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Category: Harley Davidson News

Stay up-to-date with the latest in the world of Harley-Davidson. From new model releases and technology advancements to company announcements and industry insights, this category covers all the breaking news and essential updates about Harley-Davidson. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a rider, or simply curious about the iconic brand, our news section keeps you informed on everything happening with Harley-Davidson, including events, partnerships, and trends shaping the future of motorcycling.

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Harley Davidson News

No Dáil Call – Just a Bike Tour for Danny

No Dáil Call – Just a Bike Tour for Danny

Cathal Flaherty taking a ride on Sunday

A diverse range of headgear was showcased at the festival

The Sunday parade heads towards town

Domnick Walsh participating in the parade

Bikers heading in various directions on machines of all styles

Who’s a good girl? The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind benefited from this year’s Harley Davidson raffle.

The parade of bikers in full swing

Bikers traversing Flesk Bridge on Muckross Road

Sean Kelleher and friends enjoying the Bike Village

Seamie and Siun Morrissey

The open-air festival is among Europe’s premier biking events

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time to turn off your engines.

Power trip: Kerry TD Deputy Danny Healy-Rae was a pillion passenger during the parade on Sunday.
Photos: Valerie O’Sullivan

Ireland BikeFest 2025 has just concluded, with Killarney hosting hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts throughout the weekend, with the Bike Village at the Gleneagle buzzing with energy.

Now in its 17th year, Ireland BikeFest has established itself as a premier international festival for motorcyclists.

Patrick O’Donoghue, Director, Gleneagle Group, participating in the annual Ireland BikeFest parade in Killarney

The festival unites bikers from around the world to relish and explore one of Europe’s favored riding destinations and events in a singular experience.

Festival highlights included a lively carnival atmosphere, a stellar lineup of music and entertainment, demo rides, a custom bike showcase, and ride-outs along the Ring of Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way coastline.

Among the weekend’s favorites was the Sunday parade of bikers, led by grand marshal and singer, Jimmy Buckley, who directed the motorcycle tour from Gleneagle along Muckross Road and Woodlawn, traversing Park Road before touring the town with streets filled with joyful bystanders.



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Is Harley-Davidson Facing Financial Challenges? Here’s What We Found Out

Is Harley-Davidson Facing Financial Challenges? Here’s What We Found Out
Is Harley-Davidson Facing Financial Challenges? Here’s What We Found Out Carsten Koall/Getty Images

Harley-Davidson is currently facing a significant downturn, with motorcycle revenue plummeting by 60% in Q4 2024. Unit sales decreased by 53% compared to the same period in 2023. Over the entire year, global shipments dropped 17%, equating to about 148,862 bikes, which is roughly 11,600 fewer than the previous year.

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In North America, Harley’s largest market, sales fell 13% in Q4 alone. The first quarter of 2025 continued this trend, with global motorcycle sales down another 21%, including a 24% decline in the U.S. The company’s outlook for 2025 has been retracted, with management stating it cannot issue forecasts owing to “uncertain macroeconomic conditions and tariffs.” Meanwhile, competitors like Triumph, BMW, and Honda are thriving.

Even Harley’s electric sub-brand, LiveWire—despite showcasing impressive features—is struggling, having sold only 33 electric motorcycles in Q1 2025. Revenue dropped 42% year-over-year, with an operating loss of $20 million that quarter, although it was less severe than previous losses.

While Harley-Davidson is not alone in grappling with industry challenges, its significant declines, especially relative to rivals, indicate deeper issues within the company.

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Internal chaos, boardroom disputes, and CEO issues exacerbate the situation

The sign of the US motorcycle manufacturer Harley Davidson is in front of the entrance of the Harley Davidson Store Carsten Koall/Getty Images

If Harley-Davidson’s sales figures weren’t already alarming, the internal dynamics of the company are chaotic as well. CEO Jochen Zeitz has announced plans to step down, but H Partners, Harley’s second-largest shareholder, demands immediate action. The firm owns 9% of the shares and is pushing for the ousting of three long-standing board members.

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This tension escalated following the abrupt resignation of Jared Dourdeville, the H Partners representative on Harley’s board, who cited lack of transparency, leadership failures, and what he called “cultural depletion” within the company. This includes growing strain with dealers and consequences from removing DEI hiring quotas.

Leadership at Harley has struggled to align investor expectations with actual performance. The “Hardwire” strategy (developed by Zeitz) focused on premium models, limited production runs, and cost reductions, but has resulted in dwindling market share and increasing discontent among Harley’s loyal customer base.

Dealers are also venting frustrations, especially after the company introduced an online used bike marketplace that sidestepped them, combined with unfulfilled promises of support during the downturn.

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At the same time, Harley attempts to highlight minor successes, such as a 5% increase in Touring segment market share, to counterbalance a crippling 47% revenue drop in Q4. However, investors remain skeptical, as the company’s stock has plummeted nearly 50% from its peak in 2023.

High prices, tariffs, and a shrinking customer base heighten the crisis

Money interest rate increase concept, percentage commission credit MT.PHOTOSTOCK/Shutterstock

Harley-Davidson is up against a host of external pressures that would challenge any brand. Coupled with its internal struggles, these challenges have become existential threats. For instance, tariffs have returned, as President Trump proposed tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada, which could hurt Harley severely. Although the company shifted some production to Thailand, they do not manufacture bikes in Mexico or Canada, and rely on global sourcing for components. Tariff costs could potentially reach $175 million in 2025. Additionally, Harley already faces a steep 56% tax on motorcycles made in the U.S. when sold in Europe, which has contributed to a slump in its EU market share from 5% to just 2%.

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Furthermore, high interest rates persist, making motorcycles a luxury item. Data indicates that over half of current and prospective buyers are postponing purchases due to economic uncertainty. Consequently, sales remain low, leading Harley to cut shipments to allow dealers to manage backlogged inventory.

The pricing strategy has also backfired. Harley raised prices at a time when consumers were tightening their budgets, creating affordability issues. Their high-end models are out of reach for a younger generation of riders. Instead of introducing more affordable, smaller models, the company doubled down on expensive Touring and Trike segments, which dominated their 2025 lineup.

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While this strategy may appear sound from a financial perspective (higher profit margins, lower production volumes), it has made Harley vulnerable. With fewer young riders joining the community and loyal customers aging out, the brand’s future hinges on its ability to adapt, which appears to be lacking at this moment.

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Harley Davidson News

Philanthropist Devir Singh and DSB Foundation to Provide Cooling Equipment to Underprivileged Communities Across NCR

Philanthropist Devir Singh and DSB Foundation to Provide Cooling Equipment to Underprivileged Communities Across NCR

PNN

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New Delhi [India], June 2: As temperatures rise sharply, a notable initiative has emerged from philanthropist Devir Singh Bhandari. In an effort to alleviate the summer heat, he has launched a fan distribution campaign throughout the National Capital Region (NCR). This initiative, organized under the Bharat Industries name and facilitated by the DSB Foundation, will take place during the peak summer months of June and July.

This “respite initiative” aims to support institutions such as orphanages and senior citizen homes.

Previously, DSB Foundation has collaborated with prominent brands like Dettol, Dabur, and Paytm on community-focused projects. During the COVID-19 crisis, the Foundation implemented the ‘Yuva Covid Suraksha Kit’ initiative alongside Dabur and Dettol, distributing essential safety and hygiene kits throughout the region.

Devir’s past contributions include a healthy cooking workshop at the Tihar Jail Complex and a financial literacy workshop in partnership with Paytm, aimed at empowering at-risk communities with essential life skills.

With a mission centered on youth empowerment, climate change, and rural development, the DSB Foundation continues to be guided by empathy and purpose. A particularly well-received event was last year’s Christmas celebration at Don Bosco Ashalayam, where the Foundation arrived on Harley Davidson motorcycles to support its cause. The event featured live entertainment by children, food pack distribution, and gave kids a chance to engage with Harley-Davidson motorcycles, thanks to the Capital Chapter of Harley-Davidson India. The Foundation also took the chance to recognize the leadership team of Capital Harley-Davidson for their contributions.

To date, the DSB Foundation has organized food drives reaching over 30,000 individuals—an initiative that demands commitment and perseverance.

As the NCR prepares for yet another sweltering summer, Devir Singh and the DSB Foundation are ready to tackle it with compassion, empathy, and proactive measures.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI is not responsible for the content.)

(This story has been sourced from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by Tribune Staff.)

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Harley Davidson News

Harley-Davidson Introduces Gleaming New Motorcycle, Keeping Iconic ‘DNA’ While Catering to a ‘New Generation of Riders,’ Says VP

Harley-Davidson Introduces Gleaming New Motorcycle, Keeping Iconic ‘DNA’ While Catering to a ‘New Generation of Riders,’ Says VP

HARLEY-Davidson has unveiled an exciting new motorcycle aimed at the upcoming generation of riders.

The American giants introduced the stunning Fat Boy Gray Ghost model, marking their fifth addition to the Icons Collection, which is typically celebrated for its minimalist design and custom-style appeal.


Harley-Davidson Introduces Gleaming New Motorcycle, Keeping Iconic ‘DNA’ While Catering to a ‘New Generation of Riders,’ Says VP

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Harley-Davdison have revealed their fifth model in the Icons Collection – the Fat Boy Gray Ghost
Credit: Harley Davidson

Chrome Harley-Davidson Fat Boy motorcycle.

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Fat Boy Gray Ghost is beloved by fans of the brand, having originally stunned back in the 1990s
Credit: Harley Davidson

Close-up of a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy speedometer.

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Now, 35 years later, a limited-edition model with a polished metal look – using Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) – has been unveiled for a new generation of riders
Credit: Harley Davidson

As reported by MCM, this new limited-production motorcycle pays tribute to the original Fat Boy and features a highly reflective surface that is said to surpass traditional finishes in durability.

This aesthetic is familiar to Harley fans, as it first appeared on the Fat Boy Gray Ghost in 1990.

Commemorating 35 years of the Fat Boy lineage, the new limited-edition model showcases a polished metallic finish achieved through Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD), eliminating traditional painting or chroming techniques in favor of a lightweight metallic layer.

Equipped with a 1923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine producing 101bhp and 122lb.ft of torque, it also features upgraded suspension, selectable riding modes, and the complete range of safety features including cornering ABS, drag-torque slip control, and various driving modes.

Harley’s Vice President of Design, Brad Richards, commented: “The original Fat Boy model transformed the aesthetics, proportions, and silhouette of a 1949 Hydra-Glide into a modern version for a new audience.”

“Those riders appreciated our post-war design heritage while also being attracted to the sleek simplicity of contemporary industrial design.”

The Fat Boy was inspired by a custom Softail built in 1987 at the Harley-Davidson Montreal dealership, crafted by general manager Duc Dufour and technician Denis Lavoie.

This custom bike featured a lowered rear suspension, a fiberglass front fender, and wide handlebars, and was subsequently sent to Milwaukee for inspiration.

This news comes as the brand’s leadership hinted at the development of smaller motorcycles in a new series launch.

The motorcycle legends could shift towards a focus on small-capacity bikes, introducing more affordable models designed to attract new riders.

New Harley Davidson is ‘elegant & brutal’ with woven seats and stylish wheels – the back setup got a total makeover

The company’s executives indicated to MCM that they intend to enter the low-capacity segment, especially after discontinuing the entry-level Forty-Eight and 883 Sportsters in Europe.

Harley-Davidson is mainly recognized for its large cruisers but also offers a selection of lightweight models available internationally.

The single-cylinder X440, produced by Hero MotoCorp for India, is an excellent example and offers an economical starting price.

Moreover, smaller offerings from competitors like the Honda GB350S and Triumph Speed 400 have gained significant popularity in the UK following their launches, and the US company is eager to capture part of that market.

Harley-Davidson closures in 2024

There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.

However, several stores have closed for various reasons throughout 2024, some without any justification.

Here is a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have shut down this year along with the reasons for their closure:

A location in San Francisco closed in June 2024 after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ brought by new management.

Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, shut its doors in September 2024 with no stated reason.

Harley-Davidson’s historic location in New York City ended operations on September 28, 2024, with the owner citing economic challenges.

Reiman’s Harley-Davidson in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October 2024 after the owners sold to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.

Another Illinois dealership closed in November 2024.

Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, will temporarily close for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.

Looking ahead to 2025, Hideout Harley-Davidson in Missouri has announced it will close by the end of March.

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Four Rivers Harley-Davidson Hosts ‘Love Life 4 Jason’ Event for Suicide Awareness

Four Rivers Harley-Davidson Hosts ‘Love Life 4 Jason’ Event for Suicide Awareness







bikers gather for jason.PNG

PADUCAH — Local residents came together this weekend for the second annual Love Life for Jason suicide awareness ride, honoring Jason Gillum’s memory and promoting mental health awareness.

The event, hosted at Paducah’s Four Rivers Harley Davidson, aimed to illuminate the issues surrounding suicide and mental health, uniting riders from various regions. Members of the Widow’s Sons Masonic Riders Association, including chapters from Cape Girardeau and Poplar Bluff, participated to show solidarity and support.

“This is Love Life for Jason,” shared Angie Gillum, Jason’s mother. “We’re here to raise awareness about suicide and help anyone feel a little less isolated.”







board of jason photos.PNG

Jason Gillum, who tragically took his own life on October 5, 2012, was a dedicated licensed practical nurse aspiring to become a registered nurse. “He struggled to overcome his depression,” his mother recounted with emotion. “He was a wonderful person.”

The impact of his loss still lingers, affecting both family and community members who never had the chance to meet him. Rick Gillum, from the Widow’s Sons, expressed how deeply the tragedy affected him, stating, “It still hurts me because I see what it does to her.”

The gathering not only honors Jason’s memory but also serves as a catalyst for change.

“Suicide is often ignored,” remarked Angie Gillum. “We’re here to change that. If I can help even one person through this, it will have been worth it.”

Organizers encouraged everyone in need to seek support. “If you’re struggling, please reach out for help,” Gillum emphasized. “Call 988… someone is always available to listen.”







love life 4 jason tshirt.PNG

The national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers free and confidential support 24/7 for anyone in crisis.

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Deadly Motorcycle Crash in Fullerton Claims One Life

Deadly Motorcycle Crash in Fullerton Claims One Life
Local Government

A devastating traffic accident occurred late Saturday night, leading to the death of a motorcyclist when a Harley Davidson struck a recreational trailer near the intersection of N. Euclid St. and W. Bastanchury Rd.

Emergency services arrived at the scene around midnight, finding the motorcyclist, an adult male, severely injured and lying beside a heavily damaged 1993 Harley Davidson motorcycle. Despite the Fullerton Fire Department’s attempts to assist, the individual was declared dead on-site.

Initial investigations indicate that the situation began when a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe, towing a 1996 Prowler recreational trailer, suffered a mechanical issue while heading east on W. Bastanchury Rd. The vehicle halted in the center median, and an attempt to reverse the Tahoe by another adult male caused the trailer to jackknife, encroaching into the westbound traffic lanes.

The motorcyclist, traveling west from N. Euclid St., collided with the trailer that obstructed the road. Both the female driver of the Tahoe and the male who attempted to reverse the vehicle were arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs. Investigators have yet to determine whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the motorcyclist’s actions.

Authorities are in the process of identifying the deceased rider, with expected updates from the Orange County Coroner’s Office.

Fullerton Police are encouraging anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. Witnesses can contact Traffic Accident Investigator Manes at (714) 738-6815 or email at [email protected]. Those wishing to remain anonymous can reach out to the Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1(855) TIP-OCCS or visit occrimestoppers.org.

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Memorial Ride Planned for Kansas City Paramedic Graham Hoffman

Memorial Ride Planned for Kansas City Paramedic Graham Hoffman

HIGHS WILL REACH NEAR 90 DEGREES IN JUST A FEW MINUTES. A TOTAL OF $30,000 HAS BEEN RAISED IN MEMORY OF A FALLEN HERO. LAST SATURDAY, 17 LOCAL RESTAURANTS COMMITTED TO DONATING 10% OF THEIR REVENUE TO THE GRAHAM HOFFMAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND. HOFFMAN, A FIREFIGHTER PARAMEDIC, WAS TRAGICALLY STABBED AND KILLED ON APRIL 27TH. THIS SCHOLARSHIP FUND WILL ASSIST INDIVIDUALS DESIRING TO TRAIN AS FIREFIGHTERS AND PARAMEDICS, THANKS TO THE GENEROSITY OF RESTAURANT CUSTOMERS AND DONORS.

Memorial ride for fallen Kansas City paramedic Graham Hoffman planned for July

HeroFundUSA is collaborating with two Harley-Davidson branches to pay tribute to paramedic Graham Hoffman, who lost his life in the line of duty in April. Video above: $30,000 raised for the Graham Hoffman Scholarship Fund thanks to a local restaurant campaign. A memorial ride is scheduled for July 12, starting at Outlaw Harley-Davidson in Blue Springs and following a police-escorted route to Worth Harley-Davidson in Kansas City. Registration and breakfast will take place from 9-11 a.m., with the ride commencing at 11:15 a.m. Following the ride, Worth Harley Davidson will host a silent auction, live music, food, and various activities. All proceeds from the ride will benefit the HeroFundUSA Graham Hoffman Memorial Scholarship Fund, which aims to assist future first responders in Hoffman’s memory.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. —

HeroFundUSA is collaborating with two Harley-Davidson branches to pay tribute to the life of paramedic Graham Hoffman, who tragically perished in the line of duty in April.

Video above: $30,000 raised for the Graham Hoffman Scholarship Fund through a restaurant initiative.

A memorial ride will occur on July 12, beginning at Outlaw Harley-Davidson in Blue Springs, following a police-led route to Worth Harley-Davidson in Kansas City.

Registration and breakfast will be available from 9-11 a.m., with the ride starting at 11:15 a.m.

After the ride, Worth Harley Davidson will host a silent auction, live music, food, and other activities.

All proceeds from the ride will be directed to the HeroFundUSA Graham Hoffman Memorial Scholarship Fund, designed to support future first responders in honor of Hoffman.

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Gervelis Law Firm and Youngstown Harley-Davidson Join Forces to Promote Motorcycle Safety

Gervelis Law Firm and Youngstown Harley-Davidson Join Forces to Promote Motorcycle Safety

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                                <p>Latest Updates</p>
                                <p>Additionally, 330 tickets are available for a chance to win a 2024 Low Rider S Harley Davidson. Each ticket costs $100, with all proceeds supporting COMPASS' Soujourner House Domestic Violence Program.</p>
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                                            <p>According to a recent press release, Gervelis Law Firm has collaborated with Youngstown Harley-Davidson to raise awareness about motorcycle safety.</p>
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                                            <p>They will be organizing a series of events and giveaways throughout the summer.</p>
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                                            <p>Members of the Gervelis Law Firm will be present at special events at Youngstown Harley-Davidson, as well as at Quaker Steak &amp; Lube Bike Nites in Austintown and other local activities.</p>
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                                            <p>Complimentary merchandise, including yard signs, bumper stickers, T-shirts, and more will be distributed during these events.</p>
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                                            <p>Attorney Gervelis will also offer a limited number of free classes at the Harley Davidson Riding Academy Motorcycle Safety Course in Austintown, promoting safety among local riders.</p>
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                                            <p>Free "Watch out for Motorcycles" signs can be collected at the Gervelis Law Firm, located at 3790 Boardman-Canfield Road, Canfield.</p>
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                                            <p>As mentioned earlier, there are 330 tickets available for a chance to win a 2024 Low Rider S Harley Davidson at $100 each, supporting COMPASS' Soujourner House Domestic Violence Program.</p>
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                                            <p>The drawing for the 2024 Low Rider S Harley Davidson will take place on August 30.</p>
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The Surprising Feature I Love Most About Harley’s Toughest Touring Motorcycle

The Surprising Feature I Love Most About Harley’s Toughest Touring Motorcycle
The Surprising Feature I Love Most About Harley’s Toughest Touring Motorcycle
Those impressive speakers are a highlight, and let’s not overlook the photographer capturing the moment at the bottom (that chrome finish is stunning).
Photo by Steve Mazzucchi for Gear Patrol

During extended rides, it’s easy to zone out, which can be dangerous. Playing a bit of AC/DC, Metallica, or even Norman Greenbaum on these beauties might actually keep you alert.

Just keep in mind that the navigation’s voice is louder, which is handy until you’re cruising through a quaint town and the music lowers to let the navigation lady guide you.

Touring Insights

Although the Road Glide’s massive fairing may be less stylish than the iconic batwing of its sibling, the Street Glide, this robust ride could be the ideal choice for long hauls.

harley davidson road glide highway
Thanks to that substantial fairing, the Road Glide stands out as one of the most comfortable highway bikes I’ve ever experienced.
Photo by Steve Mazzucchi for Gear Patrol

With its user-friendly operating system and fantastic speakers, the extensive protection it provides allows you to ride 300 miles, say from NYC to Virginia, and arrive at your niece’s piano recital without feeling worn out.

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Harley-Davidson Encounters Financial Hurdles

Harley-Davidson Encounters Financial Hurdles

Harley-Davidson Encounters Financial Hurdles in 2025 Due to Declining Sales and Tariff Issues

(STL.News) Harley-Davidson, the legendary American motorcycle maker cherished by riders worldwide, including myself, is currently facing a difficult financial phase in 2025. Despite its storied history and devoted fan base, the brand is struggling with a significant decline in sales, global economic challenges, and rising investor dissatisfaction.

For motorcycle lovers like myself, the roar of a V-twin engine cruising down the highway symbolizes freedom, identity, and legacy. However, even brands that epitomize freedom can suffer from market fluctuations, as shown by Harley-Davidson’s recent earnings report for the first quarter.

Harley-Davidson – First Quarter 2025 Earnings Reflect Financial Challenges

In its Q1 2025 financial results, Harley-Davidson reported total revenue of $1.33 billion, marking a steep 23% decline from the $1.73 billion noted in the same quarter of 2024. The company’s net income dropped even more drastically, falling 43% to $133 million, down from $235 million the previous year. Furthermore, diluted earnings per share (EPS) fell to $1.07 from $1.72, indicating tight margins and a sluggish retail market.

Additionally, the company unexpectedly withdrew its full-year 2025 forecast, citing uncertainties related to global tariffs and economic fluctuation. While this cautious move reflects a prudent strategy, it has left investors anxious for signs of resilience and a robust strategic plan.

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Harley-Davidson Encounters Financial Hurdles

Harley-Davidson – Motorcycle Shipments and Retail Sales Decline

A particularly alarming trend for devoted Harley fans is the notable decrease in motorcycle shipments and retail sales. In Q1 2025, Harley-Davidson shipped only 38,600 motorcycles, a 33% drop compared to Q1 2024. Retail sales mirrored this trend, with roughly 31,000 motorcycles sold globally, down from about 39,400 a year earlier.

In North America, Harley-Davidson’s primary and most devoted market, sales fell by 24%, with just 20,900 units sold. This statistic is disheartening for those of us who appreciate the camaraderie cultivated at Harley events and local dealerships. A decline in new riders could impact the entire Harley community, including dealerships, clubs, and independent repair shops.

Harley-Davidson – Financial Services and LiveWire: Mixed Outcomes

The results from Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS), the company’s financing division, were mixed. While revenue dipped slightly to $245 million (a 2% decrease), operating income increased by 19% to $64 million. This growth is promising, indicating that the financial services division remains a reliable revenue stream amid industry challenges.

On the flip side, LiveWire—the company’s electric motorcycle division—is still struggling to make its mark. In Q1, LiveWire generated $2.74 million in revenue but also incurred a $20 million operating loss, though this was an improvement from the $29 million loss reported in Q1 2024. Only 33 electric bikes were sold in this quarter, a stark contrast to the 117 units sold in the same period last year.

While innovation in electric vehicles is crucial for long-term viability, LiveWire’s slow sales indicate that many riders—myself included—are still captivated by the classic roar of combustion engines over the quiet whir of electric models.

Harley-Davidson – Tariff Challenges and Leadership Changes

A significant factor contributing to Harley-Davidson’s instability is the volatile global tariff landscape. The company estimates tariffs could cost as much as $175 million in 2025. These tariffs influence international production and export costs, prompting Harley-Davidson to reassess its global supply chain strategy.

Adding to the uncertainty is the upcoming retirement of CEO Jochen Zeitz, who has guided the company through the pandemic and into its electrification journey. With his departure looming, the search for new leadership is in progress, and investors are closely monitoring for indications of a turnaround plan.

H Partners, a hedge fund holding nearly a 9% stake in Harley-Davidson, has voiced strong criticism of the current board and executive team. This investor group is advocating for significant changes, highlighting concerns over the brand’s declining market share and strategic missteps. This evolving shareholder dispute could impact everything from production priorities to dealership relationships.

The Future Path for Harley-Davidson

As both an investor and a lifelong rider, it’s evident that Harley-Davidson stands at a pivotal junction. Although the financial outlook is concerning, the brand’s cultural significance and customer loyalty remain robust. Many of us who ride Harley-Davidsons do so for more than just the machines; we cherish what they represent: tradition, freedom, and an unmistakably American spirit.

For a Prosperous Future, Harley-Davidson Must Tackle Key Challenges:

  • Revive Demand: Reigniting interest among younger riders and broadening product offerings could stimulate sales in a saturated market.
  • Enhance Global Strategy: Restructuring the supply chain to mitigate tariff exposure and boost cost efficiency is essential.
  • Balance Innovation with Heritage: While LiveWire shows promise, Harley must ensure it does not alienate its core customer base.
  • Ensure Leadership Continuity: A strong successor for the CEO role must be appointed with a clear vision to steer the company forward.

Conclusion: Keeping Hope Alive and the Handlebars Steady

For those of us who are ardent fans of Harley black and chrome, these developments extend beyond mere numbers; they affect the very essence of our riding culture. However, Harley-Davidson has weathered storms before. From the Great Depression to the 2008 financial crisis, the company has consistently found a way to navigate adversity and keep its engines roaring.

Let’s hope that 2025 marks a year of adjustment rather than decline. The open road continues to beckon, and for many riders, there’s no better companion than a Harley. With strategic changes and strong leadership, this iconic brand can reclaim its footing and accelerate back to financial stability.

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