Milwaukee-based Harley-Davidson Inc. reported that its earnings and dealer new motorcycle sales rose sharply in the third quarter.
The company reported quarterly net income of $162.7 million, or 73 cents per share, up from $134 million, or 59 cents per share, in the same period a year ago.
Worldwide retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 15.5 percent in the quarter, including a 20.1-percent increase in the United States, compared with last year’s third quarter.
“Harley-Davidson had a great third quarter, with strong financial performance and retail sales growth,” said Keith Wandell, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Harley-Davidson. “Rider response to the 2014 motorcycles we introduced August 18 was extremely positive. In fact, initial retail sales of the new Project Rushmore motorcycles sparked the largest year-over-year new model year sales increase in two decades. We also capped our year-long 110th Anniversary celebration in late August when throngs of riders joined us in Milwaukee from around the world for a huge three-day party like only Harley-Davidson can throw. Everyone at Harley-Davidson is proud of our accomplishments and results so far this year, as we continue to see the benefits of our manufacturing, product development and retail strategies. Our employees, dealers and suppliers come to work every day with a relentless focus on providing our customers a great experience.”
