Harley-Davidson, the world renowned bike maker, recently launched its latest model, the Fat Bob, in the Indian market. The model, which will be completely knocked down (CKD) and assembled in India, takes the biking experience to an all new level. Ammar Alvi checks out the Fat Bob.
The Fat Bob, part of the Dyna family of Harley’s, will be a CKD model and join the likes of five other models, part of the same family launched so far. It is Harley from every angle; however, it carries peculiar characteristics like forward-mounted foot controls, double headlamps, a drag-style handlebar, huge front
tyre, stylish two-up seat. These attributes make the Fat Bob very aggressive and sporty. It is a big bike for bikers who want to have a true touring experience.
The bike is powered by a 1690cc, air-cooled, Twin Cam103 V-twin engine, which is mated to a six-speed transmission. The V-twin is capable of producing 135.6Nm of torque at 3500rpm. Then there is a Tommy Gun exhaust that produces the famous Harley thunder. Adding to the touring experience, the company has also put a hand crafted 18.8-litre fuel tank.
According to Anoop Prakash, managing director, Harley-Davidson India, said, “The launch of the Fat Bob as CKD will allow more customers to experience our Dyna range at an attractive price point. At Harley-Davidson India, we will continue to adopt and invest in strategies that make our products and ownership experience accessible to more enthusiasts and customers in India. We are seeing a 30 per cent growth across India, China and Brazil and growth in India alone in 2012 was 40 per cent over 2011.”
Harley-Davidson reported strong sales in 2011, managing around 1,000 units and expects the numbers to further improve in 2012. The Fat Bob will join Harley’s already impressive line-up for India which includes bikes from the Sportster, Dyna, Softail, V Rod, Touring and CVO
model range.
The company is also hopeful that there will be a huge demand from metros and tier-II cities and that will be the driving force for the bike maker in India. To reach out to a larger audience, the company will organise bigger Harley Owners Group (HOG) rallies in 2013 and add new mediums besides music concerts to draw in potential buyers of its bikes. The company, which is committed to making India its big hub, has invested heavily in its assembly plant situated in Balal, Haryana. Harley-Davidson will also be expanding its current nine-dealer network with its 10th showroom opening in Goa by the end of the year.
Further, three showrooms are slated for opening in Jaipur, Indore and Pune by 2013.