The Harley-Davidson motorcycle brand has been recognized as one of the United States’ most iconic symbols. “Harleys”, as they are called for short, have been easily noticed cruising around on American highways for over a century. They are most coveted for their distinguished design and customizing. Another highly distinctive quality of the Harley-Davidson brand is their extremely loyal following. Harley-Davidson fan club, organizations, and group continue to emerge worldwide.
Harley-Davidson motorcycles set the pulse racing of every single individual around the world. There is something very special and grand about these motorcycles in particular, which makes them stand apart from the other leading motorcycles. It is classy, striking, and extraordinary. Whether it is the style, brand or price, Harley-Davidson is a motorcycle people aspire to own and reckon with. When people are crazy for it around the world, then how can our very own Japanese people stay behind? The creators of Honda, Suzuki, Ducati and many other striking and imposing motorcycles just can’t resist getting impressed with the Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Though these Harley-Davidson bikes are an integral part of American culture and living style in particular, in Japan they are popular as well. Since 1913, Harley-Davidson bikes have been imported in Japan and in the year 1938, Harley-Davidson Japan was set up. In Japan as well, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are considered a luxury item, owned and flaunted by the rich and moneyed class of the population. During the past 5 years, there has been a tremendous increase in the sale of Harley-Davidson bikes in Japan. In the year 2008, around 15,698 Harley-Davidson bikes were sold and this number is increasing swiftly each year.
Among the many models of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, in Japan the Sportster is the most famous and recognized model. Among the other favorites in the same list, the Touring and Softail models are the most popular. Harley-Davidson motorcycles have been in Japan for a very long time and thus have managed to magnetize and lure thousands of people. It is considered to be a status symbol and just the name Harley-Davidson manages to make people go crazy and want to own one.
The age group that typically buys a Harley-Davidson in Japan is in between 40-41 years. Around 40% of the total customers of Harley-Davidson bikes in Japan are in this age group. Women customers are just 8%, while the male customers account for 30% of the total sales. These bikes are most popular among the travelers group. People who travel a lot and want to use a motorcycle as their mode of trasportation buy Harley-Davidson bikes. In Japan, there are around 202 Harley Davidson outlets and 137 dealers.
Harley-Davidson’s Sportster model is the best selling group in Japan and therefore the most popular as well. It is a very popular myth that only old and rustic people ride Harley-Davidson bikes, but this myth is gradually shattering in Japan as more and more youngsters are buying this motorcycle. Apart from the three very popular models of Harley-Davidson bikes in Japan, there are various others like VRSC, Dyna, and Softail, to mention a few.
The pride and satisfaction that comes with owning a Harley-Davidson magnetizes people from all over the world, and in Japan the situation is no different. Harley-Davidson motorcycles are considered entities that proffer dignity and honor and showcases how rich and affluent you are.
If you would like to know more information about Harley-Davidson Japan, please visit their website at Harley-Davidson.co.jp.