Erik Buell Racing Back After Bankruptcy; Begins Producing 1190 RX and 1190 SX

Nearly a year after Erik Buell Racing (EBR) filed for bankruptcy, the US-based bike manufacturer has once again started production. Manufacture at its facility began on March 1 and the first product will roll out for sale in a year’s time. It has started producing two motorcycles - the 2016 1190RX and 1190SX. Before it announced bankruptcy in April 2015, EBR was handling Hero MotoCorp’s production in the US and was working to strengthen Hero’s R&D department. Hero had to suffer a heavy loss as it had to shift all its production to India. There was a big question-mark over the fate of their jointly-developed products including the HX250R, but the Indian manufacturer managed to showcase it in near-production ready form at this edition of Auto Expo.

Bill Melvin Jr., chief financial officer, EBR, said, “This would not be possible without the EBR team. All the credit goes to them for waiting out the storms during the last year.” He added, “Now the clouds have cleared; EBR is able to shift into gear knowing that it has financial stability, a profitable multi-year plan, and a 5-10 year vision. We feel there is still room for new partnerships or investment, but it is not critical. EBR is on solid ground and moving forward. We are turning the key and twisting the throttle!”

Erik Buell, founder and chief technical officer, EBR, said, “I am really looking forward to the launch and the press day. I have dedicated my life to this and want to get the word out on how great our motorcycles are.” Speaking about the  company’s comeback after bankruptcy, Ed Laben, director of sourcing, EBR, said, “It is so good to see the factory coming back to life! The energy, talent, and enthusiasm of this team are unparalleled, and I can’t wait for the world to see what’s coming down the road.”

Being the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in the world, Hero MotoCorp is planning to meet the rising demands of its products by setting up facilities in various parts of the country. It will inaugurate its largest R&D facility situated at Kukas in Jaipur on March 9, 2016. Currently, the brand has operational units in Gurgaon, Dharuhera, Haridwar and Neemrana.

Also Read: Hero MotoCorp Grows 14% in February 2016