Harley-Davidson has canceled the annual open house typically held at its York Vehicle Operations and Kansas City facilities.
With the company in the throes of a sometimes-painful restructuring, the Motor Co. “believes it may not have the necessary resources to provide the best possible experience for its customers and the community in York this year,” according to Fox 43 TV in Pennsylania.
Local business owners say they the cancellation won’t help the company’s goodwill in the area, as many bars and motels depend on the event, which can draw up to 10,000 tourists to the area.
“There’s usually five dealers that come together to help do this event and we’re all together and it’s gonna affect all five of us,” says Heather Goodwin, operating manager at Laugerman’s Harley-Davidson.
The KC event also draws big crowds for a benefit for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Although the Motor Co. is still a national sponsor for MDA, “The company said that an expanded commitment of resources to other activities will preclude an open house this year,” according to the Kansas City Star.
Harley’s York facility will still be the presenting sponsor of York City’s Bike Night Sept. 24, and the factory still offers free weekday factory tours ay both facilities.
Posted by Holly Wagner at DEALER NEWS
What's Hot with Bobber and Chopper Motorcycles 