DAVAO CITY — More Harley-Davidson motorcycles could soon be hitting Mindanao’s roads with the recent opening of a dealership here, which also offers after-sales service and original merchandise for the American motorcycle brand.

The 500-square meter shop along J.P. Laurel Avenue is controlled by Rdak Global Motors Inc., the Harley-Davidson dealer in Cebu.

“We hope to satiate the craving of the Davao and Mindanao market (for the brand),” said Therese Carmita A. Maligon, marketing manager of the Cebu and Davao dealership in a news conference.

Rdak Global Motors owner Regan Rex T. King said the group decided to expand to Davao to address demand customers and tap “the growing markets in Mindanao.”

Mr. King did not disclose the number of Harley-Davidson owners in the southern islands, but said the market consists mainly of motorcycle enthusiasts who can afford a ride of at least P1.1 million.

This market, he added, always “look for a Harley-Davidson” even if they own other brands.

Mr. King said with the new Davao shop, Rdak Global hopes to ensure that customers “will get the premium experience that (Harley-Davidson) owners so deserve.”

“We want to give a premium customer experience for our customers in this part of the country, especially in having their bikes serviced,” he told BusinessWorld.

He added that the company is selling not just high-end motorcycles, but a “total culture and lifestyle.”

“Our customers love to hang out,” he said, which is why it was important to set up more than just a display store. — Carmelito Q. Francisco

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