Autoblog

Salvation! Buell sportbikes reborn as Erik Buell Racing

Noah Joseph — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST

Buell 1125R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Knee-draggers take heart: following the disappointing news that Harley-Davidson has killed the Buell brand, comes the announcement of its rebirth. Don't go looking for any new street bikes, though; the Buell name will carry on strictly through racing.

According to the announcement, company founder and chairman Erik Buell will leave the Motor Company to head up the newly formed Erik Buell Racing. This spin-off will be supported by HDMC and based at the Buell factory in East Troy, Wisconsin. The racing outfit will likely retain part of the workforce that, until last week, was responsible for assembling the roadgoing sportbikes. Rather than building bikes for public consumption, however, the team at Erik Buell Racing will supply the Buell 1125R to racing teams for as long as the bike complies with current competition regs.

So, while existing Buell retailers will sell off the remaining stock of street bikes, the name will live on (for a while, at least) on the racing circuit. Check out the fresh mega gallery of 1125R images (on and off the track) and the details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Buell 1125R

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Salvation! Buell sportbikes reborn as Erik Buell Racing

Salvation! Buell sportbikes reborn as Erik Buell Racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Buell motorcycle assembled in Wisconsin

Noah Joseph — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Motorcycle

As far as motorcycle manufacturers go, Buell lived a relatively short life. Founded by a former Harley-Davidson engineer in 1993, the sportbike company was acquired by HDMC in 2003. But hard times falling on businesses large and small forced Harley to announce Buell's closure. And now the last Buell has been pushed off the assembly line and into the great wild yonder.

After 136,923 motorcycles built over the course of 26 years of production, the final model produced was the black Lightning XB12Scg pictured above. On December 18, the plant in Troy, Wisconsin, will officially close down, while the existing network of dealers continue to sell off the remaining stock.

Farewell, Buell. We hardly knew ye.

[Source: Motorcycle News]

Final Buell motorcycle assembled in Wisconsin originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buell will be back? County officials throwing axed HD brand a life line

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Could Buell be saved from the brink of disaster by officials from Walworth County in Wisconsin? It seems awfully unlikely, but stranger things have happened, right? Apparently, the Walworth County Economic Development Alliance sent a letter last Friday to Erik Buell in an attempt to put together a business plan for Buell to continue manufacturing motorcycles.

Should Erik Buell be interested in Walworth's proposal, the group will reportedly begin seeking potential investors. For its part, Harley's director of corporate communications said the motorcycle manufacturer is "discontinuing the Buell product line rather than selling the business because of how deeply integrated Buell is into our business systems and distribution network."

Indeed, every Buell made uses running gear from parent company Harley-Davidson, and the offbeat sportbikes are only available in select Harley dealerships. It would be awfully difficult to extract the Buell operation at this point, let alone securing funding for the venture. That said, automakers have sold intricately entwined brands before using agreements that ensure parts are produced by the original owner until the new owner can source its own. In any case, we'll keep our eyes and ears open for more.

[Source: JSOnline.com]

Buell will be back? County officials throwing axed HD brand a life line originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson kills off Buell, will sell stake in MV Agusta [w/VIDEO]

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Videos, Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Erik Buell announces demise of his motorcycle brand - watch video after the jump

Harley-Davidson has just announced its third-quarter results, and things aren't quite as bad as they could have been... but we'll get to that in a moment. The big bombshell is that the Buell brand is being discontinued and the American motorcycle manufacturer will sell off its share in MV Agusta.

Head on over past the jump to watch a video of an obviously emotional Erik Buell breaking the news that his namesake brand has been axed. Buell explains that HD will continue to honor the full factory warranty on his motorcycles and thanks his dealership body and loyal customers for their support over 20 years of producing offbeat American sportbikes. Roughly 180 jobs will be lost within the Buell organization and HD will also immediately begin the work of selling its recently-acquired stake in MV Agusta.

So, back to Harley's third-quarter performance. Revenue from motorcycle sales came to $803.3 million, down 22.1% compared to the the third quarter of 2008. A total of 54,236 Harley-Davidson motorcycles were shipped worldwide, down 27.4 percent. Another $300 or so million was made off apparel and merchandise sales. Full details (and the aforementioned video) can be found in the ridiculously long press release after the break.

Goodbye Buell, we'll miss you.

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson kills off Buell, will sell stake in MV Agusta [w/VIDEO]

Harley-Davidson kills off Buell, will sell stake in MV Agusta [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: C/D channels inner redneck with International LoneStar Harley-Davidson

Chris Shunk — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:32:00 EST

Filed under: Truck, Videos, Work, Humor

Car and Driver takes on the LoneStar Harley Davidson edition - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Over the decades, we've read Car and Driver reviews of just about every high performance vehicle on the planet. While we'd hardly say that we're bored of 200 mph supercars and 3.2 second 0-60 times, it's nice to see C/'D mix it up now and again as well.

In predictable fashion, C/D once again tested a really expensive vehicle with 550 horsepower. But this big rig also hauls loads with 1,850 lb-ft of torque, or enough twist to drop Dorothy's house on some east-side gang banger. The International LoneStar Harley Davidson special-edition is most definitely not typical buff mag cover girl, yet the un-trailered rig managed a 0-60mph time of 20.4 seconds. That's almost fast enough to time with a sundial, but we suppose it's not terrible for a vehicle with an 18-speed manual that weighs 22,100 pounds.

Statistics have little to do with this video, though, and we're pretty sure C/D rolled film just so they could have fun with a life-size Tonka Truck. Hit the jump to view C/D take on the mighty LoneStar. While the 3:22 isn't quite as funny as we were hoping, we still got a decent laugh out of the trip out of the video's happy ending.

[Source: Car and Driver via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: C/D channels inner redneck with International LoneStar Harley-Davidson

VIDEO: C/D channels inner redneck with International LoneStar Harley-Davidson originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson launches new 2010 motorcycle lineup

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 Harley-Davidson new model launches - Click above for high-res image gallery

Harley-Davidson has rolled out its revised line of motorcycles for 2010, and according to the Motor Company, the nine new models included in this year's catalog represent the largest number of introductions in the company's 106-year history. There aren't any new platforms for 2010, so expect to see small, incremental changes and improvements across the board in lieu of anything particularly innovative or radical.

A few of the highlights include four new models from Harley-Davidson's Custom Vehicle Operations group: CVO Fat Bob, CVO Softail Convertible, CVO Street Glide and CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide. As you would expect from Harley's upper-crust division, prices for these top-end models range from $25,299 to $35,999. At the other end of the spectrum, H-D also points out it has a total of five models priced under $10K. Naturally, there's plenty in between those opposing price brackets for fans of the good 'ol American V-Twin to choose from.

Check out our photo gallery of the nine new models below and click past the break for the full rundown of all the goods from H-D's official press release.

Gallery: 2010 Harley-Davidson new launches

Continue reading Harley-Davidson launches new 2010 motorcycle lineup

Harley-Davidson launches new 2010 motorcycle lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson names Keith E. Wandell President and CEO

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Motorcycle

Harley-Davidson Nightster - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Keith Wandell has been named Harley-Davidson's new President and CEO, taking the place of James Ziemer. Wendell joins The Motor Company by way of fellow Milwaukee-based automotive supplier Johnson Controls, where he'll remain in his current role as President and COO until the end of April. Financial news institutions seem generally pleased with the appointment, which is good since H-D's currently experiencing some of the worst market conditions in its 106-year history. Somewhat shockingly, Wandell does not currently own a motorcycle, a fact we're certain will be quickly rectified.

Also starting on May 1 will be Enrico D'Onofrio, who will take the reigns at MV Agusta, the Italian motorcycle maker that was recently purchased by Harley-Davidson. D'Onofrio had previously held the role of CFO at cross-town rival Ducati - which definitely sounds promising - and will take over for Matthew Levatich, who will now serve as COO at H-D. Quite the management shake-up, no? Mind-numbingly boring press release after the break.

Gallery: Harley-Davidson Nightster

Continue reading Harley-Davidson names Keith E. Wandell President and CEO

Harley-Davidson names Keith E. Wandell President and CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chicago 2009: (You Can Still) Rock in America - Ford unveils Harley-Davidson F-150

Chris Paukert — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:58:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Truck, Marketing/Advertising, Ford

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2010 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition

Flush from the news that its F-150 pickup performed markedly better than many of its primary competitors in a new series of IIHS side-impact crash tests, Ford has rolled out its latest larger-than-life Harley-Davidson model.

Outside of the appearance items, the HD is essentially a Platinum Edition F-Series in motorcycle leathers, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Available in either Lava (dark maroon) or Tuxedo Black, the Harley looks very aggressive in the metal - and the effect is not just a function of scale. The bold six-bar grille and 22-inch Harley-branded polished/painted alloys clearly set it apart as a distinct model from other F-Series pickups, and Ford has also slathered the pickup in oversized emblems and strange red "swoosh" marks on the rocker panels. While we could do without the latter flourishes, the truck still strikes us as particularly good-looking in Lava.

Ford's 14th Harley-branded product also has a seriously dolled-up interior that is likewise not for introverts. The prevailing theme behind the cabin's styling is that of a Harley biker jacket, and the materials, color choices, and the gigantic badges on the seats and center console (including a serialized plate) are unsubtle but appropriate.

Clearly not a truck for wallflowers, Ford continues to carve out niche after niche for its new 2010 F-150. Click on the gallery below for in-person shots of the new HD F-150, and then click here for more details.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: 2010 Ford Harley Davidson F-150

Chicago 2009: (You Can Still) Rock in America - Ford unveils Harley-Davidson F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Warren Buffet invests $300m in Harley-Davidson

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Harley-Davidson has announced that Warren Buffet's Berkshire Hathaway group will invest $300 million in the motorcycle maker by through a purchasee of senior unsecured notes that will mature in 2014. These funds match a similar investment by Davis Selected Advisers, L.P., which is already the largest holder of company stock. Harley-Davidson will use the money to bolster its lending services, hopefully making it easier for the trouble motorcycle maker to lend cash to consumers. Berkshire Hathaway will reportedly receive a hefty 15% annual interest rate on the investment.

The markets have responded to the news rather favorably, with H-D shares hitting $13.56 in trading yesterday afternoon - a 14% increase from where they started the day. Just about a week ago, H-D announced a plan to shed 10% of its workforce. This move marks the first time that Buffet has ever invested in the company.

[Source: Bloomberg]

Warren Buffet invests $300m in Harley-Davidson originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson introduces Sportster Iron 883

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2009 Harley-Davidson Iron 883

Sales of Harley-Davidson's line of Big Twin motorcycles have taken an unfortunate nosedive as of late, a fact directly attributable to the current recession here in the United States. Most new motorcycles, especially those costing as much as some small cars, are discretionary purchases, so HD is understandably working hard on new models with a lower price point, the latest of which is the Iron 883. This new bike enters HD's Dark Custom series and is therefore completely blacked-out. Available colors are Black Denim and Brilliant Silver Denim, both of which feature a distinctive matte finish that's perfect for their design ethos.

This new steed is based on the entry-level Sportster platform and starts at $7,899, which is a full $2,000 cheaper than its larger sibling, the Nightster 1200. The two Sportsers share the same basic design, including a slammed suspension complete with front fork gaiters, solo saddle and foldaway side-mounted license plate holder. The main difference between the two machines lies in the displacement of the fuel-injected V-twin engine, with the new Iron making use of the smaller 883cc jugs, and in the use of 13-spoke wheels on the Iron 883 in lieu of laced rims. It's definitely an attractive machine and we think it should do pretty well with its relatively low base price and guaranteed trade-in value.

Gallery: 2009 Harley-Davidson Iron 883

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson introduces Sportster Iron 883

Harley-Davidson introduces Sportster Iron 883 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson to cut 1,100 jobs

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:31:00 EST

Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Harley-Davidson is a company that has seen plenty of ups and downs over its 106-year history, having survived the Great Depression after being the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world through the 1920s. We may not quite be in another depression, but our current recession has caused sales, profits and share prices to fall fast and Harley is digging in for the long haul, announcing a plan to cut 1,100 jobs over the next two years. That figure that represents 10% of the company's entire workforce. More than half of those losses will be seen in the company's home state of Wisconsin, with the remainder coming from facilities in York, Pennsylvania, and Kansas City, Missouri. During the course of this restructuring, the Motor Company will also be replacing Jim Ziemer, the company's current chief executive. Sounds like a tough road ahead.

[Source: AP via Google]

Harley-Davidson to cut 1,100 jobs originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson guarantees the value of its Sportster

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 14:33:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

Click above for a gallery of the Harldy-Davidson Nightster

It's a tough time to be selling any kind of vehicle in the United States, including motorcycles. Harley-Davidson has been hit just as hard as anybody else, and it's the more expensive line of bikes taking the brunt of this sales slowdown. The Motor Company's Sportster line is still selling fairly well, with its relatively attractive price and fuel efficiency conspiring to keep the V-Twins moving off the showroom floor. HD must really want to capitalize on those sales, as it's just announced a unique incentive to purchase a new Sportster, or alternatively to trade in your recently purchased model.

All 2008 and 2009 Sportsters will be sold with a guarantee that HD will offer the full MSRP of the bike when it comes time to trade up to a Big Twin (aka, non-Sportster) or VRSC model. Already ridden off the showroom floor? No problem, all previously sold 2007-and-newer models get the same deal. Fine print? Of course: XR1200 sales don't count; participating dealers only; offer valid between Dec. 26, 2008 and Mar. 31, 2009. Doesn't sound like too bad a deal for those already in the market.

Gallery: Harley-Davidson Nightster

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson guarantees the value of its Sportster

Harley-Davidson guarantees the value of its Sportster originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Enter the Rumormill: Harley-Davidson quietly launches XR1200 in US?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle, Rumormill

Click above for high-res image gallery of the Harley-Davidson XR1200

We haven't yet gotten any official word from Harley-Davidson regarding the imminent U.S. launch of its XR1200, a thoroughly modern take on the old XR750 made famous on various dirt tracks across the United States. Oddly, despite this profound racing heritage in America, HD at first decided to send the revived XR to European dealerships only while suggesting that the U.S. may also get the bike at some point if demand proved strong. It seems that enough Americans were interested for the company to investigate its home market further, as rumors now indicate that an initial run of 750 XRs are being set aside for U.S. consumption. If you want one of these first XRs, you'll need to have your order in by December 15.

We have not been able to confirm this launch with the powers-that-be at HD, but at least one dealership in Westminster California is taking deposits for orange XR1200s with a price of $11,179 and a due date before the end of the year. Black and silver models will apparently be made available early next year. We made a quick call to Westminster Harley-Davidson and got confirmation that an email was sent just yesterday informing dealers of the news. Still, until we see an official announcement from Harley, which certainly wouldn't be entirely unexpected, this one's not quite officially official. Stay tuned... we may finally get the chance to ride the Sportster as God and Mr. Davidson himself intended.

Gallery: Harley Davidson XR 1200

[Source: Chopper Daves]

Enter the Rumormill: Harley-Davidson quietly launches XR1200 in US? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson developing corner-carving trike

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:58:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Misc. Auto Shows, Motorcycle, Rumormill

Click above to view HD's 2006 patent drawings for a leaning trike

Harley-Davidson introduced its first official trike in years earlier in 2008 and now looks to flip things around a bit with a new reverse-trike that leans into corners. Rumors indicate that the huge American Motor Company will bring the corner carving trike in concept form to a motorcycle show set to take place next month in Cologne, Germany. If that debut indeed takes place, the machine is likely to be powered by the liquid-cooled Revolution V-Twin engine from the Rod series as opposed to the 45-degree air-cooled mill powering most of its bikes. We've known that the company has been working on this design for the past few years, filing patent drawings way back in 2006. The market is definitely ready for it now that Piaggio and Can Am have toed the waters. We look forward to seeing just how accurate these rumors prove to be next month. Thanks for the tip, Moose!

Gallery: Harley-Davidson leaning trike patents

[Source: Wired]

Harley-Davidson developing corner-carving trike originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Ride: 2009 Harley-Davidson CVO models

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 12:07:00 EST

Filed under: First Drive, Motorcycle

Click above for high-res image of the Harely-Davidson CVO models

There is no doubting that Harley-Davidson motorcycles have stood the test of time. Though sales of both mainstream and higher-end models from The Motor Company are down, Harley-Davidson has seen fit to continue its line of factory custom models. Custom Vehicle Operations offers complete models featuring Screaming Eagle parts.

HD has no problems selling its entire allotment of CVO SE bikes each year despite their high cost of entry, so we surmise that folks looking for full custom bikes complete with Harley-Davidson warranties must have fairly deep pockets. Surely then, these machines had better be quite different from their more standard countarparts. Let's take a closer look.

Gallery: First Ride: 2009 HD CVO Fat Bob

Continue reading First Ride: 2009 Harley-Davidson CVO models

First Ride: 2009 Harley-Davidson CVO models originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Jul 2008 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson launches two new 2009 models

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

Click above for more shots of the 2009 VRSCF V-Rod Muscle

Harley-Davidson, the definitive American motorcycle manufacturer, has released its 2009 models, and there are a few surprises to take note of, including the introductions of two brand new bikes. The VRSCF V-Rod Muscle (above) builds on the same liquid cooled platform of past VR models and adds a new rear fender design, dual side exhaust pipes and revised bodywork to the wide 240 mm rear tire that some models already feature. The second new bike is The Motor Company's first trike, the Tri Glide. Using a brand new rear differential along with air suspension in back, Harley looks to capitalize on the growing three-wheeler trend in the states.

In other news, HD has also revised the frame of all its '09 Touring models, and we recently got the chance to feel the new, more solid-feeling frame ourselves. It's a definite improvement, especially important since the revised Tour-Pak is capable of holding even more gear and weight. Nearly all new Duna and Sportster models feature a new front fender said to more closely follow the contour of the front wheel, improving the appearance of the bikes in the process. Take a closer look at the two completely new models here:

Gallery: 2009 VRSCF V-Rod Muscle

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Harley-Davidson launches two new 2009 models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson launches new 2009 Tri Glide Ultra Classic

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

Considering the growing popularity of the trike market -- and we don't mean the old VW-based creations made popular in the seventies -- we wonder why it took Harley-Davidson so long to introduce its own three-wheeler. Based on the Electra Glide Touring chassis, the Tri Glide uses a belt final drive to connect a new air-suspended rear differential to the six-speed Cruise Drive transmission common to all Harley Big Twins. At the front, rake and trail have been increased to lend a bit more stability to the package while a steering stabilizer is intended to reduce front-end wobble. For the ultimate in ease of use, consider the optional electric reverse gear for an additional $1,195. Dual 15-inch rear wheels come fitted with P205/65R15 tires.

The same Tour-Pak from the Ultra model works on the Tri Glide along with the normal "bat wing" fairing that Harley-Davidson has made famous over the years. Moving all this mass down the road is a new fuel-injected Twin Cam 103 V-Twin engine that offers up 101 lb.-ft. of torque. A six-gallon fuel tank ought to keep you going about as long as your bladder can handle, and the standard cruise control will get you where you need to go with a minimum of fuss. While we personally prefer to tour on two wheels, we're sure HD will find a few buyers for the new Tri Glide, even at its $30,000 suggested retail price, which is actually a decent deal considering how much a conversion kit runs these days.

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson launches new 2009 Tri Glide Ultra Classic

Harley-Davidson launches new 2009 Tri Glide Ultra Classic originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson rolls out new 2009 V-Rod Muscle

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

The original V-Rod was described as a muscle bike when it was introduced, competing against such intense machines as the original V Max from Yamaha and the Rocket III from Triumph. This year, The Motor Company has seen fit to actually introduce a new model based on that same VRSC platform that carries the name Muscle. Let's get this out of the way now: we're not fans of the moniker. Despite the odd name, we like what makes this machine different from other models sharing the same platform with its liquid cooled 1250cc V-Twin engine. For instance, that new rear fender with its integrated stoplight looks great, as do the dual exhausts with one pipe on each side. One questionable styling choice could be the airbox extensions, which appear riveted into place.

All VRSC models get optional ABS for their Brembo triple disc brakes, including the new VRSCF. The Muscle shares the same 240 mm rear tire that was on our Night Rod Special test bike, and it looks just as mean in this application as it did there, while that fat rubber surrounds new five spoke cast wheels.

Gallery: 2009 VRSCF V-Rod Muscle

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson rolls out new 2009 V-Rod Muscle

Harley-Davidson rolls out new 2009 V-Rod Muscle originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Harley-Davidson purchases MV Agusta, Cagiva

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:58:00 EST

Filed under: Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Click above for high-res gallery of the H-D Night Rod Special

Earlier rumors of an impending purchase by Harley-Davidson of Italian bike maker MV Agusta turned out to be spot-on, as the American Motor Company has officially announced the deal today. The total price for MV, which also owns Cagiva, is reported at about $109 million, with $70 million of that sum required to pay off MV's debt. Claudio Castiglioni, who's family had previously owned the company privately, will remain on board and will serve as Chairman. Castiglioni stands to pocket an undisclosed sum in 2016 if he is able to meet certain stipulated profit goals.

This new deal is an interesting one on a few levels. First, HD already owns a sportbike brand, though its Buell subsidiary plays on a very different level than MV Agusta. The influx of cash from Harley should do wonders for MV's current range of sports and naked bikes, and may allow a greater number of customers access to the storied Italian marque. Consider the fact that Buell was a very small player with a number of quality problems before the Motor Company stepped in and fixed the situation. Additionally, the MV Agusta and Cagiva brands carry quite a strong legacy of high quality machines and will lend instant credibility in Europe and America to Harley's sporting credentials. The full press release is posted after the break. Thanks to all who sent this in!

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Officially Official: Harley-Davidson purchases MV Agusta, Cagiva

Officially Official: Harley-Davidson purchases MV Agusta, Cagiva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley buys U.S. rights to XR1200 name, rumormill turns

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 12:04:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Tuners, Motorcycle, Rumormill

Click above for more shots of the Harley-Davidson XR1200

Last year, the collective hearts of dirt track Harley lovers all across the United States dropped when The Motor Company announced that its XR1200 model was destined only for markets outside the states. It's not that a dirt track Harley couldn't be done, it's that the conversion was priced way out of the market for many riders. One company which offered just such a conversion is Storz Performance. According to Motorcycle.com, Harley-Davidson has just purchased the rights from Storz to the XR1200 name in America, which offers more than a glimmer of hope to the HD faithful.

Of course, no announcement has been made by Harley regarding a new Sportster model, but why else would the company go to the trouble of securing the name? As for us, we're pretty hip to the idea of bringing the sportiest Sporty to the market where the Harley XR originally made its name in racing.

Gallery: Harley Davidson XR 1200

[Source: Motorcycle.com]

Harley buys U.S. rights to XR1200 name, rumormill turns originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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