Other Stuff

Home Aus Biker News Bike News Rides Other Stuff Events Tech Links Adults Only

Harley still strong 104 years on
Article from: The Courier-Mail

Elvis's KH in the Harley museum
 

By Mark Hinchliffe

November 06, 2007 11:00pm

NOT many motor vehicle companies make it past 100 years, still going strong.

Harley-Davidson next year turns 105 and the public company has recorded 19 straight years of profit growth. And it has greater market capitalisation than the Ford Motor Company.

It is one of the world's most recognised brands, spelling outlaw, adventure and machismo.

Even its logo is a profitable side business realising $41 million in revenue in 2004, or almost 5 per cent of net income.

The company will celebrate its 105th year with eight special edition anniversary models, and by inviting the world to ride in to its headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the opening of its museum in August.

Called the Ride Home, the convergence of Harleys on Milwaukee will start from 105 points around the US, with thousands of overseas visitors also expected along for the ride.

Harley-Davidson Australia marketing manager Adrian O'Donoghue said he expected a lot of Aussie Harley owners to make the pilgrimage.

"There are certainly some dealers planning to go but I've no firm number," he said.

"At a wild guess, based somewhat on 100th Anniversary attendance, I'd estimate Aussie attendance at over 1000."

Among the Aussies attending will be Garry and Vicky Dalton of Emerald, who last made the pilgrimage for the 100th anniversary, shipping one of their Road kings to the US for the trip.

The museum opening will include a musical festival, parade of bikes, a Harley Owners' Group (HOG) celebration, demonstration rides, police skills competition and daily street parties.

Featured in the 12,000 square metre museum is a showcase of more than 400 legendary motorcycles, including Elvis Presley's 1956 KH.

Harley estimates it will attract about 350,000 worldwide visitors a year and can host up to 1050 inside the museum and 15,000 outside at any one time.

One of the features of the museum will be a wall of rivets with the names of Harley owners and admirers.

The rivets can be bought online at www.h-museum.com where you can also see a webcam of building progress.

Visit: www.harley-davidson.com