Has Harley Axed The Bronx Before Its Launch?

One of the latest victims of the COVID-19 pandemic is the upcoming Harley-Davidson Bronx. The streetfighter from the American brand has been removed from the ‘future vehicles’ list on its official website, signalling that it won’t be launched as expected. Harley had confirmed last year that it would be unveiling the Pan America and the Bronx in 2020. However, the ongoing pandemic has hit the iconic brand hard with sales seeing a huge plunge. The loss of revenues and profit meant that former CEO Matthew Leviach was shown the door and replaced by Jochen Zeitz.

Also Read: COVID-19 Locks Up Big Bike Business

Zeitz has brought with him a new strategy ‘Hardwire’ to reduce the brand portfolio and focus on key markets. The Harley-Davidson Bronx seems to be a victim of the new strategy with the American brand focusing on the new Pan America as the ADV segment is huge in Europe. It’s also looking inward to improve sales in its biggest market and as a result, a few bikes from the portfolio have been reduced so that Harley can focus on its popular cruiser bikes.

Read more about the bike here: Harley-Davidson Bronx Is A Bareknuckled Streetfighter

The Harley-Davidson Bronx was among the most exciting new bikes from Harley and we were curious to see the American brand take on a naked bike. It had the right firepower with a new 975cc 60-degree V-twin liquid-cooled engine. The motor was rated at 116PS and 95Nm of peak torque. The Bronx used the engine as a stressed member and had good cycle parts as well. Harley had developed model-specific monoblock calipers from Brembo and tyres from Michelin. It also sported a separate function USD fork and adjustable monoshock suspension. Also Read: Chinese Version Of The Harley-Davidson 350 Is Here 

The Harley-Davidson Bronx also looked the part with its brawny and muscular styling. It had all the makings of being the spiritual successor of the Harley-Davidson XR1200. It also was packed with features such as a TFT screen, cruise control, heated grips and smartphone connectivity. With the current ‘Hardwire’ strategy, we aren’t sure when or whether Harley will go ahead with the Bronx project. We don’t think the American bikemaker should shelve the Bronx as there is a demand for performance naked bikes and the streetfighter could also help in bringing in a new customer base for brand Harley.