MOUNT Isa’s Harley-Davidson owners will have to transport their motorcycles to Townsville if they want warranty repairs completed – a distance of 904 kilometres.
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That’s because Harley-Davidson Australia no longer finds Mount Isa a viable place for a dealership.
The motorcycle company will not renew its dealership agreement with the store based in Camooweal Street from July 31.
Mount Isa Harley-Davidson dealer principal Joy Strain said the dealership would be required to spend $2 million to build a showroom to fit the requirements of the motorcycle company.
Mrs Strain said the dealership could not afford the upgrade.
“It’s not sustainable for us to invest the required amount of money for a (dealership) to comply with what they require,” she said.
The store will remain open and would source genuine and aftermarket parts and accessories.
“We will continue to service and repair your bike in our fully equipped workshop, minus one Harley-Davidson computer,” Mrs Strain said.
“We have been in business in Mount Isa for the past 10 and a half years and do not intend changing that in the near future and we look forward to your continued support.”
A letter from Harley-Davidson Australia’s director dealer of development Darren Lowndes said “Mount Isa is not a viable location for a Harley-Davidson dealership”.
When contacted for confirmation of the company’s decision, Mr Lowndes said “I can only refer (you) to the dealership.
“I will let them confirm their position with you.”
Mount Isa deputy mayor Brett Peterson – an owner of several Harley Davidsons – was disappointed the company was leaving Mount Isa.
“It’s like closing the Holden, Ford or the Toyota dealership,” Cr Peterson said.
He said $2 million was a lot of money to invest in a showroom but the company should consider the needs of their local customers who would have to freight motorcycles to Townsville.
Mount Isa Harley Owners Group director Tony Moloney said it was sad Mount Isa was losing the motorcycle company.
In recent years services like coffee shops and showrooms had become a part of Harley Davidson dealerships, he said.
“It’s just the way they are doing things,” Mr Moloney said.
He remained supportive of the company and the brand.
“I suppose it is the way it is with the downturn everywhere,” Mr Moloney said.
“We very sadly have got to face it. That’s the sign of the times at the moment.”
He said most services could still be completed at the dealership although it would not be able to upgrade required data for new motorcycle models.
