Harley Davidson rides into Mumbai

Harley Davidson, the iconic US bike maker, has launched its first dealer network in Mumbai. Situated in Bandra, Seven Island Harley-Davidson will offer the entire 2010 Harley Davidson India line-up of 12 motorcycles models, in addition to authentic Harley-Davidson riding gear, apparel and merchandise.

To celebrate the cult bike maker’s Indian entry, each 2010 model will be accompanied with a custom-designed special edition derby cover engraved with ‘First to Ride, India 2010’. These special edition derby covers will commemorate the company’s Indian market entry and also set apart the first pioneering owners for years to come.

Harley Davidson also plans to expand its dealerships to more Indian cities by 2011 and add more bikes to its current offering of 12 products.

“We are in the Indian market with a long-term vision and are here to stay. By September end we will be launching our fifth dealership in Bangalore and then wait for the response. From January 2011, we will target other cities,” said Anup Prakash, managing director, Harley-Davidson India.

Earlier this year, Harley Davidson tied up with ICICI Bank for consumer financing of its products in India. The deal will also be helpful in areas like dealer financing and banking services to the motorcycle company. The customers will be offered loans with an interest rate as low as 11% for a duration for five years which amounts to an EMI of Rs 12,845 for the 2010 XL883L Sportster. These offers can be availed through the company run dealerships in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh and Hyderabad.

The 2010 model line-up consists of 12 models from 5 different families namely the Sportster, Dyna, Softail, Touring and V-Rod. The XL 883L Sportster will be the cheapest Harley-Davidson that will retail at Rs 6.95 and the Flhtcuse Ultra Classic Electra Glide priced at Rs 34.95 will the range topper (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).