Autoblog

Harley-Davidson to Wisconsin: We ain't goin' nowhere

Zach Bowman — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 15:31:00 EST

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

After the dust-up surrounding Harley-Davidson's rumored evacuation of Wisconsin, the motorcycle manufacturer has announced that it will be staying in the Midwest. Unionized employees voted on September 13 to keep production operations in both Tomahawk and Milwaukee right where they are. Three labor organizations ratified a new seven-year contract that will take effect once the current deal expires in April of 2012.

Earlier this year, Harley-Davidson began an assessment program to determine whether or not it would be in the company's best interest to move production outside of Wisconsin, and they had even gone so far as to scope out a few likely new homes. However, the new labor contract agreements will allow for a $50 million savings by the end of 2013, making the company's old plants more attractive than uprooting and starting new facilities elsewhere. Part of those savings come from the fact that by the time the new contract takes effect, the company will have 250 fewer full-time hourly unionized workers than what's outlined under the current agreement.

While these and other restructuring changes will incur a number of one-time charges, Harley-Davidson is looking to see annual ongoing savings of anywhere between $290 million and $310 million. Hit the jump for the full press release.

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson to Wisconsin: We ain't goin' nowhere

Harley-Davidson to Wisconsin: We ain't goin' nowhere originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Back to His Roots: The Kentucky Kid returns to the Indy Mile, but not to race

Devon Brozek — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Motorcycle, Celebrities, Racing

Before Nicky Hayden was an international superstar making use of some of the best front brakes in the world on his MotoGP bike, he was just a kid from Kentucky who made a name for himself forgoing the front binder altogether and winning a ton of AMA flat track races. Back then he was known as the rookie, or the Kentucky Kid... On August 28th, that same kid from Kentucky will have officially come full circle (pun-intended) by returning to the track that helped launch his career.

Timing being everything, Mr. Hayden will be in Indianapolis working his real job as a Desmo pilot, which gave him the opportunity to accept the invitation to act as Grand Marshal of the AMA Pro Grand National Championship at the historic Indy Mile. Is it a coincidence that Nicky's sponsor, Ducati, recently made some major in-roads to the Harley-Davidson-dominated world of flat track racing? Not likely, but the return of the Kentucky Kid to his childhood playground will no doubt be a special occasion for the racer and fans alike.

If you would like to read the complete event blotter, hit the jump. Nickey Hayden fans can join us in the hope that the trip to the Indy Mile will be a powerful reminder of what it takes to win races when he makes it back over to the big show at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

[Source:Ducati]

Continue reading Back to His Roots: The Kentucky Kid returns to the Indy Mile, but not to race

Back to His Roots: The Kentucky Kid returns to the Indy Mile, but not to race originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buell shows off a new street bike? [w/video]

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Motorcycle

You've got to hand it to Erik Buell. The man was dealt a very bad hand by his ex-employers at Harley-Davidson, but Buell decided to take a bowl of lemons and make some tasty lemonade. The first batch of sweet citrusy goodness came as Buell formed his eponymous racing team, but it seems 'ol Erik has bigger and better things up his sleeves.

A new video is circulating the interwebs today that clearly shows a Buell 1190RR race bike equipped with decidedly non-racy parts, including a license plate mount with turn signals and a set of electric cooling fans for the radiators that aren't necessary on the track-only models. Interesting, no?

There's still some time left on Buell's agreement with H-D not to build and sell any street bikes, but it seems like a foregone conclusion that Erik will once again be offering road-going machines to fans of unique American sportbikes just as soon as he's legally allowed to do so. Stay tuned, and check out the short teaser video after the break. Thanks for the tip, Gary!

[Source: Erik Buell Racing via The Kneeslider]

Continue reading Buell shows off a new street bike? [w/video]

Buell shows off a new street bike? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson exits the sidecar business

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:08:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

Stars and Stripes. Peanut butter and jelly. Harley-Davidson and sidecars. Okay, fine - one of those pairings is not like the others, but H-D does have a long history of adding a third outrigger wheel to its line of heavyweight motorcycles, starting back in 1914. That's over now.

Harley-Davidson just announced that 2011 will be the final year it offers sidecars as a factory option, and it will no longer accept new orders for them. The good news is that The Motor Company will continue to provide warranty service for current sidecar owners and will stock replacement parts at its dealerships.

We have an unhealthy affection for offbeat sidecar motorcycles, and if you also happen to fall into that category, Ural and Royal Enfield are ready to serve your needs. As for Harley, check out its official statement after the break.

[Source: Harley-Davidson | Image: AMCA Motorcycle Library]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson exits the sidecar business

Harley-Davidson exits the sidecar business originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson expands 2011 lineup with three new offerings

Devon Brozek — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2011 Harley-Davidson Sportster SuperLow - Click above for high-res image gallery

Shoppers at Harley-Davidson dealers across North America will be faced with the choice of three new models this year, as the 2011 lineup marks the release of the Sportster SuperLow, XR1200X and Road Glide Ultra. This hat trick of new releases increases Milwaukee's total offerings to an impressive 32 unique (that is... as long as you want a V-twin and two or three wheels) models.

If your confidence is in need of inspiration, as H-D words it, than the new SuperLow may be just what you're looking for. Sporting a design and build that highlight ease of handling and a low stand-over height, the SuperLow may drag pegs through the turns, but it should also help keep confidence high at stoplights. The second model, named the XR1200X (which we previously covered here) claims to "hone Sportster performance to its very limit" offering standard adjustable suspension, floating front brake rotors, and a high compression version of the 1200cc Evo engine packaged in the XR chassis. The matte-black finish of the engine and drive components complete the no-nonsense look of the XR1200X.

Rounding out the new releases is the Road Glide Ultra, which has its sights set further on the horizon while wielding a frame-mounted fairing. The new cockpit encases a four-speaker Harmon Kardon Audio system (with iPod connection), as well as a cruise control feature, amongst other luxuries. More touring amenities include the King Tour Pack, luggage carrier and standard ABS... we expect Route 66 has another thing coming.

Four new CVO variations will be available in limited quantities for the 2011 model year, several of which we recently had an opportunity to put through their paces, so stay tuned for the imminent full ride reports on all the new bacon from ~~hog-central~~ Harley-Davidson. For now, you can see more pictures and read the press release after the break.

Gallery: 2011 Harley-Davidson Sportster SuperLow

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson expands 2011 lineup with three new offerings

Harley-Davidson expands 2011 lineup with three new offerings originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Motorcycles at the 2010 Greenwich Concours

Alex Nunez — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Misc. Auto Shows, Motorcycle

Motorcycles at the 2010 Greenwich Concours - Click above for high-res image gallery

One thing the organizers of the Greenwich Concours do well is ensure that motorcycle aficionados don't feel left out. This year was no different, as Sunday featured row of bikes diverse in both chronology and purpose. No matter your interest, if two wheels were your thing, you were covered by a range of offerings that included everything from rarities like the Honda NR750 to a 1917 Harley-Davidson that pretty much embodied the definition of "patina."

It was obvious that the majority of these bikes weren't babied garage queens. Most appeared to see regular action, and their owners were eager to share them with the crowd. "C'mon, take a closer look!" was a common phrase uttered to anyone pausing to show interest in a particular bike. It's that kind of camaraderie that makes Greenwich feel as accessible as any local enthusiasts' gathering, even though it's a serious Big Deal concours with million-dollar vehicles littering the grounds. Hit the gallery below for a look at the motorcycles and scooters that were on hand this year.

Gallery: Motorcycles at the 2010 Greenwich Concours d'Elegance

Motorcycles at the 2010 Greenwich Concours originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jun 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson confirms XR1200X for U.S. in 2011

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2011 Harley-Davidson XR1200X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Harley-Davidson's sportiest Sportster is about to get a wee bit sportier for the 2011 model year, as The Motor Company has just announced that it will begin offering the XR1200X here in the States for the 2011 model year at a price of $11,799. Although originally announced a year ago, the model has so far only shipped to customers in Europe - odd for a brand that celebrates its American heritage so passionately, but whatever.

In any case, we're happy to welcome the XRX to the fold, as it combines the air-cooled and fuel-injected 1200cc V-twin engine and its 74 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm with a suspension worthy of its 40-degree lean angle capabilities. Included in the springy bits are Showa's well-regarded Big Piston front forks with adjustable rebound, compression and preload along with dual Showa rear shocks with 36mm pistons and piggyback nitrogen-charged reservoirs.

Up front, a pair of Nissin 292mm full-floating rotors are clamped by four-piston calipers. Seat height comes in at 29.2 inches and rear-mount pegs couple with dirt track-style handlebars to offer a relatively sporty posture. Color choices consist of either black or white in H-D's matte denim finish, both with blacked-out powertrain, exhaust and wheels. Those wheels are highlighted by an orange stripe that matches the rear springs. It's certainly a looker. See for yourself in our high-res image gallery below and click past the break for the press release.

Gallery: 2011 Harley-Davidson XR1200X

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson confirms XR1200X for U.S. in 2011

Harley-Davidson confirms XR1200X for U.S. in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World's first motorcycle hearse? [w/video]

Zach Bowman — Sat, 22 May 2010 20:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars

Motorcycle Hearse - Click above to watch video after the jump

Given the level of dedication we've seen from the dead when it comes to their motorcycles, it comes as no surprise that somebody has given one the Munsters treatment and created the world's first motorcycle hearse. Built in Auckland, New Zealand by an automotive engineer, the bike can carry up to 440 lbs in an underbelly cradle. Push a button and the rig slides out to let the pallbearers do their thing. A complex system of hydraulics helps stabilize everything, and two riders are needed to get the deceased from place to place.

Power comes courtesy of a 1,350 cc Harley-Davidson engine, and the motorcycle hearse's inventor, Mike Price, says that he originally wanted to partner with them on the project. Harley wanted Price to sign a lengthy contract before they'd even look at his design, however, so he politely told them where they could stick that dotted line and built the bike himself after work. Are there classier ways to get to your final resting place? Sure, but few are any cooler. Hit the jump for a check out a few videos.

[Source: Papakura Courier, YouTube]

Continue reading World's first motorcycle hearse? [w/video]

World's first motorcycle hearse? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 May 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson + Marisa Miller = advertising perfection [w/video]

Devon Brozek — Wed, 19 May 2010 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Motorcycle, Celebrities, Design/Style

Marisa Miller selling motorcycles - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we first got word that Harley-Davidson had a hot new model, little did we know they were referring to a supermodel. Marisa Miller may be known as the sexiest women on the planet for her work in Sports Illustrated and Victoria's Secret catalogs, and in light of her latest ad campaign with the Bar and Shield Company, we're not here to debate that. The girl just can't seem to get enough action - on her motorcycle, of course.

We have to hand it to the advertising execs in Milwaukee, they sure know how to combine all the right elements to pull at our ~~draw~~ heartstrings. Ms. Miller will be out urging the world to "Start Something" in this series dedicated to cutting out all of the typical reasons you have for not yet riding a motorcycle. We didn't need much encouragement, but if you do, Harley-Davidson has created a special ride guide and will even be giving away a few bikes to help those who are still on the fence. If you were wondering if Marisa ever put on a full set of proper riding gear... well, neither were we, however if you would like to see the behind-the-scenes video, just hit the jump. And remember: your employment may vary, but the video and the gallery below might not be safe for work.

Gallery: Marisa Miller H-D

[Source: Harley-Davidson via Two Wheels Blog]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson + Marisa Miller = advertising perfection [w/video]

Harley-Davidson + Marisa Miller = advertising perfection [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 May 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: What will a Harley-Davidson look like in 2020?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 14 May 2010 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Motorcycle, Design/Style

Jonathan Russel's 2020 Harley-Davidson concept - Click above for image gallery

It's no secret that the motorcycle industry as a whole is undergoing the same kind of turmoil as the automobile industry, and that's true for Harley-Davidson just as much (if not more so) than any other manufacturer. There's been a lot of conjecture on what the Bar and Shield brand needs to do to get itself back in order, but the one thing that remains constant is the need for interesting and desirable product.

What those products should be, though, is up for debate. Should H-D continue to focus on its core line of big-inch air-cooled V-twin machines or should it branch out even further with its lower-cost Sportster line or its high-performance, liquid-cooled Revolution-powered bikes? According to designer Jonathan Russel, Harley's future should include a major infusion of Apple.

Yes, that's Apple as in the technology company, not the fruit. Russel envisions lots of aluminum and laser etching, as seen on Cupertino's latest laptops. Also on the menu are lots of perforations with LEDs hiding underneath, which make up the tank-mounted instruments (including an interesting GPS) and the rear tail lamps. Intrigued? Check out our high-res image gallery below. Thanks for the tip, Radhika!

Gallery: Jonathan Russel's 2020 Harley-Davidson concept

[Source: Yanko Design]

Rendered Speculation: What will a Harley-Davidson look like in 2020? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 May 2010 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Harley-Davidson considering move away from Milwaukee?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 03 May 2010 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Say it ain't so! How could Harley-Davidson's main manufacturing base be anywhere but Milwaukee, Wisconsin? It would be like a Toledo without Jeep (or Tony Packo's), Detroit without General Motors. A Gotham without Batman. In other words, inconceivable!

But here we are anyway, with The Motor Company reporting that it is considering its options at both its powertrain operations in Milwaukee and at its Tomahawk, Wisconsin plant. Why? Simple: money. According to H-D, it could save millions of dollars per year by changing locations due to reduced costs associated with labor contracts and scheduling flexibilities. Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, though, has pledged to do whatever necessary to keep Harley right where it's at.

Of course, it seems more likely that Harley-Davidson is using these rumors as a tactic to get the upper-hand on the upcoming union negotiations. Still, with the brand's very survival on the line, anything seems possible - up to and including the (very remote, we'd guess) threat that H-D motorcycles could be manufactured overseas. Stay tuned.

[Source: The Associated Press via The Kneeslider]

Rumormill: Harley-Davidson considering move away from Milwaukee? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 May 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The most elaborate April Fool's joke ever? Buell and Bombardier (don't) team up for new streetbike

Devon Brozek — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 18:29:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle, Canada

Official Bomber Motorcycles logo?

Just when we thought we were going to have to get an AMA Pro License to ride any new Buell creations, an official press release from BRP, or Bombardier Recreational Products, appears to have leaked out, spelling out the company's plans to team up with Erik Buell and for the launch a new line of two wheelers called Bomber Motorcycles. Or so it would seem.

Many rumors have circulated recently pointing out the interest that BRP had shown in purchasing the Buell brand, however much to the chagrin of its many fans, Harley-Davidson would not concede in any talks of selling Buell, choosing rather to spend just over 100 million dollars to pack up shop and cling to some sort of lingering pride. Well, that was all so last week. As the old saying goes, where there's a will, there's a way, and Erik Buell and BRP have supposedly come up with a way to make the merger happen. Although none of us are supposed to know this yet, BRP spokesperson Avril Foujour (uh huh, yeah) confirmed yesterday that the press release was in fact official and had been leaked ahead of it's planned April 2nd release date. Apparently they didn't want anyone to think this was some sort of clever April Fools gimmick... oops, I think they got us.

Though all indications are that this may be the World's Most Elaborate April Fools' Joke, let's take a moment to consider just how much effort went into this prank. There's a name for the new company and bike (Stratofortress), an estimated release date (fourth quarter 2010) and plenty of typically boastful press release copy. There's a logo (see above), a Facebook page, Twitter account and even a dummy website. Someone has way too much free time on their hands, no?

See the complete and undeniably fake press release after the break.

[Source: Asphalt & Rubber]

Continue reading The most elaborate April Fool's joke ever? Buell and Bombardier (don't) team up for new streetbike

The most elaborate April Fool's joke ever? Buell and Bombardier (don't) team up for new streetbike originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Is Harley-Davidson the target of a takeover bid?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 17:31:00 EST

Filed under: Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle, Rumormill

We're not sure if this report should be filed in the Good News folder or the Bad. Harley-Davidson shares jumped an impressive six percent today to their highest level in more than four months. Why? Apparently, the increased activity was spurred by speculation of a possible takeover by private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts.

We're anything but experts on the inner workings of Wall Street, but it seems that the hot action is on short-term March and April call options, which indicates that many traders are betting on a leveraged buyout of the historic American motorcycle manufacturer.

Naturally, neither KKR nor Harley-Davidson is commenting on the matter, though neither party has declined the rumors outright. We'll keep our virtual ears to the ground, and if we hear anything more, you'll all be the first to know.

[Source: Reuters]

Rumormill: Is Harley-Davidson the target of a takeover bid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We Smell a Ringer: Vance & Hines XR1200 spec series set for 2010 debut

Devon Brozek — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:31:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Motorcycle, Racing

If you're into going too fast on two wheels, chances are the name Terry Vance has crossed your radar a time or two. The pilot of Need-for-Speed Duo Vance & Hines spread the word recently from Daytona International Speedway that a new spec series featuring the Harley Davidson XR-1200 will run this year along with select AMA road racing events.

The Vance & Hines XR-1200 Series, as it is officially being called, will kick off at Road America this June in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, coincidentally, very close to Harley Davidson's headquarters. Hmm. Question: How can one guarantee a Harley clad in Vance & Hines goodies will win races this year? Answer: You guessed it, the above-mentioned series is born. Looking on the bright side, at least the current economic state was taken into account when pricing the race kit.

For a mere $3,500, potential racers will get full exhaust and fuel management systems and race body work that includes a number plate, solo-seat and tail section, as well as the belly-pan valance. But wait, that's not all. A 17-inch front wheel and matching front fender, steering damper, oil cooler relocation package and race graphics is also on the menu. Now that's what we call a deal! Of course it will be available to the public as a street legal kit as well. The claim to fame is that anyone with an XR and a dream can get involved without significant investment.

Fact is, some top talent has made its way through the ranks as the result of spec class racing. Add to that, who doesn't like to watch a good Boxer Cup from time to time? It can be fun when the playing field is leveled a bit. Let's hope the action is strong and the series spreads beyond it's slated current boundaries (east of the Mississippi only) to give everyone a chance to hear the ever pleasant sounds of a big twin bouncing off the rev limiter at race-track near you.

[Source: AMA Pro Racing]

We Smell a Ringer: Vance & Hines XR1200 spec series set for 2010 debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Over the top on a Harley-Davidson XR750: Take two for Bubba Blackwell's record-breaking leap

Devon Brozek — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Classics, Etc., Motorcycle

Do you remember the days when motorcycle jumps were measured by cars rather than feet? We know at least one man who is all too familiar with those times, and may even be haunted by them. His name is Bubba Blackwell. He is what we would call a traditional daredevil, consumed with setting records and garnering fame. It is not only Bubba's Harley but also his Stars and Stripes one-piece suit that leaves no room for guesswork as to his respect and admiration for the late Evil Knievil.

In 1998, Mr Blackwell set a record of his own by clearing 20 cars aboard his Harley-Davidson XR750, logging the longest successful flight on that model. In 2001 gravity got the best of him, leading to the spectacular crash featured on the History Channel's show Shockwave, which focuses on a 22-car attempt to leap over his own record. Here we go again. On June 12 Bubba will fire up his trusty HD and head to Laconia, New Hampshire, bent on making take two a success by clearing 22 Ford Focuses.

Amid a generation of modern daredevils like Robbie Maddison stretching the world distance records well over 300 feet, Bubba's record may not appeal to everyone. But one thing is for sure - with a history like Blackwell and his XR750 have had, we can be assured that the sport of flying motorcycles will continue to entertain us and motivate the next generation to push the limits.

[Source: Ultimate Motorcycles | Image: awnisALAN - CC 2.0]

Over the top on a Harley-Davidson XR750: Take two for Bubba Blackwell's record-breaking leap originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide goes Dark

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle, Design/Style, Luxury

2010 CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide - Click above for high-res image gallery

Every year, Harley-Davidson breaks out the good ol' Accessories Catalog to bedeck a few of its most desirable models in a veritable smorgasbord of chrome, leather and outlandish paint schemes. See here, here, here and here for photo evidence of this undeniable fact. For 2010, though, The Motor Company is taking a darker approach to its highest-end model, the CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide.

H-D slathers the dark on its new CVO model, with the whole Gloss Black Rumble Collection making its appearance on the Glide. In total, the Crimson Mist Black / Dark Slate (with flame graphics, naturally) motorcycle comes with approximately 185 unique black parts, components and accessories, which join a black and chrome Screamin' Eagle Twin Cam 110 engine (that's 1803cc and 115 pound-feet of torque, H-D's biggest and most powerful factory V-twin) and a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission to complete the nearly chromeless motif.

Harley's whole bag of techno tricks are also featured on the CVO Ultra, including a 160-watt CD/AM/FM/WB/MP3 Advanced Audio System by Harman-Kardon, CB and intercom, passenger audio with controls, cruise control and standard XM Radio. Finally, the HD-specific Garmin Road Tech zūmo 660 GPS unit with touch-screen display tells you where to point the handlebars.

Want one? Harley-Davidson only plans to build 999 CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide in 2010, each with a base price of $36,499, which makes this the most expensive model in Harley's entire lineup this year. Check out our high-res image gallery below and click past the break for the complete press release.

Gallery: 2010 CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading 2010 Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide goes Dark

2010 Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide goes Dark originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson expands Sportster line with new Forty-Eight

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight - Click above for high-res image gallery

Harley-Davidson has just announced a new addition to its entry-level Sportster family, and it's seemingly again drawing on its years of heritage in both the bike's design and name. Called the Forty-Eight, the new machine is the latest motorcycle to slot into HD's Dark Custom series, which also includes the Nightster 1200, Iron 883, Cross Bones, Fat Bob and Street Bob.

So, what makes this model different from the other Sportster models? It's all in the styling details, naturally. Included in the kit are bobbed fenders front and rear, fat front tire, blacked-out and polished 1200cc Evolution V-twin, solo seat that measures 26 inches from the ground, under-mounted mirrors, side mount license plate and tiny 2.1-gallon peanut fuel tank. No matter, with what we bet is less than two inches of rear suspension travel, this bike seems destined to be a short-distance mount anyway.

So, to recap, there's nothing new here at all (which we surmise is kind of the point), but the overall effect still makes the Forty-Eight arguably the most attractive bike in the Sportster line, barring the much sportier XR1200, of course. Pricing begins at $10,499 MSRP in Vivid Black with Brilliant Silver and Mirage Orange Pearl also available. Click past the break for the complete press release and check out our high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson expands Sportster line with new Forty-Eight

Harley-Davidson expands Sportster line with new Forty-Eight originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buells, getcher Buells! Harley-Davidson implements a bike-finder

Dan Roth — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 09:59:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Motorcycle

Does the classic rumble of V-Twin appeal to you, but find full-dresser's not your style? Buy a Buell. Now. There will be no more, and stocks are dwindling. Despite that, they're not emptying the tank fast enough for Harley Davidson. With the very last Buell ever produced now taking up residence at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum - an unfortunate fate for something that's so glorious to actually use - it's fire-sale time on the 1,300 or so new Buells left. To froth sales, Harley has set up a bike finder to put you on the two-wheeler of your dreams and get your money in its pocket.

Further sweetening the pot are aggressive incentives from H-D to dealers, meaning you're not likely to get a bad deal. Unless you're a chump.

[Source: Hell for Leather]

Buells, getcher Buells! Harley-Davidson implements a bike-finder originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Harley-Davidson paying dealers extra $5K for each Buell sold

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 07:58:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

In the market for a new motorcycle? Now might be a good time to visit your local Harley-Davidson dealership. Not necessarily for a new motorcycle wearing the classic orange and black Bar and Shield logo - not that there's anything wrong with that, if that's your thing - but for one of the last bikes from the recently discontinued Buell brand.

According to a report from the boys from Hell for Leather, Harley-Davidson is sending a check to each dealership worth $5,000 for every new Buell sold. This knowledge ought to give customers a little extra negotiating power when it comes time to sign on the dotted line, no? Happy shopping!

[Source: Hell for Leather]

REPORT: Harley-Davidson paying dealers extra $5K for each Buell sold originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 07:58:00 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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