1. What factors influenced the company’s decision to enter the heavyweight segment of the motorcycle market in the mid-1990s? Were industry conditions favorable for a new entrant at the time?

2. In what ways was Polaris successful with the introduction of the Victory product line? What did the company do wrong?

3. 15 years after entering the industry, describe current market conditions facing Polaris. How have competitors responded to Polaris and Victory; and what prominent competitive threats presently exist?  

4. How do today’s conditions affect the company’s strategic decisions for Victory’s next decade in the marketplace?

To strengthen its diversified portfolio, Polaris Industries entered the motorcycle business in the 1990s. This case encapsulates the history and development of the Polaris Victory Motorcycle Division from its conception in 1993 up until 2014. It closely follows the new product research and development process, thoroughly examining the company’s pre-production planning stages. Decisions regarding product introduction and value chain activities (manufacturing, distribution, and marketing) are reviewed, along with detailed coverage of market conditions and industry competition.