Yes, it is true; the American sport bike subsidiary of Harley Davidson has closed their doors to their state-of-the-art factory located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for good. The 26 year old company, which manufactured over 130,000 bikes, is being discontinued for reasons evasively told, but the consensus has been  “to strengthen the Harley Davidson brand”, but after doing a little more research, I’m guessing it’s because of Buell’s 80 percent decrease in net income in 2009’s third quarter compared to 2008’s.

Erik Buell, the innovative ex-Harley Davidson engineer, addresses his worldwide fan base below via youtube.com almost looking as if he’s holding back tears.

Erik Buell personal message:

Although this is a very dismal situation for those directly affiliated with Buell, it proves to be a golden opportunity for consumers. The doors of the factory will be re- opening  January 28, 2010 by Liquid Asset Partners, a liquidation firm in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to conduct an “Everything Must Go!” sale, and will remain open for thirty days or until everything is sold.

From vehicles to equipment, from computers to tools, all property will be sold at very modest prices, in others words cheap. The sale will be open to the public which will allow diehard fans to purchase a piece of history and also tour the very futuristic factory before it closes its doors, never to be open again.

Is it just me, or is a Sunday ride in respect and honor due for Buell?