TOO BAD

The Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Journal Sentinel has reported that Harley-Davidson is dropping its Buell sportbike brand, as well as divesting itself from its recently acquired MV Agusta brand.

In a news release, Harley said it would discontinue its Buell brand, based in East Troy, and divest the Italian MV Agusta brand. The Buell decision will result in the loss of about 80 manufacturing jobs in East Troy and about 100 salaried positions.

Harley, the world's largest manufacturer of heavyweight motorcycles, has been restructuring as it has sought to cope with weaker sales. The company has cut more than 1,000 jobs, implemented temporary production shutdowns, and is considering closing its assembly plant in York, Pennsylvania.