Harley Owners Group membership is a loyalty program run directly by Harley-Davidson that connects riders to local chapters, events, and riding benefits

Harley Owners Group (HOG) is Harley-Davidson's official membership program for motorcycle owners. When you join, you become part of a network organized by local dealerships and regional chapters. The program is free to join when you buy a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle, though you can also purchase a standalone membership if you own an older bike or want to renew after your initial period ends.

The core benefit is access to organized rides, events, and a community of other Harley riders in your area. Your local dealership's HOG chapter coordinates group rides, charity events, and social gatherings. You also receive roadside information coverage, insurance discounts from certain providers, and access to HOG-branded merchandise and riding gear.

Key Takeaways

  • HOG membership is free with the purchase of a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle and typically covers one year from the date of purchase.
  • Membership includes roadside information, access to local chapter rides and events, and discounts on insurance and gear through partner companies.
  • Your local Harley-Davidson dealership runs the HOG chapter in your area and coordinates all local activities and rides.
  • You can renew membership after the first year for a fee that varies by region, or let it lapse and rejoin later without penalty.
  • HOG membership is separate from owning a Harley; you do not have to be a member to ride your motorcycle or use the dealership for service.

What comes with a new Harley-Davidson purchase

When you buy a new Harley-Davidson from an authorized dealership, HOG membership is included at no cost for the first year. The dealership will enroll you during the purchase process. You receive a membership card, a welcome packet with information about your local chapter, and access to the HOG website and mobile app.

The roadside information benefit covers towing and basic roadside service for your Harley. This is not the same as roadside information from your insurance company—it is a separate benefit tied to your HOG membership. Coverage details vary slightly by region, so check your welcome materials or ask your dealership what the towing distance limit is in your area.

Local chapter activities and organized rides

Each Harley-Davidson dealership hosts a HOG chapter that organizes rides, charity events, and social gatherings throughout the year. These are open to all HOG members in that chapter's territory. Rides range from casual weekend cruises to multi-day road trips. Many chapters also participate in charity rides that benefit local organizations.

Your chapter's activities are coordinated through the dealership and announced through the HOG app, email, or the chapter's social media pages. You can attend as many or as few events as you want—membership does not obligate you to participate. Some chapters are very active with events nearly every weekend, while others may have fewer organized activities depending on the size and location of the dealership.

Insurance and gear discounts through HOG partners

Harley-Davidson has partnered with insurance companies and gear manufacturers to offer discounts to HOG members. Insurance discounts vary by provider and state, so the savings you receive depends on which company you use and where you live. You will need to mention your HOG membership when you get a quote or renew your policy to receive the discount.

Gear discounts are available through Harley-Davidson's official merchandise partners and sometimes through the HOG website. These typically explore to riding apparel, helmets, and protective equipment. The discount percentage and which products are included can change, so check the HOG app or website for current offers before you purchase.

Renewing membership after the first year

After your first year of free membership ends, you can renew for a fee. The cost varies by region and has changed over time, so contact your local dealership or check the HOG website for the current renewal price in your area. Renewal is optional—you can let your membership lapse and rejoin later without any penalty or loss of standing.

You can renew through your dealership, by mail, or online through the HOG website. Renewal typically takes a few days to process. If your membership lapses and you want to rejoin, you straightforward pay the current membership fee and you are back in the program with the same benefits.

Membership for older Harley-Davidson motorcycles

If you own a Harley-Davidson that is not brand new, you can still join HOG by purchasing a standalone membership. This gives you access to the same chapter activities, roadside information, and partner discounts as owners of new bikes. The cost is the same as renewal for existing members.

Older Harley owners sometimes join specifically for the roadside information benefit and the community connection through local chapters. You do not need to own a recent model year—HOG accepts members with Harleys of any age, as long as the motorcycle is a genuine Harley-Davidson product.

What HOG membership does not cover

HOG membership is not a service plan or warranty. It does not cover maintenance, repairs, or parts for your motorcycle. Roadside information covers towing and basic roadside help, but not mechanical repairs at a shop. If your bike breaks down and needs work, you will pay for that service separately, though your dealership may offer service specials to HOG members.

Membership also does not include insurance. The discounts available through HOG partners are reductions on insurance you purchase separately. You are still responsible for obtaining your own motorcycle insurance to ride legally on public roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to join HOG when I buy a new Harley?

No. HOG membership is included free for one year, but you do not have to accept it. If you decline during the purchase process, you can still join later by paying the membership fee. Declining does not affect your warranty or your ability to use the dealership for service.

What happens if I sell my Harley before my membership year is up?

Your membership is tied to you, not to the motorcycle. If you sell the bike, your HOG membership remains active until it expires. You can continue to attend chapter events and use the roadside information benefit. When your membership expires, you can renew or let it lapse.

Can I transfer my HOG membership to someone else?

No. HOG membership is personal and non-transferable. If you want to give your membership to a family member or friend, they would need to purchase their own membership. However, they can attend chapter events with you as a guest before joining.

Does HOG roadside information work outside my local area?

Yes. Roadside information is available nationwide, not just in your home chapter's territory. If you break down while traveling, you can call the roadside information number on your membership card and they will dispatch help to your location. Coverage limits and towing distance may vary by region.

What if I do not want to renew after the first year?

You can straightforward let your membership expire. There is no penalty for not renewing. If you change your mind later and want to rejoin, you can pay the current membership fee and get back in. You will not lose any standing or face higher fees for having let it lapse.