Harley-Davidson discounts prices

….but some 2012 models could be delayed while current stocks clear. Harley-Davidson Australia has announced discounts on a range of 2011 model year motorcycles and on all branded parts, accessories, riding gear, apparel and other merchandise from July 1.

Managing director Peter Nochar says stock is at "planned levels". "But as always, within that, we have highs and lows across different models and families," he says.

"Some 2012 models for Australia will be delayed, but we are currently projecting a lower year-end stock in 2011 compared to 2010 providing we continue to hit our sales budgets."

Harley will announce model updates and new model introductions at the World Summer Dealer Meeting in July. It is expected that more model lines will be fitted with ABS as standard.

While Harley sales are down 12.8 per cent from 1728 to 1506 at the end of the first quarter of this year, Nochar says there has been a 1.09 per cent increase in market share from 28.76 per to end of May.

"Although the Australian and New Zealand motorcycle market as a whole was affected by recent natural disasters in the region, we did see an increase in sales from March to May this year compared to last year," he says.

"The value of the dollar is not the only reason behind the price realignment, we also wanted to realign the whole price list."

Prices on ten models of motorcycles are being reduced, including the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy which was $32,250 and is now $29,250 ride-away; and the Harley-Davidson Dyna Wide Glide which was $28,895 and is now $25,750 rideaway. In addition, prices on Harley-Davidson branded products, including MotorClothes, apparel, and merchandise will be reduced by more than 17 per cent.

Nochar says the industry "is a highly aggressive market". Most H-D dealers will also hold special "Independence Day" sales on July 9.

"This event ... is designed for dealers to make special and extreme price reductions on any slower moving or surplus items they may hold," Nochar says.