I think that Harley does make a fine product. And I do not know anyone who has left a Harley in any kind of a true 'stock' configuaration. They are designed to be messed with anyway. It may come to the point when the bike will stay closer to stock becasue the systems are getting more complicated, but for now, I think that is all part of the Harley allure, to change it all at home and personalize it. That is what it's about. On other manufactureres, what is available? Pipes and an airclearner and some pretty chrome. But what manufacturere really has a bike that allows deep engine work and other functional performance mods as intense as Harley allows? None, not really. Not like the Harley.
And the EPA has gotten tough on the Motorcycle industry, not just Harley. When Harley gets closer to EPA acceptance, what will happen? It will be almost impossible to get into the motors. So, on my 110, I am happy, the motor issues are not really overwhelming, but more of a nuisance, and fixable, if you don't like the way it runs. But IMHO, that's what its all about. The non CVO 96 inch bikes? Kits are flying out the window, and it was a given that changes will be made.
And Harley may be limiited to 110, (but I dont agree), however there are a lot of aftermarket to change this.
In the big picture, MOCO will be forced by C.A.R.B. to make changes, but there will always be that untouched racing performance segment that will be free and clear of these regulations. And I do not know if these 49 states are ready to implement clean air on motorcycles on an individual basis. Not, erhaps not nin our generation anyway. So whats the problem? I don't see one, and after I get off this board, I get on my bike, and ride down the street, thinking about the thousands of cop bikes out there and their riders, that are hard core Harley, sanctioned by all the states that do so.
Rhino(jusramblinonenjoyingmyride)