As a young man I rode Yamaha dirt bikes. I always felt that Suzuki was inferior to Honda or Yamaha. My first street bike was a Yamama 550 Maxim. Fun little bike.
Today I still feel that Suzuki is not up to par compared to Yamaha (aka Star). If he can't swing for a Harely tell him to look at Yamaha. With pipes I think they have the closest sound to Harely. Plus I think their engine has a good look.
Harely vs. Harley "lookalike" Rice Burner. I'm okay with anyone willing to put 2 wheels on the street. Pavement hurts just as bad on either.
As far as convincing him and his wife. Just ask them if he would prefer a real wife or one that just "looks" like one.
By the way. I'm 52 but my brain still tells me I'm 12.