American Motorcycle Company Opens First China Dealership

Topics:  Harley-Davidson

VOA News
Voice of America
April 8, 2006

The U.S. motorcycle company Harley-Davidson opened its first authorized Chinese dealership Saturday in Beijing.

Company officials say they expect the motorcycle's entry into the Chinese market to be a gradual one.

Many Chinese cities have restrictions on where motorcycles can be ridden.  The company says it hopes to address the riding restrictions over time.

Harley Davidson officials say that while China's economy is booming, they also realize their motorcycles may be too expensive in a country where disposable income is limited.

Harley Davidson is based in the midwestern U.S. state of Wisconsin and has been making motorcycles for more than 100 years.  They are the only major U.S. motorcycle manufacturer.  They specialize in large, heavyweight bikes, often known as "hogs."