It always fascinates me when BMW owners try to claim how reliable their motorcycles are. In fact, by all raters from JD Powers to Consumer's Report BMW have the worst frequency of repair record of any major motorcycle manufacturer. Yamaha has the best record. That certainly does not disqualify BMW by any measure, it is just a fact.
That being said, I love my Harleys and have had wonderful service experience from them. I am never far from a dealer if I do need service, and in fact so many mechanics are familiar with HDs that service really is never a problem. I also love my Triumphs, as with HD they have a soul and lineage. Harleys just make me smile and feel good when I ride and in the end that is what it is all about. If mechanical reliability was the sole measure we could be riding souless UJMs which will get us there with all the flair and fun on a Toyota Corolla.