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.
Donald Trump has issued a warning regarding reciprocal tariffs, which would result in the US imposing the same tariff rates as those levied by other countries on American exports.
Harley-Davidson currently partners with Hero MotoCorp in India, with the X 440 being their first collaboratively designed model.
US President Donald Trump has advocated for reciprocal tariffs on countries, corresponding to the rates at which they impose tariffs on American goods. During discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump criticized India’s high tariffs on US-manufactured Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
In his second term, Trump has reiterated the notion of reciprocal tariffs, asserting that this aligns with his vision of equitable trade practices. He previously imposed a 25% tariff on specific imports from Canada and Mexico, though that initiative was temporarily paused until the end of February. He has also targeted regions like the European Union, China, and India. “Currently, we are a reciprocal nation… Whatever tariffs India charges us, we will reciprocate, and I believe this is only fair,” he stated. “I recall when Harley Davidson struggled to sell their motorcycles in India due to steep taxes and tariffs, which led them to establish local manufacturing to circumvent these costs. Others might consider similar strategies in their dealings with us.”
While both India and the US maintain significant trade relations, Trump’s tariff threats do not single out any specific country. By promoting domestic production and leveraging his presidential campaign on the promise of creating more American jobs, Trump signals his desire for production capacities to develop or increase in the United States rather than relying heavily on imports.
What happened to Harley-Davidson in India?
Harley-Davidson entered India in 2009, launching its first dealership in 2010. Known as a premium brand in the US, Harley initially imported models such as Sportster, Dyna, VRSC, Softail, and CVO. However, as the years went by, the company began to locally assemble certain models, including the Street 500 and 750 in Bawal, Haryana.
Despite the vast two-wheeler market in India, penetrating the premium segment posed significant challenges. In September 2020, Harley-Davidson announced its exit, citing weak demand and disappointing sales figures. However, it wasn’t a complete exit; the American company partnered with Hero MotoCorp in October 2020, designing a framework for Hero to enable sales and servicing of Harley’s motorcycles. By 2023, their first joint project, the Harley-Davidson X440, launched at a price of ₹2.30 lakh (ex-showroom).
Larry N Holokai, lovingly referred to as “Papa,” has returned to our Lord. An enthusiastic hunter, devoted Harley Davidson fan, Navy veteran, and recipient of the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam, he wishes to be remembered as a true Man of God. He is survived by his wife, Anna Holokai, and their three children: Anson Holokai, Kimberly Cutler, and Clyde Holokai. Services will take place on Saturday, February 22 at Ballards, with family gathering at 8:30 AM and the general public at 9:30 AM.
Just hours before his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump announced his strategy for broad “reciprocal tariffs” that will impact both allies and adversaries, heightening global trade tensions that experts warn could result in domestic inflation.
“To ensure fairness, I’ve decided to impose a reciprocal tariff,” Trump stated in the Oval Office. “It’s fair for everyone. No other nation can argue against it.”
In his Oval Office address, Trump reaffirmed his stance, saying that American allies often act “worse than our enemies” regarding trade issues.
The president also remarked that India imposes “enormous” tariffs, which hindered Harley Davidson’s ability to sell motorcycles in that country. “India is traditionally at the forefront when it comes to tariffs. There are a few smaller nations that charge more, but India’s tariffs are significant. I recall that Harley Davidson was unable to sell motorcycles in India due to excessively high taxes and tariffs, which forced them to establish a factory there to circumvent paying those tariffs. This approach is something others can pursue with us as well. They can set up plants or factories here, which applies to industries like healthcare, automotive, and semiconductor manufacturing,” Trump explained.
The tariffs will be specifically tailored for each trading partner, considering non-tariff factors such as value-added tax (VAT).
This announcement came just before Trump’s planned meeting with PM Modi in Washington. Analysts believe that developing markets like India and Thailand, which impose higher effective tariffs on US goods, could be significantly impacted, while countries with existing trade agreements may experience less disruption.
Peter Navarro, the president’s trade advisor, openly criticized the European Union’s VAT practices, remarking that “Major exporting nations around the globe undermine our markets with severe tariffs and even harsher non-tariff barriers.”
The United States will initially focus on those economies experiencing the largest trade deficits or exhibiting “most egregious issues,” as indicated by a White House representative.
The unnamed official suggested that the implementation of these tariffs could take “a few months, but not much longer than that.”
Trump acknowledged the likelihood of price hikes due to these tariffs but remained hopeful about future market stabilization.
Since taking office, Trump has enacted multiple tariffs targeting key trading partners, contending these actions rectify unfair practices and can drive policy changes.
The president perceives tariffs as means of generating revenue, resolving trade imbalances, and leveraging diplomacy.
The White House representative highlighted unfair trade practices and the absence of reciprocity as contributing factors to America’s ongoing trade deficit.
The memorandum he signed instructs the US Trade Representative, Secretary of Commerce, and other officials to suggest country-specific remedies.
A former treasurer of a Scottish Conservative Party branch has been implicated in a £1 million VAT fraud and money laundering operation.
Malcolm Macaskill, age 65, submitted fake forms to HMRC, significantly inflating the sales figures from his sandwich enterprises to fraudulently reclaim over £800,000.
Additionally, he laundered £200,000 of his illicit profits through local Tory associations in Glasgow and Rutherglen, Lanarkshire, where he held the positions of treasurer and deputy chairman.
More funds were funneled through the bank accounts of both his current and former wives.
Macaskill enjoyed frequent vacations, purchased a Harley Davidson motorcycle, and even traveled to London for upscale shopping trips to Harrods.
He faced multiple charges, including participation in a fraudulent VAT scheme and possession of criminal property.
However, Macaskill, residing in Cambuslang, Lanarkshire, was ruled unfit to stand trial due to a brain tumor.
Consequently, an examination of facts hearing—held without a jury—was conducted at Glasgow Sheriff Court to review the case’s details.
Malcolm Macaskill was involved in a £1 million VAT fraud and money laundering scheme
Macaskill went on regular holidays whilst laundering cash through local Tory parties and his wives’ bank accounts
Sheriff Paul Reid concluded that the facts against Macaskill had been ‘established’.
Macaskill was absent for most of the hearing and continues to reside at his home.
The case has been postponed until later this year.
The fraudulent activities occurred between February 2003 and March 2014.
Macaskill operated the Bigga Bites and Kwik Snax sandwich companies from a factory in Cambuslang.
The court revealed that he submitted 34 fraudulent VAT returns which resulted in the approval of repayments totaling £829,320 through Bigga Bites.
He had also falsely claimed to have an NHS contract with his business, obtaining £88,543 from a VAT refund claim in 2008.
Macaskill subsequently deposited funds from the fraud into the accounts of the Rutherglen and Cambuslang Conservative Association (RCCA) and the Glasgow Conservative Campaign Forum.
A total of 11 cheques amounting to £8,617 were issued to Kwik Snax from the RCCA’s general account.
Furthermore, 52 cheques worth £193,790 were issued to Kwik Snax from the campaign forum, in addition to two cheques totaling £6,300 made out directly to Macaskill from the organization.
Public reporting of the case was delayed until after the conclusion of the trial involving his current wife, Louise Macaskill, and his ex-wife, Moya Macaskill.
Both women were found not proven on charges of acquiring £864,961 of criminal property after six days of evidence.
Louise Macaskill testified that she hadn’t recognized that £104,554 had entered her bank account from him over a period of four years and eight months until 2014.
The 64-year-old former employee of Lloyds TSB and Clydesdale Bank stated: ‘I know I worked many hours and received a good salary, a pension, and had my own flat.’
She acknowledged transferring £20,000 to Macaskill’s business account, claiming it was intended to ‘help’ him.
Evidence revealed that £9,000 had been withdrawn in 2009 to purchase a Harley Davidson motorcycle.
She maintained that she was unaware of the full scope of her husband’s fraud until it was presented in court.
Macaskill’s ex-wife Moya, also 64, informed the jury that while she assisted in managing his sandwich business, she did not receive a salary; instead, she often received large payments to manage personal and business expenses.
Macaskill also bought a Harley Davidson motorcycle and enjoyed shopping trips in London
She emphasized that she was ignorant of the fraud and would have been deeply upset knowing the money originated from criminal activity.
Macaskill was originally set to be tried alongside the two women, but his diagnosis of a pituitary gland tumor in 2022 changed that.
At the conclusion of the examination of facts hearing, Sheriff Reid commented on the charges: ‘He did this intentionally to acquire money to which he was not entitled.
‘With regards to the other charge, he clearly exploited the resources of a political party to launder significant amounts of money.
‘I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that Macaskill acted contrary to the provisions of the law in the charge.’
Once a district court judge, Macaskill has been photographed with former Prime Minister David Cameron.
In 2012, he reportedly secured an out-of-court settlement after being dropped by the Scottish Conservatives as a candidate in the Holyrood elections.
This dismissal cleared the path for future leader Ruth Davidson to enter parliament.
HARLEY-Davidson is set to introduce a new line of smaller cruiser motorcycles aimed at attracting a broader audience.
The company intends to leverage the success it has found with sub-500cc models in India, China, and Australia.
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What will the new bike look like? Harley-Davidson plans to spend more on developing entry-level motorcycles
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Harley-Davidson boss Jochen Zeitz is pushing ahead with plans to attract new buyers across the world
Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz announced late in 2024 that the company planned to boost investment in entry-level motorcycles.
This announcement is likely to be welcomed by potential customers who have longed to own a classic Harley but may be deterred by their large size.
A few months back, enthusiasts on Reddit debated what the perfect entry-level bike should be, with one user cautioning, “Honestly, there isn’t a great Harley for beginners.”
The beloved brand currently offers three sub-500cc models in other regions, as noted by Topspeed.
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The X 440 was launched in India in 2023 through a licensing agreement between Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp for a co-developed premium motorcycle.
Another collaboration with QJMotor has resulted in the introduction of the X 350 and X 500 available in China, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
However, Topspeed points out that “Neither of these has made their way to the West, with the exception of the X 350, which is used as part of Harley’s Rider’s Academy program in the U.S.
“Thus, it’s clear that a small Harley-Davidson bike with a global focus would significantly aid the brand in attracting a wider customer base.
“Additionally, the cruiser segment holds vast unrealized potential today.”
Topspeed suggests that many current small cruiser models available in the United States provide bikers with a “non-authentic experience, often featuring engines from sports bikes or ADV with limited cruiser character.”
Harley-Davidson riders highlight a major ‘oversight’ by the brand as stocks plummet and dealerships shut down
Entry-level cruiser options presently on the market include the Kawasaki Eliminator 500, Honda Rebel 500, Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, and the CFMoto 450CL-C.
The automotive outlet anticipates “high expectations” for Harley-Davidson’s forthcoming entry-level addition.
This is particularly relevant as Hero MotoCorp announced in January its plans to widen its partnership with Harley-Davidson.
Hero MotoCorp is recognized as one of the largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturers globally.
The firm stated: “We have extended our partnership with Harley-Davidson to develop new variants of the Harley-Davidson X440 and to create a new motorcycle for both domestic and select international markets.”
What new and refreshed Harley-Davidson motorcycles can we expect for 2025?
The lineup of all-new 2025 models includes:
The Street Glide Ultra for extensive touring and the Pan America 1250 ST versatile adventure sport motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson has also upgraded six classic Cruiser models for 2025: the Low Rider S; Low Rider ST; Breakout; Heritage Classic; Fat Boy; and Street Bob.
The brand’s Sportster S has also received enhancements.
A series of limited-edition Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles includes four models: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
The motorcycle manufacturer stated that these new models complete the 2025 lineup for Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike motorcycles.
It’s believed that Harley-Davidson could effectively target Western markets, while Hero MotoCorp could produce bikes for the American brand, helping to maintain low costs.
The company is currently developing a Nightster 440, a name already trademarked by both Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp in India.
REVENUE DECLINE
The new initiatives surface as the brand looks to recover from disappointing financial results in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of decline.
In the fourth quarter, Harley-Davidson’s global motorcycle shipments fell by 53 percent compared to the prior year.
Revenue was down 47 percent, partly due to reduced sales volume, as stated by Jochen Zeitz, the CEO.
The company anticipates another challenging year in 2025 after closing several dealerships to cut costs.
Nevertheless, Zeitz is optimistic that the iconic brand will persevere.
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
However, numerous dealershipswere closedfor various reasons throughout 2024.
However, some bikers expressed concerns over the hefty pricing.
Harley-Davidson has been advised by fans to lower motorcycle prices in order to remain competitive in the U.S. market.
“Harley will be outta business because regular middle class won’t be able to afford them,” one individual cautioned on social media.
The century-old American brand has been steadily losing market share in the U.S. amid declining retail sales.
Zeitz mentioned back in 2021 that he aimed to broaden the brand’s appeal beyond just middle-aged and wealthy riders.
The U.S. Sun recently reported on upcoming Harley-Davidson models anticipated to launch in 2026.
The all-electric LiveWire division of Harley-Davidson, developed in collaboration with Taiwanese scooter manufacturer KYMCO, will introduce a new series of high-performance maxi-scooters.
The company aims to commence shipping these scooters in the first half of 2026, with plans for global distribution.
The U.S. Sun has reached out to Harley-Davidson for comments regarding its ambitions for new entry-level motorcycles.
NEW DELHI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s enduring camaraderie with President Donald Trump is set for scrutiny as the Indian leader embarks on a Washington visit this Wednesday, aiming to sidestep tariffs that have impacted others along with looming threats of additional taxes on imports.
As a pivotal strategic ally of the United States, India has thus far managed to avoid new tariffs, and the two leaders have nurtured a personal relationship. Modi, a nationalist facing criticism over India’s erosion of democratic principles, has welcomed Trump back to the White House, hoping to recalibrate India’s ties with the West amid ongoing tensions regarding Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Nevertheless, Trump has often labeled India as a “tariff king” and has pressured the country on the issue of migrant deportations. In reply, New Delhi has shown a readiness to reduce its own tariffs on U.S. goods, accept the return of Indian citizens, and increase purchases of American oil.
However, with tariff threats on the horizon, the critical question remains regarding the extent to which a strong rapport between the two leaders will influence negotiations and how far India will be willing to compromise to strike a deal.
Modi had fostered a effective working relationship with Trump during the latter’s first term, and the two have the potential to enhance areas of mutual interest while “minimizing points of contention without yielding on central national interests,” as noted by Meera Shankar, India’s former ambassador to the United States.
“Compared to other partners, most have their reciprocal lists prepared from the outset, as it provides leverage during negotiations,” Shankar added, expressing optimism that India will “strike the right balance between assertiveness and adaptability” regarding the tariff issue.
With his ruling Hindu nationalist party freshly victorious in a high-stakes state legislature election last weekend in India’s federal territory, including New Delhi, Modi stated before departing for Washington that the visit presents an “opportunity to build on” the cooperation established during Trump’s first term and to “deepen our partnership” across sectors such as technology, trade, defense, and energy.
During a conversation with Modi in January, Trump emphasized the necessity for India to increase its acquisition of American-made military equipment and to address the trade imbalance. In the previous year, the U.S. imported $50 billion more in goods from India than it exported to the country.
A summary from the White House at that time reflected Trump’s insistence on the importance of India boosting its procurement of American-made security products and progressing towards a fair bilateral trading relationship.
Earlier this month, India accepted the repatriation of 104 migrants who were flown back on a U.S. military aircraft, marking the first such flight to India as part of a crackdown initiated by the Trump administration.
Additionally, Modi’s administration has reduced certain elevated tariffs, including those on some Harley-Davidson motorcycles, cutting them from 50% to 40%. In 2023, India also eliminated retaliatory tariffs on U.S. almonds, apples, chickpeas, lentils, and walnuts.
“We can also anticipate that Modi will propose purchasing additional American (natural) gas to help mitigate the U.S. trade deficit,” commented Lisa Curtis, director of the Indo-Pacific security program at the Center for a New American Security, a Washington-based think tank. “This should provide some relief.”
CHINA RELATIONS
India is viewed as essential to the U.S. strategy aimed at containing China in the Indo-Pacific and is set to host a summit with a coalition known as the Quad — comprising the U.S., India, Japan, and Australia — later this year.
However, should there be a warming of relations between Washington and Beijing under Trump, India may need to reassess its position.
“Trump’s engagement with China could complicate India’s efforts to foster American interests in utilizing India as a counterweight to China, while avoiding becoming a proxy,” stated Happymon Jacob, founder of the New Delhi-based Council for Strategic and Defense Research.
India has made strides with China and agreed in December to seek resolutions for their protracted border disputes in the Himalayas following a military standoff that began with a deadly clash in 2020.
“Even a tactical adjustment between the U.S. and China carries implications for India,” Shankar remarked.
The U.S. stands as India’s largest trading partner, with a $50 billion trade deficit favoring India. The trade between India and the U.S. in goods and services amounted to approximately $190.1 billion in 2023. According to India’s External Affairs Ministry, U.S. exports to India reached nearly $70 billion, while imports stood at $120 billion.
Though India relies on Russia for nearly 60% of its defense supplies, the conflict in Ukraine has heightened concerns over future procurement, prompting New Delhi to explore options with the U.S., Israel, Britain, and others.
A recent agreement will enable U.S.-based General Electric to collaborate with India’s Hindustan Aeronautics on manufacturing jet engines for Indian aircraft domestically, alongside the sale of U.S.-made armed MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones.
Since 2008, India has procured over $20 billion in U.S.-origin defense equipment.
“This could be a domain where we witness synergies with the U.S.,” Shankar mentioned, adding that Trump will likely encourage India to acquire more defense assets.
Raja Mohan, an analyst at the Institute of South Asian Studies in Singapore, stated that Modi’s visit provides a timely opportunity to enhance Indo-U.S. relations.
“India’s diplomatic acumen will be put to the test, so the existing goodwill between Trump and Modi must translate into tangible results,” Mohan concluded.
FILE – Indian police officials escort immigrants, wearing masks, deported from the United States, who were among those who arrived in a U.S. military plane the previous day in Amritsar, upon their arrival at the Ahmedabad airport in India, Feb. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki, File)
FILE – President Joe Biden greets from left, Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, at the Quad leaders summit at Archmere Academy in Claymont, Del., Sept. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)
FILE – An Indian man parks his Harley Davidson Fat Boy motorcycle in New Delhi, India, March 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File)
FILE – U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embrace after giving a joint statement in New Delhi, India, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File)
FILE – Indians crowd around Harley Davidson motorcycles at their stall during Auto Expo in New Delhi, India, Jan. 7, 2012. (AP Photo/Mustafa Quraishi, File)
EDITORS AND LIBRARIANS: KILL FROM YOUR SYSTEMS, ARCHIVES AND PUBLISHED PLATFORMS AP PHOTO DEL106 (IMAGE ID 25042378453065), SLUGGED INDIA US MODI AND TRANSMITTED ON FEB. 12, 2025. THE PHOTO HAS BEEN TONED IN A WAY THAT DOES NOT MEET AP’S STANDARDS. NO REPLACEMENT PHOTO WILL BE SENT. – FILE – Jaspal Singh, 36, one of the Indian immigrants deported by the United States talks to his relatives upon his return to his home near Amritsar, India, Feb. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Prabhjot Gill, File)
FILE – U.S. President Donald Trump offers floral respects, with first lady Melania Trump standing beside him, at Raj Ghat, the memorial for Mahatma Gandhi, in New Delhi, India, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)
Indeed, it is only appropriate for a King to stand firm in his beliefs!
King Abdullah of Jordan has ‘rejected’ the proposal from US President Donald Trump to relocate Palestinians to Jordan. The King, who met Trump in the White House to discuss relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Jordan and Egypt, stated on X that Jordan remains “steadfast” against “the displacement of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.” This is the collective position of the Arab world.
In his post on X, he asserted, “I emphasized that my primary commitment is to Jordan, its stability, and the welfare of Jordanians. I reiterated Jordan’s unwavering stance against the displacement of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. This stance is shared across the Arab nations.”
Earlier this week, Trump suggested that he could halt aid to Jordan and Egypt unless they accepted Palestinians from Gaza.
Previously, Abdullah informed Trump that he could accept 2,000 Palestinian children from Gaza who are critically ill or suffering from cancer. However, the king later reaffirmed his long-standing opposition to the idea of displacing millions of Palestinians from their homes, as suggested by Trump.
Here’s everything you need to know about the King who has managed to say ‘no’ to Trump.
Who is the King of Jordan?
King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein has been the King of Jordan since ascending the throne in 1999 and is part of the Hashemite family, the ruling royal family of Jordan since 1921.
Born in Amman, Abdullah is the first child of King Hussein and his wife, Princess Muna. As the king’s first-born, Abdullah was the heir apparent until Hussein transferred the title to his uncle, Prince Hassan, in 1965.
Abdullah began his education in Amman and continued abroad. He launched his military career in 1980 as a training officer in the Jordanian Armed Forces, eventually leading the Special Forces in 1994 and rising to the rank of major general by 1998.
In 1993, Abdullah married Rania Al-Yassin, with whom he has four children: Crown Prince Hussein, Princess Iman, Princess Salma, and Prince Hashem.
Just weeks before his death in 1999, King Hussein named Abdullah as his successor, and Abdullah took on the mantle of leadership.
King on the throne:
Abdullah worked alongside his father on various missions and international meetings during his fathers reign. King Hussein passed away due to complications from non-Hodgkin lymphoma in February 1999 after ruling for 47 years through turbulent times marked by the Arab–Israeli conflict and the Cold War. After the announcement of his father’s death, Abdullah quickly appeared at an urgent session of the Jordanian parliament. His uncles, Hassan and Mohammed, entered the assembly before him. In Arabic, he took the same oath his father did fifty years prior: “I swear by Almighty God to uphold the constitution and to be faithful to the nation.”
The session was opened by the Senate Speaker Zaid Al-Rifai, who tearfully recited Al-Fatiha (the opening chapter of the Quran), invoking divine blessings: “God, save His Majesty… God, guide him and protect him.”
Abdullah’s formal investiture took place on June 9, 1999, which was followed by a reception at Raghadan Palace attended by 800 dignitaries and a motorcade through Amman with the newly appointed 37-year-old king and his 29-year-old wife, Rania.
Married life and family:
King Abdullah first met Rania Al-Yassin at a dinner in January 1993, and by June of that year, they were married at Zahran Palace. In 1999, Rania became the youngest queen globally.
The royal couple has four children:
The eldest is Crown Prince Hussein, who wed Rajwa Al Saif in 2023 at Zahran Palace in Amman, and has a daughter named Princess Iman bint Al Hussein. The King and Queen have three additional children – Princess Iman, who married Jameel Alexander Thermiótis in 2023 at Beit Al Urdun Palace in Amman, Princess Salma, and Prince Hashem.
Notably, King Abdullah’s half-sister, Princess Haya, was previously married to the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Al-Maktoum.
Interests and hobbies:
Beyond his royal duties, King Abdullah has passions for skydiving, motorcycling, and water sports, and he collects ancient weapons as a hobby. However, he noted that he is no longer able to skydive after becoming king. He has been seen riding a Harley-Davidson through northern California.
The King is also an admirer of the science-fiction series Star Trek! In 1996, he made a brief appearance in the Star Trek: Voyager episode “Investigations,” in a non-speaking role. His passion for cinema led to the establishment of the Red Sea Institute of Cinematic Arts in Aqaba, in collaboration with the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts, in September 2006. When the producers of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen chose to shoot in Jordan, Abdullah arranged for military helicopters to assist in transporting equipment to Petra. In 2016, he honored the cast of Theeb, the first Jordanian film nominated for an Oscar.
Abdullah also has a taste for stand-up comedy; when comedians Gabriel Iglesias, Russell Peters, and others performed in Jordan for a 2009 comedy festival, he invited them for dinner.
In 2010, Abdullah released his autobiography, Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril, detailing the first decade of his reign, mirroring his father’s 1962 book, Uneasy Lies the Head. The book offers insights into his upbringing and behind-the-scenes stories of his interactions with political leaders.
Isabelle Cadis, 55, failed to yield properly at a junction, blocking the roadway as the motorcycles approached at 50 mph.
Despite their efforts to evade the impending collision, both riders struck the vehicle at high speed, resulting in multiple fractures.
The incident occurred shortly before 11 am on June 8 last year on the B1108 Norwich Road at Carleton Forehoe, near Wymondham.
Cadis, residing on Holkham Road in Wells-next-the-Sea, entered a guilty plea at Norwich Magistrates’ Court for two counts of causing serious injury through careless driving.
Prosecutor Stephen Munton stated that she executed an “unsafe manoeuvre” when her Ford Fiesta Zetec “failed to stop at the junction and subsequently obstructed the lane, leading to the collision.”
The crash occurred at the junction of the B1108 Norwich Road near Carleton Forehoe (Image: Google)
“These are serious offences considering the nature of the injuries and their repercussions,” he added.
The motorcycle rider was left unconscious with a broken pelvis, leg fractures, five broken ribs, and a fractured shoulder, while his passenger suffered a fractured cheekbone, a broken arm, and pelvic injuries.
The court heard they had approached the crossroads from the Kimberly direction when the car unexpectedly drove out from Barnham Broom Road, leaving them no chance to avoid crashing.
The motorcycle rider informed police that the incident occurred even though he had slowed down and exercised caution at the wooded section of the road leading to the junction.
Isabelle Cadis pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless driving (Image: Newsquest)
The road was closed for several hours to enable emergency services, including ambulance and fire crews, to respond to the scene.
Magistrates imposed a provisional driving ban and postponed sentencing until March 20, requesting a comprehensive pre-sentence report.
The court noted that the starting point for sentencing could range from 12 months of imprisonment to a high-level community order.
Troy Lewis Greenier, aged 79, of Harbor Springs, peacefully passed away on February 6, 2025, at McLaren Hospital in Petoskey.
Born on May 3, 1945, in Petoskey to Russell and Jennie (Wardell) Greenier, Troy was raised in Harbor Springs.
He honorably served in the U.S. Air Force for five years during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he dedicated thirty-eight years to working with the Harbor Point Association as Supervisor of Horse Transportation.
An avid outdoorsman, Troy cherished activities like hunting, fishing, and camping. He enjoyed cigars by the campfire and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, eagerly anticipating the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota. Troy was also a passionate bowler, and nothing brought him more joy than watching his children and grandchildren excel in sports. A quiet man with a love for reading, he treasured time spent with family and never missed a chance to dance.
Troy was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Shirley Greenier.
He leaves behind his devoted wife of fifty-two years, Joyce (Bellant), along with daughters Kelley (Eugene) from River Vale, New Jersey, and Heidi (Robert) from Punta Gorda, Florida; twin sons Nelson (Jessica) from Johannesburg, Michigan, and Vincent (Moon) from Sharjah, UAE; ten grandchildren: Liam, Brooke, Robert, Kaylee, Josephine, James Troy, Logan, Lucas, Peyton, and Jaelyn; two step-grandchildren: Holly and Treyton; a sister, Judy (John) from Southgate, Michigan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.
The motorcycle dealership operated by Heritage Automotive Group in Swindon has officially closed.
Heritage Automotive Group, recognized as the 50th largest in the Motor Trader Top 200 Dealer Groups with an annual revenue of £320.2 million, represents brands such as Audi, Honda, Volkswagen, Skoda, and Volkswagen Vans.
A report from The Sun indicates that the motorcycle business in Swindon became “unfeasible to continue” due to persistent financial difficulties.
Founded in 1995, the dealership featured eight motorcycle brands, including Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Suzuki, Triumph, and Yamaha.
A representative stated: “We want to inform you that Blade Motorcycles Swindon has now closed.
“This was not an easy decision; despite our unwavering passion for motorcycles and commitment to serving our customers, the ongoing financial difficulties of sustaining the Swindon location have rendered it unfeasible to continue.
“We realize this news may come as a surprise, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding.”
Additionally, Heritage has closed the Blade Oxford Harley-Davidson branch located in Abingdon, as mentioned in a report by Visordown. The group still represents Ducati, Harley Davidson, Honda, Live Wire, and Triumph, maintaining dealerships in Oxford, Cheltenham, Abingdon, and Stratford.
The motorcycle dealership operated by Heritage Automotive Group in Swindon has officially closed.