Harley-Davidson profits speed up

US-based Harley-Davidson is enjoying strong global sales

Motorcycle maker Harley-Davidson has seen its annual profits accelerate, boosted by growing international sales.

The iconic American manufacturer said its full-year profits rose by 8% to $959.6m (£546.6m), compared with $889.8m in the previous year.

Harley-Davidson has increasingly seen a market for its motorcycles and merchandise abroad, where sales growth is outstripping that at home.

Global sales rose by 13% in the fourth quarter, compared with 3% in the US.

"We believe the prospects for retail growth remain strong," said Harley-Davidson chief executive Jim Ziemer.

"Our Harley-Davidson motorcycle shipment target for 2006 remains in the range of 348,000 to 352,000 units."