Dale's Motorcycle Blog

Harley-Davidson has come up with a good idea, and it’s one that really should be implemented as widely as possible.  The MoCo will be implementing the Harley-Davidson Fit Shops at dealers all over the country.

Dealership Fit Shop specialists work with current and prospective Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners to help customize the suspension, seat, handlebars and/or foot controls to meet their riding preferences. New riders may not realize all the customizations that can be made to a bike to make it a one-of-a-kind ride based on build and preference, while long-time riders may not know about the latest customization options. Any Harley-Davidson model can be customized to fit most riders.

Most motorcycles can be fit precisely to a rider, but most riders don’t do so.  Most modern motorcycles have fully adjustable suspensions, and the idea is to dial in the suspension to match the rider’s weight, riding style, etc.  Dialing in the suspension to fit the rider makes the motorcycle handle and ride better.  But, all too many riders accept the factory stock settings, and ride off into the sunset, occasionally issuing complaints about how their bike wallows in the corners or whatever.

By taking stock of all the customization options, and having a trained specialist help each purchaser to dial in the bike’s settings to fit the individual rider, you end up with a more satisfied customer, who’s happier with his motorcycle’s comfort, ride, and handling.

And who knows, you may end up with a rider who is a little better educated about his bike.

Kudo’s to Harley for taking a step forward that dealers of other motorcycles would be wise to copy. Not only does it help make for a more satisfied customer, it also has positive implications for motorcycle safety.  Big Four dealers should take a look at doing something similar.  It would be a big help to their customers.