The Ranch Harley-Davidson: A College Station Legacy in Motion
The Ranch Harley-Davidson has become a landmark for motorcycle enthusiasts. Offering a wide selection of new and pre-owned Harley-Davidson bikes, they cater to both seasoned riders and first-time buyers. Their commitment extends beyond sales, encompassing top-notch customer service, expert advice, and a comprehensive range of parts, accessories, and apparel. The Ranch Harley-Davidson fosters a community around the Harley lifestyle through events and gatherings.
From Highway 6 to a New Horizon: A Groundbreaking Ceremony
In early 2021, The Ranch Harley-Davidson announced a significant move, signaling growth and an enhanced commitment to the College Station community. The dealership, formerly located on Highway 6, embarked on constructing a new, larger facility adjacent to its original location. This decision stemmed from the company's desire to expand its offerings and provide a more immersive Harley-Davidson experience.
To commemorate this milestone, a groundbreaking ceremony was held on Saturday, January 30th, in collaboration with the B/CS Chamber of Commerce. The family-friendly event featured free drinks, food trucks from Jimmy’s Burger Shack & More and Big Dawg BBQ, live music by Sweet Baby Mayhem, a stunt show by Shakey Jake and Corey, a blood drive, vendors, door prizes, and a bike detailer. The ceremony, which ran from 11 am to 3 pm, with the official revving up at 12pm, welcomed riders, non-riders, and bicycle enthusiasts alike.
A Vision for the Future: The New Facility
The new 52,000-sqft dealership promised an immersive Harley-Davidson experience. Designed by local Architect Robert “Half breed” Payne, JR. A.I.A., R.I.D., it features an open-concept showroom displaying New & Used Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, a state-of-the-art Service Department, and an expanded offering of Harley-Davidson Parts, Accessories, and Genuine MotorClothes.
In addition to the retail and service aspects, the new facility includes a 15,000sqf H-D Riding Academy course for those who want to learn how to ride. The 6-acre property offers ample parking, event space, and motorcycle display areas, along with improved accessibility. As part of the Midtown City Center Development, Bird Pond Rd was extended past Rock Prairie Rd to Highway 6 Frontage Rd and was named “Town Lake Drive,” providing The Ranch H-D with new entrances from different directions.
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Community Commitment
Owner Susan Gipson emphasized the importance of community support in the company's growth. "We love calling College Station home! We wouldn’t be able to make this giant step forward if it weren’t for the support of our local & motorcycle communities, and this will allow us to continue giving back!"
Harley-Davidson: A Legacy of Innovation and Style
The Ranch Harley-Davidson's commitment to providing an immersive experience aligns with the broader Harley-Davidson legacy of innovation and style. The company consistently introduces new models and collections that pay homage to its rich history while incorporating modern technology and design elements.
Icons Motorcycle Collection
The Icons Motorcycle Collection showcases Harley-Davidson's most recognizable and sought-after models, celebrating signature colors, designs, and parts while integrating the latest technology. The brand continues to evolve while honoring its heritage.
Softail® Motorcycles: Bridging the Past and Present
The Harley-Davidson Softail® motorcycle line exemplifies this blend of classic style and modern performance. These motorcycles offer a link to the past with their design.
A Look Back: Hardtails and the Evolution of Suspension
Before World War I, most motorcycles had front suspension, but rear suspension systems were expensive, difficult to maintain, and didn't always provide significant damping. This led to the popularity of "hardtail" motorcycles, which only had front suspension.
Read also: Riding a Harley-Davidson
Following World War II, rear suspension systems improved, leading to a shift towards dual-suspension motorcycles. However, the love for hardtails persisted due to their tougher look.
The Birth of the Softail®
In the mid-1970s, engineer Bill Davis developed a motorcycle design that cleverly hid the bike’s rear shocks, creating the look of a hardtail with the benefits of dual suspension. Harley-Davidson bought Davis’s patent, and the Softail® motorcycle was born.
Recent Models: A Nod to the Past
- 2025 Fat Boy® Gray Ghost: A tribute to the 1990 original, this numbered edition revives a legendary design.
- 2024 Hydra-Glide Revival: Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Hydra-Glide front end, this model revives the iconic 1956 FLH with its red base color and white stripe.
- 2023 Electra Glide Highway King: Inspired by the 1968 FLH Electra Glide, this model merges classic styling with modern comfort and performance.
- 2022 Low Rider El Diablo: A modern expression of the West Coast style of the ‘80s, this model pays tribute to the iconic Harley-Davidson FXRT models.
- 2021 Electra Glide Revival: A modern reproduction of the 1969 classic.
Read also: The Harley School Experience
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