WHITE RIBBON RIDE SET TO RUMBLE

Ric Odom and his Goldwing

The White Ribbon Ride in November will visit more than 40 towns in the North Island on a road trip to help end violence towards women.

The motorcycle ride, organised by the Families Commission as part of the White Ribbon campaign, will start in Tauranga and travel south through the centre of the North Island to Wellington and then north via eastern and western routes to Auckland and Bream Bay, visiting some 40 local communities.

“I’m delighted that the ride is being supported by motorcycle enthusiasts,” says Rob McCann who coordinates the White Ribbon Campaign for the Families Commission. “The inaugural ride in 2009 was fantastic and the riders were met with enthusiasm, and a few too many sausages, whereever they went. I’m sure that the positive experience from 2009 is why we have so many riders asking for ‘ride 10’ details.

“During the last few years New Zealand has seen a growing intolerance of violence and this has been reinforced by the ‘It’s Not OK’ and White Ribbon campaigns. This rejection of family violence, and specifically violence against women, has led to increased reporting and is also reflected by the increasing number of communities taking part in White Ribbon Day activities,” says Mr McCann.

“I was recently asked why White Ribbon Day was a call to men? The answer is simple. Men want to be part of the solution. This is an opportunity to show leadership and create role models for the next generation, and in doing so, break the cycle of violence.”

By offering an activity that speaks to other men, the ride can engage with communities in a way that is exciting and creates attention.

Ric Odom, owner of a Honda Gold Wing, National CEO for the YMCA and a member of the White Ribbon organising committee, participated in the White Ribbon Ride last year and encouraged some of his YMCA colleagues to join him. He says, “I had a great experience last year. Not only did I get to ride my bike for more than 800 kilometres, I had a real feeling that we contributed to making New Zealand a better place. At each location we were met by communities that were excited that men were making a stand against violence.

“Powerful bikes equal a powerful message, but we need riders to join us and show that men do care about our communities, our homes and our families. All violence is unacceptable. The ride is the perfect opportunity to show we’re against violence towards women.”

For further information about the White Ribbon Ride visit http://www.whiteribbon.org.nz/

Key Messages:
No violence within families is tolerable. If someone within the family is being frightened or intimidated by the behaviour of someone else, it is not OK. Violence isn’t just the physical, it’s also emotional or verbal behaviour used to control someone through fear. Things we say, or don’t say, contribute to the abuse.
White Ribbon Day is the international day when people, particularly men, wear a white ribbon to show they won’t tolerate, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
It originated as a men’s movement in Canada and is now part of the United Nations annual calendar (International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women). The Families Commission took a leadership role in New Zealand in 2006.
Whether you are a father, brother, uncle, granddad or cousin – we all want to keep our families safe. We all want our children to grow up and have happy healthy relationships.
By simply wearing a white ribbon you can make it clear to other men that you do not tolerate violence against women.
You can also make sure your home, your business or your sports club is a safe environment where abusive behaviour is not tolerated.
The White Ribbon Day campaign encourages men to talk openly about family violence, to support men who want to change their abusive behaviour and to challenge comments, statements and actions by men that are abusive.

Statistics in New Zealand
In New Zealand most violence towards women takes place in the home.
In violence between couples, it is men’s violence that is most likely to cause serious physical or psychological harm.
An average of 14 women a year are killed by their partners or ex partners.
There are over 3500 convictions recorded against men each year for assaults on women.
One in three women will experience partner violence at some point in their lives.

The Families Commission and White Ribbon Committee works with multiple agencies and NGOs to coordinate the national campaign. The White Ribbon campaign complements but is separate to the family violence It’s Not OK campaign.

The White Ribbon Ride
The White Ribbon Ride is now into its second year. The structure of the ride is significantly different to that of 2009, with one ride travelling south on State Highway One and then two rides travelling north via eastern and western routes. The ride is led by the Super Maori Fullas (Mervyn, Roger and Mahu Rawiri) and the Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club whose members are former or serving members of the armed forces or police.
For further information about the ride visit www.whiteribbon.org.nz

Rules include:
No alcohol or drugs are permitted on the ride
No patches
Must have motorcycle of 250cc or greater
Must agree to the pledge that ‘Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women’

The Pledge
Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

HARLEY ANNOUNCES 2011 RANGE

HARLEY-DAVIDSON® OFFERS FIVE NEW MODELS FOR 2011 
Plus New 103” engine for Touring and ABS for Softail® models

SYDNEY (Wednesday July 28, 2010)
Harley-Davidson introduces the new SuperLow, Forty-Eight, and three CVO models with its expansive line of 2011-model-year motorcycles. With 25 models including urban brawlers, long-haul touring machines, contemporary customs drenched in chrome, dark retro-style bobbers, exhilarating sport roadsters, and inviting standards, Harley- Davidson offers a motorcycle to match the desires of almost any street rider.

Available from September 1 across Australia and New Zealand, each rolls to the sound track of the American road, a syncopated V-Twin cadence that is the pulse of every Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Highlights of the 2011 line include:

SuperLowThe new SuperLow leads the way combining revised front end geometry, new wheels and tyres, and reshaped seat and handlebars to achieve well- balanced handling and comfort that will inspire confidence in new riders and exhilarate those with experience. Pricing also lives up to the model’s name with a recommended retail of NZ$12,250.

XL1200X Forty-EightThe new Forty-Eight motorcycle is a factory custom in the legendary tradition of the hot rod Sportster line with the raw, elemental appeal of the Dark CustomTM bikes. Like the SuperLow the new Forty-Eight provides great value at NZ$15,495.

Road King ClassicAll Touring models gain power with a new standard 103” engine with only a minor increase in price. Prices start from NZ$29,250.


2011 Softal Deluxe
All Softail models now feature ABS as standard, bringing the total number of H-D models with this key feature to 15. New hand controls add features, convenience, and cleaner styling. Prices start from NZ$26,750.


Night Rod SpecialThe 2011 VRSC feature Michelin® Scorcher tyres, new colours, and graphics round out changes to the Night Rod® Special and the V-Rod MuscleTM. Prices start from NZ$26,750.


2011 Super Glide CustomThe four 2011 Dyna® models project pure attitude. Built with the rawest styling of all the Big Twin motorcycles, Dyna models are a customiser’s dream. Each is offered in new colours. Prices start from NZ$23,250.


Harley-Davidson Custom Vehicle Operations (CVOTM) returns to Australia and New Zealand this year and offers three premium, limited-production motorcycles for 2011.
• The CVO Street Glide rolls on a new 19-inch AgitatorTM front wheel, and new ventilated fairing lowers house two of the six speakers that are part of a 100- watt-per-channel audio system that incorporates an 8GB iPod nano with dock.
• The CVO Softail Convertible has a new audio system that integrates 3.5-inch speakers and a 20-watt-per-channel amplifier into a redesigned inner fairing. Music is delivered by an 8GB iPod nano stored in a protective pouch. Also new is a 1.25-inch welded mini-ape handlebar, Electronic Throttle Control (ETC), cruise control, keyless ignition, and ABS.
• The CVO Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® has a new suspended, heated, two-up seat with leather inserts. Dual mufflers feature new chrome billet end caps with black spears, and new mirrors are finished in mirror chrome. Prices start from NZ$42,995.

Source: Harley-Davidson

ANOTHER ERA, ANOTHER TITLE FOR KING

The podium for the over-40s veterans at the Australian
Motocross Championships this season was
(left to right) Stuart McFerran, Darryll King
and Brad Williscroft. Photo by Kajx Communications.

By Andy McGechan

Old soldiers never die, they just keep on fighting.
That could certainly be said of Hamilton’s Darryll King.
It may have been six years since the Kiwi legend last won a major national title in Australia but he rolled back the clock in July when he made it Australian motocross title No.4.
King won the prestigious open class titles across the Tasman on three separate occasions – in 2001, 2003 and 2004 – and he returned at the weekend to snatch away the over-40s veterans’ crown, an official championship for the first time this season.
The 41-year-old raced his Yamaha YZ450F to a hat-trick of wins at the Coolum circuit, this inaugural veterans’ championship sharing the programme with the eighth and final round of the open class (MX1), pro lites (MX2) and under-19s championships.
“In the end I did it fairly easily but there are still some very fast riders at the top of their game in the veterans’ racing,” said King, who had earlier this season also raced a Yamaha YZ250 in the pro lites championship.
“It was a neat track and (promoter) Kevin Williams does a great job. I always get fantastic support from Yamaha over there too. All in all, it was a brilliant weekend.”
Meanwhile, fellow Yamaha rider Cameron Taylor won the 35-40 years’ veterans’ title with a similar display of dominance, taking a clean sweep of moto wins.
King now looks ahead to contesting the final round of the World Veterans’ Motocross Championships at Lierop, in the Netherlands, on September 4.
A jam-packed personal calendar meant King has been unable to mount a full campaign in Europe this season, but, at the only other round of the world series he attended, the United States GP in May, he finished the day overall runner-up.
King twice finished second that day, both times behind fellow Yamaha rider Doug Dubach.
“I’m really looking forward to racing in Holland,” said King. “That’s why I raced the YZ450F four-stroke instead of the YZ250 two-stroke in Coolum. I need to be riding the bigger bike in the deep sand of the Dutch track.”
King said he is still uncertain whether he will be able to mount a full campaign in the veterans’ class in Europe next season but “the calendar is out already and it just might suit me.”

ACC SETS UP ACCIDENT PREVENTION GROUP

The ACC has teamed up with representatives from key motorcycle, scooter and moped groups to look at ways to reduce motorbike injuries.

On 1 July, ACC introduced the Motorcycle Safety Levy (MSL) - a $30 annual fee for each registered motorcycle.

ACC is putting this money into a ring-fenced fund that will be specifically used on injury prevention initiatives to reduce the number and severity of motorcycle and moped injuries and fatalities.

To oversee the design of the programme, ACC has set up an establishment group. The group’s aim is to ensure the MSL programme is set up with motorbike and moped riders at the forefront. They met for the first time in Wellington on 14 July and their first task is to develop the foundations for how the MSL programme will be administered and operated.

The group is made of eight people representing the following groups; Bikers Rights Organisation of NZ (BRONZ), Women’s International Motorcycle Association (WIMA), Motorcycling New Zealand, Scoot NZ, NZ Classic Scooter Club, Motor Industry Association, Ministry of Transport and the NZ Transport Agency, Ulysses Club of NZ Inc. Seven of the group members are motorbike or moped riders.

Peter McIntosh, of Ulysses, sees the potential from the use of the MSL funds for motorcyclists.

“For the first time we will have a dedicated safety fund for us as riders with genuine input from the motorcycling community on what types of initiatives will really benefit us. The Government and ACC have made a genuine commitment to working with motorcyclists in the operation of the Motorcycle Safety Levy to improve the safety of all motorcyclists. It is now in place and the best thing we can all do is to take a positive step forward and support it,” said Mr McIntosh.

ACC is providing additional funding to cover administration, so that all funds collected are used directly on funding safety initiatives rather than on the administration of the programme.

ACC General Manager Injury Prevention Keith McLea says the MSL programme’s success depends on input from motorcyclists on its design and development.

“We want to ensure this programme is set up for motorcyclists by motorcyclists,” Mr McLea said.

For additional information or to register to receive updates about the MSL, visit www.acc.co.nz/motorcycle-safety-levy.


Additional information

Members on the establishment group include:
- Brent Hutchison, President of Wellington branch of Bikers Rights Organisation of NZ (BRONZ)
- Peter McIntosh, President Ulysses Club of NZ Inc
- Yvonne Forrest, Representative of Women’s International Motorcycle Association (WIMA)
- Paul Searancke, Commissioner: Recreation/Leisure of Motorcycling New Zealand
- Jess Corbett from Scoot NZ and the NZ Classic Scooter Club
- Clive Hellyar, Advisor from the Motor Industry Association
- Ministry of Transport representative
- Jim Furneaux, from NZ Transport Agency

COACHING WITH CHRIS BIRCH DATES

Womans mid week sand skills 
Wednesday 28th July
Women-only coaching day at the Kawasaki Sand Pit. Nice and relaxed and open to riders of all ability. Starting at ten and finishing around two. Cost is $100.
Pre booking essential please email chris@birchy.co.nz

Mens mid week sand skills 
Wednesday 4th August
At the Kawasaki Sand Pit. Aimed at intermediate riders but open to all. Starting at ten and finishing around two. Cost is $150 inclusive of entry to Kawasaki Sand Pit.
Pre booking essential please email chris@birchy.co.nz

Trail riding Skills 
Taupo 8th August
A days coaching for trail riders at a brilliant venue ten minutes out of Taupo. Open to riders of all abilities. We will cover basic bike set up, a little bit of suspension set up and lots of riding skills for hitting the trails. Cost is $150 and pre booking is essential.
Email chris@birchy.co.nz

KIWI KICKING UP A STORM IN EUROPE

Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

New Zealand’s Kayne Lamont is going from strength to strength.
Lamont won the two main classes at the New Zealand Junior Motocross Championship near Blenheim in April, then immediately afterwards boarded an international flight.
The 17-year-old from Mangakino, in the Central North Island, headed off to Europe to follow in the wheels-tracks of men such as Motueka’s Josh Coppins and Tauranga’s Ben Townley.
Now based in England, the Suzuki GB rider (who is sponsored by Mount Maunganui’s MotoGB in New Zealand) has been flitting to and fro across the English Channel to tackle several rounds of the European 125cc championships (EMX125).
He scored solid points at the latest round of that series in Sweden, finishing 11th and 15th, placing him 14th overall for the day.
He then put himself on the top step of the podium, this time at round six of the Red Bull British 125cc Championships at the Howton Court circuit in Pontrilas, south Herefordshire, close to the Welsh border.
He was again in action in England on Saturday and Sunday, this time challenging the elite of the MXY2 class at round five of the British Motocross Championships at Foxhills, in Swindon.
Making his debut in the MXY2 class, Lamont stormed to the top of the qualifying rankings, humbling current championship leader Connor Walkley and other British stars Tom Kelly, Matt Bayliss and Matt Burrows.
For racing proper, Lamont took his RM125 to the front of the pack, eventually winning the race ahead of Walkley and that really set the tongues wagging.
“The commentator said it was the first time in his memory that a 125cc two-stroke had won a race in this class – the racing here open to 125cc two-strokes and 250cc four-stroke bikes,” said Lamont’s father, Stuart.
Lamont had a more difficult second race and had to settle for runner-up spot, behind Walkley, meaning the young New Zealander had to settle for overall runner-up on the day because of the count-back rule – with the highest-placed rider in the last race getting the nod.
“Kayne is feeling really comfortable with the Suzuki and we now head back to Belgium tomorrow before heading across to the Czech Republic to tackle round six of the EMX125 Championships on August 8.”

Source: Suzuki NZ.

ILLNESS FORCES REED OUT

Statement from Chad Reed about his 2010 racing campaign
For Immediate Release: 24 July 2010

To all my friends in the motorsport world I didn't want you all to just get the press release so please find my open letter below as was supplied to my sponsors and commercial partners yesterday evening, a full press release will follow.

I have spent most of the last month in and out of my doctor’s office getting tests done, trying to figure out what is going on.

Knowing that I have worked hard during the week on and off the bike, each weekend I head to the race excited to get out there and get some wins on my Monster Kawasaki - ready to defend the Number 1 plate that is on my bike. The team and bike are prepped and ready on race day and then I’m unable to race like I normally can.



Where is the fight that I normally have?..... For most of this outdoor season I have been frustrated and questioning every part of my program, wondering why I am unable to race to my full potential. It's embarrassing riding with the #1 plate on and not battling at the front. I don't take it lightly, and I knew I had to get to the bottom of my issues.

Many people have commented that it's due to my role as a new dad, but that's not it. Tate makes me want to race harder, I want my son to be proud of me and I want to teach him that by working hard you can achieve your dreams.

People think that the passing of my friend Andrew McFarlane was another reason that I may not be riding to my full potential, that I'm keeping it safe. That's not it either, I have always ridden within my safety zone and I know Andrew is up there pumping me up to get some holeshots and win some races like he always did.

These two reasons alone make me want to race harder and give it everything I have, to be an example of hard work to my son, to live life to the full and be thankful for doing what I love to do, and that is race a motorcycle. I'm not ready for retirement. I want a few more championships indoors and out.

So finally with all that said, I got my results back from the doctor, I have Epstein Barr Virus. I know some other riders have had it, and I never thought I would be sitting here saying the same thing. It explained my fatigue issues on the track. I knew it wasn't my fitness, but I was struggling to finish moto's. It just got to a point where it was dangerous for me to be out there.

My doctor, team and I have decided that I need to be off the bike for a while to try get this handled. I am really disappointed to be out again. This year has been a personal worst for me. I have often been referred to as Mr. Consistent, but this year has been far from that.

I want to apologise to my fans for not being able to race for you and I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and sticking by the 22 this year. From the worst times, comes the best times, and I will be working hard to kick this illness so I can get back on track and to winning races as soon as possible.

Thanks for your support and understanding at this time.

Chad

H-D REPORTS SLIGHTLY BETTER NEWS

Company Generates Earnings Per Share of $0.59 from Continuing Operations; 

Results Reflect Benefits of Restructuring and Continued Improvement in HDFS Performance; 

Retail Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle Sales Decline Continues to Moderate

MILWAUKEE (July 20, 2010) - Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) reported second-quarter 2010 income from continuing operations of $139.3 million, or $0.59 per share, compared to income of $33.4 million and earnings per share of $0.14 from continuing operations in the year-ago quarter. Second-quarter 2010 results include operating income from Financial Services of $60.8 million. Revenue from Motorcycles and Related Products was $1.14 billion in the second quarter.

Worldwide retail sales of new Harley-Davidson® motorcycles decreased 5.5 percent in the quarter compared to the second quarter of 2009, a sequential moderation in the rate of decline from the prior four quarters. In the U.S., retail new Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales were down 8.4 percent and in international markets, retail sales were largely flat, down 0.2 percent compared to last year's second quarter.

For the first six months of 2010, Harley-Davidson income from continuing operations was $208.0 million, or $0.89 per share, a 28.9 percent increase from the year-ago period.
"Harley-Davidson is making steady progress at executing its strategy to deliver results through focus," said Keith Wandell, President and Chief Executive Officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. "We are seeing the benefits of our restructuring and continuous improvement activities reflected in our earnings performance.

"We are pleased with the continued moderation in the rate of decline of retail new Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales again in the second quarter. At the same time, we continue to believe conditions will remain challenging this year for new motorcycle purchases and we will manage the business based on that expectation, with a continued strong focus on managing supply in line with demand," Wandell said.

"Despite the decline in second-quarter retail motorcycle sales, we believe interest in the Harley-Davidson brand remains strong among riders of all generations. In fact, Harley-Davidson is the U.S. market share leader of on-road motorcycles among young adults. We will continue to focus our resources on expanding the global reach of the brand and developing new products that will reach even more riders going forward," Wandell said. "I would like to thank our employees for their continued hard work and support of our strategy."

Harley-Davidson Motorcycles and Related Products Segment
Second-Quarter Segment Results: Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the second quarter of 2010 of $831.6 million was up 2.8 percent compared to the year-ago period. In line with guidance, the Company shipped 59,046 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide during the quarter, compared to shipments of 58,179 motorcycles in the second quarter of 2009.

Revenue from Parts and Accessories totaled $231.8 million during the quarter, up 0.2 percent, and revenue from General Merchandise, which includes MotorClothes® apparel, was $67.4 million, down 3.2 percent compared to the year-ago period.

Gross margin was 35.0 percent in the second quarter, compared to 34.1 percent in the year-ago period.  Second-quarter operating margin decreased to 13.9 percent from 15.3 percent in the second quarter of 2009.

Six-Month Segment Results: Through the first six months of 2010, shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles were 112,720 units, a 15.2 percent decrease compared to last year's 132,849 units for the period. Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles through six months was $1.64 billion, a 9.8 percent decrease compared to the year-ago period. Six-month P&A revenue was $380.9 million, a 5.0 percent decrease from the first half of 2009. General Merchandise revenue was $133.6 million, a 7.7 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2009. Gross margin through six months was 35.7 percent and operating margin was 13.1 percent, compared to 35.7 percent and 16.8 percent respectively in last year's first half.

Retail Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales
During the second quarter of 2010, dealer retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 5.5 percent worldwide, 8.4 percent in the U.S. and 0.2 percent in international markets, compared to the prior-year quarter. Second-quarter retail results reflect a sequential moderation in the rate of decline from the prior four quarters, although the basis for comparison has decreased over that period. Industry-wide U.S. heavyweight motorcycle (651cc-plus) retail unit sales decreased 10.1 percent in the second quarter compared to the year-ago period.

Through six months, worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 10.7 percent compared to the prior-year period. U.S. retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 15.3 percent for the first half of the year while the U.S. heavyweight market segment was down 14.7 percent for the same period, compared to the year-ago period. In international markets, retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 1.1 percent for the first six months of 2010 compared to 2009.

The Company reiterated its expectation to ship 201,000 to 212,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide in 2010, a reduction of five to ten percent from 2009. In the third quarter of 2010, the Company expects to ship 53,000 to 58,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Harley-Davidson now expects gross margin to be between 32.5 percent and 34.0 percent for the full year, versus the prior estimate of 32.0 percent to 33.5 percent. The Company continues to expect full-year capital expenditures of between $235 million and $255 million, including $95 million to $110 million to support restructuring activities.

Financial Services Segment
Second-quarter operating income from Financial Services was $60.8 million, compared to an operating loss of $90.5 million in the year-ago quarter. Last year's second-quarter results were affected by two non-recurring, non-cash charges totaling $101.1 million to establish a credit loss provision related to the reclassification of motorcycle loan receivables and to write off all HDFS goodwill. Through six months, operating income from Financial Services was $87.5 million, compared to an operating loss of $79.3 million in the first half of 2009.

Restructuring Update
The Company continues to expect previously announced restructuring activities begun in 2009 to result in total one-time charges of $430 million to $460 million into 2012, including charges of $175 million to $195 million in 2010. In 2010, the Company continues to expect savings of $135 million to $155 million from previously announced restructuring activities, increasing to expected annual ongoing savings of approximately $240 million to $260 million upon completion of these restructuring activities.

The Company and the unions representing its Wisconsin production employees are scheduled to begin negotiations this week on new labor agreements that would take effect upon the expiration of the current contracts in April 2012. Through the negotiation of new agreements, the Company seeks to close large cost gaps in its Milwaukee-area and Tomahawk production operations and improve flexibility to meet seasonal and other customer-driven production needs. If Harley-Davidson is unable to achieve those objectives through agreement with the unions by mid-September 2010, the Company has said it will move Wisconsin production operations to another U.S. location. The financial effects of a decision on Wisconsin production operations are not included in the restructuring costs and savings delineated above. The Company will provide updated cost and savings information at such time as it discloses a final decision on the Wisconsin operations. The Company will retain corporate headquarters, product development and the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, regardless of the outcome of its decision on production operations.

 Income Tax Rate
The Company's second-quarter effective income tax rate from continuing operations was 29.2 percent compared to 59.9 percent in the same quarter last year.  The rate decrease was generally due to the non-recurrence of a $28.4 million non-deductible goodwill impairment charge incurred in the second quarter of 2009 as well as the favorable conclusion of an IRS audit in the second-quarter of 2010 and, in connection with the settlement, an adjustment to income taxes payable. The Company now expects its 2010 full-year effective tax rate from continuing operations to be approximately 36.0 percent.

Cash Flow
Cash and marketable securities totaled $1.50 billion as of June 27, 2010, compared to $1.02 billion at the end of last year's second quarter. Cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations was $726.0 million and capital expenditures were $45.8 million during the first half of 2010.

Discontinued Operations
The Company continues to be in discussions with potential buyers regarding its previously announced intention to sell MV Agusta. For the second quarter of 2010, Harley-Davidson, Inc. incurred a $68.1 million loss from discontinued operations, comprised of operating losses as well as a fair value adjustment of $61.5 million net of taxes. Including discontinued operations, the Company reported earnings per share of $0.30 in the second quarter of 2010. Through the first six months of 2010, Harley-Davidson, Inc. incurred a $103.5 million loss from discontinued operations. First-half earnings per share, including discontinued operations, were $0.45.

Company Background
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company (HDMC), Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS), Buell Motorcycle Company (Buell), and MV Agusta.
Conference Call and Webcast Presentation
Harley-Davidson will discuss second-quarter results on a Webcast at 8:00 a.m. CT today. The Webcast presentation will be posted prior to the call and can be accessed at http://investor.harley-davidson.com/. Click "Events and Presentations" under "Resources."

Forward-Looking Statements
The Company intends that certain matters discussed in this release are "forward-looking statements" intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the Company "believes," "anticipates," "expects," "plans," or "estimates" or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe future plans, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated as of the date of this release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are only made as of the date of this release, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

The Company's ability to meet the targets and expectations noted depends upon, among other factors, the Company's ability to (i) execute its business strategy and divest certain company assets, (ii) effectively execute the Company's restructuring plans within expected costs and timing, (iii) successfully achieve with our labor unions flexible and cost-effective agreements to accomplish restructuring goals and long-term competitiveness, (iv) manage the risks that our independent dealers may have difficulty obtaining capital, and adjusting to the recession and slowdown in consumer demand,  (v) manage supply chain issues, (vi) anticipate the level of consumer confidence in the economy, (vii) continue to have access to reliable sources of capital funding and adjust to fluctuations in the cost of capital, (viii) manage the credit quality, the loan servicing and collection activities, and the recovery rates of HDFS' loan portfolio, (ix) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities and manage operating costs including materials, labor and overhead, (x) manage production capacity and production changes, (xi) provide products, services and experiences that are successful in the marketplace, (xii) develop and implement sales and marketing plans that retain existing retail customers and attract new retail customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace, (xiii) sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services to its independent dealers, (xiv) continue to develop the capabilities of its distributor and dealer network, (xv) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations, (xvi) adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (xvii) adjust to healthcare inflation and reform, pension reform and tax changes, (xviii) retain and attract talented employees, (xix) detect any issues with our motorcycles or manufacturing processes to avoid delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, increased warranty costs or litigation, and (xx) implement and manage enterprise-wide information technology solutions and secure data contained in those systems.

In addition, the Company could experience delays or disruptions in its operations as a result of work stoppages, strikes, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the Company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Many of these risk factors are impacted by the current turbulent capital, credit and retail markets and our ability to adjust to the recession.

The Company's ability to sell its motorcycles and related products and services and to meet its financial expectations also depends on the ability of the Company's independent dealers to sell its motorcycles and related products and services to retail customers. The Company depends on the capability and financial capacity of its independent dealers and distributors to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the Company. In addition, the Company's independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in operating their businesses and selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions or other factors.


Source: Harley-Davidson.

AP reports that Harley Shares are up 12% on the news of a profit in the Finance Division.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iby6HPwmtvHa0aEPTtDQb0Bm5KzQD9H2VTSO0

PHILLIPS INJURED AT MOREE

Another tough outing for Cougar Bourbon Honda Thor Racing.

Cougar Bourbon Honda Thor Racing riders Todd Waters and Michael Phillips have both come away from the penultimate 2010 Australian MX Nationals event at Moree Motorcycle track bearing the scars of a tough days racing.

Waters, who finished 6th in the first 8-lap Pro Open race, tweaked his ankle in the second moto and was unable to race to his full potential.

The 19 year old then tweaked it again in the final race and was forced to retire.

“It was a tough day,” Waters admitted. “I qualified well and got some good starts in the first two races but once I tweaked my ankle I really struggled.

“Today’s outcome was the result of me making too many little mistakes, so I need to go away and work on those.

“I want to go to Coolum and have some fun and finish the motocross season on a good note. It is a track that I like and we are racing a double header,” he concluded.

Teammate Michael Phillips recorded three top ten race finishes but also had his fair share of drama.

The New Zealander was involved in a first corner crash in the third Pro Lites race and sustained a deep cut to the inside of his elbow which required medical attention.

“I was a bit disappointed with my first two races as the bike was awesome but I suffered arm pump,” Phillips explained.

“It was very pleasing to get back out for the final race and finish third. I felt like I rode a strong race and hopefully I can take that through to the final two rounds at Coolum this weekend.

“A big thanks to the Race Safe guys for patching me up and getting me back out for the final race,” he concluded.

Next weekend will see the series conclude with a double header at Coolum Pines Motocross Park. The final two rounds of the season will be held on Saturday 24th July and Sunday 25th July.

*MX Nationals Championship points were not available at the time of publication

Source: Cougar Racing

2011 GAS GAS EC ENDURO'S PREVIEW + VIDEO

Slipping under the radar here in New Zealand is the recently released PR from GasGas Motos.

Check out their gorgeous looking 2011 EC 250 & 300 with a newly designed front headlight. Other new features are adjustable SACHS 48 front forks, FMF Q-Stealth silencer, Sachs shock absorber and the improved cooling system with the new radiator cap.



2011 GasGas EC 250 / 300 2T | Enduro Specifications

Engine Single-cylinder 2-stroke, liquid cooled
Displacement 249,3 cc / 299,3 cc
Bore x stroke 66,4 x 72 mm / 72,5 x 72,5 mm
Gearbox 6 speed gearbox with foot control
Clutch Wet multiplate with hydraulic control
Carburettor Keihin 38 mm - Intake by reed valve
Frame Chrom-Molybdenum tubular frame
Swingarm Aluminium, Progressive linkage system
Front fork Sachs 48 mm Up-Side-Down, 295 mm travel
Adjustability Adjustable compression and rebound
Shock absorber Sachs hydraulic mono shock absorber
Adjustability Rebound, compression and spring preload
Suspension travel 310 mm rear wheel travel
Rim type Light aluminium spoke rim
Rim - tyre Front: 1.6 x 21 - 90/90 - 21
Rim - tyre Rear: 2.15 x 18 - 40/80 - 18
Front brake 260 mm wave floating, 2-piston caliper
Rear brake 220 mm wave disc, 1-piston caliper
Fuel 9,5 lt (2-stroke-oil/fuel mixed 1:50)
Dry weight 101 kg / 102 kg
Dimensions Length x width x height: 2.200 x 830 x 1.260 mm
Wheelbase 1.475 mm
Seat height 940 mm

WASHINGTON POST REPORTS 'SALES PLUMMET'

Respected US Newspaper The Washington Post has reported that 'Yamaha Motor Co., the world's second-largest motorcycle maker, said sales in North America and Europe may fall twice as much as forecast as a spreading debt crisis damps demand. The shares fell the most in three months.'

The report also cites Honda sales as down only 1% while Harley sales fell $US150M on the previous year.

Read the full article here

YAMAHA TO DEBUT ELECTRIC 'BIKE' IN SEPT.

Japanese Newspaper 'The Daily Yomiuri' reports:
Yamaha Motor Co. said Wednesday it will start selling its "EC-03" electric motorcycle on September 1st.
The company projects annual sales of 10 million units of the model, priced at 252,000 yen (around $NZ4,000). The bike is scheduled to be released in Taiwan and Europe begining next year, the company said.
As Honda Motor Co. plans to begin leasing its new electric motorcycle to domestic companies and other entities in December, eco-friendly motorcycles could become widely used.
Read more here.

COOPER WINS TARAWERA 100

There has perhaps never been such a comprehensive win at the big Tarawera 100 dirt bike endurance race as was witnessed at this year’s edition, near Whakatane on Saturday.

Cody Cooper (MotoGB Suzuki RM-Z450) enjoyed a thrilling start-to-finish win at this 33rd annual running of the great race, leaping to the lead before the 218-rider field had even reached the first corner … and he never looked back from there.

The Mount Maunganui rider stretched his lead over Waitakere’s Shaun Fogarty to nearly two minutes by the end of the first of four 38-kilometre laps, raced over steep and undulating farmland at the tiny settlement of Te Teko.

Cooper rode flawlessly over his 152-kilometre journey and was never threatened over the gruelling race that lasted near three hours.

By race end, Cooper was more than three minutes in front of Fogarty, with last year’s Tarawera 100 champion, Cambridge’s Damien King, taking third place, another minute further back.

“The bike was so crisp. I skidded off the start and I thought I wouldn’t get away cleanly, but then it hooked up and that was that,” said Cooper.

“I have not raced this event in a few years – not since I won here in 2007 – but had nothing else to do this weekend and I do so much enjoy racing here,” said the 26-year-old.

“I wanted to be able to cruise a bit over the last lap, so that meant I had to do some work early on and build a bit of a buffer. That’s why I sprinted so much after the start. I knew I needed to get a bit of a gap on Fogarty and, besides that, I didn’t want to show him where I was going.”

Cooper heads back across the Tasman this coming weekend where he will tackle the next round of the Australian Motocross Championships. He is currently running sixth in the MX1 class in Australia.

Napier cross-country hero Lance O’Dea (Suzuki) finished eighth overall and was the top rider aged under-19, finishing ahead of Whakatane riders Conrad Edwards and Peter Smit in that race-within-a-race.

Source: Suzuki NZ. Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

HAMPTON DOWNS RIDE DAY – JULY 10TH

By Ollie S


The California Superbike School couldn’t have asked for better weather conditions on Saturday 10th July for their long awaited re-opening of their Hamptons Downs Ride Days. Despite the mercury slowing rising from a very frosty 3deg in the morning to a slightly more manageable 14deg in the afternoon there was huge turnout of riders from learners to pro’s mixing and mingling with unabated smiles.


The option to ride with other track warriors of similar skill and speed is a hugely popular draw card to the Hampton Downs Ride Days. Not only does it bring out learners and first timers but also pools a magnificent number of reconditioned classic road bikes. Focusing on track only experience, Darren Sweetman and his Californian Superbike School team enforce the track sessions are for track time only and any hint of racing, lap timing or inconsiderate riding is strongly governed.

KR was there testing several Hyosung’s and a new Yamaha R6, with BikeMart man Todd S also nabbing a ride on Sloan “Choppa” Frosts sensationally trick BMW 1000RR. We had Geoff Osborne firing off some frames for an up and coming test/feature, so look out for some cheeky offside images making it to the Kiwi Rider blog and Facebook pages soon.

If you attended the July 10th Hampton Downs Ride Day and looking for your own riding images don’t forget to head over to Andrew Bright’s Championship Digital webpage to view his magnificent work. Andrew attempted to cover all riders so if your picture comes up on his page jump in and have that knee scrub hanging on your office wall, no doubt the images will be tack sharp. The day was absolutely magnificent and the best money can buy on a world-class track.

The next Hampton Downs Ride Day is scheduled for Friday, August 13th. For more information and to guarantee a spot on the tarmac head over to www.hamptondownsridedays.co.nz and book a spot now. Hampton Downs Ride Days are operated by the California Superbike School and are independent of their training courses, although Darren and his friendly team are more than happy to offer advice. If your keen to learn the art of cornering or simply improve your tecniue and riding experience any one of the up and coming California Superbike Schools come highly recommended by Kiwi Rider Magazine. For more information or the California Superbike School course head over to www.californiasuperbikeschool.co.nz

WHO TAKES STONER'S PLACE AT DUCATI?

By MICHAEL ESDAILE

WITH Casey Stoner's departure from the factory Ducati team at the end of this season (see separate story) who will replace him in the Italian team?

Speculation has been swirling for some time that the team wants Valentino Rossi, and with Phillip Morris cigarette money (Marlboro), there is reputed to be a 15 million Euro ($NZ 27 million) offer on the table for the convalescing Italian.

Rossi has never been happy having a team-mate capable of matching him, which was said to be one of the reasons Casey Stoner never got a look-in at Yamaha when he was looking for a ride at the end of the 2006 season. Now with Jorge Lorenzo becoming the dominant force on the Yamaha YZF-M1, Rossi is even less happy with the situation at Yamaha.

Add to this the traditional Italian desire to have a top level Italian rider on a winning Italian brand and there seems every chance that Rossi will go to Ducati.

It is most unlikely Yamaha would even think of matching the Marlboro Ducati offer at a time when it has been forced to close some of its factories and put others on part-time work. As much as they love having Rossi on their bikes, the top executives at Yamaha will ultimately ask one simple question: "how many bikes do we need to sell to pay Valentino's salary?"

Indeed, laid-off Yamaha workers have protested at several events where Rossi has appeared.

Right now we can expect Yamaha to be doing its utmost to re-sign Lorenzo, perhaps to a multi-year contract, rather than enter a biding war for Rossi's continued services.

Lorenzo, like Rossi, Stoner and Dani Pedrosa, is coming off contract at the end of this season. Marlboro Ducati reputedly offered him seven million Euro last season, and he admitted to being sorely tempted by the bid. By mid-August last year there was a report in Spanish publication Motocuatro reporting that the deal between Lorenzo and Marlboro has been agreed to in principle, with the finer details to be sorted. At that time, seven million Euro was said to be more than twice what Yamaha was paying Lorenzo.

However, after a lot of thought, Lorenzo decided that the Yamaha was the best bike on the grid and that would give him the best chance of winning a MotoGP championship - a wise choice for the 23-year-old Spaniard.

Still, it is logical that if Marlboro Ducati wanted Lorenzo last year, they would be no less keen to have his services in 2011, but would probably pay more for Rossi because of his huge global following.

Indeed, less than a month after it was announced that Lorenzo had turned down the Marlboro Ducati deal to stay with Yamaha, the Italian newspaper La Republica reported that that Valentino Rossi was talking to Ducati. The claim was that at 6.30 pm on September 14, 2009 an Audi S6 driven by Uccio Saluzzi, Rossi’s childhood friend and confidant, with Jeremy Burgess, sitting in the passenger seat, was seen entering Via Antonio Cavalieri Ducati at Borgo Panigale, the home of Ducati Motor Holding and that Rossi may have been sitting in the back seat.

The article also claimed there was a pre-contract with Ducati and that Fiat wanted to keep the Italian superstar. (Fiat is the title sponsor of the factory Yamaha MotoGP team).

However, when Rossi's Australian crew chief Jeremy Burgess was asked about the story, he was pretty forthright, describing it as "laughable."

"Lets break it down to what it is. It's a bunch of dickhead Italian journalists trying to out-scandal each other," he said. "Apparently I was seen in a car with Uccio and it had blacked out windows at the back, so the assumption was made that Valentino was in the back. But to be in Bologna the week when I was at home in Australia is laughable. I've got my plane ticket to prove it," Burgess said.

And commenting on the official MotoGP web site, MotoGP.com last September, Rossi had this to say about the Ducati rumours: “I haven’t decided yet about my future, I will decide in the next year (2010). I have a contract signed already with Yamaha (for 2010). For sure it is a great dream for everybody, to see Valentino with Ducati. We will see, I don’t know.”

However, in June this year, GPweek.com was claiming that according to an "undercover whisper" Casey Stoner's Ducati mechanics “have been warned that they may have to seek new employment for next season.”

That would imply that not only was Stoner leaving the team (since confirmed) but also that Rossi and his group of mechanics, led by Burgess, were being lined up to take his place. Rossi took Burgess and his mechanics with him from Honda to Yamaha at the end of 2003. Indeed, the Italian has never raced in the premier-class without Burgess and his crew, and they are considered an essential part of any 2011 Rossi deal. It was only after Rossi had managed to persaude Burgess to leave Honda that Rossi signed with Yamaha.

With Casey Stoner confirmed to be going to Honda in 2011, the only other rider of the top four who would be available to either Yamaha or Ducati is Dani Pedrosa.

CONFIRMED: STONER TO HONDA!

By MICHAEL ESDAILE

AFTER spending the past few MotoGP races clamped to the rear wheel of Dani Pedrosa's Repsol Honda, and watching it squirt away out of corners, 2007 World MotoGP Champion Casey Stoner will ride in the factory Honda squad next year.

And, it may well be a three-man team as Honda has said it hopes to retain both Dani Pedrosa and Andrea Dovizioso in 2011.

Stoner's move makes it only the second time in his career he has raced a Honda four-stroke. In his rookie MotoGP season in 2006 (the last year of the more rider-friendly 990cc machines), Stoner raced a Honda RC211V for the Italian LSC team, scoring pole position at Losail only his second race on the V5 Honda, then setting the early pace before over-working his rear Michelin and drifting back to finish fifth.

There were plenty of critics of the Aussie's go for broke style, which saw him crash several times in the 2006 season, but still finish eighth in the points table in his first season.

“We are very pleased that Casey will join Honda again next year,” said Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) Vice President Shuhei Nakamoto on July 8.

“Clearly he is one of the top riders in MotoGP and he will bring valuable speed and experience to our team. In the factory Honda squad we already have two very strong and experienced riders in Dani Pedrosa and Andrea Dovizioso who are performing very well and currently hold second and third positions in the 2010 World Championship. HRC hopes also to retain these two riders for next year - giving us what would be a truly formidable line-up.”

At this stage, it seems the current 80cc V4 Honda is getting the best longevity of the four brands currently contesting the MotoGP championship. Word is Pedrosa and Dovizioso have only used two of the six engines in their allocation for the season while some other riders are already onto their fourth engine.

SUPPO PLEASED

Meantime, HRC marketing director (and former Marlboro Ducati team boss) Livio Suppo believes Stoner's move to Honda will reinvigorate the 2007 world champion.

Honda's history of MotoGP success will appeal to Stoner, suggested Suppo - who also expects the Australian's so far winless 2010 season to improve so he can leave Ducati on a high.

"Stoner is fired up and can't wait to begin the new adventure," Suppo told Gazzetta dello Sport.
"We strongly believe in him and I'm certain that before coming with us he will give Ducati more satisfaction.

"Here he will find a team that has won 14 titles over 27 years. It will be good for him to change environment."

NSW LAUNCHES MOBILE SPEED CAMERAS

Another interesting one from Aus.

"The high-tech Ford Territory is fitted with a speed camera, infrared flash and a touch-screen control unit. A sign will tell motorists their speed has been checked. Source: The Daily Telegraph"

The article leads with the revelation that the cameras will attract 'more than $100 million in fines'.

A big issue for many riders will be that in NSW speed camera offences also earn demerit points.

The full article is here.

AUS BIKE SALES STATS

What a difference a ditch makes.

The Australian motorcycle sales statistics are out and the order of the list is quite different to this side of the Tasman - where (according to our sources) Suzuki has held the overall sales lead.

Aus Top Ten Sales

1	Honda	10554
2	Yamaha	8889
3	Suzuki	7079
4	Kawasaki	4362
5	Harley Davidson	3051
6	KTM	2203
7	Triumph	1444
8	Polaris	1432
9	Kymco	1158
10	Hyosung	963

Also notable was an overall decrease in sales to the tune of 10% to 16%. Here's the link

SEAN CLARKE GUIDED TRAILRIDES ANNOUNCED

Here's a release that we fully support:

Hi Everyone,
I am running a series of Guided Trailrides for the second half of 2010.
The rides will start at Tar Hill and travel cross country to Whakamaru and return.
Up to 150ks per day with hardly doing the same track twice.
The ride will follow trails that were used for the ISDE and Trailride tracks in the area and will be suitable for Intermediate to Expert level riders. (Sorry, No Novice Riders.)
Each ride will be limited to 25 riders per day.

Dates;

• 24th July
• 28th August
• 25th September
• 30st October
• 27th November

Start Time 9.30 on the bikes and finish between 3 and 4pm.
Cost $100 per day per rider.
Lunch and transport of fuel will be supplied.
Riders must bring and full tank of gas and a spare 15 litres.
This ride is really great fun with great views and awesome tracks that are in the area. Each ride will vary as different tracks are reopened.
Most of the tracks are single trail in the trees with a few firebreaks and roads in between to link it all up.
I have been running Guided rides for private groups for a long time now, so I think it is time to give the opportunity to others to have a go.
The maximum amount of riders has been set at 25 so the ride can keep moving along. We have to regroup every now and then but stops are kept to a minimum.
So if your keen to have a go email me at foresttrailevents@xtra.co.nz  and I will confirm your entry and send you payment details.

Cheers
Sean.

TRIUMPH CONFIRMS NEW ADVENTURE MODELS

Further to the pre-release we posted earlier, Triumph has released another short statement confirming the existence of not one, but two new 'adventure' models.

"In response to articles appearing in the motorcycle press, Triumph Motorcycles can confirm that it is developing two all-new ‘adventure’ models, due for launch later this year, " the statement read.

"A new microsite has been launched at http://www.triumphadventure.com/ where customers will be able to register their interest and receive monthly updates.

No further information regarding the new models will be released at this time."