MILES TO GO: Members of HOG-Qatar Chapter prepare for a ride. Photograph: George Delfino
By Anand Holla
When Harley Davidson riders across the world come together for the World Ride every year, it’s not simply a show of unity; it’s a majestic show of strength. For the Harley-Davidson World Ride 2014, passionate bikers mount their large motorcycles and cruise streets across the world today to soak in the pleasure of riding and also log their miles on the rolling odometer on the bike giant’s website.
With tag lines such as ‘Punch the throttle, not the clock,’ or even better, ‘Just Ride’, the annual riding event believes in “tattooing the globe in a united demonstration of freedom.” The Harley Owners Group (HOG) launched this movement in 2008 as Million Mile Monday, which was eventually expanded into the two-day World Ride in 2012.
Last year, more than 10mn miles were logged by Harley riders. The aim this year is, of course, to break last year’s record. The Harley Owners Group-Qatar Chapter hit the road yesterday to pool in the numbers, and will today complete the major part of their ride. As HOG Qatar makes it clear on their website, “We’re assembling riders of every style, bike, and passion. If you ride with conviction, ride with us. That’s it. Just ride. Enter your kilometres when you get back and show the world what freedom means.” Community talks to Mohamed Ihab, Webmaster of HOG-Qatar Chapter, to understand the passion. Excerpts:
What is the idea behind this event? Who all are participating in this?
On June 22 and June 23 of every year, the idea is to make sure that you put some time aside to enjoy the road on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Last year, more than 10mn miles were logged by Harley riders. As it’s an international event, people from all over the world participate in it.
How many Harley riders in Qatar took part in last year’s event, and how was the atmosphere on street?
Last year, we had 40 bikers participating in the event. The atmosphere was amazing. It was a lot of fun riding together. It was a great event.
For the Qatar ride, which roads or areas will you guys cruise on? How many riders are participating this time?
This year we have planned something different. We let every group ride on its own. Yesterday, 22 riders made it to the Qatar Sports Club to have the readings of their odometers noted. Tonight, we will meet at the Harley-Davidson dealer store on Salwa Road to again take the readings of the odometers. The rider who clocks the most kilometres will win QR1,000 voucher, courtesy Harley-Davidson Doha. So far, 20 riders have registered and it is still going on.
What is the best part about riding a Harley on Qatar’s streets?
The feeling you get riding a Harley is like nothing else. It’s incomparable. You feel like you are wild and free. Qatar’s streets are in terrific condition with a lot of safe highways. So, to me, Qatar comes first when one talks about a safe road environment that’s necessary to ride a Harley or any bike.
What factor unites all you Harley riders at HOG Qatar?
That we all ride together, with no room for differences.
How do you guys manage to make your space in Qatar’s streets that are meant mainly for four-wheelers?
We have loud pipes installed in our bikes which let the car drivers know that we too are with them on the street. Moreover, we always ride factoring in every possibility of a problem. We expect others to make mistakes and we are ready for that eventuality. Most importantly, when we ride in a group, we maintain our pre-decided formation and follow all the safety regulations.