🖊️ Report by: Kang Yos
🗞️ Editor: Kenzo | AswinNews – Sharp, Accurate, Balanced, and Up-to-Date
PURWAKARTA – Meet Raden Boyke Pranata Soerianata, a proud son of Purwakarta who has made his mark as the only Indonesian master technician for Harley-Davidson in the United States. Once underestimated for his appearance, Boyke has risen to become a respected figure in the world of motorcycle engineering—especially in the Harley-Davidson universe.
Boyke began his journey in 2006 after graduating as the top student from the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI), a premier technical school in the U.S. focused on Harley-Davidson motorcycles. His talents quickly caught the attention of multiple Harley dealers, eventually landing him a position at a dealership in Sacramento, Northern California, where he began to build his reputation.
“When I first started working, people assumed I was the janitor. I was told to mop the floor. When I said I was a technician, they were shocked and apologized,” Boyke told AswinNews.
Boyke’s smaller build and darker complexion made him stand out among his American colleagues—and not always in a positive way. In his first two months, he endured hazing from senior staff, particularly for not owning the complete set of tools required for the job.
“You’re expected to have at least two sets of essential tools. I didn’t have them at first, so I got yelled at. Eventually, someone lent me tools, but I had to buy them lunch in return,” he laughed. “But over time, we grew close. Bikers are like that—the more you know each other, the stronger the brotherhood.”
Now, after 19 years in the industry and working across five different Harley-Davidson dealerships in Northern California, Boyke holds the title of Master Technician. He handles mid-to-advanced level diagnostics—ranging from odd engine noises and battery charging issues to performance upgrades that boost a motorcycle’s horsepower.
Giving Back: Free Online School for Indonesian Youth
Beyond his career success, Boyke is determined to give back to Indonesia. He has launched a free online school to train young Indonesians in motorcycle mechanics—especially those who dream of working on big bikes like Harley-Davidson.
“I want to teach professionalism and service standards in the Harley world. Starting this November, I’ll be visiting Indonesia to train small workshops—even those that don’t specialize in Harleys. I’ll share everything about proper inspection and servicing,” he explained.
A Noble Bloodline: Descendant of Prabu Siliwangi and Sunan Gunung Jati
Boyke is not only remarkable for his technical skills. Behind his humble demeanor lies a noble heritage. According to his close friend, Aa Komara, founder of Bela Purwakarta and Bani Adam Purwakarta Chapter, Boyke is a descendant of two major historical figures: Prabu Siliwangi, King of the Sunda Kingdom Pajajaran, and Sunan Gunung Jati, one of the revered Wali Songo who spread Islam across Java.
“Boyke is low profile and never flaunts his lineage. For him, being useful to others through his mechanical skills means more than boasting about ancestry,” said Aa Komara.
Boyke is the 7th generation descendant of R.A.A. Soerianata (Dalem Santri), a colonial-era regent of Karawang whose territory once covered Karawang, Subang, and Purwakarta. His uncle, Dalem Sholawat, later relocated the capital to what is now Purwakarta.
Ride for the Ancestors: “Harley Ride to Haul” in Bogor
Though based in America, Boyke stays connected to his roots. He invites the public to attend the 153rd Haul (commemoration) of Kanjeng Dalem Sholawat, to be held at Alun-Alun Kota Bogor on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
As a tribute to his ancestors and a gesture of patriotism, Boyke will be organizing a Harley-Davidson convoy under the theme:
“HARLEY Ride to HAUL” — bringing together bikers and history lovers alike to honor Indonesia’s past.
Redaksi AswinNews.com
