Ducati & Harley in Merger Talks !!!

[csv8]

“Ducati Motor Holding … would consider a merger with US-based Harley-Davidson “anytime”, said Enrico D’Onofrio, CFO.”

A merger with Harley-Davidson would be “totally complementary”, he said, responding to speculation in the market that the two firms had been in talks. And while he declined to comment on the speculation, he did say that the two companies are similar in that they create recreational bikes that consumers fantasize about. “People want to buy a dream.” Harley-Davidson has an older consumer profile, with an average age of 55, while Ducati owners are about 35, on average. Half of all Ducati owners in the US also own a Harley, D’Onofrio added

I know Ducatists will not be happy !!!!

[bob 351]

nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooo why both bikes are awsome speacialy the ducati

[MethodX]

Odd merger.
But if it keeps them out of the hands of the Chinese or Japanese makers, then its ok.

[sleekism]

Hmmmm Ducati builds sportsbikes with complex desmodromic actuation and superb handling.

Harley Davidson builds purposely outdated bikes who are too scared to go beyond pushrods, until recently had cast iron engines.

Bad move!

Maybe if they kept their divisions COMPLETELY separate it would be okay Harley-Davidson sells a shitload of bikes and makes a shitload of money while Ducati is the typical broke but brilliant Italian bike company.

Actually a Buell with a Ducati L Twin would be awesome.

Still this is just as sensible as the supposed GM-Ford merger.

[Neeek]

As long as it's only money that changes hands, then I don't see the problem. They are two very different brands and whilst not complimentary (to my mind at least), if it keeps Ducati in the black I'm all for it.

I have to say I can't stand Harleys - they make me wince and I think they're seriously uncool. I also wonder what HD would think about the Ducati vs Buell thing... some of their bikes are similar in concept, if not execution.

Perhaps HD want to get involved in Superbikes? Fat Bob GP bike with sissy bars, anyone?

[LeadFoot81]

just because the companies merge, doesnt mean they will lose their identities, or combine powers to make a weird-freakish bike with the best (or worst?) of both worlds.

[XA Coupsta]

Originally Posted by Inline6

just because the companies merge, doesnt mean they will lose their identities, or combine powers to make a weird-freakish bike with the best (or worst?) of both worlds.

Agreed.

Behind closed doors they'll find synergies - but consumers will still have either Ducati or Harley to choose from. Or perhaps a morphed type machine.

I love both styles of bikes - as someone mentioned before if it means they can continue to operate and not be bought out or go under - go for it.

[sleekism]

What about a Ford and Holden relationship?

I reckon a Holden with Ford drivetrain, suspension, sheetmetal, styling and interior would probably work lol

[HLC]

HAHAHAHAHAHHA

one of my best mates is a Ducati rider. he has 3 and he HATES HATES HATES Harley's like noone else i know. its bloody hilarious

and this news is so ******* funny HAHAHAHAHAHQAHAHAHAHAHA

[sleekism]

Same I love Italian Bikes and I hate Harley-Davidsons they are a case of style over substance just like a Holden.