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.
11th Annual Palm Bay Fair: Free Parking and Family Fun Awaits!
The Palm Bay Fair promises exciting rides, games, delicious food stands, and complimentary shows as it arrives at Brevard County from March 6-16, 2025, at the Space Coast Harley-Davidson Fairgrounds in Palm Bay, Florida. Visit PalmBayFair.com for more information.
BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA — Experience the thrill of the Palm Bay Fair with its delightful rides, games, food vendors, and free entertainment as it rolls into Brevard County from March 6-16, 2025, at the Space Coast Harley-Davidson Fairgrounds in Palm Bay, Florida.
Located at Space Coast Harley-Davidson Fairgrounds at 1440 Sportsman Lane NE, situated on 15 acres at the junction of Interstate 95 and Palm Bay Road. It’s the perfect spot for the community to come together and enjoy everything the fair has to offer.
Adult visitors over 21 can enjoy full alcohol bars available at the fair.
All-day unlimited ride armbands and individual ride tickets are available at the Palm Bay Fair. Visit PalmBayFair.com for further details.
The Palm Bay Fair is proudly sponsored by Space Coast Harley-Davidson, Lisko Family Amusements, Space Coast Daily, All Points, Erdman Automotive, and Budweiser. Prepare for 10 days of non-stop entertainment from March 6-16 on the beautiful grounds of Space Coast Harley-Davidson, conveniently located next to Bass Pro Shop.
Test your skills by participating in the The Survivor Show held at the Space Coast Daily Stage every day and night of the fair.
Join The FARMily Feud Show: Shows are held daily at The Space Coast Daily Stage.
Delight in live musical acts performing from the Space Coast Daily Stage.
Participate in the Survivor Family Game Show at the Space Coast Daily Stage. Visit PalmBayFair.com for more information.
Become a contestant in the Survivor Family Game Show at the Space Coast Daily Stage.
Experience the laughter of the Comedy Magic Show by Bob Bohme. Visit PalmBayFair.com for further details.
Laugh along with the Comedy Magic Show featuring Bob Bohme.
The Palm Bay Fair provides options for Unlimited Rides or individual ride tickets.
Unlimited ride armbands are $25, Monday through Thursday, and $30 for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Individual ride tickets can be purchased at ticket booths within the fair:
■ 5 ride tickets for $7 ■ 30 ride tickets for $35 ■ 50 ride tickets for $50
Each ride requires 2-5 tickets, based on the specific ride. If you plan to ride often, opt for an unlimited ride armband for just $25 (Mondays-Thursdays) or $30 (Fridays-Sundays) for all-day access.
NO CHARGE FOR PARKING: Visit PalmBayFair.com for additional information.
Watch: Teodorin Obiang Nguema, the Vice President of Equatorial Guinea, takes his Harley Davidson motorcycle for a ride on a bustling highway.
The 56-year-old is recognized for his extravagant lifestyle and often showcases his vehicles on his official social media accounts.
This comes just days after Teddy uploaded a video of his grand entrance at an event in a Bugatti Chiron hypercar.
He has also shared footage of his stylish arrivals at official events in both a Rolls-Royce Phantom 8 sedan and the Cullinan SUV.
Teodorin Obiang Nguema, the Vice President of Equatorial Guinea, recently posted a video of himself enjoying a ride on his customized, eye-catching Harley Davidson Softail DeLuxe on a busy highway.
Known as Teddy, the 56-year-old Obiang is famous for his luxurious lifestyle and passion for supercars. He frequently showcases his impressive collection of vehicles on his official social media platforms.
This follows a recent video in which he showcased his arrival at an event in a $3 million Bugatti Chiron. He often posts videos of grand arrivals at official events in his Rolls Royce Phantom 8 sedan and the Cullinan SUV.
Teddy has held the position of first vice president since June 22, 2016. He is also the son of Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the President of Equatorial Guinea. While most African leaders favor the Mercedes S-Class and Mercedes-Maybach S-Class for their official transports, Teddy prefers to travel in his customized Rolls-Royces.
HARLEY-Davidson has been cautioned that it could lose business if significant alterations are not made following the unveiling of its 2025 lineup.
Despite this, the legendary company insists that it produces the “best damn motorcycles in the world.”
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Harley-Davidson stated it had faced challenges throughout its 120-plus years in operationCredit: Alamy
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The 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycle lineup has been revealedCredit: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
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These new models complete the 2025 Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring and Trike motorcycle collectionsCredit: Getty
However, the response from motorbike enthusiasts has been mixed.
A significant concern highlighted is the pricing of the newly introduced and refreshed motorcycles this year.
A frustrated individual voiced on social media: “There’s no reason prices can’t be lowered.
“All the other manufacturers are managing it; why not Harley?
“Sales figures are significantly down [while] Indian’s sales are increasing.
“If this trend continues, Harley may find itself out of business as average middle-class consumers will find them unaffordable.”
Another rider remarked there was “no way” he would purchase a new Harley this year.
He added that it would be “more sensible to buy older models for ten grand less.”
Harley-Davidson dealership shutting after just 5 years for very different use – customers know what to blame for closure
Additionally, there was some pushback following Harley‘s promotion of its 2025 Road Glide on social networks.
The company claimed the model features a “powerful Milwaukee-eight 117 V-twin engine, supple adjustable suspension, and sharknose fairing engineered to slice through the wind.”
The 2025 Road Glide is advertised with a starting price of $27,999.
But one user cautioned: “Well Harley, you’re headed for trouble.
“The only factory touring bike is a street glide with a trunk and two speakers priced at $31k. You seem to have forgotten your customers.”
Yahoo! Finance reported on Tuesday that Morgan Stanley raised concerns about the company facing “long-standing affordability challenges.”
What are the new and refreshed Harley-Davidson motorcycles for 2025?
The 2025 model lineup features:
The Street Glide Ultra for extended touring and the Pan America 1250 ST adventure sport motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson has also refreshed six classic Cruiser models for 2025: Low Rider S; Low Rider ST; Breakout; Heritage Classic; Fat Boy; and Street Bob.
The brand’s Sportster S has received updates as well.
A range of limited-production Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles are included in the collection, featuring four models: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
The motorcycle maker emphasized that these new models round out the collection of 2025 Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike motorcycles.
Morgan Stanley’s analysts indicated that “weak consumer confidence might hinder demand recovery.”
But the company stated on Friday after the launch of its new models: “For over 120 years, we’ve crafted the best damn motorcycles in the world.
“We’ve persevered through wars, economic downturns, and many trying times.”
The all-new 2025 model range includes the Street Glide Ultra designed for long-distance touring, perfect for riders seeking exploration and adventure.
Harley-Davidson has also rejuvenated six classic Cruiser models for 2025: Low Rider S; Low Rider ST; Breakout; Heritage Classic; Fat Boy; and Street Bob.
Harley’s Sportster S has also received enhancements with an upgraded suspension system to ensure a more comfortable ride.
Harley-Davidsonclaimed regarding the Sportster S that riders will enjoy “unleashing on-demand torque for an electrifying rush of acceleration and excitement.
“Its lightweight build, technology features, and striking design cater to both experienced and new riders eager to stand out on a motorcycle that deviates from traditional aesthetics.”
Additionally, there is a collection of limited production Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) models, offering both luxury and performance.
The CVO collection’s 26th annual lineup features four super-premium motorcycles: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across America.
However, several stores shut down for various reasons throughout 2024, not always providing a clear explanation.
Here’s a summary of some Harley-Davidson locations that closed last year and their reasons:
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Atlanta Harley-Davidsonenthusiastically stated onsocial media: “Unleash the throttle on new models featuring completely new factory custom paint schemes, redesigned and re-tuned suspensions, larger engines, technology upgrades, heated handgrips, and much more.”
HARLEY-Davidson has received a caution that it may jeopardize its business if significant changes are not made following the reveal of its 2025 lineup.
Nevertheless, the legendary brand insists that it produces the “finest motorcycles in the world.”
Harley-Davidson highlighted that it has faced challenges throughout its 120-plus years of operationAlamyThe 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycle lineup has been announcedHarley-Davidson Motor CompanyThese latest models round out the 2025 Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike motorcyclesGetty
However, the response from motorcycle enthusiasts has been mixed.
A primary concern centers around the pricing of the new and updated bikes available this year.
One individual expressed frustration on social media : “There’s no reason the prices shouldn’t decrease.
“Other companies are doing it, so why not Harley?
“Sales are plummeting [while] Indian sales are climbing.
“If this trend continues, Harley may be out of business as regular middle-class consumers won’t be able to afford them.”
Another motorcycle enthusiast stated there was “no chance” he would purchase a new Harley this year.
He noted it would be “more sensible to buy the older models for ten grand less.”
There was also criticism directed at Harley for its promotion of the 2025 Road Glide on social media.
The company claimed that this model features a “powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, smooth adjustable suspension, and a sleek sharknose fairing designed to slice through the wind.”
However, one critic warned: “Well Harley, you’re finally headed towards extinction.
“The only factory touring bike is a street glide with a trunk and two speakers for $31k. You’ve clearly decided your customers don’t matter.”
Yahoo! Finance reported on Tuesday that Morgan Stanley emphasized the firm is facing “prolonged affordability challenges.”
What are the new and updated Harley-Davidson motorcycles for 2025?
The freshly introduced 2025 models feature:
The Street Glide Ultra tailored for long-distance touring and the Pan America 1250 ST , a dynamic adventure sport motorcycle.
Additionally, Harley-Davidson has updated 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 seen enhancements.
A selection of limited-production Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles consists of four models: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
The company noted that these new models complete the 2025 lineup of Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike motorcycles.
Analysts at Morgan Stanley also mentioned that “weakened consumer confidence may hinder demand recovery.”
This comes on the heels of several Harley-Davidson dealerships having closed for various reasons throughout 2024.
TOUGH STANCE
Nonetheless, the company stated on Friday, after presenting its new lineup: “For over 120 years, we’ve been producing the best damn motorcycles in the world.
“We’ve successfully navigated through wars, recessions, and numerous challenges.”
The fresh 2025 models include: the Street Glide Ultra for long-distance touring and the Pan America 1250 ST adventure sport motorcycle.
The company described the new Street Glide Ultra model as optimal for long-distance touring for riders seeking freedom and adventure.
Harley-Davidson has also updated six legendary Cruiser models for 2025: the Low Rider S; Low Rider ST; Breakout; Heritage Classic; Fat Boy; and Street Bob.
The Sportster S has also been enhanced with an upgraded suspension system for a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Harley-Davidson stated that riders will enjoy “on-demand torque for an electrifying surge of acceleration and excitement.
“Its lightweight design, technological features, and striking style will entice experienced riders, newcomers, and those eager to stand out on a motorcycle that breaks from conventional styling norms.”
Furthermore, there is a limited collection of Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) models, providing opulence and performance.
The 26th annual CVO collection features four ultra-premium motorcycles: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships in the United States.
However, multiple locations shut down for various reasons throughout 2024 – some providing no explanation whatsoever.
Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson outlets that closed in the previous year and their reasons for closing:
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Atlanta Harley-Davidson celebrated on social media: “Rev up for new models, featuring all-new factory custom paint schemes, redesigned and re-tuned suspensions, larger engines, tech enhancements, heated handgrips, and much more.”
Members of Boozefighters Motorcycle Club Chapter 72 gather with Soup Kitchen of Greater Wheeling Executive Director Becky Shilling Rodocker after presenting a generous $5,500 donation. (Photo Provided)
A local motorcycle club chapter has once again stepped up with a meaningful contribution to the Soup Kitchen of Greater Wheeling.
Boozefighters Motorcycle Club Chapter 72 has recently donated $5,500 to the Soup Kitchen, marking their 14th consecutive year of significant support. This brings their total contributions—inclusive of money, clothing, and goods—to well over tens of thousands of dollars.
“This donation is more than just a monetary contribution,” stated Chapter 72 President Mike “Bull” Napple. “It symbolizes the heart and spirit of our club, representing our ongoing commitment to aid those who are in need. The Wheeling Soup Kitchen plays an essential role in feeding and supporting our community, and we’re grateful to contribute to this vital mission.”
Year after year, Boozefighters MC Chapter 72 has collaborated with the soup kitchen to deliver food, essential resources, and hope to those in need across the region.
Members of the club raise funds through various events, raffles, and a charity ride held the first weekend in November that everyone is welcome to join, all in support of the Soup Kitchen’s mission to combat hunger in the local area.
The Wheeling Boozefighters express gratitude to the numerous sponsors who have supported their efforts over the years, allowing them to make such impactful contributions to the Wheeling Soup Kitchen.
This year’s sponsors include Croft and Sons MFG, Valley Harley Davidson, Armed Forces Motorcycle Club, the Alpha Tavern, Breaking Skin Tattoo, Frio’s Bail Bonds, Taylor’s Auto, Rods RV Camp, Dan-o Welding, Lowry’s Metals, Mark Lake, and Park Circle Cafe.
If you’re interested in learning more about Boozefighters Motorcycle Club Chapter 72 and how to assist with their charitable initiatives, please reach out via email at [email protected].
Wheeling Heritage, partnered with the Ohio County Cemeteries Foundation, will be hosting a book sale starting at 10 a.m. …
Northbound traffic on Ohio 7 will come to a halt for a period at the Washington Street intersection on Monday to…
However, the release I’m most thrilled about is somewhat unconventional.
Indeed, this city dweller can’t seem to stop fantasizing about a bike that’s firmly planted in the “adventure sport” arena: the 2025 Pan America 1250 ST.
In the Vivid Black finish, the new ST could be the most visually striking Pan America yet. – Credit: Harley-Davidson
Considering all aspects, I envision this motorcycle as a fantastic daily ride, even for those who may not venture off-road.
Unexpected appeal
Frequently, products tailored for a specific purpose prove to be excellent for a different one, a common occurrence with vehicles designed for urban and suburban life yet evident in diverse settings.
The liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250 engine delivers 149 horsepower and 91ft-lbs of torque at its peak. This power is more than sufficient to escape a gridlock and make your way to the open road where only high speeds will quench your thirst.
Harley is well aware of this phenomenon, promoting the ST (short for sport touring) as “a practical daily ride, an exhilarating back-road performer, and a versatile weekend touring option.”
Indeed, this latest Pan America, which impressively retains its initial pricing from when I test rode the original four years past, features numerous enticing qualities for the less adventurous. Here are four stand-out attributes.
1. Ample power
2025 harley davidson pan america 1250 st engine
Harley invested years into developing an engine tailored for adventure motorcycles, and this one is a powerhouse.
The liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250 showcases a wide power band with 149 horsepower and 91ft-lbs of torque peaking. That provides more than enough energy to escape traffic and cruise to areas where only higher speeds satisfy the need.
Interestingly, this engine integrates into the ST chassis as a load-bearing component, a feature that reduces weight while enhancing rigidity, ultimately crafting a more responsive ride.
2. Aesthetically pleasing and comfortable
2025 harley davidson pan america 1250 st seat
Newer and shorter riders often find adventure bikes intimidating due to their higher seat heights. However, they are essential for providing sufficient ground clearance needed to traverse uneven terrains.
That said, the ST’s seat is quite approachable by comparison. The contoured, streamlined design is 0.5 inches lower than that on the Pan America 1250 Special.
With adaptive ride height technology (suspension mechanism that automatically lowers the bike when stopped), the seat can drop as low as 31.7 inches, a full inch lower than the Special model.
3. Capable on multiple surfaces
2025 harley davidson pan america 1250 st off side action
While the more accessible seat height sacrifices some suspension capabilities compared to the Special model, you still get 6.75 inches of travel and 6.7 inches of ground clearance for off-road conditions.
Additionally, robust Brembo brakes, an intuitive Quickshifter, and a lower center of gravity ensure both safety and high-speed enjoyment on paved surfaces.
Should you decide to depart from the pavement, it’s advisable to replace the default Michelin Scorcher Sport tires with something more suited, like Michelin Scorcher Adventure tires.
4. Classic good looks
2025 harley davidson pan america 1250 st tank and pipes
While personal taste in appearance is subjective, I have always found the Pan America to have a cooler, less technical appearance than average adventure (or sport, or touring) bikes, despite die-hard fans lamenting its non-traditional Harley design.
I recall attending the launch/test ride event in the Mojave Desert back in 2021, where Harley-Davidson’s designers clarified one significant design principle was “no beaks.” They have adhered to this guideline, with contours and color schemes improving each year.
I, for one, would love to admire the new ST from my window, primed to explore the city and beyond. How do you feel?
Pricing and availability
The 2025 Pan America 1250 ST is now available at authorized Harley-Davidson dealers worldwide. The base price for the motorcycle is $19,999, with additional options like the Vivid Black color increasing that amount.
The Revolution Max 1250, featuring liquid cooling, delivers an impressive powerband with 149 horsepower and 91 ft-lbs of torque at its peak. This power is more than sufficient to accelerate out of traffic and soar into the countryside, where only high speeds can satisfy one’s adventurous spirit.
Notably, this engine is integrated into the ST chassis as a structural component, a dual-purpose design that reduces weight while enhancing rigidity, leading to a more agile riding experience.
2. Stylish and Comfortable Seating
Harley Davidson
Adventure motorcycles often pose a challenge for newer and shorter riders due to their high seat heights. While this height is essential for adequate ground clearance on rugged terrain, it can intimidate those less experienced.
However, the ST’s seat offers a welcoming design. It sits 0.5 inches lower than the Pan America 1250 Special’s seat, making it more accessible.
Thanks to its adaptive ride height feature—technology that automatically lowers the bike when stationary—the seat can be adjusted to as low as 31.7 inches, a full inch shorter than the Special.
SINGAPORE: The Singapore Motorshow 2025, taking place from January 9 to 12 at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, wrapped up with over 160 vehicles on display, marking the highest count in the event’s history.
A remarkable 70% of the showcased vehicles were electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids.
Exhibitors participating in the event included prominent brands such as Audi, BMW, BYD, Citroen, Deepal, Denza, Ducati, Harley Davidson, Honda, Hyundai, Jaecoo, KIA, Lexus, Maxus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MG, Mini, Neta, Nissan, Omoda, Ora, Polestar, smart, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volvo, Xpeng, Zeekr, and ZO Motors.
Highlights of the show featured the official launch of the all-new Deepal S07 and the Singapore debut of the Yangwang U9.
Additional exciting launches and debuts included the Audi Q6 e-tron (the inaugural model built on the Premium Platform Electric), the special edition BMW 530i Signature, the debut of the BYD Sealion 7, the all-new self-charging Honda Accord e:HEV, the KIA EV5, the fully electric Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, the Neta X and Neta Aya EVs, the all-new Nissan Qashqai, and the first preview of the smart #5 outside China, which is set to launch officially in October 2024 in Brisbane, Australia.
This year, the show attracted over 34,000 attendees.
“Once again, we’ve put on an exceptional Singapore Motorshow in 2025. This year, we observed a significant surge in the EV market in Singapore, with 24 car brands displaying their electric vehicle models. We hope this show will help promote sustainability and support governmental initiatives for green technology,” said Glenn Tan, president of the Motor Traders Association (MTA).
“The Singapore Motorshow continues to offer a unique opportunity for residents to explore and compare various car brands all in one place, and we are dedicated to providing this experience year after year.”
The grand lucky draw conducted by MTA saw Keith Tan as the winner, taking home a Subaru Forester i-S EyeSight e-BOXER Hybrid valued at $139,800 (excluding COE).
In December of the previous year, US President Donald Trump mentioned that India imposes “high” tariffs, emphasizing his plan to enforce reciprocal tariffs in response to the taxes New Delhi places on certain American imports. With Trump back in the White House, the prospect of tariffs casts a shadow over India. The US ranks as India’s largest trading partner, with India enjoying a trade surplus. In 2023-24, India’s exports amounted to $77.51 billion compared to $42.2 billion in imports during the last fiscal year. From April to December of this fiscal year, India’s exports to the US increased by 5.57% to approximately $60 billion, while imports rose by about 2% to $33.4 billion. Historically, the US has highlighted concerns over high import duties on Harley Davidson bikes and limited access to medical devices, equipment, and dairy products in India.
Following Trump’s election victory last November, India initiated a comprehensive sector-wise assessment, devising multiple scenarios to brace for potential tariff hikes on exports to the US under Trump’s administration, as reported by ET in December.
India’s prospects under the Trump administration Trump’s memorandum titled “America First Trade Policy,” released on his first day in office, could present an opportunity for India. The memo instructed the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to pinpoint countries to engage in trade agreements, either bilaterally or within specific sectors, to enhance export access for various American entities. The Indian government is currently reviewing the memo. “We are analyzing the memo and assessing its implications before creating any strategy… At this stage, based on an initial reading, I don’t see anything overly concerning. Our evaluations have yet to materialize into action,” officials informed PTI. The government is also waiting for the official confirmation of the key trade positions in the US.
Indian and US diplomats aim to organize a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump in Washington in February, according to sources who spoke to Reuters. However, the likelihood of a February meeting remains uncertain. There is a possibility for a bilateral discussion later in the year, especially when the Quad leaders—comprising India, Australia, Japan, and the US—reconvene at an annual summit hosted by India.
Indian officials are contemplating a limited trade agreement with the US within one scenario, according to Bloomberg sources. The proposed plan would involve lowering certain “most-favored nation” tariffs imposed on countries with which India lacks a bilateral trade deal.
Last month, Reuters reported that India is gearing up to propose tariff reductions on certain agricultural and other goods primarily imported from the US, aiming for a more extensive trade and investment deal once Trump assumes office. To address Trump’s proposal of a “reciprocal tax” on Indian goods due to high tariffs, some officials from the Indian commerce ministry are contemplating reductions on specific items like pork, as revealed by a senior government source. Currently, India enforces a 45% import tariff on pork, predominantly sourced from the US. Additionally, tariffs could see reductions on premium medical devices such as pacemakers and luxury motorcycles like Harley Davidson, according to an official with direct knowledge of trade matters, who cited existing tariffs ranging from 25% to 60% on those products. To alleviate Trump’s concerns regarding the trade deficit, officials have also suggested increasing purchases of LNG and defense equipment from the US, as reported by Reuters.
“This presents an opportunity,” noted Arvind Virmani, a government advisor and member of the state-run policy think tank NITI Aayog, speaking to Reuters. “Both the US and India would benefit from shifting more critical and sensitive manufacturing to India rather than relying on China,” he added, suggesting a more ambitious “preferential trade cum investment deal” than the previously discussed mini-trade agreement, which could be mutually beneficial for both nations.
Restarting India-US discussions from a prior standpoint During Trump’s initial term, a proposed mini-trade agreement aimed at addressing trade discrepancies and enhancing trade relations through limited deals stalled due to disagreements over tariffs, access to markets, and intellectual property. The Biden administration similarly is not keen on a free trade agreement. India now seeks a broader agreement, as reported by Reuters, offering substantial concessions such as production-linked incentives for logistics companies and support for logistics sector.
Kenneth I. Juster, a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Mark Linscott, a senior advisor at the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum and the Asia Group, expressed in ‘Foreign Policy’ that this time around, Modi and Trump should take advantage of the opportunity to forge a significant bilateral agreement.
They noted that although US-India economic relations have consistently advanced throughout the 21st century, they have not met expectations in comparison to the remarkable progress made in nearly every other aspect of the bilateral partnership. “However, there are grounds for optimism. Trump enjoys negotiating deals and is eager to enhance the US economy. His tariffs may serve as leverage to unlock foreign markets for US companies, creating jobs related to exports and reducing the bilateral trade deficit. Modi is a strategic thinker focused on fostering India’s economy and expanding its international role,” they stated.
“Both the United States and India aim to strengthen their economic influence in the Indo-Pacific region and mitigate China’s economic dominance. The moment is opportune, and the incentives exist for both leaders to overcome challenges and finalize a major agreement.” (With contributions from agencies)
Phillip Brown affectionately named his motorcycle Elvira: Mistress of the Night – a custom-built 2000 Harley Davidson adorned with vivid flames on the black tank and fenders, an abundance of chrome, and a robust $5,000 engine.
This motorcycle has now become the focal point of a two-count federal indictment filed in November against Anson Fenton, 46, the former Police Chief of Wayne City, in the southern district of Illinois. He is accused of selling forfeited or surrendered property for his own personal gain.
In Illinois, prosecutors can initiate a criminal forfeiture process to confiscate property, assets, and proceeds. Forfeiture is a civil procedure that stands apart from any criminal case. Prosecutors must convince a judge that the property was utilized in committing a crime or was acquired with illegal earnings to take control of it.
However, according to Brown, who has not held a driver’s license since 1977 and has over 20 driving under the influence convictions, the loss of Elvira was not due to a forfeiture case. Instead, he voluntarily surrendered the motorcycle to the Wayne City Police Department under a plea deal in an aggravated DUI charge, as he faced potential prison time as a repeat offender.
“They had me in a corner. They manipulated the legal system to undermine me,” Brown expressed.
State records indicate that the title for the motorcycle was never transferred to Wayne City; rather, it was sold directly to a private individual. Federal prosecutors allege that Fenton retained the money from the sale of the motorcycle.
Fenton and his attorney did not respond to requests for comment.
Phillip Brown’s motorcycle – which he named Elvira – is shown above. Brown surrendered the bike as part of a plea agreement in an aggravated DUI case. Former Wayne City Police Chief Anson Fenton has been indicted for allegedly selling it for personal profit. (Photo provided)
The surrendered vehicles
Although the surrender of the motorcycle was legally sanctioned and ratified by a local judge, the actions federal prosecutors allege Fenton took with the property were unlawful.
Elvira is among three surrendered motorcycles noted in the indictment against Fenton. The other two include a 2022 Suzuki Hayabusa and a 2017 Harley Davidson. Illinois Secretary of State records reveal that these vehicles belonged to two other individuals from Wayne County.
According to state records, Christopher Cunningham was the listed owner of the Hayabusa. He was charged with felony aggravated fleeing and misdemeanor reckless driving in 2022 but later pleaded guilty to exceeding the speed limit by 26 to 34 mph.
As a component of his plea agreement, Cunningham consented to surrender his motorcycle to the Wayne City Police Department in March 2023. Tragically, Cunningham passed away in a motorcycle accident just six months after this agreement.
Federal prosecutors allege that Fenton bartered Cunningham’s motorcycle for a 1991 Ford Mustang. State records indicate that the motorcycle was titled in Virginia in 2023 and subsequently in Maryland.
The 2017 Harley Davidson was previously owned by Jacob Woolever, a business owner in Fairfield. He was charged in 2020 with multiple felonies, including aggravated fleeing and driving under the influence. In 2022, he entered a guilty plea for fleeing from a police officer, a misdemeanor.
Woolever also agreed to surrender his motorcycle as part of a plea deal in April 2022.
According to the indictment, Fenton sold Woolever’s motorcycle. State records reveal that it was transferred to an individual in Illinois and then later registered in Indiana.
Woolever chose not to comment on the matter.
In addition to his role as the Wayne City police chief, Fenton started working with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office in August 2016. His current status there is uncertain, but as one of his pre-trial release conditions, he is prohibited from carrying a firearm. Sheriff Chris Otey did not respond to requests for comment.
Overall, the indictment claims that Fenton received over $10,000 in benefits from the vehicles surrendered by Cunningham, Brown, and Woolever. He is slated to stand trial for these charges in March.
A court document displays the items Phillip Brown consented to surrender as part of his plea agreement with prosecutors in an aggravated DUI case. Former Wayne City Police Chief Anson Fenton has been indicted for allegedly profiting from the sale of a motorcycle surrendered by Brown. (Wayne County court order)
‘Financial interest for prosecutors’
While prosecutors argue that Fenton’s supposed actions constitute legal violations, advocates pushing for reforms in criminal forfeiture laws assert that the statutes governing forfeiture present opportunities for exploitation.
In Illinois, the connection between the crime and the property in forfeiture cases can be tenuous, according to Ed Yohnka, spokesperson for the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois. Prosecutors claimed that the vehicles submitted in these three cases were involved in criminal activities, yet instead of initiating a civil action to seize the vehicles, they opted to have the defendants surrender them as a part of a plea arrangement.
Kevin Kakac, the former Wayne County State’s Attorney who was in office when the three defendants finalized their agreements, responded in 2021 to written inquiries from a Capitol News Illinois reporter who was investigating forfeitures in the county, including Brown’s motorcycle, three years prior to the federal indictment.
In an email, Kakac stated that Brown surrendered the vehicles as part of a deal that resolved his criminal cases, describing it as a “bargain for exchange.” Kakac retired as state’s attorney in Wayne County in November.
Judge Michael Molt, who approved the deal, also retired in November.
Kyle Ellis, appointed to succeed Kakac, provided copies of the plea agreements demonstrating that Cunningham, Brown, and Woolever signed over their vehicles, but he did not comment on whether he would continue this practice during his time in office.
While this procedure is legal in Illinois, Yohnka expressed concerns from the ACLU’s standpoint.
“This practice establishes a financial incentive for prosecutors and law enforcement in the criminal proceedings that wouldn’t otherwise exist,” Yohnka noted.
Vehicles seized through a court order must be utilized by law enforcement for operational activities or sold to support them. Defendants have a period of 28 days to challenge a forfeiture in a criminal case.
In contrast, the disposition of surrendered vehicles is less clear. Unlike forfeited vehicles, they are not reported to the Illinois State Police, and there is no established legal process for reclaiming the property without re-opening the criminal case.
“Unlike civil forfeitures, these kinds of forfeitures don’t allow for an appeal. There is no procedure for it without overturning the entire plea agreement,” Yohnka stated.
Brown recounted his unwillingness to serve a lengthy sentence and indicated he felt coerced into accepting the deal proposed by the prosecutors. This agreement required the surrender of both his cherished Elvira and a 1997 Mercedes with merely 62,000 miles on it.
While he was seated in the Wayne County Jail, they brought him the vehicle titles to sign, Brown claimed. State records show that the Mercedes’ ownership was transferred to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office in March 2021.
It took three years for the auction of Brown’s Mercedes to occur, which happened right after his release from prison. Brown is friends with the person who purchased it and has seen the vehicle parked in his friend’s driveway.
Elvira was passed on to a third party and subsequently sold and titled in Indiana.
Brown holds little hope of seeing the motorcycle again, although he had painted a message in orange flames on the rear fender that he wishes will one day materialize: “CU L8TER.”
Capitol News Illinoisis a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that provides state government coverage to numerous news outlets statewide. It is primarily funded by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
