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.
This year’s event is anticipated to be larger and more exciting than ever, featuring an impressive display of vehicles.
Join us for the Eats on the Street Food Truck Festival on Saturday, July 19, from 5 PM to 10 PM.
Enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, lively entertainment, a car and bike showcase, and a dedicated kids’ zone in downtown Kenton.
All proceeds from the event will support the initiatives of the Kenton Historic Courthouse District, which offers grants for the Downtown Business Association.
For further details and updates about the event, please click here.
As one of the most enduring motorcycle brands, Harley Davidson has achieved legendary status and amassed a devoted fanbase. Over its century-long history, the Motor Company has produced countless beloved models, predominantly focusing on cruisers and touring bikes for the majority of their sales. Innovation has always been a key aspect of their bike designs.
Practical innovations like the “jiffy” stand, patented in the 1930s, are still in use today, showcasing the brilliance of the original design. This stand has been adopted by competing motorcycle brands and replicated by aftermarket part manufacturers. Now, buyers can find third-party Harley Davidson kickstands that provide similar practicality—supporting a 1000-pound parked bike even on uneven surfaces—with various sizes, materials, and designs tailored for different bikes and riders.
Get Your Harley Standing in a Jiffy
The jiffy stand’s design has stood the test of time, aptly named for its ability to balance the bike “in a jiffy” with just a quick kick. Positioned on the left side of the Harley, the stand unfolds when nudged and locks securely in place, utilizing the bike’s weight. Think of it as a tripod, with the tires acting as the other two balancing points. Once locked, the jiffy stand prevents the bike from tipping over unless weight is removed from it, and a gentle nudge forward disengages the spring, allowing you to ride off smoothly.
This feature means that Harleys equipped with the stock jiffy stand remain stable on inclines and declines, which might be overlooked by seasoned Harley riders but can catch new riders or those transitioning from other brands off guard. The Motor Company has continuously refined the jiffy stand, introducing adventure stands for the Pan-America with an expanded footprint for added stability on loose terrain, and jiffy extensions for modifications like lowering springs or new forks.
What are the Alternatives?
Originally designed for brief stops, jiffy stands became popular in police edition bikes, but some issues have arisen. As Harley models have increased in size and weight, the stand reveals its limitations. Heavily loaded bikes can sway or tip over when parked on soft ground or uneven surfaces. Some riders may find the stand too short or that it requires a larger contact point for better stability. Fortunately, economical solutions like extenders, jiffy coasters, or lift brackets are readily available and effective. Replacing worn bushings or springs can also quickly restore functionality.
While stock alternatives exist, many riders prefer aftermarket Harley kickstands, addressing stability issues and enhancing build quality in newer bikes, while also complementing the aesthetic of your Harley, particularly when matched with other aftermarket modifications. Numerous dedicated brands offer products to customize your bike to your liking.
If you find the standard jiffy stand flimsy, cumbersome, or unstable on loose ground, exploring the aftermarket option is advisable. When purchasing, consider overall lengths, materials, and the fit of the kickstand. Standard lengths measure around 11″, providing similar lean and 45-degree angles as the traditional jiffy, but with expanded footprints for enhanced stability. Lowered kickstands start at 10″, while taller riders may prefer variants around 12″.
Materials can vary from high-grade stainless steel available in black matte, powder-coated, or glossy chrome finishes to striking forged or polished brass. Look for design features such as extra foot pads for larger bikes and longer, more accessible kick tabs to ease the engagement of springs and simplify positioning the stand. Additionally, choose lean angles appropriate for your bike’s weight; options with less lean allow for level positioning with less effort. Lastly, evaluate the mounting hardware and installation requirements—most aftermarket stands replace the stock jiffy directly with provided hardware, while others may need welding.
The Advantages of Aftermarket Seats
For enhanced riding comfort, aftermarket seats are among the first upgrades riders consider. Truthfully, the various factory options (like the Sundowner, Signature, Hammock, or Road Zeppelin series) are adequate for new bikes rolling off the dealer floors, but their build, materials, and padding begin to show wear after several thousand miles. Sagging, torn, or uncomfortable seats can cause fatigue, distractions, and ultimately become a safety concern.
Similar to Harley Davidson kickstands, aftermarket seats provide greater convenience, a wider selection of styles, and a straightforward way to enhance your riding experience. These seats are built to higher standards while often remaining more affordable than stock options. Consider components such as stainless steel for the seat pans, higher-density or gel foam padding for better support, and durable seat covers made from high-grade vinyl or leather, designed to withstand rider weight, friction, and exposure to the elements.
Moreover, you can tailor the stock seat to fit your riding style by selecting different sizes. Opt for larger, well-padded extended solo seats for solo rides requiring more space, 2-up seats featuring back and armrests for comfort, or springer seats for custom rebuilds and improved vibration dampening. A vast array of seat accessories is also available, including heating pads, backrest supports, height adjustability, and locking mechanisms.
Improved Grip with New Tyres
The factory-fitted touring or cruiser tyres that come with a new Harley will inevitably require replacement for optimal performance and safety. Motorcycle tyres have a lifespan ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on riding style, tread type, road conditions, and maintenance. Regularly inspect tyres for wear, check tread depth, and look for debris, cuts, or cracks on the sidewalls. Also, check for wear near the rims and ensure proper pressure for current weather and road conditions.
There are significant design and performance distinctions for tyres suited to various Harley models. Touring tyres are crafted for prolonged mileage and traction, featuring flatter profiles that enhance straight-line stability and multi-ply compounds that perform in a variety of weather. On the other hand, cruiser tyres are designed with rounder profiles and stiffer sidewalls for superior cornering, while still using harder compounds for adequate traction on wet surfaces. Both types need to support significantly more weight compared to the lightweight, slick tyres usually found on sport bikes.
When selecting tyres, ensure they match the rim sizes and widths, choose tread patterns appropriate for your riding environment and typical weather, and aim for recently manufactured rubber, ideally no older than six years. Store new or unused tyres in dry, controlled environments, preferably at room temperature and shielded from moisture.
A Maple Hill man is currently hospitalized following a tragic accident on Sunday that claimed the life of his wife.
Edward Brumfield, aged 47, is reported to be in fair condition at New Hanover Regional Hospital in Wilmington, after being airlifted due to his injuries. His wife, Sally Brumfield, sadly did not survive.
The motorcycle that Edward Brumfield was operating collided with a truck that unexpectedly entered their path, resulting in both of them being ejected from the vehicle.
Robert Wooten, 74, has been charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and failure to yield following the incident at approximately 3 p.m. on Gurganus Road, about a tenth of a mile from N.C. 53, according to Highway Patrol 1st Sgt. David Oglesby.
Wooten was attempting to make a left turn into a driveway while driving a 2000 Ford pickup truck westbound on Gurganus Road when he collided with the 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by Edward Brumfield, the Highway Patrol stated.
Following the crash, Wooten was brought before a magistrate and released on a bond of $2,000. A court date has been arranged for July 7.
A Maple Hill resident has been charged in connection with a Sunday afternoon accident that resulted in injury to a motorcycle rider and the death of his wife, who was riding as a passenger.
According to the Highway Patrol, Wooten was making a left turn in his 2000 Ford pickup truck on Gurganus Road when he struck the motorcycle driven by 47-year-old Edward Brumfield from Maple Hill.
The collision caused both Edward Brumfield and his wife, Sally, to be thrown from the motorcycle.
Sadly, Sally Brumfield succumbed to her injuries, while Edward Brumfield was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Authorities report that a Maple Hill woman has lost her life following a motorbike accident.
Media sources indicate that a truck turned into the motorcycle’s path, prompting Edward Brumfield to attempt to lay the bike down to avert the crash, ultimately sliding underneath the truck.
His wife, Sally Brumfield, aged 49, tragically died from the injuries sustained in the accident, while Edward Brumfield was taken to New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
KALAMAZOO, MI — Troy Leslie was inside his truck near the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission when he detected the scent of smoke.
Moments later, his Ford pickup was completely consumed by flames.
“I just got my license reinstated, got back into that truck, and now it’s gone,” Leslie remarked.
The loss of the truck, which he acquired just four months ago, is a significant blow for Leslie, who had diligently saved for it and was now preparing to save for an apartment.
Authorities arrived at 448 N. Burdick St. just after 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, where they found the truck fully aflame. Thick black smoke and large orange flames were visible from several blocks away.
Flames and smoke from a fully-involved vehicle fire were visible behind the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission on April 9, 2025. A Ford pickup truck caught fire just before 3:30 p.m. off North Burdick Street.Ryan Boldrey | MLive.com
Once the fire was put out, the front dashboard had melted and almost all personal items, except for a neon yellow set of towing cables in the pickup’s bed, were destroyed.
“I don’t even know why I should bother anymore,” Leslie said, sitting in another truck parked close to the remnants of his.
While sitting inside his vehicle and smoking a cigarette, Leslie noticed a strange smell coming from under the hood.
“It smells like someone is burning copper wire,” he told his friend, Will.
When he lifted the hood, bright orange flames greeted him. The two attempted to extinguish the fire using their sodas, and Leslie even tried to smother the flames with a blanket.
The flames escalated quickly, preventing Leslie from having time to grab his wallet, which he had left on the dashboard. Officers were unable to locate the wallet, which Leslie noted had a silver Harley Davidson keychain attached.
Leslie was on the verge of moving into a new apartment and had a TV stand, a coffee table, and newly purchased clothes in the truck’s bed.
“I wanted to feel at home in my new apartment,” Leslie said. “I’ve been saving and not wasting my money.”
Smoke and flames from a fully-involved vehicle fire were seen behind the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission on April 9, 2025. A Ford pickup truck caught fire shortly before 3:30 p.m. on North Burdick Street.Aya Miller
Leslie had also made considerable investments in the truck itself, including a $300 stereo installation.
He shared that he has encountered many hurdles in his saving journey, including a compromised checking account.
Leslie mentioned he had fallen behind on his phone and insurance bills but had recently managed to catch up on two truck payments.
Leslie was transported to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation.
“Every time I think I’m making progress, something sets me back,” Leslie reflected.
Morgan Wallen has just treated himself to a motorcycle.
During an in-person guest spot on the This Past Weekend With Theo Von podcast, Wallen was seen wearing a Harley Davidson hat, leading the host to inquire about it.
Von recalled Wallen expressing his desire for a Harley, and now it appears he has fulfilled that wish.
“I got this amazing, vintage bike. I love it,” Wallen shares. “I’ve done a bit of dirt biking before — just enough to know my way around a bike already.”
Von humorously suggested that Wallen might need to attach a breathalyzer to his Harley to start it.
The country star chuckled at the notion, replying: “Honestly, I’m surprised I don’t have that on every vehicle I own. Shoutout to Davidson County.”
A year has passed since Wallen was arrested for disorderly conduct while intoxicated. Last April, the renowned artist threw a chair off Eric Church’s Nashville bar roof, which led to two felony charges later reduced to misdemeanors.
Wallen enjoys the Harley Davidson lifestyle for the same reason he likes hunting with friends: It allows him to go incognito.
“I love it because with the helmet on, nobody knows who you are,” the singer explains.
“It demands your attention — you’re not on your phone or doing anything else. You focus strictly on what you need to do on that bike. I really appreciate that part of it.”
Wallen often finds it challenging to be in the limelight, so being able to don a helmet and escape to the countryside is just what he needs right now. He values this time for himself as well.
“You can be riding, and then suddenly five hours have flown by, and you didn’t even notice,” he reflects.
12 Revealing Morgan Wallen Lyrics That Show the Dark Side of Fame
Morgan Wallen has produced a variety of party hits, drinking anthems, and classic country tunes, but he also has an abundance of poignant songs.
Time and again, Wallen has candidly shared his battles with fame and personal struggles through his lyrics. Check out the gallery below for a collection of Morgan Wallen songs that shed light on the more challenging aspects of his fame.
If you thought the $110,000 price of the 2025 Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide RR made it impossible for you to own a Harley-Davidson due to its steep prices, Harley-Davidson offers another model that is far more affordable. The 2025 Nightster is now priced at $9,999, which is $500 less than its 2024 predecessor, bringing the starting cost down from $10,499.
Why a sub-$10K Harley-Davidson matters
The Nightster is priced just shy of $10K, but perception is crucial. As Harley’s entry-level motorcycle, the Nightster stands out as it boasts a V-Twin engine, unlike previous budget models which lacked this feature. With the liquid-cooled Revolution Max 975T V-Twin motor, it earns its reputation as a genuine Harley.
In recent years, motorcycle prices have surged, and U.S. sales growth lags behind Europe and Asia. If every Harley-Davidson model exceeds $10,000, it disqualifies the brand from consideration for many first-time buyers whose budgets are limited to under $10K. The reality is that many impressive models from competing brands are available below this price point, making it essential for Harley-Davidson to capture new customers.
What you get with a 2025 Nightster
As with all Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Nightster offers a broad array of factory and dealer-installed accessories for customization. However, the base model itself is already a well-equipped and impressive package.
The Revolution Max 975T V-Twin engine produces a robust 91 horsepower and delivers substantial low-end torque. With a ready-to-ride weight of 481 pounds and a seat height of 27.1 inches, it is suitable for both smaller riders and novices.
The Nightster comes standard with various safety features including antilock brakes with Brembo components, traction control, selectable ride modes (Road, Rain, and Sport), and LED lighting.
The 2025 Nightster is currently available at Harley-Davidson dealerships, starting at $9,999 for the model with black trim and Brilliant Gray paint. Color options include Vivid Black for an additional $500 and Whiskey Fire for $750. It is also available with chrome trim and Snake Venom finish for an extra $900.
Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) is witnessing a notable spike in investor interest, despite facing considerable hurdles. While the company deals with operational issues and a falling stock price, it has surprisingly found itself topping various watchlists.
This increased attention arises as Harley-Davidson’s shares hover near their 52-week lows. The decline is primarily attributed to unsatisfactory financial results, cautious outlooks, tariff uncertainties, and an impending change in CEO.
This unusual scenario raises an important question: What is piquing investor interest in Harley-Davidson despite these notable challenges?
Turbulent Times: Key Challenges for HOG
Harley-Davidson’s newfound market attention offers a chance for the company to tackle operational issues, including CEO Jochen Zeitz’s forthcoming retirement and ongoing financial pressures.
Harley-Davidson’s financial performance for the fourth quarter and the entire year of 2024 was disappointing, marked by a net loss in Q4, falling revenues, and reduced earnings-per-share (EPS) relative to 2023. However, many within Harley-Davidson’s analyst community suggest that these outcomes reflect ongoing industry adversities, including cyclical headwinds, elevated interest rates affecting consumer confidence, and the management of dealer inventories amid weakening demand.
The company also continues to face market pressures and external uncertainties, particularly concerning potential European Union tariffs on imported motorcycles from the U.S. Harley-Davidson’s cautious financial outlook for 2025 underscores these ongoing challenges. Should these tariffs be reinstated, they could affect Harley-Davidson’s pricing and competitiveness in key European markets. The company is actively lobbying for reciprocal U.S. tariffs if new EU duties come into play.
The Negative Sentiment Surrounding Harley-Davidson Creates Contrarian Opportunities
In spite of its numerous challenges, Harley-Davidson’s increasing visibility on investor watchlists suggests that certain segments of the market perceive opportunity—or at least enough potential to watch closely.
One key attraction is the stock’s valuation. As of early April 2025, the stock was trading at multi-year lows, with a trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio around 6.8 and a forward P/E of 6.6. Its price-to-book (P/B) ratio was approximately 0.92, indicating it is undervalued relative to 1.0. For value investors, these numbers suggest that significant pessimism is already reflected in the stock price, making Harley-Davidson a potentially undervalued asset against its historical earnings capability and intrinsic assets.
Apart from the numbers, the lasting strength of the Harley-Davidson brand is another essential factor. Established in 1903, the company boasts a rich legacy and a fiercely loyal customer base, forming a foundation that some investors believe can endure the current cyclical downturn and leadership transition. Recent operational achievements provide support for this perspective: during the Q4 2024 earnings call, management highlighted that new Street Glide and Road Glide models contributed to gains in U.S. Touring segment market share, a positive note amid broader market challenges.
This slight success suggests that Harley’s Hardwire strategy might still yield results under new management. Meanwhile, deep negative sentiment and recent price declines have positioned Harley-Davidson as a potential contrarian investment—a fundamentally robust brand trading at depressed levels, appealing to investors willing to counter the prevailing sentiment.
Heightened Visibility Keeps Harley-Davidson on Investors’ Radar
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Notably, significant short interest is driving investor focus. As of mid-March 2025, around 14.37 million shares were sold short, representing 11.63% of Harley-Davidson’s public float. Closing these positions would require about 6.1 days of average trading volume. Although this reflects a strong bearish sentiment, it also presents an opportunity for increased volatility should positive developments trigger short covering.
Institutional ownership remains substantial, standing at about 85%, adding further context. Recent filings show that while some funds have slightly scaled back their holdings, others have begun new significant positions or increased existing ones.
Management’s choice to repurchase $450 million in shares in 2024 under a $1 billion authorization might indicate confidence in the company’s valuation, or it could act as technical support during a volatile phase.
Additionally, an uptick in media coverage surrounding the CEO transition, strategic plans, and tariff discussions keeps Harley-Davidson prominent on investor watchlists, with many awaiting an opportune moment to enter.
Balancing Heritage, Value, and Market Volatility for Harley
Harley-Davidson’s current landscape showcases an intriguing contradiction: heightened investor interest amidst operational struggles. Investors are drawn to the stock’s attractive valuation, the brand’s rich heritage, recent success in the U.S. Touring segment, and the contrarian allure in the face of prevailing pessimism.
The outlook for the company hinges on several decisive factors. The ongoing search for a new CEO provides a chance for fresh leadership to build upon both the Hardwire strategy and the brand’s strength. Proactive steps addressing European tariff challenges indicate a focus on mitigating external risks. The firm’s proven performance in critical segments and disciplined operational management position it well to exceed expectations should market conditions improve.
The pressing question for investors is whether Harley-Davidson’s current valuation presents an enticing entry point for future growth, assuming the company can skillfully navigate these transitions and leverage its iconic brand.
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The name Corvette resonates deeply with Chevrolet. Debuting as a two-seater sports car back in 1953 (powered by the formidable Chevrolet Blue Flame 6!), it has continually symbolized the peak of the brand. These vehicles are crafted not just to sell but to inspire enthusiasm—providing a stunning display for potential buyers eyeing a new Silverado or Blazer. Throughout its history, the Corvette has represented GM’s motorsports legacy, famously championed by the iconic engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov, often regarded as the Corvette’s father. Its significance is so profound that a dedicated museum exists in Bowling Green, Kentucky, close to where Corvettes are produced.
Both Corvette and Harley Davidson stand as emblematic brands of America’s passionate relationship with the internal combustion engine. The admiration for all things Corvette is staggering; I once spotted a C4 ZR-1 — dubbed the King Of The Hill for its superior performance — proudly bearing a license plate reading 4MR401K — suggesting the owner would gladly invest their life savings for the chance to possess one. While that may have been an exaggeration, it underscored the rarity and desirability of these vehicles. The ZR-1 featured a Lotus-designed aluminum engine delivering 405 hp and 385 ft-lb of torque—a remarkable feat for its era in the late ’80s.
Introducing the Latest Corvette Design Concept
Credit: Chevrolet
Imagine a scenario where the Corvette no longer boasts a powerful V8 under the hood. It’s comparable to Harley Davidson opting for a rotary engine instead of its iconic V Twin—absurd, isn’t it? Maybe not entirely. GM has multiple design centers, including a new one in Leamington near Birmingham, UK, another in LA, and the original in Detroit. Each location is responsible for envisioning what will replace the current C8 Corvette, the eighth incarnation of the model since its debut in ’53. The next generation, referred to as C9, is slated for a 2029 release, which means the design process is underway now.
“In our Corvette creative study, multiple studios were invited to conceptualize hypercar designs,” stated Michael Simcoe, senior VP of global design, in a press release. “Each studio was tasked to honor Corvette’s rich heritage while contributing their distinct creative visions. This approach is fundamental to our advanced design network—pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and envisioning future possibilities.”
Credit: Chevrolet
All three studio designs will be publicly showcased this year before being reviewed, analyzed, and approved by top corporate executives. However, the Leamington concept is striking; it resembles a Le Mans prototype more than a standard production vehicle. Notably, it features doors that hinge at the roof’s center—a common trait in racing vehicles—eschewing the traditional A pillar. Instead, a structural component extends from the front of the car, seamlessly up the middle of the windshield, across the roof, and down the rear window. This design echoes the beloved split-window C3 Corvette, highly regarded by Corvette aficionados.
The absence of an A pillar grants drivers an unobstructed view while maneuvering tight corners on racetracks like the Oak Tree at Virginia International Raceway. The impact on everyday driving remains speculative,
If you’re curious about how the average driver—often older and less agile—will fit into this potential future Corvette, consider that this concept sits one inch lower than its predecessor, a factor that may pose challenges for those not quite as flexible as Olympic gymnasts. However, its design isn’t the most remarkable aspect of the concept car.
As reported by Top Gear, the concept from Leamington suggests an inclination towards a battery-electric future. “What we’ve formulated here doesn’t guarantee a pure EV for the next generation or anything remotely that close. It’s merely a concept, but incorporating electric propulsion enables enhanced aerodynamics—a more efficient underbody and improved air flow through the vehicle,” Simcoe elaborated. An intriguing aspect of the Leamington design is a sizable fan at the rear, intended to generate downforce, an idea first introduced by Jim Hall, founder of Chaparral Racing, in the early ’60s.
Corvette C9 Featuring “EV Battery Technology”
Credit: Chevrolet
The official GM press release simply mentions, “EV battery technology is integrated into the structure.” This raises questions—could there be a plug-in hybrid or a standard hybrid variant? While the details remain unclear, it’s noteworthy that GM is poised to enter the elite world of Formula One racing next season with a team led by Michael Andretti. Cadillac will serve as the title sponsor, yet the powertrain will not share any components with existing Cadillac production engines.
Formula One is heavily focused on hybrid technology and energy recovery to recharge batteries during deceleration. Starting in 2026, the electric motor will nearly match the internal combustion engine’s power—350 kW compared to 400 kW. Could this influence GM’s direction for the upcoming Corvette? It seems implausible to think it wouldn’t. GM isn’t entering the Formula One arena merely for competitive reasons; it’s a strategy aimed at marketing, explaining why competitors like Audi are also joining F1 next season.
The forthcoming Corvette is unlikely to be fully electric, but the fact that GM is even contemplating the possibility of an electric Corvette counters claims from skeptics that the internal combustion engine will endure indefinitely. Its days as the primary source for personal vehicles are indeed numbered, whether the naysayers choose to acknowledge it or not.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON’S CEO has resigned as the iconic motorcycle manufacturer braces for imminent tariffs affecting the auto industry.
In light of industry changes, company leaders have indicated that they will raise the prices of their motorcycles accordingly.
Harley-Davidson’s CEO announced on Tuesday that he would step down from his position. Credit: AFPJochen Zeitz, CEO of Harley-Davidson, stated he will remain in his role until a successor is appointed. Credit: GettyDue to the proposed tariffs on the auto sector, Harley-Davidson motorcycles could reach prices exceeding $100,000. Credit: Getty
Jochen Zeitz has served as CEO for five years before announcing his intention to retire on Tuesday.
Despite having improved the company’s profitability, Harley-Davidson motorcycles have continued to lose popularity.
Harley-Davidson confirmed that Zeitz will remain in his position until a replacement is appointed, as stated by The Wall Street Journal.
This announcement follows the motorcycle company’s assertion that it will be raising the prices of its bikes.
Senior executives informed a Congressional subcommittee that Harley-Davidson is facing “devastating” and “indefensible” tariffs imposed by the European Union.
The tariffs would affect multiple American-made motorcycles, including those from Harley-Davidson, as they prepare for these changes.
The company faces a staggering 56% tariff on American-made bikes sold in Europe.
If implemented, these tariffs could drive Harley-Davidson bike prices into six-figure territory, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Jonathan Root, Harley’s CFO, indicated that the tariffs would have a substantial financial impact on the company’s product line.
“What I am asking for today is fairness,” he told the subcommittee.
“It is evident that Harley-Davidson is being unjustly discriminated against and politically targeted by the EU and Canada.”
Root expressed concerns that the proposed tariffs could make it nearly impossible to sell their motorcycles.
The price of a Harley-Davidson Road Glide sold in Denmark could soar to $124,000, a dramatic increase from its starting price of $28,000 in the US.
Harley-Davidson Dealership Closures in 2024
There are more than 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships operating in the United States.
However, several stores have closed throughout 2024 for various reasons, if they provided any explanation at all.
Here are some Harley-Davidson locations that have shut down this year and the reasons behind their closures:
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, closed in October 2024 after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
THE CEO OF HARLEY-DAVIDSON has resigned as the motorcycle manufacturer braces for upcoming tariffs affecting the automotive sector.
In light of these industry shifts, company leaders have indicated that they plan to hike the prices of their motorcycles accordingly.
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The CEO of Harley-Davidson announced that he will step down on Tuesday Credit: AFP
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Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz said he will continue to work until the position is filled Credit: Getty
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With the proposed tariffs on the auto industry, Harley bikes could cost upwards of $100,000 Credit: Getty
The motorcycle manufacturer is actively searching for a new CEO, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.
Jochen Zeitz has held the CEO position for five years and announced his retirement plans on Tuesday.
While Zeitz succeeded in boosting company profits, the popularity of Harley bikes has continued to wane.
Harley-Davidson confirmed that Zeitz will remain as CEO until a replacement is appointed, in line with The Wall Street Journal’s report.
This news follows the motorcycle company’s declaration that it would implement price increases for its products.
Senior executives told a Congressional subcommittee that Harley-Davidson is facing “devastating” and “indefensible” tariffs from the European Union.
The tariffs will affect numerous American-made motorcycles, including those from Harley-Davidson, as they prepare for this significant shift.
American-made bikes sold in Europe could incur a massive 56% tariff.
If these tariffs are enacted, prices of Harley-Davidson motorcycles could potentially soar to six figures, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Jonathan Root, the CFO of Harley, noted that the tariffs would have a significant financial impact on the company’s products.
Harley-Davidson exec insists bikes will cost $124,000 under ‘devastating’ industry change as makes ‘simple ask’
“My request today is straightforward: fairness,” he stated to the subcommittee.
“It is evident that Harley-Davidson is being unfairly targeted and discriminated against by the EU and Canada.”
Root emphasized that the proposed tariffs would make it nearly impossible to sell their motorcycles.
The price of a Harley-Davidson Road Glide sold in Denmark could escalate to $124,000, a significant increase from its initial $28,000 price point in the US.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are more than 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
However, several establishments have shut their doors for a variety of reasons this year, often with little explanation.
Here’s a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have closed in 2024 and their reasons:
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, closed in October 2024 after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
