A motorcycle is not just an engine and two wheels. It is a network of metal pieces that range from the chassis and the tilting to the tires, the brake discs or the exhausts. In large -displayed models, steel and aluminum suppose more than half of its weight. That these materials enter the blacklist of Trump It means that, in practice, each motorcycle that reaches the US will cost it more to manufacture it … and more buy it.
For European and Japanese manufacturers, the United States is a key market. Ducati Place much of its superbikes there, BMW He does the same with their maxitrail and the Japanese dominate segments as popular as the Naked Medias or the Supersport. But now they face a dilemma: raise prices (risking clients in front of local brands) or reducing margins and assuming losses.
Even Harley-Davidsonwhich manufactures on American soil, is splashed by the measure. Many of its components come from abroad and, with the new tariff, the cost of these supplies will increase.
The US government has left an open door: if steel or aluminum are cast in the country, they could get rid of the rate. The problem is that the internal productive capacity does not cover the demand of the industry from far away. For a European factory accustomed to working with suppliers from its own continent, redesigning the supply chain to meet this requirement is almost impossible.
Although the debate is raised in terms of industry and commerce, in the end the invoice is paid by motorists. Motorcycle prices as iconic as Yamaha R1the Ducati Multistrada wave BMW R 1300 GS They could shoot themselves in the concessionaires. Even a Japanese Naked Media, who traditionally offered good value for money, would compete in a much less attractive price range.
The Moto world was already dealing with capital challenges: the demanding regulations EURO6 In development, the electrification that advances with an uncertain step, the increase in maritime transport and the shortage of microchips. Now, Washington’s tariff policy adds another slab. Each new barrier makes the path so that foreign brands maintain their weight in the United States is more steep.
Meanwhile, steel and aluminum producers in the US. UU. Applaud the decision. For them, it is a business opportunity and a closure of doors to foreign competition. Louranco GonçalvesCEO of Cleveland-Cliffsit has made it clear: consider that the measure “protects” the local industry. But what is a blessing to steel can become a condemnation for motorcycling.
Trump already looks at the copper
The panorama could be further complicated. Trump He has already suggested that copper will be its next objective, and this metal is vital in the wiring and the electrical systems of any motorcycle.
At a time when electric motorcycles begin to take off
(They need much more copper than combustion), a new tariff would be a very hard blow for those who bet on electric mobility.
In short, the tariff war of Trump Threat to alter the balance of the motorcyclist market in the United States. For foreign brands, it is an added challenge to an increasingly long obstacle list; For motorists, a clear warning that they could soon pay more to enjoy the motorcycle they want.
