Curious about the latest happenings and news from Harley-Davidson Canada? Inside Motorcycles has you covered with this Q&A feature with Harley-Davidson Canada Managing Director Adam Kostanowicz.
Inside Motorcycles: For our readers who may not have met you previously, can you provide some background on your role with H-D Canada?
Adam Kostanowicz: As Managing Director of Harley-Davidson Canada, I’ve had the privilege of steering this iconic brand in the Canadian market for nearly three years. While my primary focus is Canada, I also contribute to the broader strategy as part of the North American Leadership Team, helping shape the future of our business across the continent.
Our Canadian operations are powered by a dedicated team of approximately 40 employees, supported by colleagues in the US who share our commitment to excellence. Together, we serve riders from coast to coast through a robust network of 47 dealerships, each one a vital part of our mission to deliver the Harley-Davidson experience to every corner of the country.
And on a personal note—this isn’t just a job. I absolutely love what I do. Working alongside an incredible team and an inspiring dealer network makes every day a rewarding ride.
IM: How long have been riding motorcycles? What drew you to motorcycles and what keeps you riding today?
AK: I’ve been riding for over 25 years, ever since a few colleagues introduced me to the thrill of two wheels—and I haven’t looked back since. There’s something incredibly freeing about being out on the road, soaking up the sunshine and fresh air (weather permitting, of course!)
What makes it even more special is that my role at Harley-Davidson allows me to blend passion with purpose. Whether I’m riding to a meeting or heading to a rally, I get to connect directly with our customers and dealers—sharing the road, the stories, and the spirit that make this community so unique.
IM: Describe your perfect motorcycle ride?
AK: For me, the perfect motorcycle ride is all about the journey—long stretches of open road, plenty of sunshine, winding curves, and ideally, an overnight escape to somewhere remote. And of course, no ride would be complete without a brand-new Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycle, like the CVO Road Glide—built for comfort, power, and style.
While I enjoy the camaraderie of riding in small groups, there’s something uniquely fulfilling about a solo ride. It allows me to fully immerse myself in the experience, with nothing but the road ahead and the rhythm of the ride.
IM: Last season you were riding a 2024 CVO Road Glide ST. Why did you choose it? Did it live up to your expectations? Did you add any accessories or modifications?
AK: I’m absolutely in love with the 2024 CVO Road Glide ST.
This bike was an instant match for my riding style. I wanted something with wind protection, storage, and a great sound system—and the CVO Road Glide ST delivered all that, with a race-inspired edge that really sealed the deal. To make it truly my own, I’ve added a rear seat, tour pack, windshield, and a few other accessories that enhance both comfort and performance.
Last year alone, I logged 8,500 kilometres on this bike, and I plan to put on just as many this year. It’s more than just a machine—it’s a perfect blend of power, personality, and pure riding pleasure.
IM: The ST lineup continues to expand. What is the appeal of this lineup? Who is it targeted at?
AK: Harley-Davidson’s ST lineup is gaining serious momentum—and for good reason. These models are purpose-built for riders who crave a more aggressive, performance-oriented experience. With sport-inspired design and engineering, the ST series spans across touring, cruiser, and adventure touring models.
Designed to handle spirited riding with confidence, these bikes are attracting a new wave of enthusiasts who want more performance. Whether it’s the sharper handling, enhanced suspension, or bold styling, the ST lineup is redefining what it means to ride a Harley—with attitude and agility.
IM: If you were going to describe an overall theme of the 2025 Harley-Davidson lineup, how would you do that and which models would you highlight?
AK: The 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycle lineup is a powerful blend of innovation and legacy, designed to captivate both loyal enthusiasts and a new generation of riders. This year’s collection expands across all categories—Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike—while introducing exciting new models and refreshed favourites. At the heart of the lineup is a commitment to performance and personalization, with the introduction of the new Street Glide Ultra for long-haul touring, the agile Pan America 1250 ST for adventure sport riders, and six revitalized Cruiser models, all powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. The updated Sportster S also returns with improved suspension for enhanced comfort and control.
Harley-Davidson continues to push the boundaries of design and exclusivity with its 2025 Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) models, including the race-inspired CVO Road Glide ST and the rugged CVO Pan America. Meanwhile, the Icons Motorcycle Collection celebrates 35 years of the legendary Fat Boy with the limited-edition Gray Ghost model—featuring a stunning chrome-like Reflection finish and elevated performance. Adding even more flair, the new Factory Custom Paint & Graphics program offers dramatic, factory-applied finishes like Mystic Shift and Firestorm, giving riders the chance to stand out with factory-backed customization.
In 2025, Harley-Davidson reaffirms its mission: to deliver freedom for the soul through machines that are as thrilling to ride as they are to behold. Whether you’re chasing the horizon on a Grand American Touring bike or carving corners on a sport-inspired ST model, this year’s lineup offers something for every kind of rider.
IM: What model are you riding in 2025? What made you choose it?
AK: I’m still riding my 2024 CVO Road Glide ST, and I’m not ready to part with it just yet. It continues to deliver everything I love in a motorcycle—performance, comfort, and that unmistakable Harley-Davidson attitude. It’s been a perfect match for my riding style, and I’m still having a blast putting on the miles.
That said, I’ve definitely got my eye on the 2025 Street Bob. There’s something about its stripped-down, no-nonsense style that really speaks to me. It’s only a matter of time before I add a second bike to my personal collection—so stay tuned. The garage might be getting a little more crowded soon.
IM: It is impossible to turn on the news lately without hearing the word “tariff.” Which existing or threatened tariffs would impact Harley-Davidson consumers in Canada and how?
AK: In these uncertain and challenging times, every Canadian is feeling the impact in one way or another—regardless of where they live or what they do. That includes those of us at Canada’s 47 Harley-Davidson dealerships. We’re proud to represent an iconic brand that Canadians love, and even prouder to be Canadians ourselves, providing great motorcycles, good jobs, and unforgettable experiences to our communities. For over a century, Harley-Davidson has embodied the spirit of freedom on the open road for Canadians, and that legacy remains strong. Despite the economic uncertainty, our commitment to our customers hasn’t wavered—we’ve held the line on prices because we care deeply about the people who ride with us.
IM: The MotoCanada (formerly MMIC) Motorcycle Shows have been back in action for a couple of years now but are not fully attended by all OEMs. H-D Canada has been at the shows, what value does H-D see/gain that other manufacturers do not? What do you think the future holds for Motorcycle Shows?
AK: At Harley-Davidson Canada, we see tremendous value in participating in the MotoCanada Motorcycle Shows. These events offer something truly unique: the chance to connect face-to-face with thousands of passionate riders and enthusiasts under one roof. For us, it’s not just about showcasing our full lineup—it’s about creating meaningful conversations and building relationships with the community.
Some attendees come to explore the latest models, others arrive ready to make their next purchase. Either way, we’re there to engage, inform, and inspire. While not all manufacturers have returned to the show circuit, we believe in the power of presence. These shows remain a vital touchpoint for the riding community, and we’re proud to be part of that experience. As for the future of motorcycle shows? We see them evolving, but not disappearing—especially when brands continue to show up with purpose and passion.
IM: The 2025 riding season is in full swing. What are your plans? Where will you ride? What events will you attend?
AK: Thanks to an unusually warm end to winter, I was fortunate to kick off my riding season earlier than usual this year. I’ve already logged some time on a few of our company bikes as we prepare them for media test rides and demo trucks for the 2025 season. It’s always a thrill to get back on two wheels—and even better when it’s part of the job.
One of the rides I look forward to most each year is the journey to Milwaukee for Harley-Davidson’s Homecoming. It’s more than just a destination—it’s a pilgrimage to where it all began. Riding in with my team over the course of a week gives us time to bond, reflect, and enjoy the very machines we work so passionately on every day.
Closer to home, I’ll be heading to Port Dover in June and taking countless day trips around the Greater Toronto Area. Whether it’s a long-haul adventure or a quick escape, every ride is a reminder of why we do what we do.
IM: Will the Harley-Davidson demo truck be on the road in 2025? Where can the full schedule be found?
AK: Harley-Davidson Canada is proud to unveil the all-new Live the Legend Tour, a dynamic reimagining of the traditional Dealer Demo Ride experience. This nationwide initiative, at participating dealers, marks a bold step forward in how riders connect with the brand, offering a fully immersive opportunity to experience the 2025 lineup like never before.
Formerly known as the Dealer Demo Ride Tour, this refreshed program is more than just a name change—it’s a strategic evolution. With a renewed focus on emotional connection and lifestyle appeal, the tour invites riders to not just test a bike, but to own the moment, live the freedom, and ride the legend. To learn more and to register, you can visit Harley-Davidson Events.
