The announcement of shutting down of the American sports bike manufacturer Erik Buell Racing Motorcycles was the second time in the past two years. There had been several instances when the company declared bankruptcy earlier.
The closing of operations would start soon as per company sources. Customers and dealerships would be provided with service and spare parts. Warranties would remain valid till expiry. Though Harley-Davidson an American manufacturer bought Erik Buell racing they later separated. In 2013 Hero Motocorp bought 49.2% share of the company for $25 million.
The R&D department recovered briefly but didn’t stabilize. Two new motorcycles Buell 1190RX a full faired sports bike and 1190SX a street fighter derivative was developed by the company in two years. They announced to sell Hero motorcycles and scooters in North America. The bikes were appreciated for their performance but couldn’t gain stability for the company that ultimately led to its closure.
The Indian bike manufacturer Hero paid $2.8 million to Buell’s for consulting business though there were rumors of a takeover. In 2015 December the remaining shares and assets of EBR was sold in an auction for $2 million to Liquid Asset Partners a liquidation company specialized in dissolving company remnants. In March 2016 Liquid Asset Partners revived EBR by finding it an experienced motorcycle manufacturer. A limited edition bike 1190RX themed “Stars and Stripes” was introduced but failed in creating the required market for the company. The closure of the American motorcycle manufacturer has finally happened this year.
