Harley-Davidson Pre-Earnings: Expect A Strong Finish To The Year

The Milwaukee-based motorcycle manufacturer looked to protect its premium brand image by keeping supply in line with demand in the latter part of 2014, as retail sales in the U.S. remained flat in Q2, while shipments to dealers rose 10%. The domestic market forms approximately two-third of the net bike shipments for the company, which is why fluctuations in demand in the country play a major role in shaping Harley?s overall results.