Harley-Davidson gets new Chairman, Board of Directors members

Harley-Davidson, Inc. today held its annual shareholder meeting at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Jim Ziemer, retiring Chief Executive Officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc., provided an update on business progress to more than 500 shareholders in attendance.

"We take great pride in the heritage of our company," Ziemer said. "And in the context of today's economic environment, we're especially proud of the fundamental durability of Harley-Davidson and the remarkable resilience that our people have demonstrated repeatedly over the past 106 years."

During today's meeting, the Company announced that the Harley-Davidson Board of Directors has elected current Director Barry Allen as Chairman of the Board, effective today. Allen, 62, succeeds Jeffrey Bleustein, who did not stand for re-election. Bleustein, 69, was Chairman for the past 11 years and a member of the Harley-Davidson Board for 13 years. He retired as CEO of Harley-Davidson, Inc. in 2005. Allen, a 35-year telecommunications executive, currently serves as Senior Advisor to Providence Equity Partners as well as President of Allen Enterprises. Allen has been a member of the Harley-Davidson Board for 17 years.

"On behalf of the entire Board and the Company's shareholders, we thank Jeff for his commitment and many contributions to Harley-Davidson over the years," said Allen. "It is a true honor to follow him as Chairman of this great company."

Shareholders elected four directors at the meeting. Elected as directors to serve until the 2012 annual meeting of shareholders were Martha Brooks, who is new to the Board; and returning directors Don James, Jim Norling and Jim Ziemer. Brooks has been President and Chief Operating Officer of Novelis Inc. since 2007, and recently announced plans to retire from Novelis in early May. Brooks is also a director of International Paper Company.

The Board of Directors approved a cash dividend of $0.10 per share for the second quarter of 2009 to be payable June 19, 2009 to holders of record of the Company's common stock on June 4, 2009.

Shareholders ratified Ernst & Young as the Company's auditor for 2009; and approved the Harley-Davidson, Inc. 2009 incentive stock plan. Shareholders also approved a non-binding shareholder proposal to reorganize the Board of Directors into one Class, elected annually. The Company said the Board would consider the matter at an upcoming meeting.

Presiding over his last meeting as CEO, Jim Ziemer reflected on his 40-year career at Harley-Davidson and introduced to shareholders Keith Wandell, who will succeed him as President and CEO on May 1, 2009. "Leading this company has been a true privilege," said Ziemer. "I've seen many remarkable things over those 40 years. Harley-Davidson has grown from a company that made only 20 thousand motorcycles a year, to become one of the world's leading brands. I have great conviction that Harley-Davidson will emerge from the current downturn strongly positioned for the future."

Consumer Product Safety Commission reaffirms ban on sales of youth ATVs, motorcycles

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has learned that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted last Friday, April 17, 2009, on the issue of banning sales of youth ATVs and motorcycles because of lead levels. The CPSC voted to keep the ban in place; however, they did issue a two-year stay of enforcement of the ban. This stay of enforcement will allow manufacturers and retailers of youth ATVs and motorcycles to continue building and selling these items. It also gives the industry two years to comply with the new law and if, for some reason, it is technologically infeasible to manufacture a certain part with less lead than allowed by law, the industry will have a chance to make an argument to the CSPC.

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Fit, function and fashion collide in Harley’s new Generation Leather Jacket

NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON MEN'S GENERATION LEATHER JACKET
Built for Function, Versatility and Comfort

Packed with functional features aimed at comfort and convenience, the new men's Generation Leather Jacket (P/N 97132-09VM, $400) from Harley-Davidson MotorClothes wears as well as it looks. To maximize riding comfort, the mid-weight perforated-leather design incorporates pre-curved sleeves and a flexible action back. The removable liner is windproof and water-resistant to conquer varying weather conditions, while pockets at the shoulders and elbow accept lightweight FXRG armor. Six additional pockets provide ample storage space and reflective piping adds visibility. Read more

Harley Sinister Jacket keeps men safe and dry

NEW MEN'S SINISTER WATERPROOF JACKET
Harley-Davidson Jacket is Ready to Ride

The new men's Sinister Waterproof Jacket (P/N: 97294-09VM, $250) from Harley-Davidson MotorClothes is built to battle all the elements with abrasion-resistant, 600 denier waterproof nylon and lightweight, removable body armor at the shoulders and elbows. Riders can customize their comfort via large cross-shoulder intake vents and back exit vents, and with two internal hand-warmer pockets. A combination of sublimated print and reflective appliqué graphics on the front and back complement its distinctive style. Read more

New Harley Jacket has women beating the heat

NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON WOMEN'S WIND CREST MESH JACKET

Beat the heat this riding season with the new women's Wind Crest Mesh Jacket (P/N: 97314-09VW, $125) from Harley-Davidson MotorClothes. Its polyester mesh construction delivers ample air flow to the rider's torso, while internal pockets accept accessory hydration packs for added cooling.

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Harley offers chrome cash for new Michelin rubber

HARLEY-DAVIDSON® OFFERS $50 BONUS FOR MICHELIN® TIRE PURCHASE
Harley Chrome® Cash Bonus Offer Ends May 31

Harley-Davidson will reward a $50 Harley Chrome® Cash bonus check to customers who purchase a set of Michelin®-branded and Harley-Davidson approved tires from a participating Harley-Davidson dealer before May 31, 2009. Michelin Commander front and rear and Michelin Macadam® 50 rear tires have been tested and validated by Harley-Davidson for fitment on a wide range of Sportster®, Dyna®, Softail® and Touring models.

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