How many motoring brands are still going strong more than 100 years after they started and what keeps people interested?
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For Lindelle Banks, Harley-Davidson motorcycles were an expression of freedom, which was unlikely to be phased out anytime soon.
“It’s one of the few brands people tattoo on themselves,” Ms Banks said.
The Richardson’s Harley Davidson events and promotions coordinator is preparing for the motoring brand’s 100th anniversary since it first opened in Australia.
The Thunder Ride, a celebratory ride, starts at Beaconsfield Skate Park from 11am on Saturday, making its way to the Richardson’s dealership for live music, magic, cake and a show and shine with prizes.
All makes and models were welcome, she said.
A leather jacket, signed by Bill Davidson who is the grandson of the brand’s namesake, will be auctioned off with proceeds going to The Brain Cancer Foundation.
The free event will be a fundraiser for the charity and an opportunity to celebrate the much-loved motorcycle brand, she said.
“It has an old school appeal.”
About 5000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles are registered in Tasmania, which Ms Banks expected would continue to grow as it opened up to a larger audience.
Dealership owner Simon Hrycyszyn bought his first Harley-Davidson in 1976, before selling his first new motorcycle two years later.
When he first started selling, the motorcycles were associated with bikers.
One of the most significant changes to Harley-Davidson since Mr Hrycyszyn bought his motorcycle was the introduction of learner friendly.
“Anything over a century old in Australia creates its own following,” he said.
The ability to customise every component in the bike meant people could create their dream motorcycles, Mr Hrycyszyn said.
“Two bikes might be sold and in less than a month they’ll be completely different.”
When he first started, there were 12 different models.
Now there were 28, with another 100 to be announced within the next decade.
The free Harley-Davidson 100 year anniversary event kicks off from 1pm at 468 Westbury Road, Prospect.