GREAT FREEDOM NUMBER 20
Around 60,000 visitors celebrated 120 years of Harley-Davidson at the Hamburg Harley Days.
FRANKFURT (May 24, 2023) – From May 19 to 21, Harley-Davidson in perfect motorcycle weather, celebrating its 120th anniversary at the Hamburg Harley Days. At the same time, the event venue, the wholesale market in the heart of the Hanseatic city, looked back on 20 years of Hamburg Harley Days.
Over the three days of the event, a total of around 60,000 Harley-Davidson riders and fans of the brand visited the festival and enjoyed action and hands-on motorcycle culture. Covering an area of around 40,000 square meters, Harley Village featured numerous dealers, caterers, and even a 30-meter-high Ferris wheel. Live stunt shows by Polish motorcycle pro Maciej „DOP“ Bielicki and live acts by Nazareth, Knuckle Head, Gráinne Duffy, Bonfire, and 15 other bands rocking two stages rounded out the harmonious program of the long weekend.
One of the highlights was the Harley-Davidson 120 Years Exhibition, in which numerous historic motorcycles illustrated the rich history of the highly coveted brand. The classic bikes on display in the impressive exhibition were just as much a talking point as the current machines on show in the expo area – including the latest models from Milwaukee such as the Nightster Special and the Breakout. Over 200 visitors took advantage of the opportunity to take a test ride. In the packed Demo Rides Area, visitors also had the chance to meet off-road pro and Pan America instructor Ralf Wiesenfeller, who had countless tips on handling motorcycles in general and adventure touring bikes in particular.
At the Custombike Show powered by Metzeler and supported by the Harley Owners Group, the best V-Twin customizers in the motorcycle scene gathered on Saturday to present their high-quality, one-of-a-kind creations to the discerning eyes of an expert jury. And, of course, there was plenty of motorcycling. For example, on guided tours that took participants to the Alte Land and Lüneburg Heath, among other places. And, of course, in the big parade: on Sunday, May 21, around 5,000 machines set off on a 30-kilometer farewell tour through the Hanseatic city, cheered on by the people of Hamburg.
Ford – which, like Harley-Davidson, is 120 years young – was also represented at the event, presenting the latest evolution of the Mustang alongside the Ranger and Bronco, as well as the Mustang Eleanor, one of the hero cars from the movie „Gone in 60 Seconds.“.
It goes without saying that the party will continue next year: Hamburg Harley Days 2024 is expected to take place from June 28 to 30, 2024.
Text & image credits: Harley-Davidson
Pictures from Hamburg Harley Days 2023
