Hero MotoCorp Is Setting Up An Entirely New Division To Help Harley’s Second Indian Onslaught

When Harley-Davidson announced its exit from India after a decade-long run, it not only affected the customers but the dealers too, who were heavily invested in the brand. So, ever since Hero MotoCorp came to the American bikemaker’s rescue, we have been awaiting its next move. Now, Hero has officially announced that it has set up a different business vertical for H-D in India and appointed Ravi Avalur as its business unit head.

Ravi joins the venture after a stint of two years with Cooper, an engine and engine components manufacturer. However, he is no stranger to establishing and growing a premium brand. In fact, Ravi played a pivotal role in Ducati India’s comeback in 2013 after the brand briefly shut operations owing to issues with its importer. As the managing director, Ravi not only strengthened Ducati India’s network but also brought the whole range of the exotic Italian bikes to India.

In this new role with Hero MotoCorp, things would be no different for Ravi. His focus will not only be on building a strong customer base, but also on expanding H-D’s network across the country. For this, Hero has also roped in four executives from H-D India’s outgoing team, including Vijay Thomas, who now leads the marketing for the vertical.

Hero MotoCorp has also stated that it has already commenced wholesale deliveries of the Harley-Davidson products to Harley dealers across the country. As of now, Hero has on-boarded 11 existing Harley dealers from prime locations across the country but has stated that it will use its own dealer network for a hassle-free after-sales network across India.

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Does this mean we will soon see new Harley-Davidson motorcycles on Indian roads again? Definitely. With the dealership network now up and running, the brand is likely to stay busy completing previous orders for a while. As for new launches, Hero has stated that it will announce the details as and when they come along. So, expect some interesting news on the Pan America 1250 and Custom 1250 in the coming weeks.

Here’s the list of Harley-Davidson dealers operating in India right now: