It’s summertime and the ridin’ is easy. If you’re going on a road trip or just headed out for a long weekend, then what and how to pack your bike is probably on your mind. Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson wants to help you take the guesswork out of packing so that you can get to your destination easier and safer. 

Weight:

You want your bike’s added weight to be as low as possible. If you are deciding whether or not to take something with you, think about cost. If it’s something affordable that will be available for purchase at your destination, then that is something to consider instead of bringing it with you. In addition to adding the least amount of weight possible, it is also important to keep your bike balanced. Small weight differences of 5-10 pounds on one side can make for an exhausting trip. Keep the added weight close to the bike’s center of gravity, which is low and toward the tank. Make sure you don’t block the airflow to the engine. You may need to adjust your tire’s air pressure depending on the amount of extra weight.

What to Bring:

Rolling clothes takes up less space than folding, and large zipper-lock bags work well when storing them. Zipper-lock bags can also be used for a number of other items such as toiletries, cash, credit cards, and tools. Try to bring tools that are multi-purpose as opposed to one-use items. Lighter is always better, so if you have access to a washer and/or dryer where you are staying, plan to use it and pack accordingly! Put your emergency items and other items that you may need to get to quickly in one saddlebag, and your overnight things in the other. 

Practice!

It’s also important to do a “dry run” before you begin your journey. Pack up everything as you would if you were leaving, but take a short ride (1-2 hours) and see if adjustments are needed. Southside H-D wants to make your summer trips as easy as possible, that’s why you can stop in 7 days a week and talk to our Parts & Accessories department about the newest Harley-Davidson luggage for your bike.

Be Weather Aware:

Lastly, you may never know what kind of weather you will encounter if you’re on the road for a long period of time. Southside H-D has all your rain wear and high-visibility needs. Come in and talk to anyone in our MotorClothes department who can supply you with knowledge to make the right riding gear purchases.

Harley-Davidson has a checklist of essentials and extras for long trips, as well. Regardless of your destination, Indy Southside has you covered. We hope these road trip tips get you roll. Ride on!

It's riding season and Harley-Davidson Riding Academy is back! If you're brand new to riding, rode back in the day, or just getting your endorsement, the New Rider Course is for you. It's designed to give you the confidence you need to get on the road. 

What is Riding Academy?

Riding Academy is all about learning to ride. You’ll get plenty of in-class and on-range training, led by pro instructors at Southside Harley-Davidson. Our coaches are Motorcycle Safety Foundation® (MSF) and H-D® Certified.

During your Riding Academy experience you’ll learn about acceleration and braking, shifting and turning, as well as special maneuvering skills such as controlling skids and avoiding obstacles. Riding Academy grads earn a MSF Basic RiderCourse Completion Card, which allows you to bypass the written and riding test when you go to get your endorsement at an Indiana BMV. It can help get you a discount on motorcycle insurance, too. 

Class Requirements:

• Eyewear
• DOT-approved helmet
• Full-fingered gloves
• Boots or similar over-the-ankle and closed-toe footwear
• Jeans or leather pants
• Heavy long-sleeve shirt or jacket

You’ll also need a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit, and the ability to ride a bicycle.

Spots Filling Up Fast – Enroll Now!

Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson offers flexible three or four-day courses to better accommodate your busy schedule. Once registered, all students are required to complete a three-hour online training component before coming to their first class. 

Southside H-D also offers a Skilled Rider Course for more experienced riders. There's a limited quantity of spots for this course, so register now. 

Ask any Harley rider and they’ll tell you learning to ride a motorcycle is one of the best decisions they've made. Spots fill up fast, be sure to sign up for the New Rider Course today!           

Guys, Valentine’s Day is just a few days away. This year, ditch the drug store chocolates and ignore those internet flower ads. Tell your girl you love her, and show her you really mean it by giving her some great gifts from Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson.

We’ve got what you need to guarantee an arrow shot from Cupid instead of a swift kick in the butt.

Sweet Shirts & So Much More

At Indy Southside, our MotorClothes® department is always stocked with the latest styles and trends from H-D®. From shirts to sleepwear, jewelry, riding gear, and even gift cards, we have something for everyone and every budget.

Fellas, does your better half have a good heart and a bit of a bad side? Celebrate both with a Women’s Clear Rhinestone Skull Necklace. »

Ladies, make sure you and your guy take advantage of mild winter riding days with a men’s mid-layer Thunder Hooded Soft Shell Jacket.
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For the Bike

Are you two looking for a romantic overnight escape? Whichever bike you ride, if it’s a Harley then Southside can help you get away. The H-D Premium Overnight Bag is the perfect size for those short trips, and mounts directly to your Tour-Pak Luggage Rack or Sissy Bar Upright.

Need an entire weekend to reconnect? Ask our parts team about Harley’s Premium Touring Luggage System. This two-bag setup features expandable storage so that you can really pack it all in. Attach the Premium Shoulder Straps and take your gear with you after parking your bike.

Pounding Hearts, Pounding Pavement

Make this the best Valentine’s Day ever, for you and yours. At Southside Harley-Davidson in Indianapolis, we have more than 70 new and pre-owned motorcycles, with brand new 2017 models s. Plus, some of our best promotions of the year are going on right now. Ask us about locking in a low 0.99% APR, or how to ride home with a free extended manufacturer’s warranty. The deals don’t end there. Stop by today and see for yourself.

Speaking of deals, if you and your loved one are free this Saturday, February 11, come on out to Southside for our annual Valentine’s Pack-a-Sack event. Starting at 10 a.m., the first 50 adults through our doors will receive a sack. Any H-D licensed products you can fit in that sack will be 20% off! You’ll also get free gift wrapping.

Remember, Valentine’s Day is next Tuesday. Need a last minute gift for your sweetie? Give the gift that says “I like the way you roll.” We’ve got you covered at Southside.