HarleyDavidson Inc  (HOG)     Rate HOG  -  Discuss HOG  -  Add to Watch List        

So, maybe it would seem high gas prices are providing a buffer for Harley Davidson (HOG) against the economy?

Harley-Davidson (HOG) reported Q2 EPS of $0.95 this morning, 19 cents better than estimates. Revenue for the quarter was $1.57 billion vs. consensus of $1.4 billion.

In early March, I posed the question "is $3.25 gas helping Harley Davidson?" Now that the price is up to $3.50 and higher in most areas, there is more evidence unfolding that it may be true.<!--more-->

In the first post, it was an Illinois dealership reporting increases in sales. Now we have both a California dealership and, even better, a Florida insurance agency that insures motorcycles in 21 states, reporting the same thing.

On Friday the United Steelworkers and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Local 2-209, is expected to approve a 4 year deal with Harley Davidson (HOG). Terms have not been disclosed.

Filed under: International markets, Management, Harley-Davidson (HOG), Chasing Value, Stocks to Buy

When last I looked at Harley-Davidson (NYSE: HOG) in 2007 the stock was trading a lot higher. I argued at the time that there was value in this quality company and investors should take a look. Others liked the company, but wisely said there was plenty of time to wait because profits would be coming down with the slowing economy.

Some commented that HOG was over-priced in the high $40's even though it had come down from it's 52-week high of $66 per share. It was trading at a sizable 26% discoun

My latest column is up at RealMoney . Although it is cheap, I don’t think Harley Davidson (HOG) is cheap enough. In summary:

It would be one thing if earnings were growing 12% per year, as they have for the last five years. In that case, investors could expect 15% annual returns. But I don’t think the growth will be even close to that rate, or to the 11% consensus growth estimate.

If the company does manage to earn $3.94 in 2009, it will have finally regained the levels it earned in 2006, and would then have a five-year earnings compound annual growth rate ( CAGR ) o

Is it just me -- or is this there something about today's earnings warning from Harley Davidson (hog) that doesn't necessarily ring true? Either Harley is one of the few companies telling the truth as the ultimate canary in the coal mine for high-end, frivolous products or it's using this quarter to conveniently and smartly start unwinding the stuffing of its past. Or maybe, just maybe, it's a little of both! In warning that third quarter shipments and full year 2007 and 2008 earnings would be lower than expected -- while withdrawing guidance for 2009, altogether -- the company ci

Traders at Palma are Neutral on HOG

www.palmaresearch.com/default.aspx?viewreport=HOG

Agreed the US market is saturated, and in fact HOGs financial Dept. has been a little reckless while doling out loans, but that won't dull the chrome-finish of Harley Davidson's global branding.

Asian markets are putting-on some muscle and want a ride to go with those biceps.

Even if U don't own the bike, here's a chance to own a part of the action...Buy HOG !