Harley Davidson fans who want to enjoy their pastime while visiting the tropical Caribbean can take advantage of the special tours offered by Harley St. Martin. With a choice of rides including classic, late model and custom bikes, enthusiasts can take to the open road with guides to visit major sights on the French/Dutch island, hang out at the beach, see the local flora and fauna, or tour the highways’ steep hills and tight turns on the Bikers’ Ride.
The company stocks the latest models new or just under 1 year old. The styles include Softtail, Fatboy, Heritage, Crossbone, Dyna and Rocker models. All bikes are insured, and drivers or passengers are limited to those 18 or older.
The tours are led by two guides and usually last about five hours. All tours are accompanied by a back-up jeep where beach towels and shopping bags can be stowed while riders are on the bikes.
The rates are most cost efficient for two riders. For example, the Champagne Ride is $650 for one person, and $700 for two. They request a deposit of 50 percent, with the balance due on the day of the ride. Check the Harley Sint Maarten website for current rates and reservations.
Champagne Harley Tour
This tour guides riders to the high-end shopping and dining as well as the most photographic spots offered on both the Dutch and French sides. During the tour riders stop for lunch at a French ocean-side restaurant, and at the end are treated with champagne, chocolates and Cuban cigars.
EcoRide with Harleys
For this tour the emphasis is on all that the islands are doing to conserve the environment. Riders visit a natural salt lake, tropical rainforests and coastal coral reefs. Lunch is scheduled at a Rasta Ital restaurant that offers vegetarian fare using local produce and seasonings.
Pillion Rides on a Harley
If riders have limited experience on Harleys and still want to get the ‘open road’ feeling of a bike tour, they can ride along as a passenger (or pillion rider) with one of the company’s experienced guides on the pRide tour. This hits the sightseeing highlights and includes lunch at a beachside restaurant.
Beach Hop Around the Island on Harleys
During this tour, the group stops at some of the 27 beaches around the island to enjoy sand and surf. Tour members have a choice of activities at the beaches, including water sports, dining and sunbathing.
IRide Allows Riders to Design Their Own Tour
More experienced riders and those familiar with St. Martin can design their own tour with the iRide option or ask for the more rigorous Bikers Ride that explores roads that give an extra thrill for cycles. For an additional fee, riders can select from the company’s specially customized 2009 Harleys for a stylish ride.
For more on the island of St. Martin, see Hotels under $200 a Day and Family Activities.
Source: Travel Adventures Leeward Islands, published by Hunter Publishing in 2008.
