I can't argue with what you've said Scott, there are many things that have improved the lives of most people over the past 50 years, including many in the vehicular arena. But there is also a lot to be said for the simpler products and simpler times of what some of us call "the good ol' days". I look back (way back) at my life and it sure seems I enjoyed motorcycles a lot more in the 60's though 80's, when they were simple machines without all the frills. I also enjoyed driving and tinkering with the simpler cars of those times more than the current stuff, even after considering the vastly improved reliability of modern day vehicles. Modern stuff is usually better, but for some reason the old stuff was more fun. I guess I'm just jaded.
Jerry
Jerry; i totally get where your coming from. There is something to be said for buying an older Harley, one with a carb, an older ElectraGlide Classic as one example. Very simple bike.
There is also something to be said for the riding experience delivered from a bike like the BMW K1600B. Never running out of throttle, passing at high speed with ease, a smooth ride, being able to hit corners with full confidence and, covering big miles without pain in my older body.
I've owned and riden both, each delivers a unique experience.
Harley needs to sell thousands and thousands of bikes. When you spend $25,000 to nearly $50,000, buyers are going to expect a bike with modern day features. If they wanted a great simple bike they could buy a older used bike for $8,000.
I see no reason to put Harley down for offering technology. They should follow BMW and offer build options, similar to the way cars are ordered.
In my long term Harley riding opinion, the motor company is suffering from a lack of advancement, not too much.
Sent from my SM-J327T using Tapatalk