Boom Times Ahead for Kiwi Fans of American Motorcycles?
Global trade negotiations and potential tariff reductions could lower costs, making American motorcycles more accessible in New Zealand and potentially boosting sales.
4/4/20251 min read
Boom Times Ahead for Kiwi Fans of American Motorcycles?
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are iconic symbols of American culture, representing freedom, power, and style. For Kiwi motorcycle enthusiasts, however, these bikes have historically come with a significant premium compared to their American counterparts. As of 2025, this price disparity remains noticeable. For instance, the popular Harley Davidson Fat Boy retails for approximately $22,599 USD in America[1], whereas comparable models like the Breakout 117 are priced at NZD 33,291 in New Zealand[3]. Considering current exchange rates (approximately 1 USD = 1.5 NZD), the American price translates to about NZD 33,900, suggesting that the New Zealand pricing is competitive but still slightly higher when factoring in additional import duties, taxes, and shipping costs.
However, the landscape might soon shift dramatically for Kiwi fans. With ongoing global trade negotiations and potential reductions in import tariffs, there is optimism that prices for American motorcycles could become more aligned with domestic US pricing. Such changes could significantly boost the accessibility of these beloved bikes in New Zealand, potentially sparking a boom in sales and popularity.
Moreover, Harley-Davidson's recent technological advancements and enhanced motorcycle line-up for 2025—including improved suspension systems, advanced safety features, and striking new designs—make them even more attractive to riders internationally[1]. Should import costs decrease, Kiwi riders may soon enjoy these cutting-edge models without the steep price barriers previously encountered.
In conclusion, while Harley-Davidson motorcycles currently command a premium in New Zealand, there is strong potential for a market boom driven by favorable trade developments and continued innovation from Harley-Davidson itself. Kiwi riders, therefore, have good reason to remain hopeful and excited about the future of American motorcycle accessibility in their country.