Mubasher: Harley-Davidson agreed with Geely majority-owned Qianjiang to manufacture a new smaller model bicycle, according to Reuters.

The US giant chose Qianjiang, citing its experience in developing small displacement motorbikes and its knowledge of emerging markets.

The new bike will be featured with an engine displacement of 338 cubic centimetres, the smallest-powered engine ever built by Harley.

Mostly, Harley motorbikes sold in the US are far larger, with engine capacities of over 601 cubic centimetres.

The new model will be initially sold in China, one of the world’s biggest motorcycles market, by the end of next year, and will be later introduced to other Asian markets.

The partnership with the Chinese motorbike maker came as Harley pushes to boost oversea sales and revamp operations as its mainstay customer base ages.

The Milwaukee-based company is making good on pledges to manufacture more motorbikes outside the US, which was criticised by US President Donald Trump.

President Trump last year threatened the company with higher levies in response to its plans to move its production for European bikers overseas, as it has been grappling with a step-down in US sales and higher trade tariffs weigh on its costs.