Metzeler and Harley-Davidson Unite in Budapest for the Ultimate Motorcycle Celebration:

120 Years of Iconic Design An In-Depth Review

Aug 8, 2023 | News

Motorcycles and the spirit of freedom they embody have a long, rich history, but few brands are as iconic and steeped in heritage as Harley-Davidson. This year, the Milwaukee-based manufacturer celebrates a stunning 120 years of producing bikes that are not just vehicles but a lifestyle. The festivities are set to hit a new high as they head to the historic city of Budapest. Here, amid the hum of engines and the camaraderie of enthusiasts, the legacy of Harley-Davidson will be celebrated in grand style.

Taking the celebration up a notch is the renowned tyre brand, Metzeler. As the official event partner, Metzeler is not just a collaborator but a co-star in this grand motorcycle saga. With a shared history of innovation and dedication to the art of motorcycling, these two giants in their respective fields are uniting to stage what promises to be the most memorable European motorcycle rally of the year.

From June 22nd to 25th, Budapest will transform into a haven for Harley-Davidson fans, motorcycle enthusiasts, and custom culture aficionados. This event will not only be a celebration of Harley-Davidson’s illustrious 120 years but also a showcase of Metzeler’s expertise in tyre technology, featuring their dedication to crafting the perfect ride for every rider. The stage is set, the engines are revving, and an extraordinary celebration awaits. Join us as we delve into the festivities that are about to unfold.

Metzeler’s Participation

In a commitment to enhancing the riding experience, Metzeler is set to showcase their offerings directly to the motorcycle enthusiasts gathering in Budapest. The German-born tyre brand will make their presence felt in the Harley-Davidson Village with a dedicated booth featuring their Cruisetec and ME888 Marathon Ultra tyres, two designs hailed as game-changers for the newest generation of cruisers.

But Metzeler’s involvement doesn’t stop at showcasing their products. In a true demonstration of their commitment to rider safety and comfort, they will provide a free tyre pressure check-up at their booth. For those seeking a tyre change or upgrade, the convenience ramps up. Rally-goers will have the opportunity to purchase Metzeler tyres and have them fitted directly at the event, thanks to an onsite service provided by the brand. With an ethos rooted in customer satisfaction and safety, Metzeler aims to ensure every attendee leaves with their motorcycles in peak condition.

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Special Initiatives by Metzeler

Alongside their hands-on tyre services, Metzeler will leave an indelible mark on the Harley-Davidson 120th Anniversary celebration with a series of engaging initiatives. As the sponsor of the official Custom Bike Show on June 23rd, Metzeler is fostering creativity and personalization among the motorcycle community. This competition will witness a stunning array of custom bikes, judged on their level of customization and aesthetic appeal.

Metzeler’s enthusiasm for the custom motorcycle world will manifest in three special awards at the event: the Best in Show, the Metzeler People’s Choice Award, and the Metzeler Judges’ Choice. Each accolade represents a different facet of appreciation for custom bikes, celebrating both the crowd favourites and those selected for their excellence by an official jury.

In a unique amalgamation of art and automotive passion, an artist at the Metzeler booth will create a celebratory peanut tank dedicated to Harley-Davidson’s 120 years. This specially crafted tank, along with others produced during the Metzeler Custom Tour, will later be auctioned for charity, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to social causes.

Through these initiatives, Metzeler not only showcases its advanced tyre technology but also its dedication to the motorcycle community and the values it represents. From service to artistry to recognition and charity, Metzeler’s multi-faceted involvement ensures the Harley-Davidson 120th Anniversary celebration is truly an event to remember.

Context and Importance of the Event

The Budapest rally is much more than a single event; it is a cornerstone of a much larger initiative by Metzeler – the Metzeler Custom Tour. This series of events, which makes stops at the most significant motorcycle rallies and exhibitions in Europe, aims to bring together custom motorcycle enthusiasts and to familiarize them with the Metzeler tyre range designed specifically for their rides.

The Budapest gathering, heralded as the most significant European motorcycle rally of the year, marks a high point in Metzeler’s 2023 calendar. This year, Metzeler has already made its presence felt at events such as the MBE Motor Bike Expo in Italy, Warsaw Motorcycle Show in Poland, and Hamburg Harley Days in Germany. But the celebration doesn’t stop in Budapest; the tour will roll on to Wheels & Waves in France and Italy and the European Bike Week in Austria, continuing to connect and inspire motorcycle enthusiasts across the continent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the thunderous roar of engines dies down and the gleam of chrome fades into the twilight, one thing remains certain: the Harley-Davidson 120th Anniversary celebration in Budapest, co-starred by Metzeler, will be a historic chapter in the saga of motorcycle culture.

From being an integral part of the event to showcasing their state-of-the-art tyre technology, Metzeler has demonstrated not just their product excellence but also their commitment to the motorcycle community. By promoting rider safety through their free tyre check-up service, celebrating creativity through the Custom Bike Show, and supporting social causes through the charity auction, Metzeler has embodied the spirit of riding: freedom, camaraderie, and a passion for excellence.

This event serves as a testament to Harley-Davidson’s enduring legacy and Metzeler’s relentless pursuit of innovation. As Harley-Davidson roars into its 121st year and beyond, enthusiasts can rest assured that Metzeler will continue to innovate, ensuring the spirit of riding is enjoyed for generations to come. The treads may leave the road, but the tracks they leave in our hearts are eternal. Here’s to the future of motorcycling, shaped by legends like Harley-Davidson and Metzeler, and shared by every individual who has ever felt the thrill of the open road beneath two wheels.

 

Focus on Metzeler’s Tyre Range

Metzeler’s commitment to crafting the perfect ride is manifest in its tire offerings. The brand has developed a range of tyres to cater specifically to the needs of custom and cruiser motorcycles, prioritizing performance, handling, and grip. Let’s take a closer look at their offerings:

  1. Metzeler Cruisetec: This new-generation product is designed specifically for V-Twin motorcycles and more. These tyres boast excellent handling and superior line-holding on corners, thanks to an innovative carcass and a tread compound that provides optimal grip. These tyres are known for their high responsiveness to direction changes and compatibility with older ABS systems, ensuring an even wear pattern for extended tyre life.
  2. Metzeler ME 888 Marathon Ultra: These tyres aim to maximize riding pleasure with increased mileage and impressive performance in wet conditions. The innovative structure and tread pattern with transversal grooves extend the life of the tyre while ensuring solid performance in the wet.
  3. Metzeler ME 888 Marathon White Wall: Standing out for its classic style, the White Wall enhances the look of cruiser and custom motorcycles. These tyres maintain the performance characteristics of the Marathon Ultra range, adding a dash of aesthetic appeal for those who love the vintage look.

This range of tyres is a testament to Metzeler’s understanding of different riding needs and their dedication to catering to them with innovative technology and design. Whether it’s for cruisers or custom bikes, for new models or vintage models, Metzeler’s expertise ensures every ride is smooth, safe, and satisfying.

And remember: Don’t just collect miles, collect memories.

Photos: Harley-Davidson Media – Words: Pablo Ferrero

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