Toyota recently took over the number three spot from the Big 3 Detroit automakers and is about to bump Ford for the number two slot. One of the ways they have managed to do this is by continually improving product and technology.
Its not just the ABS, water cooled engines, and air bags. These niche products and niche markets lead to patents and advances that can turn into market dominance. I applaud Honda for being a leader in our industry. I hope Harley sits up and takes notice. This industry is having some strategic changes and if Harley wants to maintain their leadership position, they must be ready to compete on many different fronts, including those aforementioned.
The advances to our CVO bikes are head and shoulders above the technology we enjoyed even five years ago. Just look at our new engines, transmissions, radios, etc. These improvements are often borne from competition.
I can honestly say that I never thought I'd see the day that there were air bags on motorcycles, but I do like the direction they are taking us with improvements in technology.