MILWAUKEE (AP) -- Harley-Davidson Incorporated says it's sold $1 billion in bonds, providing cash that analysts suggest could help the motorcycle maker weather a deteriorating market outlook.

The announcement comes a month after the Milwaukee-based Harley said it will cut its work force by 8 percent and trim bike shipments by the thousands.

Documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission show Harley-Davidson agreed to sell the bonds on May 15th.

The company has said expects earnings to decline by 15 percent to 20 percent this year. Previously it predicted growth of as much as 7 percent.