Are you seeing a lot of big changes with the summer fashion line?

It’s getting a little more colorful, even for the guys, believe it or not. Of course, most guys still want to start with that black jacket as a base color – after that they usually add grey, denim, HD orange. Now we’ll be seeing more colors like mustard and olive, and even some plaids.

For women, moving from spring into summer, we’ll be seeing a lot of pinks, yellows, turquoise – some really pretty summer colors. Most girls want to look cute on a bike but still have the functionality of the riding gear. These looks are coordinated to take you from day to night, from bike to club, simply by changing up a layer. You could have on a denim look during the day swap it out for a Harley fashion leather, put on some pumps and you’re ready for date night.

Are there certain items or trends your customers are gravitating towards?

The garage shirts are good sellers for men and the sleeveless shirts are big. The slimmer Black Label line is pretty popular with the younger male rider.

For women, we have gorgeous burnout tees and some cute tank tops with just the right amount of bling. The skull motif is popular, so is color-blocking.

How do you decide what fashions to carry in the store?

It’s all about the color, the layer, the look, the function of it all. Harley-Davidson does a great job designing to meet the fashion needs of its riders. They have a design-spotting team who studies worldwide fashion trends six to eight months out– and they are really on it. We follow Harley-Davidson’s lead for style and we listen to what our customers want too. Chances are, whatever your Harley style is, we’ll have something for you.

Do you have a trademark look for summer? Let us know what colors and styles you would like to see on our MotorClothes racks.

In previous blogs, we have talked about how the right helmet and jacket can make your ride safer and more comfortable. But underneath it all is another very important component of your ensemble. No, we’re not talking about underwear, but we are talking about what you wear under your jacket – your layers. And like anything Harley, our style isn’t just about looks. It’s all there to serve a purpose.

A new rider learns pretty quick that being prepared isn’t just a good rule for boy scouts. But even seasoned riders can forget from time to time how that little bit of foresight makes all the difference between pleasure and pain when you’re out the open air. We asked our MotorClothes manager Jodi for a few tips that all riders should follow when planning their ride attire.

When it comes to clothes, what’s a good rule of thumb when you’re gearing up?

Most riders consider wearing three layers; base layer, mid layer and outer later – like a shirt, a hoodie and a leather jacket. You want to be able to add and remove layers as the temperature changes throughout the day. Harley-Davidson also offers a Rider Comfort System line of clothing especially for women.

Your base layer should be thin, stretchable, and well fitted. Nothing is more annoying than a shirt that hikes up as you ride. All MotorClothes run long in the torso and sleeve, and many can be ordered in tall, if you need even more length. Some of the newer base layer garments are made with wicking fabric, to help keep your skin dry if you perspire. Your base layer can be a thin shirt or a thermal shirt.

A middle layer helps to insulate your body on cold days. Sometimes your middle layer is just the insulated liner in your leather jacket. If you start to get too hot, you can always take that layer off, roll it up and stow it on your bike. Once the sun goes down though, you might be very glad you still have that middle layer available.

Your outer layer is really what’s going to protect you from the elements. Rain, wind, cold – you want to check the weather and prepare for whatever conditions are in the forecast. This outer shell should be roomy enough to fit over your other layers. If it gets too warm you can open unzip the vents on your jacket for more temperature control. I avoid unzipping the wrists though, because anything could fly up your sleeve.

What other things should a rider consider when preparing for the weather?

Aside from jacket layering, riders have a lot of options and accessories. They can add insulated pants or chaps for warmth. You should have two pairs of gloves, one for cold months and one for warmer (happy hands, happy rider, I always say). You want the right footwear the season. Something for your neck – neck gaiters that keep you warm in the winter and bandanas that you can wet down to help keep you cool in the summer. You should bring two pairs of glasses, your regular glasses and your sunglasses. Just remember that you live in Wisconsin, and the weather can change a lot throughout the course of a day.

As a Harley rider, you love being our in the open air. Be prepared for all that may entail by dressing in the right options before you hit the road. It can make a world of difference in the journey ahead.

Got a layering tip of your own? Share it with you fellow riders in the comments section below.

We’re looking for a Full Time Professional Facilities Custodian. Applicants must have the ability to perform all types of custodial work inside and outside our facility.

Must be able to lift 50 pounds on a regular basis, be able to operate various types of cleaning equipment such as vacuum cleaners and have knowledge of safe use of a variety of chemical substances used for cleaning purposes.

The ideal applicant must have good decision making skills, ability to follow oral and written instructions and the ability to work in a limited supervision setting. Driver’s License Required. Work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m with occasional overtime available. Full benefits including vacation available. Minimum Experience: One year of relevant experience or equivalent. Minimum Education: High school graduate.

House of Harley-Davidson is drug free workplace and an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against persons because of age, race, color, creed, religion, disability, gender, ethnic or national origin, or veteran status. Please send resumes to Don Cozza. No phone calls please.

Click here for a Printable Employment Application.

What started as practical protection against road rash has evolved into a high-profile fashion statement. From Brando to Beyonce, motorcycle jackets are an iconic fashion statement. But for a rider, it’s not so much about fashion as it is about function. We chatted with our MotorClothes manager Jodi about how the right jacket can keep you comfortable and visible in any situation.

How has the design of Harley-Davidson jackets changed in recent years?

While the old school style is still a big part of the line, some newer styles are trending towards a younger style. Collarless or mandarin styled collars are popular. A slim-fitted and sleeker look overall is becoming more popular. I would say within the last 3-5 years HD has come a long way with the style of a jacket. Some constants remain regardless of style. Longer sleeves and longer back length will always be a must for riders.

What are some of the new features of the jackets?

Lately the designs are tailored to be more utilitarian. More attention is being paid to venting, functionality, body armor on the elbows and shoulders, as well as personalized fitting options like with waist cinches.

Aside from tailoring, what about jacket material?

The materials have come along way too. Leather jackets will always be our biggest seller, but there are some newer textile options that can hold up against leather. Jackets like our 600 Denier Nightfall jacket have a very durable and dense weave but are a good option for anyone looking for something other than leather.

Visibility is another huge component of newer jacket design. You know, riding louder doesn’t just mean louder pipes. It means your clothing too. There have been huge advances in with visibility through the 3M Scotchlite Reflective Material you’ll see on some of our jackets, men’s and women’s. That can really can improve your visibility – day OR night. Sometimes people will try them on here in the store and you can really see them from way across the showroom. These are popular with riders because no one wants to wonder if the cars can really see you. You have to be seen when you’re riding.

In the market for a new jacket? Bring in your gently used Harley leather jacket and earn up to $150 in a HOHD gift card towards Harley-Davidson licensed product.

What’s your favorite thing about your motorcycle jacket? Share in the comments field below.

Going on its 20th year, our Spring Bike Show has become a tradition like no other. Join us on Saturday May 19th for great music, awesome food, killer bikes, and amazing vendors.

Register your bike by May 14th to take advantage of Pre-Registration savings. This show is shaping to be the best on yet, don’t miss it.

]]> http://blog.houseofharley.com/events/20th-annual-spring-bike-show/feed/ 0 http://blog.houseofharley.com/annoucements/the-house-is-hiring-2/ http://blog.houseofharley.com/annoucements/the-house-is-hiring-2/#comments Wed, 18 Apr 2012 21:31:51 +0000 Kristin Wacker http://blog.houseofharley.com/?p=3143

The House of Harley-Davidson is looking for a Part Time Motorclothes Associate. Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years retail experience and have the ability to perform all types of retail work like stocking, selling and have great customer service. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis and stand on your feet for a lengthy amount of time. Part Time Motorclothes Associate  must have good decision making skills, ability to follow oral and written instructions and the ability to work in a limited supervision setting. Work schedule includes weekdays and Saturdays.

Minimum Experience: 5 years in the retail industry. 

Minimum Education: High school graduate.

Only experienced candidates should apply.

House of Harley-Davidson is drug free workplace and an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against persons because of age, race, color, creed, religion, disability, gender, ethnic or national origin, or veteran status. Please send resumes to Jodi Politowski. No phone calls please.

Your helmet is the most important piece of riding gear you can buy. There are about as many helmets to choose from, as there are bikes to ride. But just like choosing the right bike, there are many things to consider when buying a helmet. We sat down with Jodi, our MotorClothes manager, for some tips about choosing and caring for your motorcycle helmet.

What are the various types of helmets on the market?  

For basic protection, there’s the half helmet, which only covers your head. If you’re looking for more protection, there’s a three-quarter helmet, which covers your brainstem and your jaw line. If you want full coverage, you would go with a full-face helmet, to cover your brainstem, jaw line and your chin (popular with snowmobilers too). We also offer modular helmets, which have a flip up chin guard.

The helmet weight and thickness can vary depending on which materials you go with. The outer-shell materials range from thermoplastic, to fiberglass, and some more state-of-the-art materials. Hybrid ultra-light helmets are injected with Aramid and weigh only 1.2 pounds, and our Carbon Kevlar® helmets are made from some of the strongest and lightest manmade materials available.

How can I be sure I am buying the right helmet?

At The House, we have our helmets on display for our customers to try. We know how to fit a helmet and that every helmet is going to fit your head differently based on the manufacturer. Once you start narrowing down your choices, we help you test them for the best fit. Be sure to bring any eyeglasses or accessories along with you, so we can make sure those fit in the helmet well too.

Once you select your helmet, here are five key tips for maintenance and protection:  

1. Helmets mold to your head, make sure that no one else wears it and stretches is out. Once someone with a different head shape stretches it out, it’s not a custom fit to you. You may as well give it to them.

2. DO NOT carry or hang your helmet by the chinstraps. It creates undue stress where the straps are attached and can damage the lining.

3. Hand-wash your lining, especially if you have been perspiring a lot.

4. Use furniture polish like Pledge on the outside of your helmet. It helps keep bug guts from baking on to your helmet and those acids can compromise the enamel of your helmet.

5. You should replace your helmet every 3-5 years. Even if it has never been dropped or left outside, exposure to climate change will change the way the helmet fits.

When it comes to helmets, it’s worth it to spend some time making the right choice. You do multiple safety checks on your bike. Be sure to do a safety check on your helmet as well.

To make sure our customers have the best possible protection, trade in your old helmet to benefit the Greenfield Fire Department and get 20% off of your new one from The House.  Now through April 30!

What tips or questions do you have about your helmet? Leave your questions on the comments field below.

Is there an art to motorcycle maintenance? We like to think so, but even more than that, it’s an actual science. Your service manual gives you the tried and true formula to keep your bike in top shape for years to come. When you bring your bike in according to the recommended service schedule, you add more miles, increased safety and a better overall feel to your ride.

Whether you own a Sportster, Dyna, Softail, Springer, or Touring bike, there are specific milestones when a maintenance check is a must. We asked our service techs, Ski and Brian, a few questions about Mile Maintenance.

Is there one check that is the most important?

Brian: They are all important, but your 1,000-mile check would be one of the most important. Everything stretches and expands from early use – cables, belts, chains, throttle – we make adjustments to put the bike back to factory specifications.

When you are doing 1,000-mile checks, do you ever get a bike in that has changed drastically during that time?

Ski: Nothing too alarming. There are changes but most people don’t notice them right away- it happens so gradually. We notice it as soon as we hop on the bike – because we are trained to notice the subtleties. But when they pick up with bike they can really feel the difference.

Brian: We do get customers calling back just to tell us how thrilled they are in the change in the way their bike handles after the check up. They didn’t realize how bad it was. Even on older bikes – when people get them back they say they run like brand new.

After the 1,000-mile check, what is the rule of thumb for maintenance?

Ski: There’s another check at the 2,500-mile mark, and that is usually a small service. And then you would start every 2,500 miles after that. Even if your bike feels fine, always follow the maintenance schedule in your service manual. There are things that need replacing at every milestone, regardless of model or feel.

Brian: There are 20 checkpoints on a younger bike, and close to 40 on a bike with a lot of miles. Things like fork bearing adjustment, engine stabilizers and mounts, ignition timing, vacuum hose ­– basically anything from shocks to spokes.

To find out more about our Mile Maintenance service checks, visit our service menu or give the tech team a call at 414-282-2211.

How many miles are on your bike? Leave your questions about Mile Maintenance service checks in the comments field below.

If you haven’t been out on the road yet this year, chances are you are checking everything out, anxious to get motoring. Remember that when it comes to handling, traction and safety, your tires are the most important thing between you and the highway. Here are a few things about tire inflation you should keep in mind before the rubber hits the road.

What should you be looking for when checking your tires this spring?

When you first take your bike out of storage, check the pressure and then inflate the tire to the proper pressure. Spin the wheel and look for any nails, cuts or dry rot that may have developed, or was missed when you put your bike away for the winter. Also, keep an eye out for any unusual cupping in the tread.

How can you find out the right pressure for tires?

It varies between models so always check your owner’s manual. When riding solo, the pressure on the back tire is generally lower. With a passenger, you want to increase the pressure in back so that contact patch remains consistent in size. Again, always refer to your owner’s manual for the correct tire pressure recommendations. If you don’t have the manual, we are always glad to help.

Are wide tires better for larger riders?

With a wide tire, you’re going to give up some handling you have in a standard tire. You‘ll have a larger contact patch and while that can help support a heavy rider, it is also a larger surface to pick up more nails, cuts, etc. As far as maintenance goes, it’s the same. Check your tire pressure once a week.

Why do some riders fill their tires with nitrogen?

All rubber leaks air but nitrogen leaks at a much slower rate. Nitrogen holds the pressure longer and more consistently, even with changes in temperature. Nitrogen doesn’t expand and contract as much as air. The longer the correct pressure is in the tire, the better wear you’ll receive. Nitrogen filled tires retain a constant sized contact patch, so you don’t end up with cupping or premature wear in areas in your tire.

Green valve caps indicate nitrogen filled tires.

Aside from wear, are there any other benefits to nitrogen filled tires?

Properly inflated tires roll with less resistance, which can save on mileage and fuel. 90% of blowouts are due to under-inflation, so it can help keep you safe. That is why the military, NASA, airplanes and NASCAR all use nitrogen in their tires.

If you need a tire check or want to have a nitrogen fill, stop by and we’ll hook you up.  It’s a fast, inexpensive way to keep you even riding even longer this year.

Do have questions about tires for your Harley? Leave them in the comments section below.