Welcome for mean machines

SOME of the biggest, baddest and most beautiful two-wheeled machines on the planet were unveiled at a new Harley-Davidson showroom in Holmes Hill, near Golden Cross, last week.

Previously known for being one of the most successful specialist turf machinery dealers in the UK, the John Shaw Machinery company now has a unique luxury motorbike branch.

On Thursday last week, the Shaw Harley-Davidson showroom was officially opened with a packed invitation only champagne party of bikers, wannabe bikers, Shaw staff and'¦ more bikers.

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Members of the Harley Owners Group (HOG) 1066 Chapter turned out in force at the bash, which not only celebrated the opening of the new dealership '“ the first ever in Sussex '“ but also the 100th anniversary of the Harley-Davidson brand.

Company owner and chairman John Shaw explained: 'We were looking for many years to supplement the machinery business in some way. Then, one day, one of my colleagues hit upon the idea of Harley-Davidson.

'It seemed rather odd at the time, especially as he was the only biker among us and had always pooh-poohed Harley-Davidsons.

'But we now have this wonderful showroom and he is now the happy owner of a Harley, so things do change!'

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Also at the opening was Arlington district councillor Keith Whitehead, but he was not there to represent his constituents '“ he is a keen biker who owns five motorcycles, three of which are Harleys.

Cllr Whitehead's brother, Nigel Wolek, was the first customer at Shaw Harley-Davidson. He pre-ordered a Heritage Harley Softail 'Fatboy', a distinctive-looking Harley which retails for around 13,000.

Also on show was a modern V-Rod Anniversary Two-Tone model, which features a smooth new engine designed by Porsche with an hydraulic clutch.

The bike also features an unusual carbon-fibre fuel tank located under the seat, rather than behind the handlebars. This stylish piece of kit would set you back 14,795.

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Parts and service advisor Lester Tibble is pictured (below) sitting on a Harley Softail Standard Limited Edition 'Bones' model, number 17 of just 200 ever made. This mean machine is on sale at 13,217.

A standard version of this bike would start at 10,395.

Pictured (right) is Cllr Whitehead sitting on the classy V-Rod Anniversary, a bike he owns.

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