Springfield motorcycle dealer to close

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - It is the end of an era for a popular Springfield area Harley-Davidson dealership. After more than five decades of serving the region's motorcycle needs, the owners of Tibby's Harley-Davidson at 227 Berkshire Avenue in Springfield announced they will be closing.

Owners Jason and Jean Thibodeau said Tibby's is fortunate to have served many loyal customers over the years. Tibby's opened in 1956, and sold their first bike in February of that year; a 1956 Indian Fire Arrow that sold for $445 with $1.20 in sales tax.

Three generations of the Thibodeau family have been employed at the dealership. Catherine Thibodeau told 22News Tibby's has eleven employees.

According to their website , Tibby's will be closing at the end of June. The owners said the reason for closing was a personal decision, and Harley-Davidson, at this time has no plans to replace the dealership in the Springfield area.