Small Displacement Harley Bike Could be Built in China
We could soon see at least one Harley model produced in China, but it isn't quite what you might think.
Chinese Harley
Harley-Davidson has been hard at work expanding their lineup in recent years, and a pretty diverse array of new bikes is coming over the next few years, too. That could include something that we might have considered crazy talk up until now - a Harley built in China. It appears that H-D is indeed considering making a small displacement motorcycle in the country, even if it isn't quite what it sounds like.
Photos: Qianjiang
Hidden Hint
This rumor came from a recent unveiling of Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Qianjiang's QJ350, an entry-level bike powered by a small displacement twin. It's expected that the new bike will also be sold under the Benelli brand, which Qianjiang also owns. But if you look closely, there's also a bit of a hint in the bike's reveal photos that signals a potential H-D version, too.
Photos: Qianjiang
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Clear Sign
While the bike sports Qianjiang logos all over it, "Harley-Davidson Motor Company" is clearly present on the engine's left side cover. This pairing would make a lot of sense as well, because Harley is already planning on making what it calls the "338" model, which is parts of the company's export plan, "More Roads Lead to Harley-Davidson."
Photos: Qianjiang
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Rewire
There's just one problem with that theory, however - Harley has already ditched its "More Roads" strategy and the man who came up with it, former Harley president and CEO Matt Levatich. New boss Jochen Zeitz is now attempting to take the company back to its roots with is "Rewire" plan, which doesn't jive with a bike like this.
Photos: Qianjiang
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