In the world of custom motorcycle manufacturers, Big Dog Motorcycles has come to the forefront as a major player in the industry. Located in Wichita, Kansas, the company was started in 1994 by Sheldon Coleman, former CEO of the Coleman Company (a major manufacturer of outdoor equipment), whose initial interest was simply to build a better and more comfortable bike for himself for long distance riding. Recently, Brian Jackson had the opportunity to see the facility where these awesome bikes are produced, and he had the chance to speak with the President of Big Dog Motorcycles, Nick Messer, who told him all about the company, their products, and just who is buying them.

According to Nick, the average age of Big Dog buyers is 37 years. They are also well-educated, and they have a household income of approximately $90,000. Nick says that these types of buyers want a motorcycle that will stand out from the crowd, and when they purchase a Big Dog, they know that they will get just that. As far as telling a bit of history of the company, Nick told Brian that they produced 52 bikes in their first year of production and that the number rose to 3,600 bikes in 2003. This year, Nick told us that they are on pace to produce 5,200 motorcycles! That puts Big Dog at #2 right behind Harley-Davidson in terms of manufacturing custom OEM bikes. As far as sales are concerned, Big Dog had sales of $2 million dollars during the first year and now, ten years later, that figure has jumped to $100 million! So, what is the secret behind Big Dog's success? Well, the answer is quality-and that goes for their employees as well as their products! Nick told Brian that the people who work at Big Dog are not just employees, but that they are also enthusiasts who are proud of what they produce. Also, they are highly-trained and highly-skilled professionals! Nick said that since the company is located in Wichita (a center of aircraft production), Big Dog employs many engineers who have brought their expertise and technology from the aircraft industry to the field of custom motorcycles! Obviously, it is a win-win situation for the company and the customers! So, there you have it about the people, now how about the bikes! According to the company's web site, "Big Dog Motorcycles manufactures a line of street inspired, heavy weight cruisers based on a 107 cu. in., air-cooled, V-twin engine, six-speed transmission, fat tires, and custom graphics. From mild to wild, our line encompasses all types of looks and suspensions. Some are perfect for cruising in town, while others are best for cruising out of town" ( Their success is also related to their focus on the entire quality control process, and whether it is testing the engines or checking the paint, if it isn't perfect then it isn't a Big Dog. In addition, Big Dog now produces their own line of clothing and accessories and you can be assured that these products are held to the strictest standards of quality control just as they do with their bikes!

So, you may want to know how difficult is it to get a Big Dog of your own? The answer is: it's simple! Nick told Brian that a host of dealerships are already in place and that there are many more on the way! In addition, you can look for the popular Big Dog Rig at major rallies and shows as well! Nick told Brian that they just keep wanted to make their products better and better. Sounds like a plan to us! If you would like more information on Big Dog Motorcycles, give them a look on the web at www.bigdogmotorcycles.com

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