Anniversary launch: Ride on rocker

Harley Davidson's spanking new special edition, the Rocker C bike, was unveiled at Dubai's Ritz Carlton Hotel on Monday to mark the company's 105th anniversary celebrations.

Described as an ideal city bike, the Rocker C has a low centre of gravity and unique design, but the best thing about it is its Softail feature.

Another little secret about the bike is its seat. Tucked completely out of sight and under the rider's seat is a simple pillion. Called the trick seat it requires no tools and only takes less than a minute to attach.

Lean machine

Besides Rocker C, the other bikes on display included Dyna, Springer, Road King and the new 1125R Buell. The leanest and the fastest of the family, the 1125R Beull has a 146bhp engine and is equipped with a water-based cooling system. "It's this feature which makes it so efficient," said Marcel Bode, General Manager, Harley- Davidson, Dubai.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, some Harley fans were given the opportunity to experience and test drive the magnificent machines.

However, the highlight of the anniversary celebration was a party on Monday evening where a movie on the history of Harley-Davidson – right from its humble beginnings in a shed in 1903 – was screened. Guests were also treated to an entertaining musical performance by Therese Nuaim.

Who's a rocker

Rockers are members of a subculture which began in the UK in the 1960s among motorcycle-riding youths. Marlon Brando portrayed the perfect look and spirit of a rocker in his 1954 movie The Wild One.