Get ready, motorcycle enthusiasts – a major shift is happening in the Upper Peninsula’s riding scene! Bald Eagle Harley-Davidson is packing up and hitting the road, leaving Marquette behind for a new home in Escanaba. But here’s where it gets exciting: this isn’t just a relocation; it’s a transformation that promises to redefine the Harley experience for riders across the region. And this is the part most people miss – it’s not just about the move; it’s about bringing a central hub for riders, a longer riding season, and a beefed-up service department to a community that’s been craving it.
Escanaba native Jesse Zambon and his business partner Tim Stephani, already known for their success with Northwoods Motorsports, are the driving forces behind this change. Northwoods Motorsports, specializing in KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas dirt and dual-sport bikes, has been a go-to for both local riders and travelers. Now, they’re expanding their expertise into the Harley-Davidson realm, focusing exclusively on street bikes. But here’s the controversial part: some might argue that combining these two distinct markets under one umbrella could dilute the brand’s identity. What do you think? Can a dealership truly excel in both off-road and street bike cultures? Let’s discuss in the comments!
The new dealership will operate out of the former Country Roads building at 4473 U.S. 2, currently undergoing renovations to create a state-of-the-art space. The parking lot is also slated for paving, ensuring a smooth experience from the moment riders arrive. The transition, sparked by a reconnection with longtime owner Tim Dagenais late last year, has been swift, with the dealership set to open its doors on Tuesday, March 17.
Jesse explains the rationale behind the move: ‘Escanaba puts us in a more central location for our customer base. In Marquette, we were at the north end of our service region, but now we’re better positioned to serve Manistique, Escanaba, Cedar River, and other communities in our assigned Harley territory. Plus, the ‘banana belt’ climate here gives us a longer riding season.’ This strategic shift isn’t just about convenience; it’s about accessibility and maximizing the riding experience for a broader audience.
Approximately 70% of the staff from Marquette will make the move, with the Escanaba location employing around 10 full-time staff members, including specialized technicians. Jesse emphasizes, ‘We’re taking a different approach than most dealerships. We’re expanding our service department to support five technicians, compared to the two or three in Marquette. Our goal is to offer quick turnaround times and highly skilled service, from same-day tire changes and oil changes to full engine rebuilds.’ The addition of a dyno, a tool for measuring and fine-tuning motorcycle performance, further underscores their commitment to top-tier service.
Jesse and his wife, Amanda, bring over a decade of industry experience to the table. Jesse previously served as general manager, while Amanda managed clothing operations. In Escanaba, Amanda will oversee apparel, inventory, and event planning, ensuring a seamless customer experience. The couple will also operate two apparel locations: a year-round showroom at the Escanaba dealership and a seasonal showroom in Munising, catering to riders throughout the region.
The transition holds personal significance for Jesse and Amanda, who have deep roots in the Harley-Davidson community. Having worked with the Ison family at the Marquette dealership since 2007, they’ve witnessed the business change hands multiple times. ‘It’s an honor to carry the torch,’ Jesse reflects. ‘Tim Dagenais could have passed it to anyone, but we’re grateful he chose us to keep it local.’ This sense of continuity and community is what makes this move so special.
A grand opening celebration is planned for summer, likely in mid-to-late June, once the riding season is in full swing and the pavement is laid. ‘It’s a chance to bring something special to a community we grew up in,’ Jesse says. ‘We’re thankful for everyone who’s made this possible – from Harley-Davidson, to Bald Eagle, to our Northwoods Motorsports team, friends, family, and the Ison family.’
As Bald Eagle Harley-Davidson embarks on this new chapter, one thing is clear: this isn’t just a relocation; it’s a reinvention. And the question remains – will this bold move set a new standard for motorcycle dealerships, or will it spark debates about brand identity and focus? Share your thoughts below – we want to hear from you!
