How to Start Harley Davidson Retail Store Business

Are big and fast bikes your passion, especially Harley Davidson? Do you love to own your own Harley Davidson retail store biz someday? Wait no further and start realizing your dream today.

The following article will give you basic information about this type of business, using this simple manual for starting up your own Harley Davidson retail store.

A Manual for Riding Your Way to Success

Harley Davidson is a world-renowned manufacturer of superior motorcycles with a dealership network in North America, Europe, and Asia. Today, Harley Davidson is one of the most trusted motorcycle and motorcycle parts names.


If you're a motorcycle enthusiast and want to start your own business, then a Harley Davidson retail store business is the way to go. To set up this business, you need a solid business plan, sufficient capital, and knowledge of the vital information of the retail motorcycle business.

Devise a Harley Davidson Retail Store Business Plan

Every business venture should start with a plan. Like any retail store business, this plan should include the place, the amount of capital, and the type of merchandise you wish to sell.

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The first thing to do is to determine the startup cost for the Harley Davidson retail store biz. The price should include the motorcycle's complex parts, including the wheel, engine, and transmission parts, which cost around $30,000. Of course, a large chunk of the capital should go to the motorcycles. A portion of the capital should also go with the maintenance kit items so your store will be a one-stop shop for your clients with Harley Davidson.

Another factor that should be included in the capital allotment is where to start the Harley Davidson retail store. The store should be large enough to hold the motorcycles on display, including the accessories you intend to sell, plus the accessibility to potential clients.

Lastly, determine the Harley Davidson retail store competitors in your chosen area. This way, you can devise ideas to add a competitive edge to your business.

Staff Hiring and Licensing

Probably one of the most critical factors in this business is the type of staff that will man your store. Employ teams that are diligent, courteous, and, more importantly, knowledgeable about motorcycles.

The next thing to consider is the business permit and proper certification needed for your establishment. Securing the requirements for a Harley Davidson retail store license from the appropriate licensing agency in the area is advisable.

Improve Your Knowledge of the Trade

Consult with reliable reading materials to improve your trade knowledge, such as Hot Bikes magazine, Thunder Press newspaper, and the Motorcycle Dealer News Annual Buyers Guide. It will also be helpful to get catalogs from other dealers and manufacturers.

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56 Comments

  • BRADLEY AKINS said on September 19, 2010
    i would like to start my own harley davidson store in powell river B.C CANANDA ON MARINE AVE PHONE NUMBER 604.413-1582 home to 30.000
  • Joesra graham said on September 15, 2011
    I would like to start a business in maricopa az USA
  • Edward Martin said on May 3, 2012
    I would like to start my own harley davidson store in portland mich on Grand River Ave. Off a major hwy. Great potential.
  • Steve C said on July 30, 2012
    I would like to start my own Harley Davidson dealership in Salem Missouri Dent County. Closest dealerships are 120 miles in either direction from IS 44. Great potential, ALOT of summertime motorcycle traffic and a sizeable (for the area) number of local riders
  • james hutchison said on September 25, 2012
    I would like to start my own Harley Davidson dealership in Southwest MO. I'm also open discussing licensing with my current location. Please give me a call at 417.336.8062 and ask for James.
  • TJ Abernathy said on October 2, 2012
    I'm looking to start a Harley-Davidson merchandise only store. I don't want to sell motorcycles. I want to specialize in apparel. Leather, clothing, and collectibles. Is that an option? I live in wichita, ks and we have a dealership already but its far north and my location is right in the heart of downtown. Please let me know what i can do to help spread my love for Harley-Davidson.
  • kevin said on October 15, 2012
    i would like to start a harley davidson store for apparel only in truro nova scotia canada
  • J MCGARTY said on October 22, 2012
    I WOULD LIKE TO OPEN A HARLEY DAVIDSON CLOTHING AND MERCHANDISE STORE IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY CONNECTICUT
  • patty quint said on January 20, 2013
    I would like to start a shop for harley davidson parts and accessories only in silverdale, wa because the current store carries very little choices. Do I need to buy a franchise to do this? I already have a building in mind to do this.
  • Gavin Gallagher said on March 9, 2013
    Hi. I would like to start a Harley Davidson store in South Africa. I need more info on what I need to start. Please send me more info via email : Gallagher8402@yahoo.com. Regards Mr. Gavin Gallagher
  • Kevin Smiecinski said on April 27, 2013
    I would like to open a HARLEY DAVIDSON apparel: all clothing, leather, and nick-nacks. It would be in Pinedale WY.. We get hundreds of thousands of bikes through our town and the sales could be tremendous, especially during Sturgis. Look forward to hearing back from you, thank you Kevin
  • Twana Shade said on May 22, 2013
    I want to open a Harley-Davidson apparel and merchandise store in the Hocking Hills OLaurelville, OH. There is a lot of Bike traffic that comes from all over to ride on the fun and challenging roads that Hocking County has to offer. Do I need to get with an already established Harley-Davidson dealership
  • Geralyn Ludwig said on August 12, 2013
    My husband and I would like to open a Harley Davidson retail shop in a store front at Put in Bay, Ohio (Lake Erie) selling Harley Davidson accessories and so forth. How do I start the first step in the adventure? Or who do I contact with Harley Davidson to put my best step forward? Thanks in advance for your response.
  • Travus said on August 28, 2013
    I would like to open a Harley Davidson apparel store in Oshkosh WI. Apparel only I don't want a dealership. Who do I contact about information on how to do this?
  • Greg said on August 30, 2013
    Same question as many before me. Where can I find info on opening a apparel and merchandise only store?
  • Robert Sorrell said on September 23, 2013
    I would like to start an apparel and merchandise store between Prescott and Chino Valley, Az on state route 89. Where would I be able to find information to be able to do this?
  • Bob Andrews said on October 20, 2013
    I would like to start up a Harley Davidson clothing and accessories store which would include anything Harley-Davidson in Pittsburgh Pa. How do I obtain the information needed to make my dream come true?
  • Dave Coppin said on November 4, 2013
    Port Elizabeth, South AFrica, nearest Harley dealer is 750 km away in Cape Town, have a perfect location for a HD outlet. I have a Sportser 1200 and have to take my bike all the way to Cape Town for servicing, accessories etc. This is most frustrating not having a dealer anywhere in our province, let alone the biggest city in thr region. I am Harley mad and love the brand. More and more bikers are purchasing HD in our area and truly believe with our passion and correct location, we could make it work. Cheers DNC.
  • Michael Pilkerton said on April 21, 2014
    I would like to start a Harley Davidson Clothing and merchandise store in Oakland Md 21550 any information would be great cell # 123016163878 thanks
  • Ruan Radmore said on May 2, 2014
    I would like to open a HD retailer in windhoek namibia. Here is no HD shop but a lot of harleys. Can definitely work..
  • Graham said on May 9, 2014
    I'm looking into starting up a Harley Davidson clothing and merchandice store in Northern Victoria Australia with a couple of bikes on display. Just like to know what's the ins and out of starting a store, the cost that would be involved and how easy is it to receive all items to sell. Where would I get such information . Thanks heaps.
  • fitgerald said on May 27, 2014
    I would like to open a harley clothing and collectibles in moreno valley and I have a great location .. need investor 50.000 startup very good idea .call west@(951-443-9549)
  • Rich Magnett said on June 4, 2014
    I would like to open a harley davidson apparel store in Seaside, Oregon in Clatsop county. How do I begin?
  • Richard Franz said on June 6, 2014
    I would like to open an apparel outlet. Some collectables. This is a resort town in the Rockies. Heavy summer traffic. How do I begin and what would start up costs be? Does H-D provide assistance in set up? My wife and I believe a store would do very well here. She has a lot of "retail" experience in this town. Thank you.
  • Jimmy Ray said on August 5, 2014
    I was thinking about opening a harley davidson store here in my town , great potential and no other stores any where within 60 miles. How can i get started. Oklahoma
  • Jennifer said on September 23, 2014
    Hello I want to open up a Harley Davidson Apparel STORE only, I Do NOT Wish To sell the motorcycles. I want to open it in Warren Michigan. How do I go about getting the right information that's needed to make this happen? Thank you kindly!
  • D McCoy said on December 2, 2014
    I would like to open up and Harley Davidson apparel store special order on motorcycle parts only, in Hampton Va. How could I get more information. I would appreciate feed back D McCoy.
  • Daniel Hann said on January 17, 2015
    We live in mt gambier south australia. As a Harley Davison owner I am thinking about starting up a franchise. I believe it has great potential to do well. For we need to travel for repairs and motorcycles. I have a strong passion for this opportunity to succeed. Could you please give me information on the prospects of this happening. I would like some figures and information on if this. So I know if this could be an investment venture and not just a pipe dream. Regards Danny Hann, 0488012403
  • Lori Hosterman said on January 25, 2015
    How do I open a HD retail store, no bikes?
  • Roy Bennington said on February 3, 2015
    I would like to start up a Harley Davidson clothing and accessories store which would include anything Harley-Davidson. There are 2 Dealerships within 1 1/2 hours from here (the one here closed and moved), now to shop folks here either do it on line or travel to one of these stores. How do I get started, does HD help with the set up, do I have to buy from their vendors to stock the store? Thanks.
  • MVM said on March 19, 2015
    Hello, I am very interested in finding out how to open a Harley Davidson only apparel and merchandise store, no bikes. I would love to make it a family store and put family to work. I live in San Jacinto Ca. And would like to represent my town, also would love to see people wearing harley shirts with the name San Jacinto on the back of them. So if you could please let me know. Thank you!
  • Brandon said on April 14, 2015
    i think it would be a great opportunity to open a harley davidson dealership somewhere between yuba city ca and chico ca, possibly the orville area located off of hwy 70
  • Chris Riley said on June 8, 2015
    i would like to open a Harley davison store just to sell mechandise. Eg t shirts jackets etc. in australia.
  • Mike said on June 14, 2015
    I would like to know how to open a Harley Davidson apparel store in the Dominican Republic in an up and coming area. Do I need a license to do so ?
  • thomas durden said on June 27, 2015
    I'm interested in adding HD repair services at my motorcycle sales shop. Not looking to sell apparel or merchandise. What do I need to do?
  • Tim Harris said on June 28, 2015
    I would like to open a Harley Davidson apparel retail store in Middleton ma 01949
  • Tim Harris said on June 28, 2015
    I would like to start a retail kiosk at the local northshore mall selling Harley Davidson shirts , head wraps, sunglasses. The mall is in peobody ma 01960
  • Adam Kirtley said on August 3, 2015
    I am looking to open a retail clothing and accessories store in Boaz Alabama 35956 on hwy 431, which is the major hwy through here. We have a huge motorcycle base here in area, but to get to any Harley Davidson shops people have to go a hour and a half away to get Harley parts and accessories. Would like to see if this a possibility.
  • Amber said on August 30, 2015
    I am inquiring for my father in law, he is interested in starting a business that sells Harley Davidson Apparel. What steps does he need to take? Does he have to buy a franchise?
  • Kyle Green said on September 24, 2015
    Brohman Michigan,USA 49349 gonna open a motorcycle shop to work/repair on bike as well as full custom fabrications and would like to be able to sale/stock Harley OEM parts!231-250-4095 text is best due to coverage but please let me know and thank you!
  • Trevor .E said on January 23, 2016
    I would love to open a dealership in Brisbane Australia specializing in all things Harley Davidson. We have a great dream with ideal location. Would love some further information. Regards Trevor.E
  • jerry jones said on May 13, 2016
    hello this is jerry jones and i am writing if I could get a price on selling Harley apparel in my motorcycle business so can you email me at jjerry843@gmail.com thanks
  • Attender said on May 18, 2016
    I want to open a Harley Davidson ol merchandise store, no bikes. Can you help me? How much funds i need to setup this store? Thank you!
  • Mike Maxwell said on August 8, 2016
    Hi My name is Mike Maxwell, I live in Silver City New Mexico. I think a Harley Davidson merchandise store would be a great fit here in my home town. It is becoming a real big biker town, which leads me to believe it would be a great money maker. I would love to own and operate this crazy cool business! I have the money right now for this exciting adventure so please anybody out there who has anymore info on how to get me started let me know!!
  • Jackie said on July 4, 2017
    Hi I'm Jackie. I would like to open a Harley Davidson store selling apparel, and other HD merchandise, no bikes. Can someone let me know how I can get started?
  • Kriatin said on August 28, 2017
    We have the retail slatwall units that are used in HD stores for sale. We used them in our store - sold most of our inventory just have the racking units left ready to send to a new shop!
  • Roy Bennngton said on January 31, 2018
    I notice a lot of people want to open a merchandise store but I don't see any comments from Harley offering up how to do this or where to get started. Would be nice to hear if they ever got started in the business.
  • Steve Lamontagne said on February 7, 2019
    I would like to start a Harley Davidson Clothing and merchandise store in Ocean City, Maryland, 21843. Any information would be great, email is Lamosteve@gmail.com
  • Joe said on June 23, 2019
    I would like to open a Harley apparel store at Carolina Beach. Please let me know what I need to do to get started. Thank
  • Ray Saenz said on April 30, 2020
    Living on the infamous highway #1 in central California is a great place to start a Harley Davidson clothing and accessories store. But I need help. please get back to me.
  • Ray Saenz said on September 14, 2020
    I have a building on highway 1 in Guadalupe ca. so many harleys pass by every weekend!!! please help!!!
  • Ray Stockton said on July 16, 2021
    My wife wants to open a clothing store in Monett, Missouri, and is unsure if she needs a dealership to sell apparel. Can you advise on the process?
  • Heith said on July 21, 2021
    Hey there, I'm interested in starting an online shop for HD apparel, motor clothes, and accessories. Do you have any suggestions for who to contact or where to go?
  • Heith said on July 21, 2021
    Ray Stockton, did your startup for your wife have any luck? It could be a big help!
  • Crystal aka LadyBelle said on March 10, 2022
    I want to open a Harley-Davidson apparel, accessories, parts, and supplies store in Camden, Arkansas. Would you be so kind as to send me the information I need to fulfill this dream? I appreciate any help you can provide. LadyBelle.
  • Brandon vanorman said on June 1, 2022
    I want to start a Harley Davidson sales & repair. I've worked on bikes for years, but there are no cycle shops around for 100 miles or in Canada. Many toys around here, alongside commemorative runs, would like to cash in on my knowledge.

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