Finance 5000

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to provide the author’s viewpoint and reflect the research conducted on Harley-Davidson, Inc. Through personal visits to Harley-Davidson Dealerships and various internet sites, the author was able to compile a worth of information from the history of Harley-Davidson, to their charity contributions, and to the company’s financial statements.

History

The history of Harley-Davidson began in 1903 with two individuals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. William Harley and Arthur Davidson, together they developed a one-cylinder motor, they later placed on a bike. At the turn of the century, the gasoline engine was developed. In 1904, the first Harley-Davidson Dealer was opened for business and sold one of the first three production Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever made.

In 1909, six years after opening their doors, Harley-Davison introduced its first V-twin powered motorcycle. Celebrating 50 years of business, Harley-Davidson created an attractive logo depicting a “V” in honor of the engine which had brought the company thus far. A medallion version of this logo is placed on the front fenders of the 1954 models.

In 1986, on the verge of bankruptcy, the company was listed on the American Stock Exchange. The first-time Harley-Davidson was publicly traded since 1969. Later in 1987, the company was listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Mission Statement

Harley-Davidson’s mission statement displays how the company fulfills dreams through the experience of motorcycling, by providing to motorcyclists and to the general public an expanding line of motorcycles and branded products and services in selected market segments. As a witness, travel any place in the world and you will most likely see Harley-Davidson brand merchandise such as hats, scars, vests, to their most popular sale, the T-Shirt for sale.

Values

Harley-Davidson has five values that they run their business by. These values Tell the Truth,...