Ray Price Harley-Davidsonsits high on South Saunders street and may become a tourist attraction. It is so big that it has taken years to build the dream of Ray Price, a Johnston County native businessman and drag racer.
"Actually, this culminated from a period of time. I never envisioned being able to do something the way we have here," he says.
There is nothing like a Harley-Davidson when it comes to motorcycles. Hogs in chrome and glossy paint dazzle on the showroom floor as well as the prices. The service department will soon move into new quarters.
"We'll end up with about 56,000 square feet of retail space just in this building," says Charles Haddock, general manager.
Drag racing is Price's hobby. He has set Top Fuel motorcycle records. The dealership houses the world's only "Legends of Harley Drag Racing" exhibit, featuring race bikes and mementos from other racers.
"I'm proud of being 63 years old and still being able to ride a motorcycle down a drag strip 215 miles an hour," Price says.
The image of motorcycling and Harley-Davidson has changed over the years. You now find more businessmen riding motorcycles.
"They want to take that three-piece suit off, necktie, and they really want to ride the road and feel the freedom that goes with owning a Harley-Davidson," Haddock says.
Price and his wife, Jean, will live in a spacious apartment on top of the building with a view of Raleigh's skyline. The dealership just celebrated customer appreciation days and plans a grand opening next Spring.
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