Are Harley Davidson Motorbikes Still Hot?

Worldwide sales have increased at Harley-Davidson, the American-based motorcycle manufaturer that has been selling motorbikes since 1903. This is an indication that the machine, which many consider an old school motorbike, is still not past its prime. According to MSN Money, Harley-Davidson reported in their 2011 fourth-quarter earnings report that the company sold 10.9 percent more motorcycles worldwide than in the same period in 2010. Overall sales of a Harley Davidson motorbike in the United States climbed 11.8 percent from 2010 to 2011. "Our improved performance in 2011 is the result of the tremendous efforts of all of our employees, dealers and suppliers,? said Keith Wandell, president and chief executive officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc., in a press release. The upswing in sales for this old school motorbike have been credited to an expansion of Harley-Davidson's international dealership market, refocusing on new product development, increased marketing and improving customer service. Future growth plans will look to the Internet to sell motorcycles. International growth is important to Harley-Davidson's bottom line. Not only does a Harley-Davidson motorbike compete with models from other American manufacturers, but foreign motorcycle companies such as Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha are also the competition. However, Harley Davidson is more than a motorcycle company. It's become a fashion statement, American iconic symbol and famous in popular culture. The Harley-Davidson logo has been placed on a variety of items through the years, including clothing and accessories, home furnishings and automobiles. One of the most popular items is the black leather jacket. According to its website, the company started selling the Harley-Davidson black leather jacket in 1947. In 2000, Ford introduced a special edition Harley-Davidson F-150 pickup truck. Harley-Davidon's popularity has also sparked social clubs. One of the biggest Harley-Davidson social clubs is the Harley Owners Group, or HOG. According to Harley-Davidson's website, there are more than 1,400 HOG chapters throughout the world. HOG organizes yearly rides, bikeshows and parties throughout the world. The events include charity functions, social gatherings and networking.

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