News Summary
Buell Motorcycle is set to invest $18.5 million in a significant expansion project in Grand Rapids, Michigan, creating 162 new jobs. The expansion includes acquiring a 120,000-square-foot building to enhance production capabilities in response to over 6,000 pre-orders for its Super Cruiser model. The innovative motorcycle is expected to launch in fall 2025 and outshine competitors with superior design and horsepower. This initiative is supported by state funding and emphasizes the company’s commitment to local job creation and manufacturing alignment.
Grand Rapids, Michigan – Buell Motorcycle is embarking on an ambitious $18.5 million expansion over the next three years as the company seeks to meet the growing demand for its Super Cruiser model. The expansion is set to create 162 new jobs, increasing the company’s workforce from approximately 50 employees to about 212.
The motorcycle manufacturer will acquire a 120,000-square-foot building located adjacent to its current facility on Patterson Ave. SE. This move aims to bolster production capabilities in response to over 6,000 pre-orders for the Super Cruiser, indicating strong market interest.
The Super Cruiser is poised to stand out in the market with a design that is 30% lighter and offers 30% more horsepower compared to other American-made motorcycles. This innovative approach positions Buell to compete directly with well-known brands such as BMW and Ducati, with the model expected to launch in fall 2025.
The expansion is backed by financial support from state resources, including a $972,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Additionally, Michigan Works! is contributing $646,280 to support job training initiatives associated with the new roles. The newly created positions are anticipated to offer starting wages of approximately $26.44 per hour, equating to an annual income of around $55,000.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced Buell’s expansion alongside other significant economic development projects in Kent County, highlighting the growth and investment in the local economy. The Right Place, a Grand Rapids-based economic development organization, played a crucial role in facilitating this expansion project.
Founded in 1983 by Erik Buell, who previously worked as an engineer at Harley-Davidson, Buell Motorcycle has established itself as a notable player in the motorcycle industry. The planned expansion is part of a broader strategy to grow the company’s product lineup and production capacity over the next three years. Furthermore, the expansion underscores Buell’s commitment to onshoring its supply chain, prioritizing suppliers located in Michigan and the Midwest.
This initiative by Buell Motorcycle reflects the company’s determination to not only enhance its manufacturing capabilities but also to provide significant job opportunities within the region. As the demand for the Super Cruiser model continues to rise, the support from both state and local organizations is crucial in ensuring Buell’s growth and success in the competitive motorcycle market.
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- Crain’s Grand Rapids
- Wikipedia: Buell Motorcycle Company
- Fox17 Online
- Google Search: Buell Motorcycle expansion
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- Road Racing World
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Buell Motorcycle
- Hot Bike
- Google News: Buell Motorcycle
