I did not buy a Harley believing they are the fastest bike. I did not buy a Harley believing they are the most reliable trouble free bike. I did not buy a Harley believing they are the least expensive bike to own or maintain.
I bought a Harley because I believe they are the coolest bikes on the road. I love the unmistakeable sound of the engine. I accept the fact that they are not the most reliable. I find pleasure in working on things. I love the fact that when someone sees you pull up on one, they knw what it is, and they are appreciated for what they are, a Harley.
Most of the reasons I love Harleys are the very same rwasons I love 60's Camaros, Challengers, Mustangs and other classic.
Maybe like beer and fine wine, they are an acquired taste.
If I wanted a bike to ride back and forth to work and never work on it or worry about its reliability, I would buy a Honda.
I am willing to continue down the road of life sitting on a Harley
Chevys and Ford and Dodges aint what the used to be either, but I do love my Hemi pickup, but it still fun to cruise in the 1970 Challenger.
Does Harley today understand this lifelong love? No. They have gone the way of corporate America. Indian Motorcycle as well. They aint what Indians used to either.
We all have our preferences. Thats why they make chocolate and vanilla ice cream.
One of these days I will get around to restoring my dads 1958 FL. Right now it sits in my garage, just like it was when he finally wore it out. It will crank and run and blow oil out of the tailpipes and smoke like crazy, but it IS a Harley and I have memories of riding on it with him all those years ago. So right now, it is exactly the way I want it.
Sorry for the melancholy moment. But it was either write this, or have a bowl of chocolate ice cream...