known as the “batwing”.
That fairing soon became iconic, and while earlier models were removeable, later versions were not as the all the necessary meters were moved onto the fairing, which is still the way it is now.
Good looks are subjective, “beauty in things exists merely in the mind which contemplates them” said someone smart named David. So even though I may prefer the Road Glide, it is the Street Glide that won the opinion of the day.
“It looks great and handles great as well,” were some of the opinions over dinner. Comments about the sitting position as well as the front end feel were shared during lunch and dinner. If you read part 1 of this review (you can read it here), you may remember that I have been a fan of the Road Glide.
And when it comes to appreciating the two Glides, there seems to be an accord of sorts that suggests you must choose either model, you may not like them both. Don’t believe me? Try looking up a forum on HD’s.
But I have a problem, I may be a fan of the RG, admittedly the Street Glide was a lot more confident in the corners. You sit more upright as compared to the RG, and your legs are closer to you. You’re generally in a more commanding sitting position than the Road Glide, which is more laidback and relaxed.
Another significant difference between the SG and the RG other than the sitting position is the fairing and the way it is mounted.
The RG has its fairing mounted onto the frame of the bike which then frees up the front end from additional weight, giving the front end a lighter feel, note how the lights point straight ahead though the wheel is turned (above).
The SG on the other hand has its fairings mounted onto the forks. The weight of the fairings together with everything else like the meter panels and the entertainment system then bogs down the front end (above). Somehow, that works to the SG’s advantage as the front end feels more planted when throwing it into a corner.
But truth be told, I did not spend as much time with the SG as I would have liked to. Before the ride, we were told that we could switch bikes at the first photo stop, but by then everyone had become so used to the bikes they started off with; phones synced to the entertainment system and their stuff comfortably in the boxes that the only time I ever rode the SG was for the photoshoot. I spent a few hours riding the RG but just a few minutes riding the SG, unfortunately.
However, the purposeful handling of the SG is apparent from the moment you take off. And because our shoot location was riddled with corner after corner, fast and slow, it was perfect testing grounds for the SG.
It took just a few corners to tell that it is more obliging in corners, eager to lean in and braking felt better too. That is probably because the SG is lighter, but just by about 11kg. The handlebars are slightly different as well, but not enough to make a big difference in overall handling of the bike.
Even in the power department both bikes are the same. The SG too is powered by the same 1745cc Milwaukee-8 engine that produces the same 150Nm of torque from 3250rpm. And is mated to the same 6-speed gearbox.
So when it comes to picking one over another, the biggest difference is of course the design of the bikes. The handling is of course different, and that is because of the seating position and the way the fairings are mounted. Other than that, both are perfectly identical bikes (watch our video review of the Road Glide, above).
The RG feels a lot more planted and confident on the highways, and the bigger fairing does a better job at keeping the wind away from you as well. The SG feels better in the corners. Both have massive power. As for the overall feel, some people prefer the compact feeling which the SG provides, while others like me prefer a roomier feel with the meters placed further away, as is the case with the RG.
The roads we were riding on in Croatia seemed to be better suited to the SG, and there were moments where the RG was struggling to keep up. But if I had to choose, it would be the RG. If I wanted something fast and nimble in corners, I would get something better suited to corner carving, the Harley-Davidson touring models are suited for leisurely, comfortable riding and it is in that aspect that the Road Glide outshines the Street Glide.
The Street Glide is now available in Malaysia at RM174,700, which is the same price as the Road Glide.
Watch the highlights from our ride in Croatia in the video below:
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya has likewise revised their motorcycle prices.
The new prices will make them even more desirable.
Harley-Davidsons will soon be available in Penang and Melaka, too.
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya has also published the prices of Harley-Davidson motorcycles with 0% GST.
We had recently snooped around the new Harley-Davidson dealership and found that they had revised prices of new bikes, parts and labour charges, making the bikes even easier to own than before. (Please click on the link below for more details.)
But now with this tax holiday, they are now even more attractive, since it is 0% GST not only for new bikes but also for accessories, spare parts and maintenance.
Please refer to the list below for the new prices. However, please ignore the typo that says “Effective Date as of 1st January 2018.” The new prices will be effective from 1st June 2018 onwards until further notice, depending on the Ministry of Finance’s decision to revert to SST.
We would like to bring your attention to a few models.
TOURING
It was Harley-Davidson who pioneered the full-dress touring motorcycles we see today, so it is only natural that the Motor Company continue with the tradition.
The Ultra Limited and there are three variants. Prices will start from RM 206,300.
As for the bagger version of the Electra Glide, called the Street Glide, prices start from RM 174,700.
There is also the new Road Glide as tested by Keshy Dillon in Croatia, with prices starting from RM 174,700.
Harley-Davidson Road Glide
SOFTAIL
The Softail lineup consists of motorcycles that are designed for maximum visual impact, but bear in mind that the new Softails are engineered for better riding, comfort and performance.
The new Street Bob starts from RM 107,200.
The “slammed” and “stretched” (meaning low and long) Breakout starts from RM 143,600 (107 c.i. model).
The iconic Fat Boy has gone through some changes but still remains unmistakably a Fat Boy. Prices will start at RM 138,300 for the 107 c.i. model.
Harley-Davidson Softail Breakout
SPORTSTER
Harley’s Sportsters have always been the best-seller among beginners, lady-bikers and those who seek performance. The new prices are interesting to say the least.
Price for the Iron 883 begin at RM 81,200.
The super-popular Forty-Eight’s new price begins at RM 92,800. There is also the Forty-Eight Anniversary which is priced from RM 99,800.
Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight
CVO
Of course, we cannot skip the CVO’s which stands for Custom Vehicle Operations, meaning that these are special factory customs. There are four models for 2018:
CVO Ultra Limited, priced from RM 328,900.
CVO Ultra Limited Anniversary, from RM 353,300.
CVO Street Glide, from RM 285,100.
CVO Road Glide, also from RM 285,100.
Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited CVO
So, along with Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya’s focus on aftersales and customer knowledge, it is the best time to get one.
More of Harley-Davdison’s 2018 lineup have arrived at Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya.
There are three Softails and one Sportster.
Harley fans will now have a wider choice to choose from.
More long-awaited 2018 Harley-Davidson models have arrived at Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya today.
The new arrivals will give those who are interested in the thumping V-Twins of Milwaukee more choices to choose from. Most are from the Softail family but there is also a new Sportster, they are:
SOFTAIL SLIM
2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim
The Softail Slim is harked as a raw, vintage style Harley.
Blacked-out styling, ready for customization.
New LED headlamp.
All-new Softail frame that’s lighter and stiffer for better handling and comfort.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
Now 16 kgs (35 lbs.) lighter than last year’s model.
Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 cubic inch (1753 cc) engine which produces 149 Nm of torque.
Low-slung seat at 650 mm when laden.
SOFTAIL LOW RIDER
2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Low Rider
Low-slung and stretched stying of 70’s choppers.
Same iconic look of the Dyna Low Rider but on the all-new Softail frame.
New LED headlamp.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
Cast alloy wheels.
Milwaukee-Eight 107 cubic inch (1753 cc) engine with 149 Nm of torque.
665 mm seat height when laden.
SOFTAIL HERITAGE CLASSIC
2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage Classic
True nostalgia cruiser and original bagger.
Electronic cruise control.
Detachable windscreen.
LED headlamp.
Lockable and sealed soft saddlebags.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
Milwaukee-Eight 107 cubic inch (1753 cc) engine with 149 Nm of torque or Milwaukee-Eight 114 cubic inch (1868 cc) engine with 161 Nm of torque.
680 mm seat height when laden.
ROADSTER
2018 Harley-Davidson Roadster
The most aggressive-looking Sportster.
Harley calls it the “tucked in” look.
1200cc air-cooled Sportster Evolution engine with 103 Nm of torque.
Blacked-out styling for a more sinister look.
“Slammed” handlebar for a more sporty riding position and new gauge.
New upside-down cartridge forks.
Dual floating front brake discs.
As you can see, the new Harley-Davidson models are not only drop dead gorgeous to look at, but the Motor Company have taken many steps to bring them on par with contemporary motorcycles as well. So, make your way to Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya to view these awesome bikes. You may also check out their Facebook page and official website.
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide is considered to be among the best touring bikes in the market right now, it is also our editor’s favourite touring machine.
So when we got a chance to ride it in Croatia, we jumped at the chance.
Riding in heavy traffic showed that it had excellent low speed handling.
Because the fairing and everything else is mounted on the frame of the bike, the front end is lighter than the Street Glide, which gives it good front end feel.
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires to help you achieve it.” A quote from Paulo Coelho’s ’The Alchemist’. Something that suddenly feels all too true for a boy who grew up dreaming about riding Harley-Davidson’s along some of the most beautiful roads in the world. So you can imagine the bewilderment when the email came through, I read it, closed it, let it all sink, and read it again a few minutes later. Just to be sure.
I replied the email the soonest I could, complete with passport details. It was probably the quickest I had ever replied to an email. I was not leaving anything to chance, obviously.
The Adriatic Sea is almost mystical in its appearance as you can see in the video above. It has seen kings, emperors, warriors, conquerers, the hopeful and lovers sailing over its beautiful blue waters. The Romans sailed it during their conquests, as did the Greeks. The Venetians too. It was a battle ground and also a source of food and romance.
And so, not too long ago, the shores of the Adriatic saw a different kind of story, one of realisation, awe and excitement, involving a few Harley-Davidsons and I.
9am on a Tuesday morning. Being spring the sun rises early, so it was already blazing by the time I came face to face with the 2018 Harley-Davidson Road Glide.
We had flown into Split, Croatia just the day before, for the Harley-Davidson #riderideslide global ride, you can watch the highlights from our trip in the video above. The three-day ride involved testing the Road Glide, Street Glide, and the new range of Sportsters, the Iron 1200 and the 48 Special. And the final day was capped by a very special ride, one that I will not soon forget, and which I will write about in my final review, but just as a teaser, it involved riding on a flat track on specially built Harley-Davidson Street Rods.
And so after a few weeks of emails and a near 24 hour travel time, here I was, face-to-face with a motorcycle I had lusted over for some time. Some may call it a “hey look at me” bike, for poseuers apparently. But there is a certain appeal in its design, a purity of purpose even, it’s a touring bike and nothing else. It is simply a big, beautiful bike that cocoons you in comfort and style, a package that has been improving since 1941, the year the first Harley-Davidson touring model was introduced, the FL.
So yes, I am a fan of the Road Glide. I had spent many hours flipping through listing sites, monitoring prices and hoping that one would soon come within reach. It was previously priced at around RM200,000 for a brand new model, making it a stuff of dreams.
Now, it is priced at about RM180,000 after a local dealership “refreshment” campaign in Malaysia, and still out of reach. So when I had to pick a colour to ride for the day, it had to be one that I had always loved – a black on chrome Road Glide (though I had later hopped on to the metallic green you see in some of the photos here)
Glittering in the sun, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. The Road Glide weighs 388kg’s and would be about 460kg with me on it. So having to manage that heft through some tight roads in a country with peculiar driving habits, and having to do it all while riding on the wrong side of the road (Croatia drives on the right), my emotions were a perfect storm of excitement, nervousness, and some shock splashed in representing the surreality of it all.
But as Ice Cube said, “You better check yourself before you wreck yourself”. So I kept it all in check with my best impersonation of Al Pacino as he did the tango in the Scent of a Woman – cool, calm, collected – you would never have guessed that he was blind, just as you would never have guessed I was a complete wreck inside.
Anyway, jacket zipped, helmet and gloves on and a quick thought for the man above, and it was all engines start. The keyless feature means you only need to turn the key knob to the left, switch on the ignition and thumb the starter button. It sounds more complicated than it actually is, and can be done in less than 5 seconds if you actually keep track.
Being noise regulations compliant means that the exhaust note is flat, almost muted. It doesn’t really sound like a big, bad-ass Harley-Davidson should, but there is nothing a set of aftermarket Vance & Hines can’t change.
Out of the hotel and onto a narrow single lane street, and right into my first test. Just to our luck, the local municipality decided to conduct some road works just on the day of our test ride, so as you can probably imagine, the roads were entirely ripped up, dozens of excavators and trucks littered the streets, and traffic was at a complete standstill. A perfect testing ground for the low speed handling of the Road Glide. The video below perfectly captures the predicament I was in.
Harley-Davidsons have one of the best low speed handling in the business, so managing this brute of a bike through traffic was actually quite an experience. You don’t expect such a big, heavy thing to be effortless at crawling speed, but it was exactly that. But it still is a big bike, so even though it handles well, it still won’t fit through tightly spaced traffic.
There is a believe among bikers that Harley-Davidsons are best left to the open highways than mountain carving. A sly dig at the supposed clumsy handling of Harleys, but the Road Glide is anything but clumsy.
On the highway and high up on the mountains of Split overlooking the Adriatic, the bike is comfortable yet chatty. The Showa forks up front manage the soaks quite well, but it is the rear that sends back tiny nuggets of information up your back, telling you exactly what is happening between road and tyre.
Hand adjustable for pre-load, I actually like the fact that the Road Glide is a good balance of comfort and tractability. Some older Harley-Davidson touring models had somewhat of a reputation for softish suspension that do well at keeping you comfortable, but don’t do much at telling you about the road until you’re flat on the floor. Well, that’s no more.
The Road Glide handles so well that it is almost okay to use the word agile for a bike that weighs nearly half a ton complete with rider. The suspension helps of course, but it is also the fact that the front end of the bike does nothing more than to connect the rider to the turning wheel.
That massive fairing, entertainment system, speakers, and dials which you see above, are all connected directly to the frame of the bike. The Street Glide however, has all of that mounted to the fork, which makes the front heavier than it should be. The fact that the Road Glide has light front end is what makes the Road Glide so placeable in corners. Because the front has nothing else to do but turn, which is fantastic and the way it should be.
And being light up front means you can have some fun with the 1,746cc Milwaukee-8 engine. It produces 150Nm of torque from just 3,250rpm so it can be pretty quick off the line, and you can ride the wave of torque whenever you need as it seldom leaves you wanting power. It is no sport bike in the performance sense of the word, but all things considered, it is mighty powerful.
But the new Milwaukee engine is more than just a big, powerful engine, it is also refined, and almost smooth. I say almost because a Harley will never be Harley if it didn’t have its iconic vibrations. Whether an entry-level model or a flagship, a Harley-Davidson has to rumble, somewhat. The smoothness of the engine and the re-engineered rubber mounts help keep the vibrations away from the rider, and whatever that remains feels as if it were deliberately left there, perhaps as an invisible link to Harleys of past.
Comfort is of course top notch. The seat is plush, the reach to the handle bars is perfect and rarely do you get tired of reaching out to them, but if you do there’s cruise control to help. The floorboards are mounted further front than they are on the Street Glide, which gives the bike a more elongated feel.
My left foot though kept getting caught between the shifter pedals, the space between the up and down shifter was too small to properly fit my size 10 shoe. A quick fix to that though would be to remove the rear upshift paddle, and use only the front paddle for gear related operations.
At the end of the day, having inched through traffic, slice between cars, carved up mountain passes, and manhandled it through all the low speed manoeuvres, there’s a feeling of connected to the Road Glide. You learn to understand the bike very quickly and where its size and heft was a cause for anxiety, you learn to manage it all using just your body and the throttle stick. Tight corner? The Road Glide asks you to simply drop its weight into the corner and pick it back up again with a quick flick of the stick. That is all it takes.
That is the Road Glide, it inspires confidence in you and makes you feel as if you know the bike really well. But it’s not unfounded, its weight becomes an ally as you learn how to exploit it in corners. The engine too plays a huge part in managing the heft and balance, but is brutish in nature when it comes to putting down power, yet gentle and smooth when you just want to take it easy.
It has been love at first sight for me and the Road Glide, and now it has turned to pure lust as I want one more than ever. Watch our video review of the Harley-Davidson Road Glide in the video above, or on our Youtube channel accessible through our link here.
But later that day I hopped on to the Street Glide and that just messed up my thoughts about the Road Glide. Suddenly the ideal bike seemed to be one that handles like a Street Glide but looks like a Road Glide.
Harley-Davidson of Petaling (HDPJ) called upon Harley owners for a “shop talk.”
The talk covered technical, features of the 2018 Softail range.
The talk included the brake service campaign, introduction to the new engine and bikes, and Motorclothes.
Knowing you’re riding the best motorcycle is one thing, learning about what makes it tick is quite another level altogether.
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya decided to impart their knowledge of the brand to owners by holding a “shop talk,” where they interact with Harley-Davidson specialists about their bikes, myths, service campaigns and new products.
The event got off to a start with the presentation of the brake service campaign. As we reported earlier (please click here for the article), the Motor Company had decided to recall 2008 to 2011 Touring, CVO Touring and V-Rod models with ABS to have their brake fluid replaced. Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ) has received the new Platinum Line Brake Fluid and is set to get the campaign rolling.
HDPJ’s Technical Specialist also informed the owners that a motorcycle’s brake fluid has to be replaced every 2 years, regardless of mileage covered.
If you own any of the above models, please get in touch with HDPJ’s Service Department to determine if your Harley is affected.
HDPJ moved on to present the new Milwaukee-Eight engine and 2018 Harley-Davidson lineup. Presentation was first carried out on the screen before being moved to the new Fat Bob and Street Glide on display. Those present had the firsthand view of the new features on the new models, such better suspension, brakes, styling. Harleys are truly much more refined these days, without losing their identity.
Do note that Harley’s Shop Talk sessions aren’t one-way traffic; owners were encouraged to formulate their questions when the invitation was published. Therefore, there were many questions, a few myths and concerns that were raised. HDPJ addressed them expertly and professionally.
Lastly, HDPJ presented the 2018 Motorclothes lineup. Motorclothes is Harley-Davidson’s official range of rider wear which consists of everything a Harley owner could think of, plus plenty of Harley-Davidson paraphernalia and merchandise.
Seeing that the owners adjourned feeling elated, they must’ve gained some new knowledge of their trusty steeds from the shop talk.
The new Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya is offering great ways to those who want to get into the Harley lifestyle.
Costs of ownership and maintenance are now more viable at HDPJ.
HDPJ has waived the localisation fee for Harleys purchased via parallel importers.
Owning a motorcycle should be a great joy to anyone but owning one from a brand steeped in history and heritage is extra special. It’s through this heritage that the look, feel and sound of the bike, how it rumbles to life and down the road with the wind in your face flies in the face of convention. Additionally, the lifestyle, camaraderie among the owners and convoy experiences are priceless.
But how much does one need to “relinquish” for a “membership?”
We’ve heard great things about the new Harley-Davidson dealership, Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ), and decided to snoop around.
What we found was HDPJ is attracting more riders in Malaysia to experience the world of Harley-Davidson, through more attractive financing, lower costs of ownership and professional aftersales service.
AFTERSALES SERVICE:
Non-discriminatory policy towards all Harley owners, regardless if the bikes were purchased previously through official channels or parallel importers.
No “localization fee” for “recon” Harleys and all owners will enjoy the same labour rates and parts prices.
The showroom is fully stocked but the workshop is extensive as HDPJ is focusing on aftersales.
The previous hourly labour rate was too high, so HDPJ reduced it accordingly.
Parts prices are also lower than before despite the high USD-MYR exchange rate.
A Harley-Davidson Standard Service means a 24-point check all around the motorcycle for functionality and safety, which includes lubing the cables, checking the battery and electrics, electronic diagnostics, inspecting if all fasteners are properly torqued, inspecting the drive belt and pulleys, inspecting the brake pads and discs (with proper tools), etc. etc.
A minimum price to service a Sportster 883 complete with the 24-point check, standard replacement of washers, Harley-Davidson engine oil, and 1.5-hour labour charge adds up to below RM400.
Compare that to this Editor’s personal experience of servicing his Kawasaki ER-6f (at non-official workshops). Two liters of fully-synthetic engine oil, oil filter and two sparkplugs already cost in the vicinity of RM380 – without the 24-point check.
Besides that, a stator coil for the ER-6f is nearly RM1,300; compared to the stator coil for the Harley-Davidson Softail is RM1,400.
PRICES OF NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLES:
HDPJ has also priced the new Harleys more “realistically” by 5% to 25% lower across the board.
The 2018 (base) Sportster Forty-Eight is priced from RM 92,800, instead of RM 109,000 that it once was.
The new Street Bob is from RM 107,200 instead of RM 130K plus.
Attractive financing scheme for buyers – 3.5% per annum – the lowest in the industry.
We also decided to ask a couple of Harley riders hanging around the café at The Gasket Alley. The first person was pleasantly surprised by the much lower price of maintenance. The other person we spoke felt at home at the new Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya, being welcomed and as part of a family.
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya launched the new HOG Petaling Jaya Chapter.
In conjunction with the launching, they organized the HOG Petaling Jaya’s Inaugural Ride.
The ride began at the new dealership at The Gasket Alley to Tanjung Malim and back to the branch.
Petaling Jaya, 10th March 2018 – Along with the launch of the new Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ) dealership at The Gasket Alley on 9th March 2018 (for the media), it was also announced that the dealership will create the new Harley Owners Group (HOG) Petaling Jaya Chapter.
Please click on the link below on our coverage of the launch.
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya then called on Harley-Davidson owners to congregate at The Gasket Alley for the Chapter’s inaugural ride.
Harley owners began arriving at the dealership from as early as 7 am despite a morning downpour. They were seen wiping down their beloved steeds of steel soon after. But the owners started arriving en masse after the rain and they descended in droves –solo, with a passenger, in small groups, large groups.
As Harley-Davidson motorcycles appeal to a wide range of customers and fans, the riders were equally colourful in their demeanour, not to mention their bikes and clothing. There was a guy who arrived wearing a Red Indian bonnet (headdress).
Touring models were converted to baggers, Softails to show bikes, Sportsters to bobbers, Dynas to drag bikes, and anything else to the customers’ imagination.
Besides that, as with the saying, “No two Harley’s are alike,” many had been expectedly customized. There was one Street Glide with custom paint with a hog (since Harleys are also called “hogs”) as a fender ornament. There were others with tall ape hanger handlebars, drag bars, boulevard bars. The favourite modification is, of course, the exhaust, since almost all owners love to “liberate” the sound of that Milwaukee V-Twin. There were short (and loud) dual straight pipes, huge bazooka-like pipes, fishtails, and everything else in between.
The owners also showed up in their respective “colours,” as in which sub-Chapter or bike club or group they ride with. Thankfully, there wasn’t any who showed up with the “1%er” badge – denoting their outlaws.
It was apparent that they liked seeing their riding buddies – a familiar face or faces in a sea of people evokes a sense of belonging. Hugs, warm handshakes and secret handshakes were exchanged.
In the meantime, HOG’s Road Captain, marshals and PDRM Traffic Police outriders huddled for a briefing.
Soon, the emcee called for the owners to move into the hallway in The Gasket Alley, for the official launching of the dealership. By then, more than 500 bikers had shown up, inundating the compound and spilling out into the streets.
Mr. Juan Chow Wee, General Manager of DIDI Resources Sdn. Bhd., announced the Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya open and also launched the Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya HOG Chapter. Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman of DIDI Resources and Mr. Goh Kian Sin, Chairman of Goh Motorcycles Sdn. Bhd. would join the ride. Mr. Juan finally called out, “Let the good times roll and wished they participants a good ride.”
The massive convoy fired up to a heavy metal thunder and probably causing the Meteorological Department to panic in locating a mild earthquake in Petaling Jaya, to AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell,” nonetheless.
RELA personnel and the Traffic Police outriders controlled traffic as the Iron Horses rolled onto the road towards the sleepy town of Tanjung Malim in Perak. The riders pushed head in a smart two-by-two column.
The Police along with retired Traffic Policemen and HOG Marshals guided the long convoy along the North-South highway toward their destination with aplomb and professionalism, while signalling other traffic to pass, so as not to cause a massive traffic jam. As such, not one incident occurred along the way.
The group descended upon the small town, probably waking up anyone was still asleep during the hot morning and stopped at Sarang Art Hub for refreshments. The venue was an old bungalow and consists of a collection of antique wares. The hungry and thirsty (mainly thirsty) riders queued up for food and drinks.
The hosts put on a live band show, helmed by a singer who sounded uncannily like “Papa Rock” Ramli Sarip and backed up by an awesome band, in barefoot on the stage. He belted out classic hit after classic hit to the delight of the participants. A few started calling out a fellow biker to sing as he tried to hide away. He sportingly got up on stage and sang Guns ‘N’ Roses’s super hit “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and the ladies got up and danced. He even gyrated like Axl Rose, complete with a red bandana.
Soon, it was time to head back to Petaling Jaya, led again by the Traffic Police and marshals.
The ride back was brisk, but again, everyone arrived safely for more drinks and food for lunch. The Gasket Alley had also set up the Gasket Bistro, consisting of food and drink vendors in the compound. The party ran all the way to midnight.
Looks like Harley-Davidson owners in Malaysia have a great new Chapter and home.
PICTURE GALLERY
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya is located at The Gasket Alley
