MILWAUKEE, May 25, 2011 -- Two American icons, outlaw country music and Harley-Davidson Motor Company, launch the summer concert season this Memorial Day weekend with Willie Nelson's Country Throwdown tour. This second annual outdoor music tour mixes some of the hottest young artists in country music with the rogue roots of Harley-Davidson and America.

"Harley-Davidson and Country Throwdown represent the true essence of the American spirit, one that is deeply rooted in freedom and self-expression with a rebel spirit that never dies," says Amanda Lee, Communications Manager at Harley-Davidson. "This spirit burns across generations and is one of the reasons why Harley-Davidson is the number one selling on-street motorcycle among Young Adults age 18-34 in the U.S."

Harley-Davidson's Golden Horse Saloon will be on site to rev up the action at each Country Throwdown tour stop. Tour headliners include Jamey Johnson, Lee Brice, Randy Houser and the legendary Willie Nelson. Randy Houser, fellow H-D rider, will be onsite at the Golden Horse Saloon before each of his performances to sign autographs and mingle with fans. Guests have the opportunity to swing their leg over a selection of Harley-Davidson motorcycles on display, including some of the newest additions to the Dark Custom family of bikes. Those who want to take the first step toward riding can feel the thrill of the throttle, fire up the engine and shift through the gears on a real Harley-Davidson motorcycle with JUMPSTART, Harley's signature stationary riding experience - no license or riding experience required. There will also be VIP motorcycle parking for all those who already roll on two wheels.

Country Throwdown kicks off May 27th in Philadelphia, Pa., with 25 stops across America throughout June. The tour concludes July 4th with a wrap party at historic Billy Bob's in Fort Worth, Texas. For more information on Country Throwdown and to find a tour stop near you, visit: www.h-d.com/throwdown.

Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight custom, cruiser and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of Harley-Davidson motorcycle parts, accessories, riding gear and apparel, and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson's Web site at www.harley-davidson.com.