A look at the Makani cruiser bike activation at Waterstone Village, offering both solo and chauffeured Harley-Davidson rentals for local enthusiasts.

I often find myself at Waterstone Village for the usual errands, but a recent walk through the centre turned up something I honestly didnt know was an option in the area. While car rentals are a dime a dozen, I stumbled across a display of cruiser bikes that stopped us in our tracks.

It turns out Makani, a specialist outfit based in Montague Gardens, has set up a temporary activation at the mall to showcase their Harley-Davidson rental fleet. I spent a few minutes chatting with Dave, the owner, who is exactly the kind of pleasant, knowledgeable enthusiast you want to meet when you are staring at a row of gleaming chrome.

The Harley experience for everyone

What struck me was that you do not necessarily need a motorbike licence to get involved. While they offer solo rentals for those who can legally ride, they also have a chauffeured option. It is a clever way to let people enjoy the Harley experience without needing to own a bike or have years of riding experience.

Our boy was absolutely fixated on the bikes. He really wants to sit on one of these “big toys,” so we ended up signing up for a competition they are running at the moment. They are giving away both solo and chauffeured rides, and we have our fingers crossed that we might get a chance to see his face if he actually gets onto one.

Classic and modern cruisers on display

The selection Dave has brought through to Waterstone is impressive. It is a mix of the newer models and the more classic Harley-Davidson versions that people tend to picture when they think of heavy cruisers. Seeing them up close in a shopping centre environment really highlights the scale and detail of these machines.

If you are a fan of cruisers or have ever harboured a secret dream of hitting the open road on a Harley, the display is well worth a look while it is still at Waterstone Village. Dave is happy to talk through the different models and how the rental process works.

Finding the showroom

While the activation is great for a quick look while you are doing your shopping, Makani also operates out of a dedicated showroom in Montague Gardens. If you miss them at the mall, you can find their full collection at Unit 4, 6 Esso Road.

It is one of those local finds that adds a bit of interest to a standard mall visit. Whether you are looking for a unique gift for a petrolhead or just want to experience the thrum of a V-twin engine for a day, it is good to know this service is available right on our doorstep.

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I’m a wife, mother and local publisher who traded Johannesburg and two years abroad for life in Somerset West. Through HelderbergStuff, I share lifestyle stories, local discoveries and noteworthy developments across Somerset West, Strand and Gordon’s Bay. For media and collaboration enquiries: marina@helderbergstuff.co.za

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