Hero Corp Teams up With Harley to Build New Models

Joining Forces

India has become a big market for motorcycles, mostly thanks to the fact that the densely-popular country needs smaller methods of transportation to navigate crowded streets. Hero Corp is currently the largest two-wheeled maker in India, however, it now plans on teaming up with Harley-Davidson to help grow its business in the premium motorcycle market, the company recently announced.

Photos: Hero Corp

Expanded Portfolio

Hero Corp wants to fill out its portfolio to span all segments of the two-wheeler market, with a full slate of engine offerings as well. Currently, the bike maker dominates the entry-level 100-110cc market and is in the process of developing two electric bikes for both the mass market and premium market.

Photos: Hero Corp

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Coming Soon

Photos: Hero Corp

>>Join the conversation about Harley and Hero Corp's partnership right here in HDForums.

Multi-Prong Deal

Of course, Harley pulled its sales and manufacturing operations in India last September after a decade of selling bikes there. Now, however, MoCo has decided to team up with Hero Corp in a variety of ways. For starters, Hero Corp will develop and sell a range of Harley-Davidson branded bikes and take care of service and parts for existing models in the country as well.

Photos: Hero Corp

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Merch Sales

Secondly, Hero Corp will also sell general merchandise, riding gear, parts and accessories, and apparel via a series of Harley-Davidson dealerships through India and its existing sales network.

Photos: Hero Corp

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Mutually Beneficial

"The partnership is going to be mutually beneficial for both the companies and the ride together in the premium segment will be definitely enriching," Gupta said. The move will allow Harley to continue to have a presence in India and give Hero Corp the premium products it needs to fill out its lineup at the same time.

Photos: Hero Corp

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Solid Move

In that regard, this deal seems like a win-win for Harley in particular. It can save a ton of money by ceasing its own operations in India but still sell its wares there through a large, established company. And that seems like a solid, frugal move for the cash-strapped motorcycle maker.

Photos: Hero Corp

>>Join the conversation about Harley and Hero Corp's partnership right here in HDForums.

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