Harley fights back against cheap Asian bikes by curbing output

Wisconsin

HARLEY-Davidson, which typically clings to market share like damp leather clings to a middle-aged biker, has said that it would continue to restrain motorcycle production while the US dollar remains strong. It's an uncommon and prideful strategic turn - and it's weighing on results.

Motorcycle revenue at the company dropped by 10 per cent to US$1.7 billion in the quarter ended June 28 on shipments of just 85,172 bikes, almost 8 per cent fewer than in the year-earlier period. Profit slid 15 per cent to US$300 million.