Tax Refunds Can Help Pave the Way to Hog Heaven

Market Wire, March, 2005

Spring is the season for short sleeves, tank tops and new beginnings. It's also tax season. This year, instead of filing your taxes at the eleventh hour, you might want to consider collecting your W2's and 1099's early to help make your motorcycle dreams a reality.

According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the average direct deposit tax refund last year was $2,447*. Considering prices for a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle (NYSE: HDI) start at just $6,495.00, this year's tax return could help lead new riders to the open road.

"There is a Harley-Davidson motorcycle for every personality and budget," said Paul James, manager of product communications at Harley-Davidson Motor Company. "And now is as good a time as any to get out and ride. Through an expanding line of motorcycles, programs and services, Harley-Davidson is working to make every motorcycling dream a reality."

Harley-Davidson provides everything a new rider would need on their Web site, www.harley-davidson.com. On the site, new riders can review a special "Plan Your Purchase" page that includes helpful resources, such as a payment calculator, budget calculator, downloadable credit applications and insurance information.

In addition to Harley-Davidson's extensive line of new motorcycles, MotorClothes and Genuine Parts and Accessories, many Harley dealers offer a great selection of pre-owned motorcycles. Plus, the Motor Company is working hard to make it easier than ever to learn how to ride through their Rider's Edge New Rider Course.

SADDLE-UP: LEARNING TO RIDE

Motorcycle enthusiasts and new riders can climb into the saddle by taking Harley-Davidson's Rider's Edge New Rider Course. Held at select Harley-Davidson dealers nationwide, the Rider's Edge New Rider Course provides the knowledge and skills needed to ride with confidence and get people from the sidelines to the open road in five days.

"Enrolling in a Rider's Edge New Rider Course is one of the best ways to get the proper training and become certified to ride a motorcycle," said James. "We encourage anyone interested in the sport of motorcycling to learn how to ride in a professional setting like Rider's Edge, so they can be equipped for a safer riding experience."

To find out more about Rider's Edge or Harley-Davidson's extensive line of products and services, visit a dealer near you or log onto www.harley-davidson.com.

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 produces heavyweight street, custom and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles in addition to motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson/Buell dealers and customers.

*www.irs.gov, January 4, 2005

Contact: Andy Margulies (312) 988-2078 amargulies@webershandwick.com