While AMF’s arrival did save Harley-Davidson from impending bankruptcy, the AMF years were arguably the most not-so-fond period in Harley-Davidson’s history. Driven by passion and a true belief in the brand, the executives were able to rescue the company from debt. In February 1981, a group of Harley-Davidson senior executives purchased Harley-Davidson from AMF. This created significant tension within the company, which led to the company coming back to its original owners in the 1980’s.
What Happened in The Harley-Davidson's AMF Years?ĭuring the ’70s, with the American economy in a recession, Japanese bikes like Yamaha and Honda were proving to be very popular with consumers. AMF basically tossed the then-financially shaky Harley-Davidson a financial life preserver, and maintained ownership of the motorcycle company for a dozen years. Prior to the acquisition of Harley-Davidson, AMF was a manufacturing company of bowling equipment, tennis rackets, and other recreational items. In the year of 1969, the AMF corporation (American Machine and Foundry) originally took over production of Harley-Davidson motorcycles.