Harley, Qianjiang to launch small-engine motorcycle in China

America's motorbike manufacturing giant Harley-Davidson has teamed up with China's Qianjiang Motorcycles on a small-engine motorcycle, according to an announcement on Qianjiang's website on Wednesday.

The 338cc bike will hit the market in China by the end of next year.

Harley-Davidson chief strategy officer Luke Mansfield shakes hand with Qianjiang Motorcycles chairman Jin Yu. [Photo: Qianjiang Motorcycles]

The partnership is a part of Harley's strategic plan, called "More Roads", that will see the company exploring potential new global markets. "China is one of the biggest motorbike markets around the world," said Matt Levatich, the CEO of Harley-Davidson. "I am thrilled we can explore the possibilities of Harley in this market."

Qianjiang says it is the ideal partner for Harley because of its abundant experience in manufacturing small-displacement motorbikes and its mature manufacturing base in China. The company says the partnership will help both companies to upgrade their manufacturing techniques, strengthen their capacity for innovation, and develop a bigger market.

In 2018, retail sales for Harley-Davidson in China rose 27 percent compared to the year before.