HARLEY-DAVIDSON Motor Company, the world-famous motorcycle manufacturer, has announced the opening of its first authorised dealership in Moscow. Situated on Kutuzovskiy Prospekt, Harley-Davidson Moscow will sell the full-range of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as well as parts, accessories and MotorClothes.

Over the course of the summer two additional retail points will be opened in the Moscow area as well as a specialist service and performance centre. John Russell, managing director and vice president of Harley-Davidson Europe, said: "We're delighted to be opening for business in Moscow and look forward to introducing as many people as possible to the Harley-Davidson experience. "In addition to offering award-winning performance cruisers like the V-Rod through to classic custom machines including the Fat Boy, the dealership will shortly be launching its own Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) chapter.

"We want all our customers to share their passion for our motorcycles together and enjoy all the social and organisational benefits of belonging to a world-wide family of riders that has a membership fast-approaching a million people." The dealership is owned and operated by the Mercury Group, one of Russia's leading automotive and prestige consumer product distributors. Harley-Davidson Moscow also provides manufacturer-approved servicing facilities:

"Mercury Group has a proven track record of representing a number of high-profile motor industry and consumer brands in Moscow, including Bentley and Ferrari. We're confident that our unique motorcycles will quickly find new enthusiasts and will attract a wide range of customers. The friendly, inclusive spirit that has served Harley-Davidson so well for over 100 years is right at the heart of our Moscow operation" Russell explained.

An official launch party for the Moscow dealership is scheduled for mid-June with a wide range of free events taking place in the city. The Harley-Davidson model range includes classic custom, roadster, performance cruiser and touring motorcycles and on the road prices start at £4,995 for the XL883 Sportster.