Harley-Davidson's Stock Rockets On Heavy Volume Amid Reports Of Buyout Interest

Shares of Harley-Davidson Inc.'s soared 18% on heavy volume in afternoon trade Friday, putting it on track for the biggest one-day gain in over seven years, amid reports of buyout speculation. Volume reached 18.9 million shares with 30 minutes left in the regular session, which is nearly nine times the full-day average. The Fly reported earlier that chatter was circulation on trading desks that KKR & Co. could be interested in buying the motorcycle maker. Harley-Davidson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A KKR spokesperson was not immediately available for comment. The stock was the biggest percentage gainer on the NYSE Friday. The one-day jump would be the biggest since it ran up 20% on March 18, 2009.