Harley-Davidson logo can be seen on just about everything

Motorcycle enthusiasts are rightfully proud of their machines, the focal point of their riding.

Touring riders can be found wearing items bearing the names of their chosen equipment, such as Moto-Guzzi or BMW. Those who sling their machines through the curves, the sport bike riders, bear the logos of Yamaha, Honda and others. However, there is one shield that can be seen everywhere, at any place. The iconic orange and black standard of Harley-Davidson is arguably the most licensed and displayed symbol of the motorcycle rider.

The Harley-Davidson emblem can be found on everything from golf balls to airplanes. Fiercely proud and dedicated to their brand, Harley owners meld the shield of Harley-Davidson into their lifestyles.

The Harley-Davidson Sport Center of Duluth displays some of the items that make the grade in the embodiment of a lifestyle that promotes the pursuit of motorcycle enjoyment. Patty Heino, motorclothes manager at the Harley dealership, said her experience was that grandparents were the largest consumers of baby and toddler clothing and items.

“From ‘onesies’ to bibs, T-shirts to sleepers, grandparents (and parents) can completely outfit the budding biker,” she said.

As the child grows, coordinated outfits for boys and girls sporting the H-D herald can be grown into also. Children can also enjoy die-cast models, toys, stuffed animals and a variety of non-clothing yet child-specific items. All of these are geared toward the lifestyle enjoyed by the family.

But there comes a time when that lifestyle ends. A sad fact of life is death. Celebrating and remembering a person’s lifestyle is typical at funerals and other end-of-life gatherings. Helping to bring the motorcyclist’s lifestyle into focus during an end-of-life gathering is the Cremation Society of Minnesota, which utilizes a motorcycle pulled hearse. Reminiscent of the horse drawn caisson, this modern conveyance is pulled by a three wheeled Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

“This hearse demonstrates the epitome of respect in the passing of a loved one who shared a love of motorcycle riding,” said Paul Kraemer, manager of the Cremation Society of Minnesota in Duluth.

The hearse can accommodate a full-sized casket for traditional funeral services. It is also equipped with an “ark” to securely carry cremains within an urn.

“Flags representing military service, a state or a country can be displayed. As the only such vehicle in the state, the hearse is available to any funeral home in the state or region,” Kraemer said.

From the time the infant wears his first motorcycle sleep-wear, until the last prayer of remembrance is said on their behalf, the motorcycle rider enjoys a lifestyle that is filled with open road freedoms, good friendships of his/her motorcycling associates and the opportunity to pursue the happiness of a rich and rewarding lifestyle.

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