There is something inherently sexy and exciting about motorcycles in general, and Harley Davidson in particular. We sat down with Indji Ghattas, Dealer Principal of Harley-Davidson Egypt, to talk about the increase of motorcycles in Egypt, as well as riding in general.
Riding motorcycles is a very particular interest. When did you develop it?
Long ago, as I always had a sense of difference and freedom for my soul when I rode a motorcycle. It’s the only opportunity for a human being to experience flying.
What is your favorite thing about your work?
Fulfilling dreams. Changing a person’s current state to enjoy life through a motorcycle brand experience is the most fulfilling part for me.
Riding with a helmet is mandatory and the traffic policy must be very strict about it.
The biker community in Egypt has been growing recently. To what do you attribute this, and how does it affect your work?
I attribute this to all the motorcycle groups that helped present the community in its best form through proper organization of rides, activities and events. The enthusiasm of all riders regardless of their gender, religion or political views and motorcycle brands all gathered under one roof.
What do Egyptian bikers need the most right now in terms of traffic law?
1. Riding with a helmet is mandatory and the traffic policy must be very strict about it.
2. Car drivers to have more education about riding on the road and their safety.
3. No motorcycle brand should sell a motorcycle without making sure that the person has a riding license.
4. To ensure a certain riding experience.
Why do you think more Egyptians are buying motorcycles instead of cars?
It is definitely easier to commute in traffic with a motorcycle. Riding a motorcycle releases endorphins that reduce some stress. So it is one of the best stress therapies out there!
Why are women becoming more open to riding motorcycles?
It symbolizes freedom in its most conservative way. It is fun above all.
Is sexual harassment still something which you face on a daily basis as you ride?
Not at all, I get a lot of thumbs up from all genders and ages. I see a lot of positive spirit encouraging women to ride more.
How can women know the type of motorcycle that is most suited for them especially here in Egypt?
Firstly, they have to learn to ride. Afterwards, they need to test ride more than one option in terms of the size of the bike, its weight and riding position to their comfort. My sincere advice is: don’t rush things. Take your time to learn, try and experience.
midlife crisis is the feeling of being young again I believe. We all should feel this way until the day we die
What kind of initiatives/events do bikers in Egypt need?
More family oriented gatherings because this is not a solo hobby. This can involve everyone in the family to have fun. Combined (brands/groups) riding courses and safety techniques.
Some people believe that when a man is going through a midlife crisis, he will get a Harley-Davidson. Do you think it’s true? And what happens next when/if they do that?
In some cases it is true but at the end of the day, midlife crisis is the feeling of being young again I believe. We all should feel this way until the day we die. We were born to live and enjoy life to the fullest. If riding a motorcycle when you are over 40 is considered midlife crisis, I advise everyone to try it as a cure to boredom, daily routines and change. I believe this is an overrated idea and reality is more fun.
Who are the most frequent Harley-Davidson customers?
Men still are the majority with average age of 30-55. We started having younger and much older age groups join in the past few years which is great.
