WHAT THA!
Posted on 08/04/2010 9:11:36 AM PDT by Bad~Rodeo
It's been quite a ride for Harley-Davidson (HOG). The iconic motorcycle company has been cranking out bikes since 1903, and it's one of only two major motorcycle manufacturers to have survived the Great Depression. The first Harley rolled off the line just one year after the first telegraph cable was laid across the Pacific Ocean, and nowadays you can log on to Harley's website to customize your "Hog" or find a dealer on your smart phone.
But now there's a rough road ahead for the company. The plant that cranks out Harley's choppers in Milwaukee may finally be at its breaking point after more than a century, with labor costs threatening to shutter the facility and end 107 years of tradition.
According to reports, Harley-Davidson warned employees in April that it would move its Wisconsin manufacturing operations if it could not cut millions of dollars from its production costs. That would mean the bikes known as "Milwaukee Iron" may have to get another nickname very soon.
Harley's CEO told The Associated Press the company will reach a decision on relocation within a month or two. Harley execs aren't necessarily going to leave the United States and are reportedly scouting out American locales outside of Wisconsin. There's also
(Excerpt) Read more at articles.moneycentral.msn.com ...
WHAT THA!
I think that up to last year their CVO had “chopped” Harleys, which they also discontinued because of the slowdown.
Cheers.
customized is whatever makes you happy.
A factory original is just a canvas.
You put on what you want. To say third party only is invalid.
The only requirement for a true harley is that it have an “HD” in the vin number. No “HD” then it is not a harley davidson.
Ok I see now that there were 2 more factories added to the line-up the last one opening in 2008.According to Wiki:
York, Pennsylvania - Vehicle Operations: Manufacturing site for Touring class, Softail, and custom vehicles.
Tomahawk, Wisconsin - Tomahawk Operations: Facility that makes sidecars, saddlebags, windshields, and more.
Kansas City, Missouri - Vehicle and Powertrain Operations: Manufacturing site of Sportster, VRSC, and other vehicles.
Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin - Pilgrim Road Powertrain Operations plant, two types of tours.
The days of people paying $20,000 for a freaking Harley are coming to an end. ..
That has to be one of the best looking motorcycle momma I’ve seen in Sturgis. Usually they’re kind of, um, saggy, shall we say?
Probably an escort. She doesn’t look like she’s been riding too hard, ahem
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.