The Rise And Fall Of Harley-Davidson

[@WealthbuilderzTV]

I think it’s the price that is pushing ppl back.

[@DB-sd3cw]

Yeah 20k for a cruiser is insane.

[@Arcadiez]

Yea they're like apple of bikes, overpriced af

[@nabiel3325]

Not to mention that u need another grand for maintenance and accessories

[@VeryProPlayerYesSir1122]

@@nabiel3325 the fall of boomer led to the fall of Harley-Davidson.

[@bnplaza]

@@nabiel3325 you're right, the cost of maintenance is ridiculous.

[@bedlamite42]

Harley Davidson: The most effective way to turn gasoline into noise without the side effect of horsepower.

[@stevek8829]

They'll do 120+ how fast do YOU need to go? If you're that much a hot shot take to the track. A bike doesn't have to be a race replica to be enjoyable to ride.

[@ferrelx]

i don't know how old you are but i have ridden almost every bike out there..almost died a couple times due to high speeds..i shunned Harleys for years..then i rode a 1985 FXWD and fell in love..the look..decent performance over all..what makes em fun for me is it starts with hitting the starter and ends when i shut er off..no other bike can do that for me..yes i a now am a Harley snob..i only like Pans and Shovels :)

[@ritwikreddy5670]

​@@ferrelx you cannot argue with the fact that Harleys are gas guzzlers. You can get similar performance with as low as 400cc bikes. It is only selling on the looks( which are good) and brand name( which many youngsters don't want to associate with) and not appealing price conscious customers.

[@ritwikreddy5670]

@@stevek8829 Yeah, you may not need 120+ to be enjoyable ( although many people say otherwise), but you don't need 1100cc to go 120, even 400cc bikes do that for a much cheaper price.

[@prashanthb6521]

LOL

[@bunbunson27]

Harley killed themselves. They have not diversified their products at all. They begged Reagan to put import tax on imported motorcycles over 700cc and in the long run they screwed themselves over because those outside companies started to make reliable smaller cc motorcycle which to this day is popular in America and the rest of the world.

[@tnbrfller]

I remember that tax, and even as a kid at the time, i told myself that i would never own a Harley product. Never have, and never will. Good riddance.

[@nathanielsexton7337]

Yea i owned a 1986 maxim 700 and that year because of the import tax they changed and made a high compression 20 valve 4 cylinder making 86hp just in spite and some awesome bikes came out of it that were lighter faster and more efficient only hurting Harley Davidson more lol

[@gavindinsmore3432]

someone watches fortnine

[@archie8798]

Roy Baty you realize at least on of the parts in every computer comes from another country

[@lelouchvibritannia1788]

@@archie8798 let him live in his delusion that stuff is still made in usa.

[@johnwolf1475]

I can buy a Japanese bike for 1/3rd the price , and only worry about oil changes..

[@texastootin1628]

And get 5x the performance lmao

[@heliofaleirosjunior5499]

That's what I did hehe👊🏻

[@2mkholley]

Yep!

[@2mkholley]

And I don't want to be part of the mean girls club either !

[@kelvinfernandez6060]

exactly Harley doesn't have a demographic or brand problem it has a price tag problem. I can buy a new sports car for the same price of your average Harley.

[@BruceKent00]

"Harleys are fast" 😂😂😂 funniest joke I have ever heard

[@ggallinmoko123]

Bruce Kent I laughed at that too 😂😂

[@JBidensucks]

I'm a Harley guy and I own two of them and while my done is pretty quick I also had to laugh hard when she said fastbut then again I'm not typical Harley owner I grew up for the love of motorcycles and I've owned all kinds of

[@JamesReyesjadsr]

Bruce, if you compare it to a pedal powered bicycle or walking , it is indeed fast 😂

[@napoleonsmith3028]

Well yes. If you take a look at context instead of ego. Faster than typical 4 wheel vehicles and faster then other cruiser models. Jeez, people complain about Harley culture but elite sport bike culture is just as annoying.

[@vsko240]

Yea actually dyna are fast

[@juichi8361]

"Harleys are big, loud, FAST." 10/10 for comedy

[@zolibrenner3192]

well said

[@madbadger85]

You have to admit they are fast for tractors

[@richardlavoie4012]

Clowns like you will never know,to cheap to find out, go buy a moped and ride it clown style.

[@LuckyStrikeLT]

@@richardlavoie4012 Why a moped? Is it because they're faster than Harleys?

[@patw9175]

@@richardlavoie4012 Dude your harley is slow. Get over it.

[@shimy333]

Your completely ignoring how Harley became so big in the 80's... government protection from Reagan..they never had to care

[@Agslions]

Yep. The tariffs Reagans enacted essentially will kill HD in the long run.

[@hauntedmoodylady]

@@Agslions Where did you take your economics classes? Reagan put a 49% tariff on all motorcycles imported/sold in the US 750cc, and larger. Should be obvious all those Honda's, BMW's, Triump's were 50% more expensive than they otherwise would have been. Instead of Harley doing their homework, and asking why can't our MC's compete in the market , they just pocketed the money. It's true the Harley's would drip oil on to the showroom floor. I was once in a Harley dealership waiting to get work done, and picket up a cope of the Harley annual report to stockholders, I was surprised, and amused, I should not have been. The report showed that Harley made far more money selling tee shirts, (and boots etc. etc. ) and licensing others to sell tee shirts with Harley logo's on them than they made $$ on selling motorcycles.....

[@Agslions]

@@hauntedmoodylady - um, correct... hence the "in the long run" piece. They rested on their laurels and forgot that their "base" were dying off. They got comfy while the market shifted.

[@Necrotic99]

@@Agslions It didn't kill HD, it was already dying and it gave them a lifeline...which they squandered in favor of "maximizing value" in the short term.

[@saltymcsaltface]

They need to bring government protection back

[@thelakeman5207]

When the owner of a dealership treats his customers with a "Harley Attitude", sales are bound to fall.

[@199933redlx]

Truth...I went to 2 different dealerships when I was in my early 20's and was treated like trash by the sales department. Tried to talk to them and they handed me a brochure and walked away.

[@bboyer1890]

Just to be clear. Marlon Brandon rode a Triumph in The Wild One.

[@migueljonz3901]

I was wondering if anyone else would catch that.

[@kombo731]

Yup, and Steve McQueen rode a Triumph in the Great Escape. Actually, it was stunt rider Bud Ekins who did the dangerous stuff. But anyway, it was all on a Triumph.

[@MURDOCK1500]

@@kombo731 Yup, but Evil Knievel rode a Harley. Probably why he kept crashing?

[@amramjose]

A 1950 Triumph Thunderbird TT, but in the pictures it appears he rides a Matchless.

[@yoshit9819]

So did marlon Brando

[@FreemanReuben]

I'm from a younger generation and I definitely love Harley Davidson, but I cannot afford to spend that much money on a motorbike.

[@coleb6894]

Used sportsters are the way to go, you can get a 1200 for under 2k if you're patient and look for a deal

[@mountainbikerdave]

get a grom, cheap, light, fuel efficient, great community, and awesome for putting around town. don't get it if you live out in the country though.

[@langhamp8912]

The above 60 crowd has twenty times the wealth of the the under 30 crowd. Not being able to afford what older people can afford (housing, education, and bike/toys) is the present reality. To be fair to HD, their Sportster models are $8,000 used, and much cheaper used. That's about the same as the cb500 from Honda, but the Honda has ABS.

[@JamesReyesjadsr]

Honda Rebel is a good alternative, you can just dress it up.

[@BatuHitam]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rp6wpYOsmdCjsJY

[@iamstephenmartin186]

I ride a Honda because I’m not a great mechanic.

[@clintbeastwood6149]

iamstephenmartin you ain’t lying

[@JBidensucks]

What makes you feel any better neither are the guys that work at the Harley dealerships

[@AndyMartin92]

Moon Watcher you don’t have to be rich to buy a Harley 😂 Honda’s can be just as expensive too lol

[@iamstephenmartin186]

I mean maybe top of the line Honda. But, initial cost and maintenance, the Honda is cheaper haha

[@AndyMartin92]

iamstephenmartin a honda can be more expensive period! and of course the premium bikes 🤦‍♀️ if your saving money it’s because it breaks down less lol

[@yudigg7]

1:42 “Real veterans of the saddle” *falls off bike*

[@oorsmaal3173]

Ah yes, veteran

[@jwboll]

Future documentary- Back in 2020, the remaining Harley customers were all but eliminated as the Corona virus hit senior care homes the hardest.

[@LK-bz9sk]

Most underrated comment

[@gregkerr1077]

They're an old man's bike. I'm 68, got my license at age 16. Consider myself still too young to ride a Harley. Maybe when I hit my 80's.

[@peterchown1552]

You know I’ve been riding bikes for almost 50 years now & harleys have interested me from time to time but honestly every single one I’ve ridden & there have been lots over the years has disappointed me , everyone without fail. Currently riding a 2016 KTM 1290 super adventure v twin just like Harley but also 160 hp standard, & a Triumph thunderbird storm 2012 1700, parallel twin with engine performance no standard Harley could match. Nephew arrived the other day with 2016 ish Harley that apparently had lots of work done to it at the local Harley dealership, told him it had 125 hp on Dyno , well it can’t keep up with my Triumph which I had Dyno tuned & produced 94 hp, hmmm very strange, I’d estimate 80 max for the Harley

[@badgerattoadhall]

A Harley trike than?

[@Nikiku03]

Im 17 I have owned 2 harleys.

[@bharalinipon2]

@@Nikiku03 you got old mentality

[@Birdman953]

I too am 68. I ride BMW R1200 GSA as well as my tourer a BMW K1200 LT, both bikes are over 10 years old with over 100000km each. Both are fast, comfortable and well designed. The latest versions of my bikes are just mind blowing, but mine are fine ‘cos they’re paid for! Harley has never changed and never will. They tried making an adventure bike that ended up looking like a Buick! Harley Davidson have absolutely no idea about what the motorcyclist wants, they only cater to leather jacketed bikers. BMW is the biggest mc manufacturer in the world, even bigger than the Japanese manufacturers. The biggest mc market today is for adventure type bikes, go anywhere, on and off road in comfort in a proper feet on pegs below configuration. It’s the motorcycle equivalent to the SUV. Today’s BMW bikes are dripping with technology. Smooth riding, seamless gear changes and economical. Develop more hp than a Harley on a downhill with a following wind! Unless HD does something drastic in terms of market driven style, I give them two more years.

[@eddievolkwyn]

2020 prices with 1980 technology. No thanks

[@aben8192]

More like 2030 prices.

[@Alex-hs1uf]

I'd argue the technology is more 1930s.

[@paulboyle9159]

1980's tech, 1930's tech? Are you mistaking aesthetic design for overall technology? Yea, it has two wheels and a v-twin engine. Just like your car has four wheels and an engine. Could they add stuff like traction control and ride settings, sure. Probably will see that with future models (that the purists will hate). These bikes are not the same tech-wise as they were 40 and 90 years ago lol

[@Alex-hs1uf]

The only real difference is fuel injection. Otherwise these are century-old+ technology/designs, like pushrods.

[@paulboyle9159]

@@Alex-hs1uf Strictly engine-speaking? Sure, same concept, "design", but I guess materials and other design changes don't count as technology? A Milwaukee eight is not the same as a flathead. For the past 20 years they've had options between air-cooled and liquid-cooled DOHC, looks like more on the way. Just trying to figure out what 2020 technology means.

[@mala7794]

correction of the intro: harleys are big loud heavy, slow and expensive

[@sergeantwolf8018]

And that's what I like. I want a cruiser, not a racer

[@mala7794]

@@sergeantwolf8018 the stop acting like a stupid cruiser is better than every motorcycle at everything. u stuck up horley scrub

[@sergeantwolf8018]

@@mala7794 I'm not saying it's better. I just said it's what I prefer. Don't be so biased

[@everythingisawesome2903]

@@mala7794 I don't care for Harley but cruiser bikes are clearly superior to every kind of bikes out there.

[@dr.science_0177]

@@sergeantwolf8018 just buy an Indiana or triumph

[@FinancialShinanigan]

Basically their main clienteles are dying.

[@VeryProPlayerYesSir1122]

the fall of boomer led to the fall of Harley-Davidson.

[@Supernova12034]

@@VeryProPlayerYesSir1122 ^This guy, x 10

[@wombatzzzz8446]

Facts

[@stephc3874]

Colin Z butt hurt?

[@unvcht5046]

Financial Shinanigan same clientele who still take taxis

[@albertjackson9236]

I will never forget the arrogance that I have experienced at Harley dealerships related to sales, parts & service.

[@toroza159]

You're not alone. I spent an hour in a Harley dealership and was avoided like I had the Coronavirus or something. I was ready to sign for a used Wide Glide they had in stock but when they actually lowered themselves to talk to me were dismissive as hell. Ended up on my phone looking up nearby dealers and realized Indian had a shop nearby. Now the proud owner of an Indian Chief Dark Horse.

[@dissectthis9640]

Same here

[@flalawdog9463]

Your comment and the comments of the replies really surprised me. I believe what you’re saying, but that simply hasn’t been my experience. I’ve been to Harley dealers in many parts of the US, with and without my motorcycle, and have always treated like family with just one exception.

[@dissectthis9640]

@@flalawdog9463 Agree., some, not all dealership's are snidley, arrogant and condescending, know-it-alls. There are four dealerships in my 45 mile radius and two of the four are rude SOB's, typically the service and parts department employees. Just FYI., I've been riding bikes since 1968 and have had similar experences purchasing cars as well It's a matter of training., some jags need to learn customer service, yet some just don't care.

[@MrMann-gt1eh]

Dude I wish that dealership would be run through and new sales guys in there. To give up on a bike win fantastic engineering because of the guys in the middle is tragic for you and the Motor Company. I just bought a 2020 Low Rider S and I’m over the fuckin moon. The people in the shop were also so excited! I’d like to add, they treated my wife and baby like Queen and Princess. Gave em food and drinks. Took me for a ride to learn more (I’d only ridden once). Bought me lunch. Set us up with a bunch of events and new friends. Yeah, overall, it was literally one of the best experiences in my entire life. This kid told me the other day my bike looked like a Ferrari and a motorcycle. Best compliment ever.

[@davebartels612]

Overweight, overpriced, primitive technology tractors. I am 64 and I have laughed at guys my age on Harleys in their Pirate costumes for decades. I have ridden Triumph since 1973.

[@ericbyers9554]

Harley riders go to the blue oyster club

[@johnno58blondi55]

Totally agree of got too many teeth and not enough tattoos to own a Harely. Triumph rules

[@nonserviam9673]

Girls will be girls.

[@willgeo2215]

Just bought a Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster....love it!

[@ericbyers9554]

Have got the america its great

[@gerboblitz]

Love when Americans say "in the world" when they really just mean their own backyard.

[@amsd1231]

They've never been outside their state so it's the world to them LOL

[@MrKinghuman]

Funny joke, seeing how the rest of the world has been trying to replicate America in their own back yard for the last 150 years

[@gerboblitz]

@@MrKinghuman sure thing! We here in Europe and dying to get our hands in thousands of assault weapons for personal protection. We are also looking forward to paying hundreds of thousands in student loans and medical bills! We are also looking forward for having an amazing interstate, to drive at 100km/h in the left lane, while drinking 2kg’s of sugar in a plastic cup, down the road enjoying our 1 week vacations with no sick days per year! Looking forward to suing the microwave company for killing my cat as well. What a dream! We also want to send our citizens to war at 18, but not allowing them to drink a beer until they are 21! Finishing up by converting everything to Imperial, since the Metric system makes no sense… Get a grip man. I rather move to a free country, like South Africa, South Korea, Brazil or India.

[@coolvideos8864]

I dont think they are aware of the rest of the world.

[@alienware2149]

@@gerboblitz your words need to reach more Americans 😂

[@jaridkeen123]

Harley's first bike looks better than newer models

[@fakedeadmau5701]

I agree

[@adksmsjudn34321]

the new Breakout is amazing brruhhhh

[@cheemsg.i.7130]

Softails and Sportsters are nice in my opinion

[@therandomcommenterwithknow3495]

I like the road king from like 15 years ago just because you can do so much with them but some of the new ones are... well ya know

[@alfiemiras6601]

She sounds like she is always asking a question.

[@johnmartlew5897]

Alfie Miras ...most people her age talk like that. More noticeable in women.

[@autoazure]

It is an example of the High Rising Terminal speak! Makes the speaker sound so dumb and I personally cannot stand it lol!

[@MrJadmansour]

I was just thinking the same thing. She annoy me when she talks. Who ever taught her to talk that way, is an idiot.

[@jaycon3460]

Alfie Miras it’s called up or valley girl. Lots of Asians moved into these areas in California for that last decade or so hence here up speak way of talking

[@gfunk63901]

That’s how people their age talk along with vocal fry and no one can tell anyone anymore anything. So now they get made fun of behind their backs

[@nihvl]

The reason: Harley’s core demographic have aged and they have ignored young motorcyclist around the world for the better part which is why time and time new products failed to bring the success of old classic models They’re exorbitantly overpriced for what they are, The selling of a rebel image crap doesn’t work anymore, consumers are clever and picky than ever before that’s why they lean towards brands which offers much more ie Triumph The motorcycle are basic, heavy, underpowered and did I say overpriced compared to other premium brands And for the better part they ignored the shift in motorcycle culture a few years ago supersport were all the rage then it shifted to retro roadster and cafe racer then to a huge shift to adventure and touring... while all these were happened Harley was stuck with making 80hp 500 lb cruiser for the “Rebel” And the biggest offence was ignoring the giant Asian market, Harley made little to no effort to bring small capacity motorcycle for Asian market even though they already established dealership in major cities

[@dougherbert7899]

80 hp, 850 pound is more accurate. Also, pricing isn’t as exorbitant as it used to be compared with their competition. Quality has gone up as well. The biggest issue I see is an aging customer base, and they continue to push a rebel image that is a real turn off for those of us who are younger than the boomers.

[@CephaloG0D]

Exactly. My grandfather loved Indian but my Dad is nuts about Harleys. I ended up getting a sports bike because I liked the look more. Now that I'm older, I wouldn't mind a bobber style but if take a Yamaha Bolt over anything Harley is offering.

[@nihvl]

Todd Cahill Ricer is a car culture term surely you don’t know what you’re talking about btw the word you were looking for was Squid or noob

[@dougherbert7899]

Todd Cahill I currently split my riding between a ‘09 Harley Nightster 1200, a Triumph Thruxton, a BMW R1200R, and a BMW R1200RT. I’ve owned probably a dozen bikes over the past 10 years, including a metric cruiser, some sport bikes and adventure bikes. The Harley is far below average in power for weight, smoothness, handling, vibrations, features, comfort, and suspension. The brakes are laughably poor. The ground clearance has me scraping constantly. It is incredibly raw, and not in a good way, more like shifting a garden tractor way. About the only thing I think Harley’s good at is their fit and finish, the availability of dealerships, and to a certain point their reliability. Harley needs to evolve to capture the younger than boomer market, we demand more.

[@dougherbert7899]

Todd Cahill it’s people like you in Harley conversations that is killing the brand. I get so sick of the arguing about ancient history, I’m not looking for a lifestyle or a battle, just trying to ride a bike.

[@안재헌-b6s]

I remember laughing my ass off when I saw these tough guys doing a duck walk with their bikes because they can't do a simple U-turn.

[@phlodel]

Dragging their feet until they're going 30 MPH because they're afraid they're going to tip over.

[@tuberdumb7377]

@@phlodel Go ride a bike that weighs as much as a Harley does and don’t hold your feet till you hit atleast 25

[@rock3tcatU233]

@@tuberdumb7377 Weight has nothing to do with it, Goldwing riders have to deal with the same weight and they don't duck walk their bikes.

[@erikmunoz3993]

Well nobody is willing to pay 15k for the average low end harley

[@mastermonarch]

Used used used can you honestly tell the difference between a 99 or 2019 ?

[@trigger8152]

@@mastermonarch yes you can 🤣 I can tell a 99 from a 2019 easily

[@jackamane7818]

mastermonarch dude, 100% lmao what are you talking about

[@imssgmiller]

LMFAO yes we aren't blind new Harley vs old is night and day.

[@larjkok1184]

mastermonarch Um, that’s not a good thing, if they seem the same.

[@stampery1]

I bought a bike in 2019 and really wanted a Harley. After I saw the price of a Harley, it immediately became an instant no from me.

[@wayneknowles3843]

Point?

[@rayth4386]

@@wayneknowles3843 its too expensive lmaoo, are u dense?

[@cielewilliams6618]

@rockn roll I plan on getting a vanvan 200 for commuting because small light cheaper and looks nice

[@baltsosser]

My friend spent $50K on a Harley Davidson. I spent $13,K on a Yamaha. We get the same riding experience, why spend more?

[@Rocketninja200]

@@baltsosser Uhhhh same experience? I doubt it. Your Yamaha is probably way better!

[@FredCadillac]

Keep rising prices,and see you in museum!

[@richardlavoie4012]

Just like the prices of cars,trucks and suv's,everything is expensive,not like it was when we grew up.

[@akaredcrossbow]

Last month I looked at the HD website and a 2020 Fat Bob was $15,599, just the other day I looked again and the Fat Bob is now $18,799. HD must be selling a lot of Fat Bob’s! That’s the other issue with HD if it’s popular put a huge price tag on it. NO if it’s popular price it right, sell more and make more money! 🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️ No matter how you look at it all the motorcycles are now on the same frame, built the same way, but all cost different price’s. Yes some have a bigger motor but it shouldn’t justify that much of a price difference. Just ridiculous. For instance Softail Standard $13,599 and Spirt glide $18,599.Basically the same motorcycle except the Sport Glide has ABS, saddlebags, inverted forks and a fairing. The pricing is just ridiculous!

[@alancrane4693]

@@akaredcrossbow exactly lowrider s softail 2020£15495. popular bike selling well 2021 £17500. Indian chief dark horse £16450. With lots more features cruise control, touch screen clock,led indicators, sports rain mode's ect. Bye bye Harley Davidson

[@nouvelhomme8990]

"If you owned a Harley Davidson, you were cool." Something said by exactly 0 people who did not own a Harley Davidson.

[@SoloPilot6]

Not even by most of the people who DO own Harleys. There is a definite pecking order among hoggers.

[@73Selene]

I dunno...I've always thought people with ANY kind of motorcycle is cool. Motorcycles are awesome

[@MichaelS-ze9yf]

I owned a Harley and loved it and still do. However, I don’t like the price of the bike, parts and service cost. I feel as if the took advantage of their base. Won’t buy another one again. Still like seeing them but to expensive

[@fatotis6273]

I have operated a motorcycle repair shop and have many years of experience. Harley parts and service are very competitive when compared to other brands. Plus there is much more aftermarket parts support that keeps prices down. All brands dealer service is expensive to me. Harley has been the best brand to focus on as an independent bike ship, and is the most mechanic friendly.

[@abhishekdas9281]

@@fatotis6273 lol then I'm guessing Honda doesn't exist?

[@patrickv418]

I have owned a motorcycle basically my entire life, never a Harley because of the 'overbranding' of it. Way too much marketing, overexposure, t-shirts, jackets, you name it.....and who owns them...overweight older white people who are lawyers and finance people with huge salaries trying to act like something they aren't. Its a cliche and embarrassing and the riders are made fun of now and become the jokes of the road. I mean does Harley pay these people to be walking riding billboards for them, I own a Honda now, I don't wear a Honda jacket, why? Honda doesn't give me my bike for 1/2 price to advertise for them and I don't give Honda free advertising. Its a shame because they are great bikes just way too expensive for the value. Case in point I'm looking at trading in my current bike and eyeing the Yamaha YFR 1300... Triumph , Honda ...so I am in the market for a Sport Touring bike but would never buy a Harley. All the bikes I'm looking at are great bikes at $10,000 to $15,000 less !!! Couple this with the now overbranding of the bike and I don't even go into a dealership . The Company really has some work too do or it will die a slow death. I honestly hope they turn things around.

[@KD-pf9yi]

@@abhishekdas9281 that would be other premium brands. There is a huge difference between Harley and Honda. It's like Mercedes vs Kia

[@risingembersgaming7740]

HD=Hundred dollars Everything is a hundred dollars. Everything.

[@andriy.bryhas]

"Harleys are big..." *shows a Sportster "... and inherently american" *shows a Kawasaki Vulcan Troll mode on))

[@jameskayenpaibam]

"Harleys are fast"

[@danielpassarelli4176]

james kayenpaibam lol, My dad owns one (1600) , and it’s a sloth compared to my Kawasaki 😂

[@jameshartwell4345]

james kayenpaibam yeah. That one cracked me up.

[@snozzybosch7503]

And fast, shows a Harley Davidson .....😂👌Boooooooooooom TKO.....!

[@RetrowTV]

Thanks for noticing this. We don’t care what you ride in our club as long as you can keep up! That’s our Founder, James Disciple Johnson on his Kawasaki Vulcan 900. That bike was insanely fast with big tall gears that made it faster off the line than bikes twice the size. And dependable too. Man we abuse the heck out of these Japanese machines. Retrow~Founding Member, Disciple Christian MC

[@johnnysavior4538]

I am a millennial. I was thinking on taking a loan to buy a entrywayish HD, but then I saw a Royal Enfield Interceptor and was love at first sight and for a reasonable price.

[@Birdman953]

You have bought yourself a fantastic bike. Manufactured in the newest and most technological motorcycle manufacturing plant in the world. On a recent test of motorcycle oil from brand new bikes for micro metal particle, Royal Enfield was the best followed closely by BMW. The worst were the Italian bikes and last the Chinese bikes. (KZbin)

[@PraetorianMan]

@@Birdman953 ah I see you also follow Fortnine's channel :)

[@Avalanche2]

"You get respect just by being on one" - No, not by a long shot.

[@erichmacho5741]

In fact the reverse, as far as I am concerned.

[@derkchurk5879]

Lmao y'all are fools

[@Avalanche2]

@@derkchurk5879 Sorry, are a bikers feelings hurt?

[@ottoengel2718]

I own a harley and I think a lot of people dont like you because of the bike.

[@robbiecastle2758]

I want a Harley Davidson but my Honda just doesn't give up. It keeps going and going and going

[@donsvideos1985]

When you decide look used. Lots of low mileage Harleys out there. That's the only I ever bought a Harley. 2007 or newer. The 103 twin cam 6 speeds are good. I have 2015 someone poured a bunch of money into. Yes it was still expensive but less than half the 41k the original owner paid. You can find good used big twins sub 10k if you look and do some research.

[@mikekeltner4291]

Harley Owners Need Dependable Alternatives

[@donsvideos1985]

@@mikekeltner4291 wow. living in the past much? I have ridden my Harley 52k miles and have had zero issues. No oil leaks. not so much as a failed headlight. I did however need tires and then a battery after 4 years, Oh the humanity! BTW MY KAWASAKI VULCAN 1500 CLASSIC CRATERED AT 48K MILES DUE TO A FAILED PLASTIC OIL PUMP GEAR.. :/

[@georgeklimes7604]

@@mikekeltner4291 Most new riders don't want the old school Harley and also cannot pay that much. As for Honda, yes, they are nice, but you have to hunt hard to find a dealer with a demo bike, A lot of the ones where I live expect you to just buy it without riding it. That's not happening with me.

[@sohighfashion6450]

i was looking at a CBR600RR as my first bike or a ZX6R. Got a 2019 iron 1200 instead lol fun as hell, what kinda honda is it?

[@geektarded]

I wouldn’t use the word “fast” when describing a Harley.

[@johnnash7481]

Geektarded.. agreed.

[@ItalianMetalHED]

Maybe she meant fast to the shop lol

[@walterbrown9651]

A modified Hogg will go fast enough to scare ya.

[@ethanwood9462]

Harley's are not sports bikes they're cruisers, so no they aren't going to go 200 mph down the interstate however they can still hold their own easily reaching speeds over 110 not that you'd need to ever go that fast let alone have the balls to do so.

[@Peter-zr8kq]

My 1200 Iron is fast enough....I don’t want a faster bike. 😳

[@Xlac]

This is what happens when you keep raising the prices $600 every year. After a while consumers will re-evaluate their toy options.

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

$600 a year wouldn't necessarily be a problem, but the paychecks people are getting aren't rising anywhere near that. Some people do and some people get promoted. Beyond that though, there's a glut of hogs on the second hand market as their primary market ages out of motorcycling, or dies, and puts the bikes on 2nd hand market.

[@bonnevillebagger9147]

Alan Whiteside false comparison, you bought during a bubble. Created on purpose by Hd.

[@burencook6567]

Laszlo Szutor millennials are into speed and not style, that’s the problem.... case in point, they put loud exhaust on a 4 banger.....

[@rolandmetayer7210]

In Economics, they call this " Price Elasticity " . How much $$$ can a product increase in price before the consumer STOPS BUYING that product ! Harley-Davidson motorcycles are nice but a little too $$$$ ! !

[@tnelliott2447]

Buren Cook or put a straight pipe on a two banger and make it go Potato Potato Potato Potato Potato

[@iPreston715]

Cost is the #1 issue. Bikes like Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, are far cheaper. Sometimes half the price.

[@dannyhanley4192]

We millennials have less disposable income. It’s not that we do not like Harleys. Since the crash of 08 inflation has increased while median income has remained fundamentally the same.

[@seththomas9105]

Great comment Danny. You are absolutely correct about the economy since 08, but I will add that real wages for the "Middle Class" have remained virtually stagnant since the early 1980's when the war on Unions started in the USA. I'm 50 and have only childhood memories of the end of the Post War boom that occurred in the late 70's. Don't feel alone GenX had waaayyyy less job opportunities than Boomers did also. Just when we were trying to get our feet on the ground along came the 87 Stock Market crash and the following recession. Then NAFTA in 93. The Plutocracy sold the future of this country out so they could line their pockets and move to the Caribbean.

[@teamtoken]

Seth Thomas Not even stagnant though, because when you factor in the insane rise in healthcare costs and for a lot of millenials, college debt, the average middle class is doing WORSE than decades ago. You’re totally right, we’ve been sold out wholesale. Smash unions, smash worker protections, smash industries and institutions that support the middle class. I can’t see it getting better anytime soon. Maybe Bernie Sanders might be able to save it, but I doubt it. Washington is bought and acts on behalf of the corporations and elites only.

[@deathlarsen7502]

@@seththomas9105 spot on what you said. Clinton and NAFTA was the begining of the end

[@BirdArvid]

This has been the trend since the mid-70's.

[@paulpatrie3068]

And they want everything for free.

[@Michael-Moo]

I'm in my 20s and I own a motorcycle. The problem with Harley is not that young people won't buy motorcycles. It's that Harley will not sell us motorcycles that we want. We don't want to go deep into debt for expensive cruiser motorcycles. We want cheaper modern motorcycles. This is something that the Japanese manufacturers are doing very well at but Harley is completely failing at.

[@HighGear7445]

Back in my day the Japenese bikes where dirt cheap and I had several ..ha first one was a 450cc honda (first production bike rated at over 100hp per liter ) $1200 bucks new. My Harley didn't come till my family was raised and I had extra money to spend . We didn't have computers/phones to blow money on so we bought boats and motorcycles.

[@Dustrunnersauto]

In my 20s and own 3x Japanese bikes. Haven’t bought a Harley because they’re super heavy, underpowered, handle poorly, not that reliable, and super expensive. For the type of riding I do, a Harley is inferior in every single way. Maybe one day when I start touring I’ll get a Harley, but until then I’ll keep my Honda and Yamahas.

[@joeschmo5246]

Also in my 20s. Love the looks of harleys, but my cheap little vstar looks and sounds just as good.

[@shotgunswin2785]

In my 20s on my 2nd Harley. I love everything about it. I ride a 2020 street bob

[@92akucaballero97]

Problem is Honda and Yamaha are some god tier bike makers

[@MercenaryGio]

"Harley's are big, loud, _fast_ " One of these things is not like the others.

[@alancrane4693]

@Beelzebot yeah fat price tag

[@heliofaleirosjunior5499]

Big 💪🏻, loud 👊🏻... fast just left the chat lol

[@legendsareborninmarch4799]

When was hd fast?

[@q4991]

and Heavy, wide, SOLID, with a 'REP' unrivalled to the 'Non Racer'! I am on the Road my entire life, I have seen Many Total Wipes, usually After. I'VE NEVER, seen a 'Harley' just 'Lying there' ...looking about as Safe as their Owner feels IF he Makes it to Hospital.

[@obviousness8113]

💀💀💀

[@Conn30Mtenor]

Servicing is expensive, poor customer service. It's why I ride an Indian.

[@prathappoojary3618]

I ride a RE .. 😂😂

[@JamesReyesjadsr]

How can these Millennials Afford these bikes when they are busy paying their student loan 😂😂😂

[@richardlavoie4012]

Have you checked out the prices of other bikes on the market now,what your saying is a bunch of crap,new goldwing 38,000 ,new bmw same,ducati pricey for what you get,they are all expensive if you want new,consider a good use unit and enjoy.

[@DrTranofEvil]

I have 6 figure student loan debt... I ride a Triumph Speed Triple. You want to ride, you find a way. That said, I don't consider them toys, bikes are how I get around.

[@ramsinc5521]

Especially when they took those student loans just to be indoctrinated by liberals and major in gender studies which means they're never going to get a job

[@tonytarantino643]

Millennial with six-figure student loans here. I ride a Harley, but it's a 24-year old Sportster 1200 I got for $2K lol. I love riding it because it's tons of fun to ride, but the 40 mpg is a huge plus.

[@richardlavoie4012]

@Ryan T For real you actually believe that, wow for a educated guy you say the dumbest things, a used beamer is cheap, they look gross and sound even worst , and if you buy a new one which are pricey ,in 5 years it's worth less then half,what a bummer for beamer lovers,but that's what you get when you ride those bikes. I would take a used goldwing over a bmw any day of the week,oh man listen to me im sorry,did you mean you ride the little yuppi bmw like GI joe. so sorry i tough you rode touring and cruisers,my bad.

[@bennemets4471]

This seems like a pretty simple fix to me. If you look thru these comments, you'll find about 80% of them say that the bikes are too expensive. This isn't a secret. Everybody knows Harley is too expensive. They need to stop the denial of "people just don't want to ride big baggers anymore, so let's offer more options." Well, yes they do, they just don't want their bike to cost more than their house. Change the sale price and lower operating costs to keep profit high.

[@deathtomorons9388]

Also make it a bit reliable

[@kurthaas4331]

Actually, my beef is six months waiting on a part.

[@surfsup5757]

Harley's the Gibson guitar of motorcycles. Too damn expensive.

[@peteallen82]

Surfs Up Fender shits on Gibson as Honda shits on hd.

[@MrMann-gt1eh]

Pete Allen most people are stupid. Don’t feel bad that you’re one of them.

[@Michael-zt6wb]

@@deerhunter7482 Is that the same union that accepted 2 tiers of compensation, where the employees hired in the last ten years get half the pay and little benefits compared to before? Your union bashing is nonsense.

[@deerhunter7482]

Michael been there done that !

[@Kingepticon]

Yeah but those hummingbirds are fuckin sweet.

[@CWJester]

I've been wanting to ride for YEARS. Finally have the time with work now and can take the dive into the MSF course. Already have all my gear and been going out to sit on bikes and see what suits me best. I think I like cruisers more for the comfort and while Harleys look nice, the price tag isn't all that handsome. I'm looking at getting a Kawasaki Vulcan S. Looks nice, reliable, cheaper, has some tech on there and it's just as fast

[@roscoe4092]

Dude Vulcan S is an okay starter bike but you’re gonna get rid of that thang after like 1 riding season I’ve known a few guys who had Vulcans and they’re meh, you can find a used Harley for cheap or build it yourself you’ll learn a lot

[@hammerheadphennicie8865]

The biggest problem is it was taken over by big corporations and its 200% over priced at retailers

[@TH-bk5hj]

Yesterday’s technology at tommorows prices. HD

[@deltasword1994]

Damn. Most accurate comment yet.

[@1bmxam]

EddieV said this, you’re irrelevant.

[@adhaisori5626]

True af

[@irvhh143]

Same with GM and Boeing. America was unable to make the transition to computerised manufacturing. There are some who can handle cnc machining (see OCC, Red Jacket reruns). But, there must be a complete makeover. See youtube for reports on how Boeing 's subcontractors were still using felt pens and handdrills on parts.

[@everythingisawesome2903]

Harley Davidson in a nutshell

[@AsikNation]

A motorcycle no one can afford,, that is their motto still exist today,,

[@dchawk81]

@Club Soda I'm from Pennsylvania so...always. 🙃

[@inspectorchicken]

Amazing how Americans still see a Harley as the working mans bike and a BMW as a dentist bike, even if a brand new maxed out GS is still cheaper than some lame ass freedom reeking Harley.

[@nimbly1693]

You've totally missed the part about Harley crying to the government about foreign competition in the 80s. And Reagan taxing foreign import motorcycles by 40% if they were more that 700ccs.

[@jasons5704]

Prices and over reliance on brand recognition has severely hurt Harley Davidson

[@electronicdawg]

The bikes in the "Wild Ones" were mostly if not all British bikes like Triumph and BSA.

[@haljones5204]

SHHHHHH

[@jetcarddude]

If the Triumph was good enough for Marlin Brando, Steve McQueen and Billy Idol…..Its plenty good for me!

[@MrGibsonguy335]

Lee Marvin's crew rode Harleys. They were the bad guys.

[@Apis4]

Yup

[@frankmlchaelglasscock6539]

You r so right

[@joshuawaddell6640]

I love seeing companies that overprice their products eventually get sweet justice.

[@Makeitliquidfast]

You mean like apple?

[@cscheatum]

Apple isn’t overpriced. Nearly everyone in the world has one in their pocket

[@shoka_01]

Cameron far from true, my friend. In fact, Apple really isn’t popular outside the US and SOME parts of Western Europe. It’s mainly Samsung that people have. Samsung is popular everywhere the way Apple is popular in the US

[@deaddoll1361]

@@shoka_01 They're pretty popular in a lot of places. They have stores throughout the world because they actually sell stuff. I see them everywhere in Australia, which isn't "the US or some parts of Western Europe".

[@langhamp8912]

Their profits last year were 420 million dollars. That's after all expenses and taxes. In contrast, WeWork, Uber, Lyft, Lime, and Byrd have never turned a profit.

[@michaeljones6832]

Harleys are the perfect metaphore for the US, old, arrogent, outdated, inefficent superceeded and about to be in foreign hands

[@mrkakarot5187]

@Vinay Paul ooooh offended American

[@gegz1000]

@Vinay Paul weird those companies are maintained by foreigners you americans just take credit all the time

[@gegz1000]

@Vinay Paul i'd rather buy a japanese or european sportsbike than to buy a harley old davidson

[@hazarddavid6987]

Michael Jones....you summed it up perfectly...outmoded and outdated. The only way to stay ahead is by bullying

[@jxk4500]

I just bought my first bike, a Harley Davidson 48 and I'm 29 years old. It's becoming popular again, especially in Europe.

[@Verheerender]

Joni Kalanderi I’m planning to buy one either the 883 or the roadster since they look like ww2 bikes 🏍 but in red idk if the have the red option of 4:31

[@MrMegaPerez]

Why is there so much hate towards HD? I mean I also wouldn’t buy one (yet) but I still love that they exist. Also most of the bikes look beautiful. We, “motorcycle riders” should appreciate every motorcycle brand. The more the merrier :) Greeting from a Russian guy who is living in Germany and ridding a Japanese bike 👋

[@glenfitton2584]

Why is there so much hate towards HD? Because the hate every bike that’s not a 900 lb. Harley. I can’t stand to be around them.

[@MrMegaPerez]

Glen Fitton maybe you’re right, but there are also a lot of di**s in the sport bike community ;) but those are people not the motorcycle brands :)

[@glenfitton2584]

The movie that started it all was “The Wild Ones”. It stared Marlon Brando. He and his gang rode Triumphs.

[@alainbrisebois8334]

The Star of the film, the Icon was Brando, and he rode, with his race trophy on his Triumph Thunderbird handle bars...Not a Harley Pedalson.

[@danconlan64]

@Crazy Elf BOOZE FIGHTERS!

[@SoloPilot6]

Actually the movie that I think of when I see guys on Harleys is "Little Shop of Horrors" . . .and Steve Martin singing the Dentist Song.

[@brandonburnham822]

The same bike that was affordable for people in the past thirty years is now unaffordable to younger people.

[@purplemarinate7282]

Isn't Harley Davidson a clothing company ? They sell good merchandise. The hell is it with them and bikes ?

[@Spider-Too-Too]

lol

[@Moonless6491]

No, they put trim packages in F150s and toolboxes.

[@alexanderchristopher6237]

Reading this comment while wearing a Harley Davidson t-shirt, hah!

[@ryadhasanahmed5443]

They're T-shirts are made in China, so much for American patriotism

[@mystummyhurt2115]

They make more money selling those damn t shirts than they do their bikes

[@BirdArvid]

Yeah, okay... "fast" is relative; compared to a moped, Harley's are fast, yes.

[@3rdvoidmen594]

Ain't nobody talking about mopeds when such engines are talked about.

[@pmp2559]

3rdVoid Men harleys are in no way fast unless you put ridiculous money into it, word fast is something HD doesn’t understand or know

[@3rdvoidmen594]

@@pmp2559 I am no HD fanboy but Harley's compared to mopeds is unfair.

[@pmp2559]

@@3rdvoidmen594 maybe but HD are in no way fast still. I did like that one bike from them that Porsche helped making the engine for, but still way over priced.

[@realist-2024]

Harleys are cruisers dude there not about maximum speed...you either get it or you dont.

[@airindiana]

I’ve just seen a really good documentary by fortnine on this exact subject. KZbin must have thought I wasn’t paying attention and needed more lessons on it.

[@karangpncpnc575]

Im 28 years old and just buy my first harley yesterday. It is a used 1200 xl, i hope i had my dream bike softail haritage before 40 🙏

[@amazinghannure6440]

same with muscle cars. They became more for the rich than the public. People could easily afford mustangs back in the day, but now they cost too much.

[@tyreefreeman7450]

Everyone be on the bus

[@mikkokivisto4414]

@@tyreefreeman7450 "You can't go into one of those, you'll catch a disease." -Jeremy Clarkson

[@RossMalagarie]

muscle cars, sports cars, motorcycles, are luxury items like they always where. But like you said in the 60s-90s lower middle class had more buying power, (better pay comparatively against inflation) so lower middle class used to be able to have a 4-5 person family, house, 2 cars, motorcycle, RV, take 1-3 big 1 week vacations. Now lower and middle, middle class can only rent, maybe a 3-4 person family, and can't afford a motorcycle, RV, or (2) 3 day weekend vacations. That's because pay has not keep up with inflation. Since the 60s inflation has gone up and pay has not keep up so 60 yrs later our middle class pay is WAY behind comparatively in buying power.

[@RaghunandanReddyC]

@@tyreefreeman7450mustang is still cheap. Comparable to Camry or Accord in Pricing. Of course you can always go for more expensive options.

[@shayslay3416]

Mystands are cheaper than almost every pickup truck. Yet people still buy pickups.

[@RikkiRockettsLegendTripping]

Major flaw Marlon Brando in the Wild One rode a Triumph.

[@bobvido9875]

And Lee Marvins gang rides Harleys.

[@ENIGMAXII2112]

Correct... A Triumph Thunderbird... And if one looks they can see Matchless motorcycles as well... No.... They where not all Harley Davidsons... Sorry folks...

[@ghalston5641]

Indeed. But he did his promotional photos for it on a red Moto Guzzi Falcone.

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

I was wondering how long it would take for somebody to point that out.

[@darthmaul2742]

The reason I don’t like Harley Davidson is because of the body of the bike. I like Kawasaki bikes better. HD just has an older look to me, which turns me away.

[@unclequack5445]

I ride a KLR 650 a dual sport is a more practical choice than a big heavy ass street only bike .

[@Derkiboi]

@@unclequack5445 oh yeah, I use my 06 KLR 650 to go to work, and pretty much everywhere Else

[@cy-one]

@Stan M You're correct. I even like the type of bike (I really, really want an Indian Scout Bobber), but they have created themselves an major image problem.

[@_Meriwether]

If you're into your Kwakas, let me say the Vulcan S is a beautiful bike.

[@Apis4]

It was predominantly British bikes in the Wild One, and Brando's starring ride was definitely a Triumph, NOT a Harley Davidson.

[@warringtonfaust1088]

That is the same thought that occurred to me when watching this video.

[@jimkubitza3820]

I am a boomer, 71 years old, and for me Harleys don't even exist. I have owned Harleys. I outgrew them. I don't need or want a big, loud, lumbering bike. I now prefer a 650 that is quick and nimble in the twisties and about town and that can still cruise at 75 mph all day long ... and for less than half the price.

[@TheSuperlad]

I love my Interceptor 650

[@danielshaw4038]

As I aged, and became less mobile I bought me a Royal Enfield classic bullet single cylinder 500cc classic. It goes well from point A to B and relatively affordable. I think it's the best bike out there for old men. Done the HD thing. Too much upkeep. May the bugs in your teeth immune you from troubles down the road

[@leonbattistaalberti6691]

Harley Owners: Millennials killed Harley Millennials: Ok Boomer

[@LuckyStrikeLT]

@tinwoods Ok boomer

[@stevek8829]

@Barpon You can still buy one. It might be used but you'll save money.

[@fennograas]

@tinwoods ok Boomer

[@grahamfil777]

@tinwoods ok boomer

[@88TiagoCosta88]

@tinwoods Ok Boomer...

[@gatorwing6231]

GoldWings are the KINGS of big motorcycles 😛.

[@michaelvail1180]

I've been a harley davidson fan my whole life. But the last time I went into a dealership to look at some clothes the price had me walk right back out again. I wanted a hoodie but the cheapest one i saw was $60. Are you kidding me? Then i decided to look at other products and thought no wonder they are on their way out. Way over priced for clothes. I even seen a t shirt for $40. I'll pass

[@scottiecarroll5656]

And the shirts they use or made in China

[@Wolvespiritt]

Your not lieing ,it is all even marked ,"made in China" on the inside. I'm a Yamaha owner, but my wife wanted to check out the apparel ,I about died in the store lol. On top of that, I had just bought new hand grips from a small motorcycle shop near me,payed 16 bucks, I found the exact same grips in the HD dealership, same brand and all,they had them priced at 89 bucks.

[@pinball2002]

Rick Simpson they are priced for dummies 🤣

[@jponz85]

@Rick Simpson when harley dies off and goes bankrupt because no one wants to buy their overpriced pos, then I wanna see you say "they dont want you either" cause they'll be BEGGING for you to come and buy their products lmao

[@alancrane4693]

How much part exchange towards your old hoodie did they offer.

[@bigsloanful]

I love Harley's character and overall feel when riding. Price is an issue. But reliability and cost of ownership over the life of the bike is the issue too. I have almost spent the money so many times in the past, but as someone who rents, who doesn't have a garage, with tools, and other means of taking care of the bike, the way it deserves, I have never gone through with purchase. I think that's why they just don't sell like they used to. Even boomers back then had houses with garages. While millennials pay off student loans, there is just no way to swing supporting a company like this, while building their own wealth, unless of course they have a killer job right out of school, which is rare. It's sad but true.

[@kevinknapp7361]

Why would he think "We'll all associate Harley Davidson with being the greatest motorcycle brand in the world"? I don't.

[@Legendairy_Angel94]

Video isnt for you then

[@elobiretv]

Nobody outside of america does.

[@prestondunn1991]

Legendairy_Angel 94 you might want to spell “Legendary” correctly. 😂

[@flounder2760]

brand isnt the same as reliability... if you go out and ask people to name a brand of motorcycles no matter the list size harley makes it in there.

[@In_Can]

@@flounder2760 comes in the list yes, but when it comes to best motorcycles in the wolrd Honda, yamaha, ducati, kawasaki keeps the prime position.....

[@tundra2701]

Trump: *puts tariff on steel* Also Trump: "make them in America HD!"

[@carldevault7227]

On imported steel. Steel industry in the US was booming under trump. That will stop thanks to puppet biden

[@user-fo9kt3rq3d]

@@carldevault7227 well in times of trump USA started to produce and sell a lot of oil and that controlled the prices of oil ,which helped india as we are dependent a lot on oil but due to the pro environment policy of biden that will soon be past , I will miss trump

[@SoloPilot6]

@@user-fo9kt3rq3d : The only environment that Biden cares about is how much hot air he can spew.

[@agisler87]

I'm 32 and as an avid biker my problem is Harley culture. I hate the culture of no gear and obnoxiously loud exhausts. The other problem is they don't sell any bikes that people want. The cruiser segment is not what people want. I purchased a new BMW adventure tour bike last Nov for 28k.

[@The021589cjr]

Harley Davidson sells an adventure bike. Their cruisers cover everything from sporty urban commuters to large cross country baggers and performance stunt bikes. They even sell electric motorcycles and bicycles. The only segments they don’t cover are sport bikes and dirt bikes. Sport bikes aren’t selling anyway though so no loss there.

[@wildrides4354]

Harley culture isn’t for snowflakes. You wanna ride, then ride. Don’t worry about what someone else is wearing or not wearing, that’s the problem with “avid bikers”. You turn your nose up at someone for stupid $hit. Enjoy the ride the way you want, that’s what freedom is all about.

[@agisler87]

@@The021589cjr I do have a pretty good idea what they sell. When I say adventure bikes I'm referring to something like the BMW R1250 GS, KTM 1290 SAS, that is touring and off-road capable. They don't have a bike that competes with this, at least until their Pan America is released. Selling the kids bycles is smart but their electric bike was ridiculous for the price. I would get a zero first. What bike are you referring to as a performance stunt bike? The only thing I think of is the Iron 883.

[@agisler87]

@@wildrides4354 It's not about turning nose up or thinking your better. I will never ever tell people what to do, but doesn't mean I can't tell someone they are being a moron. And I say the same thing to sport bikers popping wheelies down the road. And you may think culture doesn'tatter but it plays a big role in image. That's companies pay marketing so much money to develop an image for a brand. And I visited a HD event last summer and of course every Harley rider fit the stereotype pretty damn well. If you have a problem with it then I think you're being the snowflake.

[@MikeBrown-ex9nh]

Harley Davidson is experiencing what the American auto makers learned a long time ago, if you make an overpriced vehicle, and the Japanese make a more dependable, lower priced vehicle, you will loose business. Younger people, which I am not, seem to like crotch rockets. Performance wise, they are more bang for the buck.

[@joetroutt7425]

Yeah a brand new 1000cc supersport bike only runs about 15k

[@MrMann-gt1eh]

Joe Troutt my 1870 CC Low Rider S with Stage 1 tune was 20k. Same as a Ducati v4 or BMW s1000rr. Less than their super gp models like the v4s/v4r, BMW HP4... the price argument is old. You get what you pay for.

[@joetroutt7425]

@@MrMann-gt1eh I was thinking more in terms of Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha. Most ppl in their 20s are more interested in cheap speed. With Ducati and and BMW and even Triumph your buying the name but really their all made the same.

[@raanes1965]

Joe Troutt v

[@deaddoll1361]

@@joetroutt7425 Ducati and BMW are made in Europe, Triumphs are made in Thailand

[@seththomas9105]

Oh boy this could be a whole article, but to try and keep it short. H-D became a victim of its own success in the late 1980's/early 90's by selling the "Harley-Davidson Experience" or whatever the hell that means, instead of staying focused on making motorcycles and servicing what they sell. Those that carried the brand from WWII thru the 80's were gently pushed aside so the RUB's could come in and dump cubic tons of money in a dealership, mainly by buying clothes instead of a actual motorcycle or parts for a bike. To be sure H-D sold a hell of a lot of bikes from 1985-2008 but much of it was to the RUB, 20 miles and 20 Grand club, NOT people who actually enjoy riding motorcycles. The Weekend Warrior badass club really turned off a LOT of motorcyclists and a great majority of those who owned H-D bikes became a parody of themselves (see South Park). I have never had any major issues with any H-D I have owned and own a 1971 FLH up to a 95 Softail and I guess its become fashionable to dump on H-D quality again, merited or not. This article does hit the nail on the head though of how the Boomers and even us Xers are ageing out and the generations coming up don't ride like we did. Any brand. Period. Even the AMA recognizes this issue and are trying to get more people interested in the sport. Will H-D be around in 50 years? I think so, but a drastically smaller company than now.

[@alanlevesque7180]

Killing Buell when they had a nice water cooled bike ready to go also wasn't very smart.

[@NeverDoubtMe23]

All good points but you lost me at the South Park reference. It is a stereotype and while it was justified 20 years ago that is not how new riders are. HD is losing more money than any other company because they have the biggest share of buyers. My generation does not ride and has no interest in riding. It is what it is. I am going to enjoy my hobby while others in my generation focus on what pronouns to call themselves.

[@MrTheHillfolk]

@@alanlevesque7180 I always dug those , I wanna ride quick sometimes and still hear a v twin. To this day it's mindfucking to hear a potato potato ripping by and seeing a sport bike chassis 😆

[@timothyknight2236]

Harley is doing just fine. I've have one and have ridden it most every weekend for twenty years now and it has been very reliable with ZERO breakdowns in over 86,341 miles. Most of these people that make comments are simple taking shots at a market leader because they are not. As for pricing - you are correct they are expensive. I paid 13,863.00 dollars for mine 20 years ago and can get about 10 K for it on most days - Any questions???? ..................Ride to ride gentleman and ride what makes you smile....life is very short - Have a nice day.

[@wwb7091]

I'm from Wisconsin... the home of H-D. There are so damn many used Harleys for sale on Cycletrader and Craigslist that folks are having a hard time giving them away. They list for a high price, and it keeps coming down, and down, and down, and it's STILL listed. You can think it's worth that, but try to sell it.

[@vdrummersticks951]

I travel for a living and find myself in every HD store I come across. Mostly looking for cool clothes and check out what's new. These bikes are now into the 40ks and it is crazy to me. Even the house t-shirts are crazy. 35 dollars for a base t-shirt. Are you crazy. Just because it says HD on it. Everything over priced. Even the discounted sale clothing is crazy. They did this to themselves. I have 2 bikes and am proud to own them and drive them. It is just too much for the average person to keep up with the pricing.

[@billmart67]

Steven Benedict ill never buy Harley cloths again! Made in China! Too much greed, out sourcing from a cheaper place! I am pulling away from China’s cheap ass quality shit!

[@Lokyr00]

@@billmart67 Just like over 50% of the parts used to make the bikes.

[@mackisbrocklesnar]

When average cost of motorcycle is 4x the average monthly salary... It is difficult to flourish.

[@4chukwuebuka]

saurabh mhatre whose monthly salary is $5,000 a month?

[@mackisbrocklesnar]

@Rick SimpsonIs it?! U are then really successful at keeping off the ppl with average intelligence and above.

[@thisgame2]

@@4chukwuebuka only poor ppl make 5 k a month

[@thisgame2]

@Rick Simpson if you think harley cares about certain people your lost back in the seventies

[@mikeellingwood7902]

they need to focus more on the clothing line and less on their secondary business of building cycles.

[@sunnyvalejedi]

🤣😂

[@GreatMochaChino]

They should move into pyramid schemes aswell

[@MakeCriminalsIllegalAgain]

mike Ellingwood lol I was living near Wrigley Field in Chicago and they opened a store. I called because I needed some kind of gasket for my sportster at the time. The girl on the phone had no idea what I was talking about when I asked for the parts department. After a few awkward seconds she explained to me that they were simply a t-shirt shop 🤪

[@LexGrossmansDog]

That’s funny...

[@cschelin]

You guys are so much fun. Cruisers are for cruising. Taking in the sights, bar hopping, going slow and steady. Touring. Sport bikes are for fun. Hooning around the curves. Racing at the track. Dual sport for dirt and road riding. Still fun but mainly for hitting the dirt. Sport touring are touring bikes for the sportier crowd. Still cruising but having fun in the mountains and curvy roads. Personally the two Harleys I owned hurt my back. When I switched, after 30 years of riding, to a sport bike, it was significantly more comfortable TO ME. My latest is a 2002 Hayabusa I use for touring. 135,000 miles and other than two, I’ve visited every state and province in the US and Canada. Tons of fun. Ride safe!

[@alterrush5930]

Trump: *increases prices of core motorcycle metals* Also Trump: please make your beautiful motorcycles in USA. *stonks*

[@LuxFerre21]

That was Obama's fault

[@mujibkhan5934]

@@LuxFerre21 of course ot was, trumptard

[@endel12]

Lux Ferre You really couldn’t make it 7 minutes into the video? Harley’s manufacturing is effected by steel tariffs enacted by Trump

[@shamrock141]

@@zoyaspencer8025 did you watch the video, he's literally saying it whilst being recorded

[@alterrush5930]

@@willw1753 Hey man, I don't care. I don't live in America.

[@louisjones2653]

25 years old and bought my first new bike last month- a Triumph. Never been interested in the Harley persona or lifestyle.

[@kogasoldier9379]

Triumph is in the perfect spot to take harleys market share.

[@newhampshirelifestyle4233]

@@kogasoldier9379 Triumph is garbage. There is no enthusiasm for Triumph. American made Harley-Davidson is the bike everyone wants to own.

[@kogasoldier9379]

@@newhampshirelifestyle4233 among boomers who want to relive the glory days maybe. But the sentiment of the newer wave of riders is far from wanting to choose from just a line of overpriced baggars and oh, an overpriced electric when the market has far more to offer. They'll always have a section of dedicated fanboys but outside of lawyers and doctors playing weekend warrior there just isn't much demand.

[@hellogoodbye9345]

@@newhampshirelifestyle4233 lmao.. Triumph actually produces new products with new technology and engineering in their product lines. From a Tiger, to a Speed Twin, Speed/Street Triple to a Daytona.. they're progressive and enthusiastic about their product and performance output. Harley is fkn lost and confused, over priced 1970s bs still offered today but with fuel injection whoooopie!!! Lmao!

[@Mainswitch55]

@@newhampshirelifestyle4233 Triumph is garbage? Your comment shows that you´ve probably never owned a Triumph or even ridden one. Triumph makes the most detailed and lovingly motorcycles out there. Trust me, they are very reliable and way ahaed of HD and even better, not that overpriced! ;-) There is of course enthusiasm for Triumph. Don´t get me wrong, i´m saying nothing against HD, everyone should ride what he or she wants. But saying Triumph is garbage couldnt be more away from the truth. You´re statement everyone wants an american made HD is unfortunately very wrong too... They are all just heavy, slow and if you´re going trough the alps here in europe you probably need new footrests after every ride... Triumphs are very agile, relatively light weighted, powerful and you would love throwing them into any and every curve and corner! HD unfortunately doesnt give a sh... about the customer, like, we build what we want and the customer has to buy it... While Triumph is listening to the customer, for example, some customers of The Street Twin complained that the front brakes and Power could be a bit improved, 2 yrs later, voila, 18% more HP and a 310mm Brembo for front brakes... Kind Regards from Austria

[@guruh786]

Bikes should be cheap, economical, good mileage and fun. Harley is just fun. Nothing else

[@hivaidz3250]

Honda's are all 3

[@stevexaxa3619]

Yeah fun is great and I have a big Harley 114 ci motor and get just over 40 mph.. maybe cars should be also we can eliminate all expensive cars ... and I know a lot of people on harleys that are minorities.... most of this video is stupid but yes sales are down for bikes in general

[@martincvitkovich724]

@@stevexaxa3619 your a breath of fresh air in this hate mongering comments.

[@guruh786]

Steve Xaxa bcoz prices increased too much. Who wants pays 10- 15k Millennials in general don’t buying much vehicles

[@guruh786]

Martin Cvitkovich hate mongering?? Are u snowflake or what. This is how men talk

[@cintroberts6614]

I quit riding Harleys when my starter motor went out and Harley wanted $450 for a new one. Harley forced me to ride a Honda.

[@Bishco2]

The attitude of many owners today is what really turns me off. I’ve owned two harleys in the early 00’s. Today it really feels like most riders buy them solely so they can tell others they own one and put a sticker on the back of their Silverado so others know they ride HD. The leather vests and all things HD just seems pandering anymore. It’s mostly people that are square and conform to the absolute maximum, but think because they buy a Harley, it suddenly sets them apart.

[@nahnahson]

You got the truck wrong, they go and buy the Harley Davidson version of the f150. This is literally a thing

[@tnelliott2447]

lk B yup, you nailed it on the sticker. And all the clothes all the time! Lol the they stand around in the clothes made in Europe saying buy American lol

[@tnelliott2447]

J G 😂👍

[@dirtbeard108]

Much the same as the Starbucks crowd. It's the in thing to do even though they know that $6 for a coffee is crazy, they do it anyway.

[@jackamane7818]

lmao i'll be honest, i did buy myself a harley this past halloween because it's a harley. i know how these things are built, manufactured and their reliability. it's just that i've always wanted a harley since i was around the age of 7. but i'll never be like those guys you see on the road with no helmet, dressed in harley gear head to toe, has a gun on them and have that tough guy attitude.

[@musicmotorskate7540]

I really like Harley's but they're just too expensive.

[@elpresidente3397]

I like them too but if it makes you feel better look how the crank shaft is bolted together not like all yes all motorcycles it's not a solid piece and as a car mechanic with years and years of experience that is the part to question. Also the engine case is not like a normal motorcycle it's two pieces bolted together like an old yes old yes old style volks bug. My biker friend an ex mc now drives a triumph . Too many of Harleys are at home garaged for the purpose of assets just for bank loans like having gold coins .

[@Arltratlo]

just to loud and low quality for European and Japanese standards...and an unreasonly price tag.....

[@spikem1547]

I enjoy working on my Harley, it's sitting on my rack now with the cam chain guides blown out on it now with only 21,000 miles on it.

[@alancrane4693]

You mean you got 21000 miles. I think you broken a world record apart from the cam tensioner that is.

[@nonyabuznuss2944]

The reason Harley became a dominant brand is because they almost exclusively produced bikes with an American heritage that everyone appreciated and longed for. I remember the days I had to wait 4 months for my new Harley to arrive because of demand. AHHHH...To have an American made big twin motorcycle lumbering down the road with a noise that filled your soul and made you proud to be a Harley owner. It was so awesome. Not so much now. The whole point of buying a Harley used to mean that you were buying a product that was first designed and built in an old wooden garage by two dudes who had a badass American spirit. Now "Harley" is just another global corporation ruled by stock market performance and nothing else. They have gotten away from that and now they are paying the price. EV bike? seriously?

[@justinpatino1774]

Whenever I see a Harley I just think of that South Park episode lmao.

[@chuckley54494]

Lol i like the guy at the urinal... that is what i think of making exhaust noise with his mouth

[@nishhnishh1088]

Season-episode?

[@Papada00]

Same. I thought about that episode too. I thought they would mention about it in this video.

[@RossMalagarie]

BRA BRA BRA BRA BRA BRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAA! LUL

[@FXDLS-ot1wq]

Justin Patino I ride a Harley and every time I throw my leg over it I think of the episode too! Hilarious!

[@600rrwheelieopjemoeder3]

"Harleys are fast" Laughs in CBR 600RR

[@600rrwheelieopjemoeder3]

45 vs 114 hp, we both know that the Ninja will lose. Yeah sure there always is a guy with a faster bike but that wan't the point, the point was Harley's being slow.

[@Mopar_Turtle]

mine could hang with you! of course i've done a lot of engine work to get to this point haha but who cares? I have fun :)

[@chrisr4815]

Crotch rockets are for soy boys with vaginas. They're embarrassing. Looked at like the teen in a riced out Honda civic. Nobody takes them seriously.

[@PeppyZeb]

How the hell do you get "in" a motorcycle. You dont laugh in a CBR600, you laugh on one. 600s are useless on the road....

[@bigpapa8152]

@@chrisr4815 Harleys are for mechanics, or for those that like picking up pot bellied trailer park queens. They are also for guys that like to turn gasoline into noise, without any of that pesky horsepower to ruin the ride.

[@infiltraitorchin7485]

Why didn't she talk about when AMC acquired Harley Davidson and they started producing the crappiest bikes on the road?

[@whocares2227]

It was AMF........................ Buy a Harley Buy the Best Ride a mile Walk the rest

[@adamsmith3413]

Aeromecano I’ve seen Yamahas in dumpsters and I’ve seen HD from 1948 on the road.

[@kimmartin9025]

DONT BUY A BIKE FOR STATUS. HD RIDERS OVER PAY FOR LESS TECHNOLOGY. WHEN I AM ON MY MOTORCYCLE I MAKE IT A POINT TO BURN A HARLEY. BECAUSE THEY HAVE NO RESPECT FOR OTHER BIKES WHICH IS WEIRD THEY AINT OUTLAWS THEY WORK 9 -5

[@alananderson5202]

@@adamsmith3413 Yamaha are ranked #1 for reliability. Don't fool yourself.

[@strattuner]

THAT'S DUE ENTIRELY TO THE FACT THAT ITS BRAND LOYALTY even to the idiot who got one by accident,he's gonna get top money due to the name,HARLEY IS MY FIRST BIKE,AND MY ONLY BIKE,SCREW EVERYONE ELSE,I RIDE IT,I LIKE IT,KEEP IT STOCK,PARTS IN EVERY TOWN,IF I WANTED A TOASTER OR SPIN DRYER I'D BUY A HONDA

[@deannarinaldi7362]

there was a harley dealer in my county named " reggie pink", they were in business since like 1920's did very well. they had a decent size showroom and repair shop, corporate told them the had to open a larger store to sell their boots, jackets and stuff. they opened a store in a former car dealership and didn't last two years. riding here in the northeast is seasonal ,in the winters he was starving for work. real shame

[@warringtonfaust1088]

GM did the same thing to their dealers in the early 90's. They demanded a larger showroom, or they would pull GMAC financing. It was called "Taj Mahaling" the dealer. They wanted to reduce the number of dealers. the franchise agreement restricted new dealers in the franchise area, so they forced the dealers to sell.

[@Kupoinfo]

I just bought a new Sportglide, the guy who sold it to me keeps in regular contact and always answers any questions I have. When I went in to test ride, he also took the time to show me all the different bikes and get a feel for them. There was still the air of "snobbery" and even another customer who came in mentioned how he hated my bike's style. But in order to change the Harley culture, we need to change it from within. When it comes to riding, I don't care what anyone rides at the end of the day, just would rather see more motorcycles than suvs on the road. I've just passed the 500 mile marker breaking in my new bike, and I've never had as much fun riding as I do on my new bike. When I come home, sometimes I'll just pass by my house because both the bike and I want to keep riding.

[@powermett3616]

Well Harley had Buell. Perfect Subbrand to appeal younger customer groups. To bad they fucked it up.

[@Yosemite-George-61]

..well said, I had so far 56 motorcycles in 57 years... the Buell Cyclone was one of my best...

[@deathbygod5810]

True, the only technological advances Harley had is the Vrod and Buell. And they scrapped them both right now.

[@bedlamite42]

@@deathbygod5810 The Vrod is what happens when Harley takes an engine to Porsche and asks them to make it work.

[@WaldoVH]

They should have made Eric Buell president instead of firing him. They should have made dirt bikes to hook younger generations. They should have made sport bikes that could go toe to toe with the Japanese bikes. Instead, we got slow cruisers that sound like a lawnmowers. It's sad.

[@TheBandit7613]

@@WaldoVH You're right. I started out on dirt bikes. Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki. Then had kids. Of course I bought them dirt bikes. They are now in their early 20's and laugh at the Briggs and Stratton powered Harleys.

[@willgeo2215]

I just bought a Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster. Had a HD and it was more hype than anything.

[@vareseources]

I'm Filipino in my middle 40s and would pick Goldwing all the time.

[@Goldentee2010]

In the early 1980's, Harley Davidson lobbied for protection from Japanese imported motorcycles. In 1983, the US imposed a 49.4 percent tariff on imported motorcycles with engine capacities greater than 700 cc. The tariff percentage dropped every year following and expired in 1988.

[@northerniltree]

You failed to mention that Harley successfully rebounded and had then president Reagan drop the tariff before it expired. In this case, the tariff was meant to level the playing field, helping Harley, unlike Trump's metals tariffs that caused retaliatory measures against Harley.

[@SweBeach2023]

My old bike were one of these affected. Sold with 750 cm3 in Europe and only 700 cm3 in America. The rest of the bike left unchanged.

[@docholliday6285]

You mean those Japanese bikes subsidized by their government so as to flood our market with cheap bikes? Yep, I remember that too.

[@michelshodan1916]

All their issues are resuming into a single one : the price. Even compared with european competitors as Bmw or Triumph.

[@mikekeltner4291]

I bought a triumph speedmaster cheaper than a Harley down payment, screw Harley Davidson

[@Kris_P._Bey_Ken]

Harley Shmarley, Triumph is where it's at.

[@grren1782]

To get a well made bike, you pay a steeper price

[@sunnyvalejedi]

@@grren1782 Exactly! You get a BMW.

[@grren1782]

@@sunnyvalejedi if I wanted to ride on something that was going to break that quickly I'd buy a Ducati and at least go fast in the process

[@PulpComic]

I would totally buy a ‘sporty’ Harley but it doesn’t exist. Suspension, engine and brakes are just not up to the standard of a Triumph or Ducati for similar money.

[@goalaspect]

and they break down all the time

[@rayban5737]

Same but Harley owners want a loud flashy pig really

[@LuxLazar]

It took them 50 years to update a shitty motor, and the new one isn't much better.

[@RossMalagarie]

@@rayban5737 BRA BRA BRA BRA BRA BRAAAAAAAA!

[@Lancaster604]

They do exist. They are called Buell.

[@Jan_Tenev]

Harleys Davidson time is over it's 2021 young people want kawasakis, ducatis,suzukis etc.

[@lycan_system8427]

Unless,,unless they make the resr tyre large built a cafe racer model with a huge exhaust to match the R1 or a panigale and bingo u got an extreme bike at the price of an airplane

[@hayden3774]

I ride a Harley. I am a petite 24 year old woman and I tend to get brotherhood-like respect from other riders, but its because I ride a motorcycle, not because its a harley. They never tell you that you have to pay extra for loud pipes. They never tell you that service prices cost upwards of $350 (dependong on how much you ride, this can be every 6 months - I ride almost every day, so this is how much it was for me). They never tell you that you have to buy a warranty, and if you dont, then you're screwed if something breaks (as it does, especially with harley, because harleys aint cheap to fix). The only redeeming quality about Harley is their resale value is good. Other than that, the innovations Indian has made have far outweighed anything Harley's got, the indian scout bobber is calling my name

[@antoniousai1989]

Yeah, but Indian has no global reach. I can find a service center in my region for HD, can't say the same for Indian