I get both sides...
There does seem to be a lot of negativity on this board, just an opinion, perhaps I am looking at the wrong threads. Things do change - my GM diesel pickup now costs over $80K when I used to buy them for $40K. To me it still holds it's value well, so I continue to buy. If I didn't, I would not see the purpose in complaining about what I used to buy/get and why an Isuzu truck is so great, GM doesn't care and will sell every one they make no problem.
The new bikes are expensive and they are not as "special" as CVOs used to be, again my opinion. But, I'm not aware of stockpiles of unsold CVOs, so buyers somewhere are taking the plunge and see the value. I cannot blame HD for increasing prices/margins when the demand appears strong. Perhaps some here feel "cheated", but things change. If HD does not need to spend the $ on R&D, custom touches, CBs, etc and people are still buying CVOs at increased prices, so it goes, the law of supply and demand.
Buy what you like - new CVO, old CVO, Jap bike, hey whatever makes you happy, but BE HAPPY!
Since I've been off the board for a while, and I've been playing catch-up this thread caught my attention...
1) Because I had been hoping and dreaming to buy a newer model Duramax, but they were so freaking expensive, even used, and I'm a frugal (Translate that as a Cheap bastard)
2) Because I have both a 2001 SE Road Glide that's my "Beater"/ Dog hauler with a sidecar, and a 2018 CVO RG that's my less of a beater. and more of a weekend, going out bike .. then there's the stupid fast, 2019 FXDR-S with a 120" Just in case I get a wild hair up my behind bike." . Then I saw a Goldwing F6B for sale... it was black was inexpensive.. well maintained. Fortunately it got sold before I got to look at it!
I'm not a European bike guy.. not that they aren't reliable, but for us, the dealer is all the same... HD, BMW and Honda are all serviced by the SAME shop. Once its outside of the Warranty period, I'd rather own the Honda and perform regular maintenance myself. (Tires and brakes excluded) . Local PD also rides BMW as well.
I get the reasons some guys are deciding to go to Honda, BMW, whatever... The riding experience is far superior and more refined than HD's, hands down.
Don't believe me? go rent one from Eagle Rider... you will be amazed! (and these bikes are pretty well beat on.) Like other's have posted, if you have a good relationship with the dealer, they may just toss you the keys to a 'wing and let you ride one. That's how I got hooked on the F6B.
My daily commute now, is 30 miles each way... some days with traffic, some without. A 'Wing tourer with the comforts of a living room would be nice. and I wouldnt have to worry about it overheating.
But to each their own...
Remember to respect each other, and our opinions, its what makes this country great.