About Alaska Harley-Davidson®

About House of Harley-Davidson®

House of Harley® is an authorized Harley-Davidson® dealership. We carry a large selection of new inventory as well as pre-owned inventory and have a full sales, service, and parts department with friendly and experienced staff. Visit us Tuesday through Saturday for all your powersports needs or call (907) 248-5300.

Motorcycle Times, Inc. History

Barry Matteson came to Alaska with the U.S. Air Force in 1963 - in time for the Good Friday Earthquake of '64.

In 1970, Barry, a motorcycle enthusiast employed in the oil service industry was unable to afford the "Harley®" of his dreams, so he rode a 650cc Triumph. In 1970 his Triumph had been stolen and later recovered in a totaled condition.

Barry set out to learn about building a "chopper" by buying the few motorcycle magazines available, that might give him information and sources for parts. He noticed in the few ads for custom parts a bottom note which read "dealer inquiries invited". Barry's desire for the custom cycle became "Barry's Custom Cycle". In March of 1971, the Triumph sold for $250 and that covered the expense of a business license, stationary, paint, a heater for the garage, and a few parts to hang on the freshly painted red, white, and blue walls. Small ads in local newspapers got the business started.

In 1971 Harley-Davidson® placed an ad in a local paper looking for a new dealer. Barry answered the ad that year, later moved into a commercial building in Spenard and pursued the offer until 1975 when he was finally given the franchise. The name was changed to "The House of Harley-Davidson®."

Barry had worked on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline from 1974 to 1977. He used his paychecks to pay off his debts, to build his inventory, and to buy a building in Spenard.

In 1981 the business moved to its present location on Spenard Road. By 2002 the surrounding five lots had been purchased and a total new 27,000 square foot facility was erected. In 1997 he opened Kenai Peninsula Harley-Davidson® in Soldotna, 150 miles from the main store. In 2004 he opened Denali Harley-Davidson® in Wasilla, the rapidly growing city to the north. With the help of his supportive wife Karen, Barry had created a legacy.

Barry's daughter Dia grew up in the business and had been working for her father since she was 14 years old. She started working in the clothing and cashiering positions, but eventually worked in at least one position in each of the departments. She enjoyed working in the Service Department as the Service Advisor and eventually became the Service Manager when there was an opening. When she completed her Bachelors in Business Administration, she was given the position of General Manager. She held this position full time while she completed her Master's Degree.

In the Spring of 2012 Dia Matteson finished her Master's Degree in Business Management from the University of Alaska Anchorage. In June of the same year, Barry sold Dia the business and she became the youngest, female Harley-Davidson® Dealer in the world. She brings her French Bulldog Mister French into work with her on most days, he has become the official mascot of the store. Dia and Barry both love to ride and have been on many adventures together including riding to Milwaukee for the 105th and 110th. There will be many more adventures in their future.

The business has grown from a sole proprietorship with three employees in 1975, to three stores operating under one corporation with over 40 employees including several family members. The business supports the local H.O.G.® chapters as well as ABATE and other motorcycle organizations. All three locations have a unique culture and are local hang outs for many in the biker community.

The House of Harley-Davidson® remains a landmark of motorcycle culture in Alaska. As a business they support many local non-profits and biker groups throughout the state. Everything from Barbeques, to Beer Gardens, Christmas Parties, Bike Rally's, Charity Fundraisers, School Field Trips, Concerts and even Weddings take place on the on the House of Harley-Davidson® property. This culture comes together through a drive shared by customers and employees alike: To Ride and Have Fun!

About Denali Harley-Davidson®

Denali Harley-Davidson® is located in the heart of Alaska just north west of Anchorage.

Denali means "The Great One!" You will understand why it is so appealing after you meet our friendly staff and check out our wide selection of inventory.

While our riding season may be shorter than some we enjoy some of the best scenery and riding the country has to offer featuring nearly 24 hours of endless daylight during our summer months.