Home Blog Page 6555

Recent Birth: Caleb James Buckmaster

Yamaha/Graves Yamaha racer Damon Buckmaster and wife Leanne had a son, Caleb James Buckmaster, April 7 in Rancho Cucamonga, California.

Gary Nixon To Manage Jay Springsteen’s Triumph Thruxton Cup Team

0

Nixon & Springsteen Team Up! Racing legend Gary Nixon will be overseeing a Triumph Thruxton Cup effort fielding longtime friend and fellow legend Jay Springsteen as the rider. Springer will make his debut on the Thruxton at the Willow Springs round of this year’s AHMRA series and participate in selected AHMRA events. The effort will operate in conjuntion with Jerry Liggett’s STEEL BREEZE RACING, the team for which Nixon races an immaculate vintage Triumph Trident. Watch for Nixon and Springer to continue with their “Battle of the 9’s” in the F750 and Formula Vintage classes. Providing some truly exciting vintage racing battles, the two veterans create considerable attention both on the track and in the pits. Always happy to visit with fans, watch for these two in the Steel Breeze Racing camp! Made up exclusively of Triumph Tridents owned and prepped by Jerry Ligget and Charlie Barnes, Steel Breeze Racing’s riders includes Gary Nixon, Jerry Liggett and Craig Knapp. Gary Nixon is currently seeking additional sponsors and can be reached at garynixon.com

USARM Looking For Cornerworkers For Laguna Seca MotoGP Event

Are you an experienced cornerworker? Would you like to be on the inside of the fence instead of spectating at the MotoGP? IF you answered yes to these questions please contact USARM at www.usarm.org by filling out our membership application and the MotoGP worker application and sending them along with membership dues. USARM, the cornerworker organization that will staff the upcoming US round of MotoGP racing has staffed the various motorcycle races (including past GP, WSB and AMA) since the 70s. We take our responsibilities very seriously and are looking for cornerworkers who feel the same. If you are interested in helping make the US MotoGP event a safe and successful event, please visit www.usarm.org for more information.

More On Injured AMA Pro Racing Official

AMA PRO RACING TIMING & SCORING OFFICIAL HURT IN CRASH PICKERINGTON, Ohio (April 13, 2005) — AMA Pro Racing Timing and Scoring official Brad Hochhalter suffered serious injuries this past weekend at Portland International Raceway during an Oregon Motorcycle Road Racing Association (OMRRA) practice day. Hochhalter was injured when he crashed at a high rate of speed possibly after a component on his motorcycle failed. He is currently in the care of doctors at a Portland area hospital. “Any news of a racer being injured is upsetting,” said AMA Pro Racing Director of Timing & Scoring, Ken Rogers. “Brad’s accident was particularly difficult for all of us at AMA Pro Racing because of how close we are to him. Brad is one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet in the paddock. Our hearts and best wishes go out to him and his wife, Melissa.” A fund has been established by OMRRA to assist Hochhalter with medical expenses. Donations may be made through a Paypal account by visiting www.omrra.com or by calling OMRRA offices directly at 503-221-1487.

Casino Sponsors California Speedway

0

MORONGO CASINO, RESORT AND SPA BECOMES OFFICIAL PARTNER OF CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY FONTANA, Calif. — California Speedway welcomes Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa as a new corporate sponsor during the 2005 racing season. The partnership makes Morongo the “Official Resort & Casino of California Speedway.” Casino Morongo recently opened the high-stakes excitement of a magnificent casino in Cabazon, Calif., about 40 minutes East of California Speedway on I-10 near Palm Springs. The new $250 million Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa offer the finest selection of games in California. More than 300 beautifully appointed rooms or suites offer a panoramic view of the resort. For additional information about Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa, visit www.morongocasinoresort.com or call 800-252-4499. For ticket and event information call 800-944-RACE (7223) or log onto www.californiaspeedway.com.

Harley-Davidson Reports Another Record Financial Quarter, Will Adjust Production To “Maintain Demand In Excess Of Supply”

HARLEY-DAVIDSON REPORTS RECORD FIRST QUARTER MODERATES 2005 MOTORCYCLE SHIPMENT GROWTH FORECAST Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HDI) today announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 27, 2005. Revenue for the quarter was $1.24 billion compared with $1.17 billion in the year-ago quarter, a 6.0 percent increase. First quarter diluted earnings per share (EPS) were 77 cents, a 13.2 percent increase compared with last year’s 68 cents. “As I prepare to take on the role of Chief Executive at Harley-Davidson, I am pleased that the Company is on a strong footing, having achieved another record quarter,” said Jim Ziemer, Chief Financial Officer and CEO Elect, Harley-Davidson, Inc. “Looking ahead, we expect Harley-Davidson’s business to continue to grow and 2005 to be our 20th consecutive record year.” “At the same time, U.S. retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the first quarter of 2005 have been relatively flat with the same period last year””falling short of our expectations. Despite our continued optimism for the year, we feel it is prudent to limit short-term production growth, maintaining demand in excess of supply. This action will result in a change to our previous guidance for both shipments and earnings growth for 2005. Our shipments are now planned to increase from last year’s 317,000 units to a target of 329,000 units compared to our original target of 339,000 units. Our 2005 earnings are expected to grow by approximately 5-8 percent in 2005 compared to our previous forecast of mid-teens earnings growth.” “While this volume adjustment may prevent us from attaining our previous goal of 400,000 units in 2007, we see no reason to change our long-term unit growth projection of 7-9 percent annually based on just three winter months of sales data. Similarly, we are not changing our projection of mid-teens earnings growth other than for this year,” Ziemer added. “For nineteen consecutive years, this management team has delivered record results, and I have the utmost confidence that the actions we are taking are appropriate and in our stakeholders’ long-term interests,” said Jeff Bleustein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. Motorcycles and Related Products Segment First quarter revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $979.0 million, an increase of 6.5 percent over the first quarter last year. Shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles totaled 76,716 units, up 2,626 units or 3.5 percent over last year. First quarter revenue from Parts and Accessories (P&A), which consists of Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories, totaled $176.9 million, a 4.6 percent increase over the year-ago quarter. For the longer term, the Company expects P&A revenue to grow at a rate slightly faster than the motorcycle unit growth rate. General Merchandise revenue, which consists of MotorClothes® apparel and collectibles, was $59.5 million in the first quarter, up 9.3 percent over the same period last year. For the longer term, the Company expects General Merchandise revenue to grow at a rate lower than the motorcycle unit growth rate. First quarter gross margin for the Motorcycles and Related Products Segment was 37.6 percent of revenue, approximately the same as the year-ago quarter of 37.8 percent. Gross margin was negatively impacted by higher material costs, primarily metal surcharges; it benefited from favorable foreign currency exchange. Operating margin grew to 24.2 percent from 22.9 percent due to lower operating expenses. Motorcycle Retail Sales Data In the United States through March, Harley-Davidson retail motorcycle sales finished down approximately one percent compared to 2004. Similarly, the U. S. heavyweight motorcycle market declined 0.4 percent in the first quarter. Worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 2.8 percent for the quarter, driven by strong performance in Europe and Japan, which increased 20.6 and 10.6 percent respectively. On an industry-wide basis through February 2005, the 651+cc segment grew slightly in Europe, while the heavyweight market in Japan was down for the same period. Data is listed in the accompanying tables. Financial Services Segment Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) reported operating income of $53.6 million, up $3.3 million or 6.5 percent compared to the year-ago quarter. HDFS continued to experience strong customer acceptance of its financial products. During the quarter, HDFS sold $730 million in retail motorcycle loans and recorded a gain of $19.2 million. This compares with a gain of $25.2 million on $625 million of loans securitized during the first quarter of 2004. The gain of 2.6 percent as a percentage of loans sold is slightly above management’s guidance which is now 1.7 to 2.5 percent in the current interest rate environment. Annualized credit losses on a managed portfolio basis increased during the quarter to 1.07 percent in 2005 from 0.77 percent in 2004 due to the combination of a higher incidence of losses and lower recovery rates. HDFS is maintaining its credit loss target of 1 percent or less of managed receivables. In 2005, HDFS operating income is expected to be slightly lower than that achieved in 2004 primarily due to a highly competitive marketplace and an increasing interest rate environment. For the longer term, the Company expects the HDFS operating income growth rate to be slightly higher than the Company’s motorcycle unit growth rate. Stock Option Accounting On January 1, 2005 the Company adopted new accounting rules requiring it to recognize expense related to the fair value of its employee stock option awards. Total stock compensation expense recognized by the Company during the first quarter of 2005 was $7.0 million. Cash Flow Operations generated cash of $51.7 million during the first quarter of 2005 compared to $161.2 million during last year’s first quarter. During the first quarter of 2005, the Company made a voluntary cash contribution of $102.3 million to post-retirement health care trusts to pre-fund retiree benefits. This contribution allows the investment earnings to grow tax free within the trusts. Stock Repurchase The Company repurchased 2.9 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $175.8 million during the first quarter of 2005. Shipment Guidance Harley-Davidson is revising its previous guidance and now plans to ship 329,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2005. This 329,000 unit target represents a 3.7 percent growth rate over 2004 shipments. The Company believes that this 10,000 unit reduction will occur almost entirely in the second quarter and will involve reducing planned production of 2005 Model Year motorcycles. Revised quarterly shipments are expected to be as follows: 77,000 units in the second quarter, 87,500 units in the third quarter and 87,500 units in the fourth quarter. Company Background Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and customers. 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 undertakes no 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) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities through the implementation of innovative manufacturing techniques and other means, (ii) successfully implement production capacity increases in its facilities, (iii) successfully introduce new products and services, (iv) avoid unexpected supply chain issues, (v) sell all of the Harley-Davidson motorcycles it plans to produce, (vi) continue to develop the capacity of its distributor and dealer network, (vii) avoid unexpected changes in the regulatory environment for its products, (viii) successfully adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (ix) adjust to worldwide economic and political conditions, and (x) successfully manage the credit quality of HDFS’s loan portfolio. In addition, the Company could experience delays in the operation of manufacturing facilities as a result of work stoppages, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Risk factors are also disclosed in documents previously filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

McGraw Insurance To Sponsor AMA Superbike Event At Barber Motorsports Park

0

(Birmingham, AL)- McGraw Insurance Services, one of the country’s leading motorcycle insurance providers, will be the presenting sponsor for the 2005 Honda Superbike Classic at the Barber Motorsports Park April 22-24. “We are thrilled to be able to collaborate with McGraw Insurance Services on this event,” said Brett Collins, VP of Zoom Motorsports. “We look forward to the third annual AMA Superbike Championship and feel that McGraw Insurance Services shares Mr. Barber’s vision and passion when it comes to Motorsports.” “We are pleased with the opportunity to be a part of the Honda Superbike Classic at the Barber Motorsports Park,” said Brian Weaver, Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “On behalf of the McGraw Group of Companies, we invite all motorcycle enthusiasts and dealers to learn more about our companies by visiting our website at www.mcgrawgroup.com. To receive a motorcycle insurance quote log on to www.ridewithmcgraw.com/hsc or contact our offices at 1-800-6MCGRAW.” The McGraw Group is best described as a family of companies. This privately-owned company boasts several entities under its umbrella. McGraw Insurance Services, founded in 1976, started out providing motorcycle dealerships with customer insurance needs. Today, McGraw continues that service in addition to managing independent insurance agents and brokers by acting as the exclusive affiliated program administrator for Pacific Specialty Insurance Company, one of the nation’s leaders in providing coverage for recreational products like motor homes, boats, motorcycles, personal watercraft, etc. In the 90s, the McGraw Group expanded to offering property insurance through independent agents and brokers. Over the last decade, the McGraw Group has added a premium finance loan administrator, Pacific Loan Administrators and an independent motorcycle and personal watercraft service contract provider, Western Service Contract Corporation which also provides a motorcycle dealers extended service programs. Three day tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the gate. Single-day tickets for Saturday or Sunday are $35 in advance, $40 at the gate. Children 12 and under admitted free with paying adult. Paddock access passes are $10 for the weekend in advance, $20 at the gate. Camping and motor home sites are available. For more information, call Southtix at 1-800-240-2300 or log on to www.barbermotorsports.com for the complete 2005 Barber Motorsports Park spectator schedule.

Eagan Promoted To AMA Pro Racing Supermoto Series Manager

0

AMA Pro Racing has announced that Todd Eagan has been named Series Manager for the AMA Supermoto Championship. Eagan replaces Chris Bradley who left AMA Pro Racing in January. Prior to his promotion, Eagan held the position of Race Manager. In his new role, Eagan will have responsibility for managing the championship including race operations as well as rider, sponsor and manufacturer relations. Eagan will report directly to AMA Pro Racing CEO Scott Hollingsworth. In making the announcement, AMA Pro Racing Vice President, Director of Communications, Kerry Graeber said Eagan was the perfect choice for the job. “Todd has been a part of our AMA Supermoto operating staff since the series was launched in 2003,” said Graeber. “Todd’s involvement and contribution have been a key part of the initial success of this series. As we move into the 2005 season, we’re looking for Todd to aggressively manage the championship so it can reach its full potential.” Eagan welcomes the challenge. “I’m very excited about the opportunity to manage the AMA Supermoto Championship,” said Eagan. “We’re moving into our third year with this series and we expect to see increased rider involvement, fan interest and sponsor interest, especially since we announced the new class structure for 2005.” In March AMA Pro Racing announced the addition of a 250 class (Supermoto Lites) to join the premier 450 class (Supermoto) and 490+ class (Supermoto Unlimited). Additionally, it was announced that each round would now feature two Supermoto finales. The Honda Red Riders Jr. Supermoto Challenge, which features youngsters between the ages of 12 and 15 racing on identically-prepped Honda CRF150Fs, will also be back. Graeber said 2005 is a pivotal time for the emerging championship. “We have had some growing pains with Supermoto in its first two years,” acknowledged Graeber. “However, in spite of some tough challenges, we’re very optimistic about this form of racing. We’re seeing increased manufacturer interest in terms of supporting riders and teams as well as providing contingency dollars. Also, sponsor interest remains strong.” Graeber pointed to Red Bull’s continued interest as an example. “Red Bull will return as title sponsor of the AMA Red Bull Supermoto A-Go-Go championship finale,” confirmed Graeber. “This year we’ll move that event to the streets of Reno and if the overwhelming success of last year’s event was any indication, this year will be huge.” Eagan will be based in AMA Pro Racing’s West Coast office. The appointment is effective immediately. In addition to his role in the AMA Supermoto Championship, Eagan has been a contributing writer and performance tester for Cycle Word and its annual Sportbike magazine. Eagan is a third generation motorcyclist who has been riding since the age of four and competing in flat track and road racing since age eight.

Last-minute Rule Additions For 2005 World Superbike, Supersport Series

0

Superbike & Supersport World Championships, Superstock Cup Changes to the Rules for the 2005 season: speed in the pit-lane The Superbike Commission, composed of Messrs. Paolo Flammini (FGSport), Claude Danis (FIM) and Giulio Bardi (Team representative), in a meeting held in Phillip Island on April 3, unanimously decided to introduce the following modifications to the Road Racing Superbike & Supersport World Championship and Superstock Cup Regulations (for application as from April 22 next) : SPORTING REGULATIONS 1.19 Ride Through Procedure “¦The rider must respect the speed limit (Art. 1.22.14), in the pit lane”¦ 1.22 Behaviour During Practice and Race 14) A speed limit of 60 km/h will be enforced in the pit lane at all times during the event. Riders must respect the speed limit from where the sign 60 km/h is placed up to where the sign 60 Km/h crossed out is placed”¦. 18) Overtaking is not permitted in the pit lane from where the sign 60 km/h is placed up to where the sign 60 Km/h crossed out is placed. Any rider found to have overtaken during the practice will be subject to a fine of US$ 170.-. Any rider who overtakes in the pit lane during a race will be penalised with a ride through. The Race Direction must communicate the offence to the pit of the rider after having received the information from the Official in charge.

Gibernau Confident He Will Be Fully Fit For This Weekend’s Portuguese Grand Prix

0

SETE GIBERNAU ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY The MoviStar rider continues with ultrasound and anti-inflammatory treatment as he aims to be back at his best at Estoril this weekend MoviStar Honda MotoGP rider Sete Gibernau is fighting back to fitness after returning home from Jerez with a muscular injury in his right shoulder, suffered as a consequence of the incident at the end of the race involving Valentino Rossi. Even though the initial medical report compiled by Josep Antón Gutiérrez suggested that his participation in the second round of the season was ‘doubtful’, Sete is confident that he will be back to full fitness in time for the first qualifying session of the Portuguese Grand Prix. Gibernau yesterday underwent a full check on the shoulder, which has undergone surgery on two previous occasions, and was diagnosed with a capsular injury to the joint linking his upper arm and shoulder blade, affecting the tendon of his upper back muscle. According to Gutiérrez the injury requires: “rest and anti-inflammatory and analgesic treatment, as well as functional rehabilitation.” The rider is combining anti-inflammatories specific to tendon recuperation with two daily sessions of ultrasound in order to accelerate his recovery from an injury that, in normal circumstances, would require two weeks of treatment. “I’m feeling very highly motivated for the next Grand Prix and all I’m thinking about is recovering as well as possible over the next three days in order to continue in the same vein that we have started the championship,” commented Sete. “It’s a shame there isn’t a spare week between the two races but I’m confident this will have a minimal effect on our work.”

Recent Birth: Caleb James Buckmaster

Yamaha/Graves Yamaha racer Damon Buckmaster and wife Leanne had a son, Caleb James Buckmaster, April 7 in Rancho Cucamonga, California.

Gary Nixon To Manage Jay Springsteen’s Triumph Thruxton Cup Team

Nixon & Springsteen Team Up! Racing legend Gary Nixon will be overseeing a Triumph Thruxton Cup effort fielding longtime friend and fellow legend Jay Springsteen as the rider. Springer will make his debut on the Thruxton at the Willow Springs round of this year’s AHMRA series and participate in selected AHMRA events. The effort will operate in conjuntion with Jerry Liggett’s STEEL BREEZE RACING, the team for which Nixon races an immaculate vintage Triumph Trident. Watch for Nixon and Springer to continue with their “Battle of the 9’s” in the F750 and Formula Vintage classes. Providing some truly exciting vintage racing battles, the two veterans create considerable attention both on the track and in the pits. Always happy to visit with fans, watch for these two in the Steel Breeze Racing camp! Made up exclusively of Triumph Tridents owned and prepped by Jerry Ligget and Charlie Barnes, Steel Breeze Racing’s riders includes Gary Nixon, Jerry Liggett and Craig Knapp. Gary Nixon is currently seeking additional sponsors and can be reached at garynixon.com

USARM Looking For Cornerworkers For Laguna Seca MotoGP Event

Are you an experienced cornerworker? Would you like to be on the inside of the fence instead of spectating at the MotoGP? IF you answered yes to these questions please contact USARM at www.usarm.org by filling out our membership application and the MotoGP worker application and sending them along with membership dues. USARM, the cornerworker organization that will staff the upcoming US round of MotoGP racing has staffed the various motorcycle races (including past GP, WSB and AMA) since the 70s. We take our responsibilities very seriously and are looking for cornerworkers who feel the same. If you are interested in helping make the US MotoGP event a safe and successful event, please visit www.usarm.org for more information.

More On Injured AMA Pro Racing Official

AMA PRO RACING TIMING & SCORING OFFICIAL HURT IN CRASH PICKERINGTON, Ohio (April 13, 2005) — AMA Pro Racing Timing and Scoring official Brad Hochhalter suffered serious injuries this past weekend at Portland International Raceway during an Oregon Motorcycle Road Racing Association (OMRRA) practice day. Hochhalter was injured when he crashed at a high rate of speed possibly after a component on his motorcycle failed. He is currently in the care of doctors at a Portland area hospital. “Any news of a racer being injured is upsetting,” said AMA Pro Racing Director of Timing & Scoring, Ken Rogers. “Brad’s accident was particularly difficult for all of us at AMA Pro Racing because of how close we are to him. Brad is one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet in the paddock. Our hearts and best wishes go out to him and his wife, Melissa.” A fund has been established by OMRRA to assist Hochhalter with medical expenses. Donations may be made through a Paypal account by visiting www.omrra.com or by calling OMRRA offices directly at 503-221-1487.

Casino Sponsors California Speedway

MORONGO CASINO, RESORT AND SPA BECOMES OFFICIAL PARTNER OF CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY FONTANA, Calif. — California Speedway welcomes Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa as a new corporate sponsor during the 2005 racing season. The partnership makes Morongo the “Official Resort & Casino of California Speedway.” Casino Morongo recently opened the high-stakes excitement of a magnificent casino in Cabazon, Calif., about 40 minutes East of California Speedway on I-10 near Palm Springs. The new $250 million Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa offer the finest selection of games in California. More than 300 beautifully appointed rooms or suites offer a panoramic view of the resort. For additional information about Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa, visit www.morongocasinoresort.com or call 800-252-4499. For ticket and event information call 800-944-RACE (7223) or log onto www.californiaspeedway.com.

Harley-Davidson Reports Another Record Financial Quarter, Will Adjust Production To “Maintain Demand In Excess Of Supply”

HARLEY-DAVIDSON REPORTS RECORD FIRST QUARTER MODERATES 2005 MOTORCYCLE SHIPMENT GROWTH FORECAST Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HDI) today announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 27, 2005. Revenue for the quarter was $1.24 billion compared with $1.17 billion in the year-ago quarter, a 6.0 percent increase. First quarter diluted earnings per share (EPS) were 77 cents, a 13.2 percent increase compared with last year’s 68 cents. “As I prepare to take on the role of Chief Executive at Harley-Davidson, I am pleased that the Company is on a strong footing, having achieved another record quarter,” said Jim Ziemer, Chief Financial Officer and CEO Elect, Harley-Davidson, Inc. “Looking ahead, we expect Harley-Davidson’s business to continue to grow and 2005 to be our 20th consecutive record year.” “At the same time, U.S. retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the first quarter of 2005 have been relatively flat with the same period last year””falling short of our expectations. Despite our continued optimism for the year, we feel it is prudent to limit short-term production growth, maintaining demand in excess of supply. This action will result in a change to our previous guidance for both shipments and earnings growth for 2005. Our shipments are now planned to increase from last year’s 317,000 units to a target of 329,000 units compared to our original target of 339,000 units. Our 2005 earnings are expected to grow by approximately 5-8 percent in 2005 compared to our previous forecast of mid-teens earnings growth.” “While this volume adjustment may prevent us from attaining our previous goal of 400,000 units in 2007, we see no reason to change our long-term unit growth projection of 7-9 percent annually based on just three winter months of sales data. Similarly, we are not changing our projection of mid-teens earnings growth other than for this year,” Ziemer added. “For nineteen consecutive years, this management team has delivered record results, and I have the utmost confidence that the actions we are taking are appropriate and in our stakeholders’ long-term interests,” said Jeff Bleustein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. Motorcycles and Related Products Segment First quarter revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $979.0 million, an increase of 6.5 percent over the first quarter last year. Shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles totaled 76,716 units, up 2,626 units or 3.5 percent over last year. First quarter revenue from Parts and Accessories (P&A), which consists of Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories, totaled $176.9 million, a 4.6 percent increase over the year-ago quarter. For the longer term, the Company expects P&A revenue to grow at a rate slightly faster than the motorcycle unit growth rate. General Merchandise revenue, which consists of MotorClothes® apparel and collectibles, was $59.5 million in the first quarter, up 9.3 percent over the same period last year. For the longer term, the Company expects General Merchandise revenue to grow at a rate lower than the motorcycle unit growth rate. First quarter gross margin for the Motorcycles and Related Products Segment was 37.6 percent of revenue, approximately the same as the year-ago quarter of 37.8 percent. Gross margin was negatively impacted by higher material costs, primarily metal surcharges; it benefited from favorable foreign currency exchange. Operating margin grew to 24.2 percent from 22.9 percent due to lower operating expenses. Motorcycle Retail Sales Data In the United States through March, Harley-Davidson retail motorcycle sales finished down approximately one percent compared to 2004. Similarly, the U. S. heavyweight motorcycle market declined 0.4 percent in the first quarter. Worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 2.8 percent for the quarter, driven by strong performance in Europe and Japan, which increased 20.6 and 10.6 percent respectively. On an industry-wide basis through February 2005, the 651+cc segment grew slightly in Europe, while the heavyweight market in Japan was down for the same period. Data is listed in the accompanying tables. Financial Services Segment Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) reported operating income of $53.6 million, up $3.3 million or 6.5 percent compared to the year-ago quarter. HDFS continued to experience strong customer acceptance of its financial products. During the quarter, HDFS sold $730 million in retail motorcycle loans and recorded a gain of $19.2 million. This compares with a gain of $25.2 million on $625 million of loans securitized during the first quarter of 2004. The gain of 2.6 percent as a percentage of loans sold is slightly above management’s guidance which is now 1.7 to 2.5 percent in the current interest rate environment. Annualized credit losses on a managed portfolio basis increased during the quarter to 1.07 percent in 2005 from 0.77 percent in 2004 due to the combination of a higher incidence of losses and lower recovery rates. HDFS is maintaining its credit loss target of 1 percent or less of managed receivables. In 2005, HDFS operating income is expected to be slightly lower than that achieved in 2004 primarily due to a highly competitive marketplace and an increasing interest rate environment. For the longer term, the Company expects the HDFS operating income growth rate to be slightly higher than the Company’s motorcycle unit growth rate. Stock Option Accounting On January 1, 2005 the Company adopted new accounting rules requiring it to recognize expense related to the fair value of its employee stock option awards. Total stock compensation expense recognized by the Company during the first quarter of 2005 was $7.0 million. Cash Flow Operations generated cash of $51.7 million during the first quarter of 2005 compared to $161.2 million during last year’s first quarter. During the first quarter of 2005, the Company made a voluntary cash contribution of $102.3 million to post-retirement health care trusts to pre-fund retiree benefits. This contribution allows the investment earnings to grow tax free within the trusts. Stock Repurchase The Company repurchased 2.9 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $175.8 million during the first quarter of 2005. Shipment Guidance Harley-Davidson is revising its previous guidance and now plans to ship 329,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2005. This 329,000 unit target represents a 3.7 percent growth rate over 2004 shipments. The Company believes that this 10,000 unit reduction will occur almost entirely in the second quarter and will involve reducing planned production of 2005 Model Year motorcycles. Revised quarterly shipments are expected to be as follows: 77,000 units in the second quarter, 87,500 units in the third quarter and 87,500 units in the fourth quarter. Company Background Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and customers. 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 undertakes no 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) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities through the implementation of innovative manufacturing techniques and other means, (ii) successfully implement production capacity increases in its facilities, (iii) successfully introduce new products and services, (iv) avoid unexpected supply chain issues, (v) sell all of the Harley-Davidson motorcycles it plans to produce, (vi) continue to develop the capacity of its distributor and dealer network, (vii) avoid unexpected changes in the regulatory environment for its products, (viii) successfully adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (ix) adjust to worldwide economic and political conditions, and (x) successfully manage the credit quality of HDFS’s loan portfolio. In addition, the Company could experience delays in the operation of manufacturing facilities as a result of work stoppages, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Risk factors are also disclosed in documents previously filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

McGraw Insurance To Sponsor AMA Superbike Event At Barber Motorsports Park

(Birmingham, AL)- McGraw Insurance Services, one of the country’s leading motorcycle insurance providers, will be the presenting sponsor for the 2005 Honda Superbike Classic at the Barber Motorsports Park April 22-24. “We are thrilled to be able to collaborate with McGraw Insurance Services on this event,” said Brett Collins, VP of Zoom Motorsports. “We look forward to the third annual AMA Superbike Championship and feel that McGraw Insurance Services shares Mr. Barber’s vision and passion when it comes to Motorsports.” “We are pleased with the opportunity to be a part of the Honda Superbike Classic at the Barber Motorsports Park,” said Brian Weaver, Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “On behalf of the McGraw Group of Companies, we invite all motorcycle enthusiasts and dealers to learn more about our companies by visiting our website at www.mcgrawgroup.com. To receive a motorcycle insurance quote log on to www.ridewithmcgraw.com/hsc or contact our offices at 1-800-6MCGRAW.” The McGraw Group is best described as a family of companies. This privately-owned company boasts several entities under its umbrella. McGraw Insurance Services, founded in 1976, started out providing motorcycle dealerships with customer insurance needs. Today, McGraw continues that service in addition to managing independent insurance agents and brokers by acting as the exclusive affiliated program administrator for Pacific Specialty Insurance Company, one of the nation’s leaders in providing coverage for recreational products like motor homes, boats, motorcycles, personal watercraft, etc. In the 90s, the McGraw Group expanded to offering property insurance through independent agents and brokers. Over the last decade, the McGraw Group has added a premium finance loan administrator, Pacific Loan Administrators and an independent motorcycle and personal watercraft service contract provider, Western Service Contract Corporation which also provides a motorcycle dealers extended service programs. Three day tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the gate. Single-day tickets for Saturday or Sunday are $35 in advance, $40 at the gate. Children 12 and under admitted free with paying adult. Paddock access passes are $10 for the weekend in advance, $20 at the gate. Camping and motor home sites are available. For more information, call Southtix at 1-800-240-2300 or log on to www.barbermotorsports.com for the complete 2005 Barber Motorsports Park spectator schedule.

Eagan Promoted To AMA Pro Racing Supermoto Series Manager

AMA Pro Racing has announced that Todd Eagan has been named Series Manager for the AMA Supermoto Championship. Eagan replaces Chris Bradley who left AMA Pro Racing in January. Prior to his promotion, Eagan held the position of Race Manager. In his new role, Eagan will have responsibility for managing the championship including race operations as well as rider, sponsor and manufacturer relations. Eagan will report directly to AMA Pro Racing CEO Scott Hollingsworth. In making the announcement, AMA Pro Racing Vice President, Director of Communications, Kerry Graeber said Eagan was the perfect choice for the job. “Todd has been a part of our AMA Supermoto operating staff since the series was launched in 2003,” said Graeber. “Todd’s involvement and contribution have been a key part of the initial success of this series. As we move into the 2005 season, we’re looking for Todd to aggressively manage the championship so it can reach its full potential.” Eagan welcomes the challenge. “I’m very excited about the opportunity to manage the AMA Supermoto Championship,” said Eagan. “We’re moving into our third year with this series and we expect to see increased rider involvement, fan interest and sponsor interest, especially since we announced the new class structure for 2005.” In March AMA Pro Racing announced the addition of a 250 class (Supermoto Lites) to join the premier 450 class (Supermoto) and 490+ class (Supermoto Unlimited). Additionally, it was announced that each round would now feature two Supermoto finales. The Honda Red Riders Jr. Supermoto Challenge, which features youngsters between the ages of 12 and 15 racing on identically-prepped Honda CRF150Fs, will also be back. Graeber said 2005 is a pivotal time for the emerging championship. “We have had some growing pains with Supermoto in its first two years,” acknowledged Graeber. “However, in spite of some tough challenges, we’re very optimistic about this form of racing. We’re seeing increased manufacturer interest in terms of supporting riders and teams as well as providing contingency dollars. Also, sponsor interest remains strong.” Graeber pointed to Red Bull’s continued interest as an example. “Red Bull will return as title sponsor of the AMA Red Bull Supermoto A-Go-Go championship finale,” confirmed Graeber. “This year we’ll move that event to the streets of Reno and if the overwhelming success of last year’s event was any indication, this year will be huge.” Eagan will be based in AMA Pro Racing’s West Coast office. The appointment is effective immediately. In addition to his role in the AMA Supermoto Championship, Eagan has been a contributing writer and performance tester for Cycle Word and its annual Sportbike magazine. Eagan is a third generation motorcyclist who has been riding since the age of four and competing in flat track and road racing since age eight.

Last-minute Rule Additions For 2005 World Superbike, Supersport Series

Superbike & Supersport World Championships, Superstock Cup Changes to the Rules for the 2005 season: speed in the pit-lane The Superbike Commission, composed of Messrs. Paolo Flammini (FGSport), Claude Danis (FIM) and Giulio Bardi (Team representative), in a meeting held in Phillip Island on April 3, unanimously decided to introduce the following modifications to the Road Racing Superbike & Supersport World Championship and Superstock Cup Regulations (for application as from April 22 next) : SPORTING REGULATIONS 1.19 Ride Through Procedure “¦The rider must respect the speed limit (Art. 1.22.14), in the pit lane”¦ 1.22 Behaviour During Practice and Race 14) A speed limit of 60 km/h will be enforced in the pit lane at all times during the event. Riders must respect the speed limit from where the sign 60 km/h is placed up to where the sign 60 Km/h crossed out is placed”¦. 18) Overtaking is not permitted in the pit lane from where the sign 60 km/h is placed up to where the sign 60 Km/h crossed out is placed. Any rider found to have overtaken during the practice will be subject to a fine of US$ 170.-. Any rider who overtakes in the pit lane during a race will be penalised with a ride through. The Race Direction must communicate the offence to the pit of the rider after having received the information from the Official in charge.

Gibernau Confident He Will Be Fully Fit For This Weekend’s Portuguese Grand Prix

SETE GIBERNAU ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY The MoviStar rider continues with ultrasound and anti-inflammatory treatment as he aims to be back at his best at Estoril this weekend MoviStar Honda MotoGP rider Sete Gibernau is fighting back to fitness after returning home from Jerez with a muscular injury in his right shoulder, suffered as a consequence of the incident at the end of the race involving Valentino Rossi. Even though the initial medical report compiled by Josep Antón Gutiérrez suggested that his participation in the second round of the season was ‘doubtful’, Sete is confident that he will be back to full fitness in time for the first qualifying session of the Portuguese Grand Prix. Gibernau yesterday underwent a full check on the shoulder, which has undergone surgery on two previous occasions, and was diagnosed with a capsular injury to the joint linking his upper arm and shoulder blade, affecting the tendon of his upper back muscle. According to Gutiérrez the injury requires: “rest and anti-inflammatory and analgesic treatment, as well as functional rehabilitation.” The rider is combining anti-inflammatories specific to tendon recuperation with two daily sessions of ultrasound in order to accelerate his recovery from an injury that, in normal circumstances, would require two weeks of treatment. “I’m feeling very highly motivated for the next Grand Prix and all I’m thinking about is recovering as well as possible over the next three days in order to continue in the same vein that we have started the championship,” commented Sete. “It’s a shame there isn’t a spare week between the two races but I’m confident this will have a minimal effect on our work.”