Cuba opens up for motorcyclists

America is thawing its relations with Cuba and that will open the country up for motorcycle riders.

The long-standing trade embargo is being lifted and Americans will be allowed to fly to Cuba for special reasons.

Harley-Davidson is believed to be one of the first companies to consider importing their bikes which were very popular during the Batista era in the 1950s before the Cuban Revolution.

Many Harleys from that era still exist having been lovingly restored and maintained by “Harlistas”, so there is already a demand for the iconic American bikes.

With the new rules allowing Americans to visit Cuba for family visits, professional reasons, religious or cultural programs and humanitarian projects, American airlines are expected to soon begin services to Cuba.

This will make it much cheaper for all travellers to get to Cuba as they will not have to fly first to Canada or Mexico.

And when riders arrive in Cuba, they will have several motorcycle tour companies to chose from, including the La Poderosa Tour run by Ernesto Guevera, son of revolutionary fighter Che.

Ernesto says he is honouring the memory of his Marxist guerrilla father, although the capitalist in the 49-year-old lawyer charges $US3000 per person for a six-day tour and up to $5800 for a nine-day trip.

Riders will travel on classic Harley-Davidson Wide Glides and Street Glides.