What kind of memories stand out the most when you think back over the past year? Did live 2010 to its fullest potential?
Some may think it sounds a little intimidating, but I think that having a Bucket List for each year helps keep you in line and living life to the max. Some items on the list may be a bit extreme (like say, skydiving?) and some a little more tame (making time to have dinner with your parents every month). I like to think that when it comes to adding things having to do with Harley-Davidson to your list, they can be easily achieved! There are tons of things that you can do for little to no cost, or with just a little bit of saving. I guess that’s one of the advantages of living in Northern Illinois… we have at least 4 months to save our money so we can have fun during the warmer months!
Here are a couple of things that should be on everyone’s Bucket List in 2011…
1. Learn to Ride…. and ride safely. When was the last time you rode on a bicycle? Riding a motorcycle is pretty similar, when it comes down to it! Harley-Davidson has classes to help you get on a motorcycle and learn to ride it as safely as possible. Classes are less than $350, we provide the bike, and take just a single weekend with our award winning instructors.
2. Rent a bike you’ve never ridden before. It’s a lot cheaper than renting a car, and a whole lot more fun! Bring in your license showing your M class, then pick out the bike that you would like to rent. Never been on a V-Rod before but always wanted to? Here’s your chance for a day-trip with one! Or how about the big touring bike you’ve been hesitant about getting, but would be convenient for that trip to Daytona in March or Sturgis in August? Rental rates start at just $65.
3. Buy a new motorcycle. Big step, I know… but we can’t make excuses forever! 2011 models have some incredible features… the CVO models even come with iPods! Can you imagine what the 2012 models will have come this August? Best yet is that models start at just $7,999. That’s less than a lot of people pay for a used car. Factor in the gas savings and the priceless feeling of freedom…. do I really need to continue?
4. Start (or continue) customizing your bike. Chrome or black? Performance or style? Or maybe a mixture of everything? Did you know that there are thousands of options to customize your bike with? Mirrors, grips, brake and clutch lines, turn signals, speedometer and tachometers, headlamps, foot controls, covers, hardware, oil lines, gauges, stereos, footpegs, seats, wheels, tires, paint… and the list continues! It doesn’t cost an arm, leg and your first born child to make your bike match your personality. With the help of our salesmen and parts professionals, we can make sure your bike fits YOU the way that you want it to!
5. Be in style, both on and off the bike. Fashions are constantly changing. Thankfully, we are able to keep up with the trends, keep you looking the way you want and provide safety all at the same time. From performance leathers and boots to fashionable heels and dress shirts, we have price points to match nearly every budget. Leathers start at just $199, and come with a 5-year warranty (except for the FXRG, which has a limited lifetime warranty).
6. Go on at least one group ride. Not only are group rides a ton of fun, but they give you a chance to meet other riders that have the same interests as you! Besides… why do you need more than one reason to go for a ride?
7. Join the National HOG Club. At just $45 for a year, you get money saving programs as well as chances to go on trips of a lifetime with other riders. AT&T and Best Western discounts, reimbursement for safe rider courses, roadside assistance, Fly & Ride program, HD Insurance, motorcycle shipping, ABCs of Touring, touring handbook, patches and pins, theft reward program, and soooo much more.
8. Join your Local HOG Club. Membership for Rock River HOG is just $10 a year. This close-knit group of riders go on tons of dinner rides, chili cook-offs, camping trips, parties, and just ride in general! Meet some new friends close to home, and gain memories to last a lifetime.
9. Attend at least one seminar. You may think you know everything and sometimes be able to prove it, but I bet you will learn at least one new thing when you attend one of our seminars. Throughout the year we have seminars teaching about group riding, road trips, helmets, leather, boots, bike storage, and many more. The times range from 10 minutes to an hour, and are always free.
10. Attend the Illinois State HOG Rally. While the Rally is just for HOG members, the festivities continue at the dealership all weekend long. This will be the first year that Rockford will host the State Rally, and we are SO excited for the opportunity! Hopefully you will take the chance and come out to this memorable event in June.
So will you make the most of 2011? What kind of things are on your Bucket List this year?