Why Bikers Are Questioning Harley-Davidson | NYT News

This is Sturgis: A massive biker rally in South Dakota. Harley-Davidson has always been a mainstay here, but since the company announced that it’s moving some production overseas, some die-hard fans are questioning their loyalty.
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[@harunsuaidi7349]

0:43 "If I have to explain, you wouldn't understand." These guys have more in common with hipsters than they would admit.

[@Hyperpandas]

Right down to the ugly beards and claims of individualism while looking exactly the same as one another.

[@nizzie16]

@@Sanny987 That's so spot on.

[@CoreyBrass]

Let me translate... I understand my Harley is inferior in every aspect but I love Merica and even though I can get a Honda that's truly made in the USA I'm going to stick with words from Harley, not deeds from Honda.

[@kcstott]

@@CoreyBrass Exactly, Oh and not have a problem riding a overpriced pile of parts.

[@superfluous9726]

@dorian diddles They couldn't afford education after buying their Harley.

[@Chalky.]

What they're saying just shows that buying a Harley is 90% about the image and 10% about the actual machine.

[@keithburns5707]

Yep I think that was one of their advertisements.you’re not just buying a motorcycle you’re buying a lifestyle

[@c.cannon1102]

Yup, they're like an apple fanboy

[@jaymesp95]

Just like Jeep

[@thedebatemechannel4746]

You mean like how people buy most things? You mean like how we make most decisions? How we voted? #Emotion

[@horseshoe182]

@Sandy Lee men getting all dressed up in leather, umm.

[@dylanfarris7647]

All of this talk but no real mention of how absurdly over priced their bikes are.

[@Hero_of_Legend]

Common myth. In reality, Harleys can be surprisingly affordable, depending on what you want. A Sportster Superlow 883 will run you roughly $8,500 brand new. That's less than you'll pay for any car worth owning, even 5 years old. The higher end tourers do get pretty pricey, but that's the price you pay for luxury features. Also, they aren't priced nearly as far above competitors, as you'd think. Compare a Harley of any given year, to an equivalent Indian, Victory, etc, and you'll find they're often less than $1,000 difference. HOWEVER, for that difference, you get a WHOLE LOT slower depreciation rate.

[@woolypuffin392]

@@Hero_of_Legend 😂 8'500 is cheap for you? My bike cost me 2000 and if something has to be repared, i dont have to spend an arm or a leg to buy a name (Oh sorry, bike parts).

[@Hero_of_Legend]

​@@woolypuffin392Yeah, but if you decided to sell it, how much can you get for it? Probably not a lot, given the depreciation rates most makers suffer from. Harleys hold their value better than anything else on the market. And yes, repairs can get expensive, but if you handle things PROPERLY, they'll also be rare. Got anything else?

[@Hero_of_Legend]

@@hayden3774 PolarIndian is just a Victory with a higher price tag, and a desperate attempt to copy Harley-Davidson's style.

[@ItsGuyLeDouche]

@@Hero_of_Legend dude if you buy a bike for resale , you shouldnt be buying a bike.

[@tjbratcher6034]

These people make us Harley riders look bad. Ride what you want, a Yamaha, a Suzuki, a Honda, just ride what you want and like. Enjoy riding brothers, dont make it full of hate. It's all personal preference.

[@CigarKingDom]

I ride a Vulcan S 650cc and love it. The other day I was riding home and saw what looked like a stereotypical harley rider: big brawny white dude with a fat "glide" type of bike. I pulled up next to him on the light and he gave me a nod and a peace sign.

[@tjbratcher6034]

@@CigarKingDom Man, the Vulcans are nice. Harley riders do have a stereotypical look 😂. That's what I've heard some people call the "Harley Hello".

[@alienvseditor]

@@CigarKingDom Man I've been wanting a Vulcan but Harley's V-Twin aesthetic simply entices me more, so i'm still torn between an Iron 883 or the Vulcan

[@CigarKingDom]

@@alienvseditor ride whatever you feel will make you happy! My choice was between the 1200 and Vulcan S but it made no sense for me to go beyond 1000cc for my first set of wheels.

[@alienvseditor]

@@CigarKingDom how is the Vulcan performance wise? I wanted to go to the nearest dealer to try it out but this lockdown is preventing me from it

[@georgejefferson8003]

Harley Davidson = the most efficient way to turn gasoline into noise without the side effects of horsepower.

[@breakoutpete210]

George Jefferson ...that line has been overused by so many other Harley trashers. You’ve never ridden a Harley to understand what those motorcycles are about.

[@robcharuk2351]

George Jefferson savage! :)

[@jasonchicoine4282]

George Jefferson original

[@scarbourgeoisie]

It's not about HP, it's about how the bike makes YOU feel.

[@lvtrackriders4460]

absolute facts lol, getting a harley relegates you to an inferior bike in every way, speed, power, efficiency, lightness, etc etc etc

[@OpenRoader]

Brand loyalty, be it Harley, Chevy, Apple, Coke....none of it makes sense. Pledging your allegiance to a corporation that only see's you as MONEY and not a person is point less. Put down your phone and go outside

[@dannychildree346]

Open Roader Absolutely. Its time people got their head out of the clouds and faced a true reality. Nothing is made in America anymore.

[@snogglemonkey]

Yep feeling warm and fuzzy about a company who is in the business of making money is kind of dumb. HD is just doing what companies always do - taking whatever necessary steps is required to keep making a profit.

[@worldofzap]

Putting my phone down and going outside is also riding my Harley 🤪

[@Lengsel7]

"Nothing is made in America anymore." 60-80% of my clothes, shoes are made in the USA. I just bought cutting boards and 2 can openers that were made in the USA. There are plenty of things made, or at least assembled in the USA, or made in the USA using foreign parts/materials. You just have to look around.

[@holmes1956O]

Brad K kenworth trucks used to be assembled in america most all parts were manufactured in the us. No they are assembled in mexico under us supervision using mostly us made parts. So does that kind of turn around in manufacturing it better or worse. I dont really care who assembles it or makes the parts as long as it is done right. That is something that is getting hard to get in nth america got work ethic and pride in you work

[@Dr.Westside]

My Honda was made in Marysville Ohio .

[@johnblackstone5261]

Mine was made in Canada

[@johnblackstone5261]

@Scott Cole I thought he meant cars .

[@samanthaalvarez7724]

Thank you for supporting our economy

[@samanthaalvarez7724]

And to the guy that said they make them in Japan you’re wrong they make the shadow in Japan the rest are still made in Ohio

[@dixiekayaker805]

My Valkyries (both) came from the Marysville plant. Nice bikes and I think for myself, I'm not afraid not to go along with the Harley crowd. They can ride with me if they can keep up.

[@Arthurzeiro]

That moment the 'blue collar' motorcycle is more boutique and expensive than its european and asian rivals.

[@briancorcoran8266]

Yep

[@cameronsmith6256]

ArthurAlcantara Harley is seen as the “blue collar” bike, but cost more than a bmw which is seen as the “fancy” rich bike

[@redrocker1055]

And not as well made.

[@mrfunatparties6763]

Just imagine when they find out their gas isn’t American

[@MAGirlable]

OMG burn. LOL.

[@dancahill9122]

Buck chuck Norris Morris 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@FuckZionist]

Nice 😂

[@kbtube8125]

my gas is American - nobody likes it.

[@2011blueman]

Their gas IS American. The US is poised to become the largest oil producer in the world this year. As of 2011 the US has become a net exporter of oil, i.e. we export more oil than we use.

[@magnusthereddidnithingwrong]

Harley-Davidson is the #1 cosplay supplier in the USA. CHANGE MY MIND

[@idkman360]

It is. It’s for boomers who want to put on there “tough guy outfits” and make lots of noise

[@NinjaJone5]

What an original opinion.

[@Wonderland_Homestead]

Oh my god

[@MilesBellas]

LOL

[@kentpierson832]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 well done sir

[@iridiumoxide.5273]

That aren't made in America. They are assembled in America. And they are massively overpriced. Period.

[@corombb]

Except Rolls Royce creates a quality product and brings a *lot* of new tech to the industry. Harley just takes old, questionably reliable tech and sells it for a massive premium and they take ages to adopt new technology - even if it massively increases safety (ex: BMW Motorrad had ABS braking in '88, Harley didn't get ABS until '05 for LE bikes and '08 for consumer bikes).

[@sportytaco2153]

Name one vehicle brand that sources all components in its nation of manufacture. I'll wait...

[@SuperDame21]

True!!

[@ericjamesphotography]

Oh he said period, it must be true.

[@yep2464]

Pretty much. U can get a brand new Honda, Suzuki or Yamaha chopper for about 50%-60% cheaper than a Harley. Same engine sizes too

[@cvillefarmer]

"Buy American " says the guy wearing ray ban sunglasses made in china by an italian company

[@Gewehr_3]

In fairness they could be vintage

[@adamguzzo94]

Mine were made in Italy, least your getting something for the price

[@polskatoja]

The OG had mentioned “ If I had to explain, u would not understand” It sure looks he was right…

[@NoHippieBBQCooking]

Tattoo parlors gonna get rich covering Harley Davidson Tattoos if people take it this personal

[@michaelcarley7016]

Yeah it will be funny when these old tweekers come out for a redo!

[@immikeurnot]

They will. I know a lot of Harley riders, and the brand is all a big fashion thing.

[@kbnguy]

Oh no! "VTEC kicked in yo!"

[@artmchugh5644]

immikeurnot when I ride my ducati I wear a shirt that says " the odometer proves my ducati is no FASHION ACCESSORY "!!!😄😄😄

[@serrios2000]

No Hippie BBQ & Cooking I bet , you are not one of them !

[@briancolvin6554]

A 500 dollar leather jacket that says harley but is not made in the US, should tell people all they need to know about the brand.

[@MrNightpwner]

Walk into a Harley store in those tourist malls and it's all Chinese

[@VinnigsSpinTheBlock]

Never though about that! I always check tags now i support my country and fellow country men/women

[@ok.ok.5735]

Yep. Harley Davidson is dumb for outsourcing it's motorcycles. Made in America is a good way to keep generations coming back by building loyalty

[@DxModel219]

I'm sorry but I can't buy Made in Chinese unless I know it's baby clothes. If it's made in USA, i have to double check quality. Italian, Japanese and German brands I can trust i bit more.

[@CliftonPhotographer]

The same could be said about NFL fans who spend $100 to buy a shirt made in China, pay $50 to get into a stadium,$20 for parking, buy a $10 beer all to watch an NFL player make $100 million who will then send half of that money back to his country to support his family! Can't imagine why America's going broke?

[@MillieBobbyJamesBrown]

I like HD but the Japanese make the best bikes hands down

[@nigeltaylor2832]

@Kaven Gilbert *laughs in german*

[@obiwankenobi5769]

Honda baby!

[@Thisfutureman]

Japanese and the europeans !!!

[@joxepojoxepin2752]

@Comanche do you know how many people have done round the world trips with boxer engined bmw's? Search the Web my friend.

[@joxepojoxepin2752]

@Comanche what I mean is that they would not choose them if they weren't reliable.

[@imatlastheyote]

“I don’t want to buy an inferior motorcycle” Welp, too late there, mate.

[@migueljonz3901]

Using Harley and the word inferior in the same sentence makes sense to me! And you're right, way too late buddy!

[@Scoobywoo7447]

I've never got the Harley guys slow noisey and way too expensive

[@illuforce]

@@Scoobywoo7447 yah,sportbike sound way better.

[@stonyman4062]

If you never had a Harley you well never know the feeling

[@illuforce]

@@stonyman4062 I never will. Too big and bulky. It will make weaving through traffic much harder and you won't get that great acceleration when you take off of a light.

[@benpanike4539]

Realistically Harley was going to be losing these customers anyway. They're the same people who have rejected and sabotaged every attempt Harley has made to modernize and bring in new customers, they're the reason Harley still primarily makes air-cooled v-twins when every other manufacture has largely abandoned them in favor of more powerful and efficient designs. Bending over backwards to please these "loyal" Harley riders at the expense of not bringing in new customers is why their sales base was shrinking long before Trump ever even thought about starting a trade war. Harley's latest attempt at building a more diverse and modern line of motorcycles was just as likely to alienate these old guard bikers as opening a factory overseas, and is more likely to help save the company than continuing to make poor business decisions just to please a bunch of crotchety old boomers.

[@bryanfong1023]

HAHA NO they are probably going to die soon too

[@carlgoogle2869]

The air cooled design is my biggest dislike about my FXDWG. The Summer riding in city is brutal on the oil & engine. Got so bad in Cape Cod on the 4th that my engine was pinging ,while stuck in traffic.

[@LiveMusicOntario]

The 3 new models I have seen released images of are butt fugly. The adventure bike has the front nacelle of a 1980 Dodge Aspen. They've really thrown in the towel on innovation, like they're going through the motions of being with the times.

[@Konghulio]

Thank you. Someone who gets it.

[@jameslyons1624]

HAHA NO

[@rc70ys]

No such thing as loyalty. Brand loyalty ? Made cheap and sold expensive !!

[@stillborn62]

There is no loyalty in any business anymore. This goes for stores,banks,supermarkets. And insurance companies.

[@lazrussanschei5372]

Problem is Harleys are way overpriced for what they are. You can buy a Yamaha for a third of the price and it'll last you three times as long and with a third of the maintenance costs. If Harlyes were cheaper, I might even buy one and I'm not 55

[@emilwestgaardhenriksen1715]

I agree with you completely, my biggest beef with harley though is that a harley engine is basically as expensive as a new bike, that is ridiculous.

[@randomrandom5740]

Street rod vs Vulcan A couple thousand difference and the vulcan is better

[@michaelneely4851]

And Yamaha has also opened assembly factory's here in the US. My vstar was assembled in Georgia

[@wiscgaloot]

@@michaelneely4851 Nice bike! If I wanted a cruiser, that's the bike I'd get. I prefer standard motorcycles though, and my '88 BMW R100GS is still the only bike I need.

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

@@wiscgaloot Yup ! Luv my '85 R80RT. Engineering over "style" .

[@audio-video-stereo]

Fact : 90% of all Harley’s manufactured after 1980 are still on the road. The other 10% made it back.

[@teektalon3310]

F**kn funniest but true statement lve seen all week!!! Bravo Mark !

[@warmage247]

Hahaha omg mark that's amazing!

[@DanielCampos911]

Mark Teixeira so unoriginal y’all boomers need some new memes

[@Travixius1]

They last years, because their owners only take them out once a month.

[@omarsalgado9715]

Wow, it should feel great to be that original... Hahaha

[@basemandog]

Overpricing is why HD has been failing Lack of innovation and reliability issues haven’t helped. Harley planned the Kansas city Factory closing, long before Trump. I live here, we knew it was coming a long time ago

[@sebastianasian]

The Problem is not about moving their Facility to Overseas. It's about Younger Generation not buying into Harley Image (Old guy in beard, leather jacket, tatoos, cigarette smell) So their sales are not strong enough to keep them in states. I understand their concern though. Do you know some BMWs are made in states? some had GM parts in it? No BMW buyer would like that.

[@ExtremeDeathman]

"Inferior motorcycle" says the biker who rides technology from the 50's...

[@jeffreyponting9524]

They have gotten that 60 + age group so brain washed that they will buy anything that Harley puts their name on a sweat that's it is the greatest thing ever. Harley should start making motorized scooters and team up with depends to make Harley Davidson adult diapers.

[@jeffreyponting9524]

At the nursing home they can say they have the loudest motorized wheelchair with a metal flake paint job. My dad is a Vietnam veteran that passed away in April of 2019 from health problems caused by agent orange. As a kid I saw him and his buddies ride Harleys. He put so much time and money into that pile of junk that it was hard to watch. Him and other guys in the VA assisted nursing home proudly wore their Harley t-shirts. The younger generation demands that an American company, and American engineering give us the world's best at a competitive price not unreliable warmed over 1940s technology with built in design flaws at a premium price.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@@jeffreyponting9524 HD has plans to make electric scooters but for Children .. Your idea may be better..

[@silverback802]

Exactly

[@harrisn3693]

ExtremeDeathman Just like Boeing, inferior aircraft compared to Ilyushin, Tupolev or Antonov.

[@blackholeentry3489]

My very first motorcycle was a Harley....I was 16. Two days later, I took off on a 3500 mile trip with my 15 year old brother sitting behind me, with almost no riding experience. For 15 years, I rode Harleys and would barely glance at anything else, putting 140K on four of them, including riding 100 miles a day for three years commuting to work. Because I was raising two sons, I made a decision to quit riding. Six months later, my ex brother in law rode up my driveway on a brand new Honda 750 and asked me to take it for an evaluation ride, so I did. Here was a bike that looked good, sounded better and was equipped with something which was a totally foreign concept to HD at the time...a front brake that actually worked, and, with a twist of the throttle, would also leave a Harley in the dust. It was at that point, I realized I wasn't tired of riding at all…..I was tired of Harleys. I bought my first Honda shortly thereafter and never looked back. Right now I have two Honda ST 1100's and am planning a major trip this summer, first to visit my brother in northern ID, then diagonal through CO, visiting Pikes Peak on the way to the UFO museum in Roswell, NM, before heading home.

[@harunsuaidi7349]

Prices aside, I think their brand image just doesn't ring that well with younger generations.

[@nickb2208]

I wonder why when you got Santa's alcoholic meth addicted grungy brother as there main consumer. It's basically there mascot.

[@EvilTwin123]

Yup. Very true. The HAHLEE image isn't what the under 35s want. Four bikes so far. Three Hondas and a Kawasaki. Harley's don't have that oomph for me.

[@EvilTwin123]

@@nickb2208 Their There They're English language is a tool. Stop using a hammer 🔨 when a screwdriver is called for.

[@NeridaWarwick]

To their sad loss, but wait until they wake to the amazing feel of a machine that has a history of being loved by people who can't explain their loyalty and pride. Yes, I think pride has a lot to do with it, after all, you can't ride a Harley all day long, there are times when Just admiring it sitting in the living room is fun too.

[@ASLUHLUHC3]

I think they're cool

[@jimhunt3488]

In 2011 I decided to buy a bike. I researched everything. Honda 750 shadow is what I purchased. I Love Harleys, I can't afford one. I paid a third less for my Honda, drove it 40,000 miles. Still running strong.

[@adamm5549]

A very smart move actually if a cruiser is what you are into. It also shows that a motorcycle doesn't need to have an engine large enough to power a small car, to still be fun.

[@joaquinsolis7071]

I regret selling mine 😔

[@corndizzel]

$40,000 spent on the bike an then another $5000 in Harley merchandise. I always thought that was dumb. Guess I need some Acura an Chevy clothing.

[@JmaK17]

Harley riders are a meme in the biker world 😂 I remember like 5 years ago a tanker truck spilled oil almost the entire way across the island of Ireland before the driver realised and everyone posted pics of the oil streaks on the highway like “Looks like the Harley riders had their annual ride out early this year” 😂

[@randymagnum143]

If I wanted something big, heavy, and slow, that only had 2 cylinders, I'd get a John deere.

[@iivaridark6850]

Hilarious!

[@Gantzz321]

BUT don't expect to work in it, JD has been using the digital millennium copyright act to prevent American Farmers from repairing equipment they own themselves. They are insisting that they transport this super heavy tractors from the farm to a dealer ship, or pay to have techs go to the farms, an do the repairs, or they are breaking the law. JD even went so far as to pay off politicians to prevent an exception to the law for farmers. This is all 100% true, an has been written about, youtube has a video about it too. Just google search "John Deere not letting farmers repair own tractors"

[@poncoolride]

Randy Magnum ok you do that then. you go girl!

[@randymagnum143]

bill frost, you're so right, it's totally so fast, and definitely doesn't have any overheating issues. I mean, it's at least as fast as a 71 Norton, right? No? Well, it's faster than a 40 year old xs1000 Yamaha? No? Huh. Your bike sucks. It's quick for a Harley. Like being the world's tallest midget.

[@chriscrawford3397]

Randy Magnum crotch rockets are designed for Speed. I have a Road Glide Custom with a 120R Screamin Eagle my bike has a hundred thirty-seven pounds of torque to the rear tire and a top speed of 170 for a Harley.

[@samanthaalvarez7724]

Harly sold an image not a good product, all that noise and vibrations does not equal power

[@crunks2955]

Samantha Alvarez It was never about power. It WAS about the noise and vibration. So they did good

[@kkk-ff5th]

@@crunks2955 if you really feel that way then I'll show you the real noise and vibration. Now turn around *Unzips*

[@crunks2955]

Yes daddy

[@NeridaWarwick]

@@crunks2955 Absolutely. If you don't get the magic of a Harley then you probably never will. Don't feel bad, not everyone gets off on the history, style and feel of this amazing machine. It's horses for courses.

[@Jake-rs9nq]

@@NeridaWarwick It’s an overpriced bike using tech from 70 years ago where more care is put into appearance than the machinery. It’s no wonder the “history” is not enough to make people buy them.

[@vausemike]

Narrow mindedness is so heartwarming

[@Liquidtbags]

"It's the sound, the feel, the rumble the shake" But not the performance tho Not the price tho Not the design tho Not the research and tech tho Not the racing history tho

[@monksapollo735]

They should just buy a vibrator 😂😂😂

[@execration_texts]

It's the image, the salesman saw their insecurity coming a mile away

[@marklaymon6698]

I don't know, I kind of like how my bike doesn't rattle apart at idle, can corner, doesn't cause back and shoulder pain, gets outstanding gas mileage, doesn't spend most of it's life in a repair shop, and doesn't require earplugs to ride. But that's just me.

[@marklaymon6698]

@bob morane maybe born on the track, but have they actually won anything? I don't think so, racing has been dominated by Japanese and European bikes for a long time. Harley's answer to racing, Buell, died before it even started. It's hard to win at racing with heavy engines that can only wind to 7-8grand, if that.

[@marklaymon6698]

@bob morane that was over 100 years ago, I rest my case.

[@jeffmendell4533]

I love HD. But lets be honest they’re on their way out. The Glory days are behind us

[@mikeskidmore6754]

HD went Bankrupt in the 1970's they sell a lot of bikes they can down size and survive but I don't see how their Dealers will survive..

[@opiumtrail7032]

When were the glory days?

[@Mike-jv8bv]

@@mikeskidmore6754 everything goes in waves. right now it's on the low tick but usually every decade or so something new will pop out on the scene. right now dynas are more popular than ever especially that west coast style bike with the dirt bike style handlebars. the cruiser isn't likely going anywhere.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@@Mike-jv8bv Is HD still using the frame that Eric Buell desinged 20 years ago ?

[@mrstratau6513]

@@opiumtrail7032 WW 2

[@roybatty-]

In 2009 Harley trashed Buell and destroyed the factory in East Troy, Wisconsin as well as close to a thousand direct American jobs plus many more indirect jobs. In 2017 they trashed the Vrod along with again close to a thousand direct American jobs and many more indirect. Harley needs to revaluate their business strategies.

[@jasonmeadows4075]

The only Harley-related motorcycle I ever considered buying was the Buell Ulysses. It was everything I wanted in a motorcycle: air-cooled, belt drive, low maintenance, good sized fuel tank, comfortable, relatively light weight, great looking, with available trunk and saddlebags, and made in America. It seemed to be a great, long distance adventure-tourer. But it was just too expensive for me at the time, costing $14,000 (in 2006 dollars). Now that I can afford it, Buell no longer exists. There hasn't been any other Harley product I ever considered buying since Buell shut down.

[@chronictwister]

Harley and BMW have something in common, endless money pits

[@bugsy101073]

"Rev up your engines!"-Scotty Kilmer

[@only_james]

BMW is sick tho

[@Swedester]

At least bmw innovates and is usually competing for the #1 spot in its respective classes, whereas Harley is... well, overpriced junk

[@kagolko]

In a group where everyone thinks the same, isn't much thinking going on..

[@ironhead9507]

harley davidson was an American Icon, now you can't even get apparel that's made in America. screw them and build one your self, then you can take even more pride in your ride

[@B-real85]

Well said.

[@ericbyers9554]

Just more profit for Harley

[@wadeyearsago]

Did just that. I know every nut and bolt.

[@asz4809]

Harleys sold in the USA will be made in the USA. Harleys sold in EU will be made in the EU. Riders, don.t buy the lies.

[@orangelion03]

Harley sells bikes made in India. Their 500 and 750cc "entry" bikes. My fiance's son rides a mid-70s Sportster based Bobber, his girlfriend rides one of the India built 750s...pretty well made for an Asian bike. Edit: it was pointed out to me that the 500 and 750 models sold here are built here. Indian built bikes are for the Asian and European markets.

[@scarbourgeoisie]

Truth!

[@r106r106]

@Asz that was my understanding as well. All american sold harleys will still be made in america. With the tariffs in place they have no choice but to move production of over seas sold bikes. You can thank your make america great again president for that too.

[@scottsledgister1877]

All the Street 500 and Street 750's sold in the USA are made in York PA. The bikes made in India are not shipped here they are sold overseas only. I know because I have one and mine according to the VIN was made in the USA.

[@orangelion03]

Thanks for the information Scott. I stand corrected! Enjoy the ride and be safe out there!

[@SickBikeDude]

If Harley wants more business then they would stop over pricing their soft tails by 5-6k Embarrassing. Illogical. Out of touch. Careless. Nonsense.

[@7316bobe]

Agreed 100% accurate.

[@7316bobe]

Thats right. The Honda is cheaper to buy and to service and it is 100% more reliable. A lot of Harley parts are being made in Asia now, all the electrics for instance. Japanese motorcycles have kept the old school look of the Harley better than Harley has, but without all the old school Harley unreliability.

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

Ahhh... Harley riders. Rugged individualists. That all ride the same bike... Dress alike .... And seem to all end up growing the same grey beard.

[@nicholasguerrero5459]

D.A. Risse well when you get old your hair turns grey. Can’t really do anything about that...

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

@@nicholasguerrero5459 And well I know it ! But I always poke a bit of fun at my Harley riding friends... and they let me & my old BMW boxer have it right back !

[@geneh5151]

they do seem to have a dress code

[@whitegoodman7465]

Fat beer drinkers who thinks they are tough. All look the same with the leather, beer guts, jeans, cowboy boots, beards, tattoos, chains, etc smh cookie cutter posers

[@Chalky.]

I've always said that Harley riders basically weat a uniform.

[@jetcarddude]

I love looking at Harley's as I ride my Triumph smiling...........

[@silverback802]

Triumph over Harley. You bet any day. Love triumphs

[@anthonyrosa5006]

Ive owned REAL Triumphs and BSAs. Triumph is now made in Asia not Britain. According to the Consumer reports poll of riders Harley is actually less likely to have a major breakdown in the first 4 years than Triumph. You can remain as ignorant as you like though. Keep blowing smoke up your own patoot. No I dont own or buy Harley, or Triumph. I'm smart and buy from the big 4.

[@God-mb8wi]

@@anthonyrosa5006 mine was made in britain

[@markhorton8578]

@@anthonyrosa5006 From the big 4, which are made in.... ?

[@urethralsensitivity]

The new Bonnies are excellent. I only ride Harleys, but I wish they would update the Sportster line with all the standard tech that the new T120s have, plus a newer, more efficient engine that still retains the 45 degree air cooled look but with hidden radiators and tech. That would be sweet.

[@TheAmerican1963]

Harley is losing sales in the US because they do not appeal to a younger generation..........current customer loyalty is the over 45 crowd......tariffs are an excuse for them to do something, anything, to boost sales....... :-)

[@ANDY1985UK2011]

harley make old fashioned bikes, that's why they don't appeal to younger riders. I'm 32 from england and would buy bikes from the USA if they were modern looking but as they don't it's japanese bikes all the way.

[@robertjeffery4664]

Motorcycles don't appeal to the younger generation much at all because they are becoming politically correct nancy boys at a very fast rate

[@dansmith8984]

The Vrod and breakout look very mode4n. Very fast,too.@@ANDY1985UK2011

[@jamesgargano8812]

That's funny Andy! I happen to own a Harley (Sportster 48) I love it, but I have always been a fan of Brit bikes. Love Nortons and Triumphs. I cannot wait for the Atlas to come to the US.

[@MrTomtomtest]

Harley is moving some production to Europe because it is their best market for growth (better GDP, population & redistribution of resources = bigger market). Bikes sold in the USA will still be made there but as the product has been loosing popularity (avg age of owner: 50) production will naturally decrease. So I really dunno what they are on about, especially since the vast majority of pieces making up the bikes already come from overseas.

[@gigi9467]

Iamtop understood. but what ur missing is the part of the reason why thr uk like harleys is cuz they are american! u wait when they start making them somewhere else that mystic will go away. same reason why ppl buy bmw ferraris etc.

[@MrTomtomtest]

I have yet to met an European that would buy specifically on that criteria, made in USA is not exactly a gage of quality in the auto/bike industries. And anyhow I think Harley is much more in a position to judge that than us. People seem to forget that the sole purpose of a company is making profit, they are not people & personifying them with adjectives like "patriotic" is non sensical.

[@rlmach1]

Because there is no growth in the US as well. The younger generation is not fooled by the old relic horribly overpriced dinosaurs. The gig is up.

[@Competitive_Antagonist]

They love Harley Davidson because all their friends have got one. Express your unique personality buy buying the same bike as everyone else in your group.

[@michaeldougherty7532]

HD used to make Buells that had a loyal following I have 2 and might get an 1190EBR

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@@michaeldougherty7532 HD spent $125 million to shut down Buell Manufacturing during a recession.. Lower Priced bikes mean less mark up for HD & HD Dealers.. I think some dealers didn't like to sell the Superior Buell's I think they were Jealous of them ..

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@castroy64 Ronald Reagan put a 40% Import duty on all Japanese bikes over 700 CC's and Harley Davidson always lobbied the AMA to make rules to handicap all other Brands from 1960 until 2014 .. Indian came on the scene in 2016 and took the top three places in National Championship points.. By 2017 70% of bikes entered in the Pro Twins Class were Indians that Riders could buy from Indian for $40,000.00 Where as you could not touch a custom built billet motor Vance Hines build HD for $100,000.00 HD had not sold a complete race bike for 25 years.. they just sold the XR-Motors to be put into custom frames.. HD annnouced they were going to sell a complete race bike with the new Liquid coooled XG-750 Motor then the Indian came out and the Indian could lap the HD..

[@7452]

Harley riders typically trailer their bikes to events like Daytona Bike week and Sturgis....whereas real bike riders ride to their destination

[@scootterpootter]

Not necessarily. I ride a bike and trailer it to events that are more than a few hours from my house. I just don't feel like riding 2000 miles on my bike, I'd rather have my a/c and stereo, and not be wet, hot, or uncomfortable. I'm just as much a "real" biker as anyone, I have just worked hard enough in my years to enjoy my creature comforts on a trip.

[@NYCZ31]

To be fair, riding your bike thousands of miles can be a pain. And going to Sturgis, which will involve 2-3 days of riding across featureless Great Plains? Nah

[@silverback802]

@@scootterpootter My mom was 87 when she quit ridding because all of her friends died. She rode hundreds of miles up and down the east coast and never trailered he motorcycle. She was more of a motorcyclist than any of you guys that trailer your bikes. Enjoy your creature comforts but your not a real rider, at least compared to her your not.

[@scootterpootter]

@@silverback802 Blah blah blah, I've ridden thousands of miles on an adventure bike, doing most of it off road, so there, I win...

[@silverback802]

@@scootterpootter Why don't you load your bike on your trailer,hook it up to your pickup and go for a ride like you usually do. Then you can put on your costume and go bar to bar and meet your friends and tell each other what great bikers you are. PS I win

[@DoubleRBlaxican]

As a Mexican American I have always wanted a classic Harley. Unfortunately the more I got into motorcycles the more I realized the sort of crowd that rides them kinda hates me. And for the same price I could just get a Honda that looks the same but costs half as much and will last me twice as long. Unfortunately Harley Davidson is in a lose-lose in my opinion and having the bikes be made overseas is the least of their worries.

[@nickthegriffin]

The funny thing is the guy saying " I'm not buying a inferior product " lol harleys are literally decades behind most other motorcycle brands. Harley davidson yesterday's tech at tomorrow's price

[@ethanbeen2975]

Harley Davidson Is way out of line it’s there pricing on bikes and merchandise

[@Hero_of_Legend]

Merch? Yes. Bikes? No. You won't get an equivalent bike from any other brand, for a whole lot less. The difference isn't as big as you think.

[@execration_texts]

@@Hero_of_Legend you'd get an engine with a better speciffic output than those designed in the 50s

[@Hero_of_Legend]

@@execration_texts Depends on the model. Line up against a Breakout, and watch your metric get smoked.

[@wanderlpnw]

HD not being associated with people who cosplay as pirates is the best thing that could happen to motorcycling in America.

[@damnitdaryle8301]

Will Ashmore what's wrong with pirates?

[@Crime1207]

Pirates are fun

[@mookins45]

those posers make us all look bad. And the bikes are bad: Harleys lack agility, so you can't steer out of the way in time, and their braking performance is so bad... they 'last' because their riders ride slowly and seldom.

[@jeffreyponting9524]

RRRRRR matie give me $10 on pump #3.

[@jltrack]

The image and persona associated with Harley Davidson has been tainted by old punks who think they are badass. Harley has some cool motorcycles, but a lot of the people who ride them are not. Harley is extremely late in marketing to younger, newer riders. Affordability, practicality, cool and fun. Nail these four key areas, and Harley wouldn’t have any problems. Also your bikes are called hogs cause they weigh too much. Should have learned from Buell.

[@henryavery4461]

@@drnapalm7605 I love it

[@bubbapopa5467]

We live in a very small tourism town. I could not do business for minutes on end because some Harley riders were reving & blasting their music at levels that were not only deafening - but no one in our store could hear each other. I don’t care if you love your Harley. But PLEASE get it on the road & do not disrupt the ability for us to hear our customers. It’s not your right to interrupt r business.

[@sabbottart]

The one guy said, “if I owned the company I would do exactly the same thing”. Obviously a man with business smarts.

[@sfdko3291]

Welcome to capitalism boys

[@obeb787]

SergioTov they dont realize the hypocrecy in their claims

[@monroe7403]

Nope, USA Today just released a list last month of the 10 most American cars and BMW wasn't even on it. The Jeep Cherokee was the most American new car, followed by some Honda's, Ford's and Chevy's. And we're NOT a true free market and we're not globalists. Trump is anti-globalist.

[@itgetsbetter9636]

😱😱😂😂😂

[@execration_texts]

I want to be paid 20 an hour to make it but I done want to pay someone else 20 an hour to make it

[@hanzhenry5818]

Original Harley owners wouldn't own Harley's today. Why?, They were into racing and HD makes slow piles of overpriced crap.

[@nickb2208]

For what you pay for a brand new Harley you could make a much nicer bike from scratch, right? I'm asking you I'm young lol.

[@davidkonti2944]

@@nickb2208 this isn't really a good point because most people buy phones and clothes because of the brand

[@AddyAdderson]

This confirms it. Harley Davidson is just about dead, because their buyers are, you know...

[@ditdisini]

About to dead aswell

[@hbudiman14]

Old

[@wyrdwildman1689]

What an assumption...

[@Jaker788]

It is a current problem. Sales have been down over the past few years and a nice decline. Younger people aren't buying Harley stuff, they're buying other cruisers or sport bikes. Harley reliability is lower than other cruisers and the dealership network is meh..

[@RoyalKennedy601]

@@Jaker788 I think its more that Harley is pricing itself out of the market . My first house with a 20 yr mortgage was not much more than a cvo limited costs now

[@christopherbradley5575]

Wherever they are made, it's still 1990's technology at 21st century prices.

[@GreenCanvasInteriorscape]

Christopher Bradley 22nd century pricing... beyond absurd

[@marklaymon6698]

Harley's in and of themselves are absurd.

[@GreenCanvasInteriorscape]

Mark Laymon and yet all these chumps keep saying if I have to explain it to you you just won't get it

[@omarsalgado9715]

Should feel great to be that "original", Christopher, haha.

[@paskowitz]

And where do they think all the parts that comprise their bikes come from...

[@kyrstenmcguffey658]

One of the bikers said he realizes that most of the parts on Harley Davidson bikes come from overseas... So, I'm assuming they think that all (or most) of the parts come from overseas.

[@bascal133]

I get the feeling it means a lot to them that the bikes are mostly assembled in America by Americans

[@paskowitz]

Bacall McElroy That's fair.

[@lsmith2129]

paskowitz taiwan

Yeah, it means a lot to them to be touched last by americans because they are psychos.

[@justinbaldwin1981]

Same people complaining about harley probably have a foreign vehicle in their driveway!!!

[@scarbourgeoisie]

Good point. I recall my first trip to D.C. back in the '93 (Canadian here). The city seemed magical, with such a historical vibe. However, the only thing I couldn't wrap my head around was the number of Asian built cars I saw parked all over the city. It was your Nations' Capital for goodness sake. That was over a quarter century ago. I'm sure it hasn't improved.

[@Lookout4the3rdrail]

I bet your right

[@stickboyST]

The likelihood that you have a foreign vehicle in your driveway is a LOT higher than you think. A lot of "foreign" vehicles are more American, made with more American made parts amd assembled by more American workers than many American cars are. For a lot of years, the Toyota Camry led the pack of most American vehicle, being assembled in the US with mostly US made parts. HDs may be assembled in the US, but the majority of the parts come from overseas. So how does that make them any better than that Toyota sitting in people's driveway? A large number of the top 10 most American cars for 2018 are Hondas, with Jeep (Fiat) topping the list. When it comes to American Made, HD doesn't even touch some of the "foreign" brands. www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2018/06/22/american-cars/724724002/

[@scarbourgeoisie]

stickboyST American cars (and bikes for that matter) may have foreign content, but I can assure you that American cars are engineered in the U.S. Designed by Americans for Americans.

[@Hachiae]

of course, america has never made a decent car

[@joygernautm6641]

But Harley Davidson IS an inferior motorcycle😂

[@AfroCycle]

Where is the timestamp where he says that

[@mariaestherrivas4988]

"Evangelical bikers for Christ" -- I'm out

[@Yomomsscknondischet]

@castroy64 were waitn 4 u 2 go bck 2 "europe" 2!

[@xUdieToox]

Maria Esther Rivas RIDE OR DIE FER JEESUS

[@Jeff_Green]

@castroy64 Religon is one of the main causes of violence throughout the world.

[@Jeff_Green]

@castroy64 I can't tell if you are serious. History is full of massacres by armies carrying a religous banner. Its unfair to look at dark points in history and blame things on peoples beliefs or lack of beliefs.

[@illuforce]

@castroy64 because she is probably legal.

[@ghostrider-gm2wg]

American made from foreign parts.

[@robertwoodcock8618]

I don’t understand this thing of people think they are able to criticize and call names because they think they are right! Remember never treat anyone on the computer worse than you would if they were standing in front of you! If someone is face to face and your rude you might get cracked in the mouth!

[@patricelumumba8120]

Hitting someone because they were rude could get you a good dose of hot lead for STANDING THEIR GROUND!

[@BuilditRideit]

Agree

[@camgnilpe9300]

its only a fat lip and a little blood!

[@pedrofelipe5203]

come at me, pops

[@schottentor5174]

Discovered the internet just yesterday?

[@Hachiae]

ill stick with southpark when it comes to harley riders.

[@nickgee7291]

Hachi Roku HAHAHA! All i think is the scene when the bikers r like: THEY DONT RESPECT US!

[@andrewdods2236]

Hachi Roku Brrrrraaaaahhhhh .. those kids are making fun of us .... berrrrahhhhh !!!! Lol

[@paradigm_sh1ft532]

Don't be intolerant. They're just bike/curious 😂😂😂

[@michaelmcfeely6588]

I hate the noise. Peace and quiet are valuable, and are stolen and vandalized by these jerks.

[@biscaynenick]

Harley-Davidson is "The Inferior Motorcycle"

[@RNCHFND]

But it's made in 'Merica!!!

[@uptown_rider8078]

Awakend no need to be a hater. Bikes are bikes, and you don’t need to be jealous

[@biscaynenick]

Black Crow625 I've owned, rode, and worked on Harley-Davidson motorcycles since 1984. WITH GREASE UNDER MY FINGERNAILS I WALK IN THE TRUTH. All patriotism, americanism, and emotions aside as a 35 year Harley mechanic I can assure you that my statement is based upon FACTS. I still own 3 of these heaps, reason being it's a LOVE AFFAIR......not because they are even close to being a good motorcycle.

[@biscaynenick]

RanchoFundo Yep, manufactured almost entirely by ROBOTS for over 30 years......that never seems to be mentioned when the flag waiving Patriots speak of the "American Worker" it just shows how the common man is so easily seduced by all the Lies with little to no knowledge of facts.

[@allgoo1964]

Here's the logic. "Buy American" would work with any brand(Honda, Ducati, etc.) if it's about employing workers at high wages, it'll boost the economy, strengthen the dollar globally. Current "Buy American(brand)" is all about corporate profit. What did you expect?

[@imatlastheyote]

“If they manufactured them in a foreign country I wouldn’t buy them” You’re a little late on that one, mate

[@pauloketch4635]

Buys Harley Takes it to German aftermarket shop Comes out with bike 100 times better than original.

[@Embargoman]

I agree and the Chinese are doing the same too.

[@t.s.racing]

Paul, are you german BRAINWASHED or what, LMAO what a ignorant statement.

[@gl241]

These Mericans are ignorant. How many other items do they buy that are made overseas? If they truly care about buying American made products, they would have to pay more and be limited to a few selected products.

[@johnjacob688]

The difference is, for most things Americans buy they have no choice on the country of origin. Its just not possible to live a 100% purchased in the US lifestyle.

[@shawnapope2663]

Made in America more like Assembled in America.

[@sportytaco2153]

Where are the frames, engines, and transmissions manufactured? Name one "American" automobile that doesnt utilize any foreign made components.

[@shawnapope2663]

Motors and transmissions are manufactured in Menomonee Falls,WI. CVO motors are manufactured in York,PA. along with the frames. As far as" American" automobile manufactures not using foreign made components I believe there are none. Google is great.

[@fiddlesticksbessette398]

We Send Thailand,Our Motor's,For The Harley,And They Put Then Together,And Ship Them Back To Us,For Many Year's Now.So,The Part's Are Made Here.I Guess,Etc.

[@sportytaco2153]

@@fiddlesticksbessette398 do you even English, bro? Your lack of grammar gave me cancer.

[@MrKobayashi]

Wait a minute, unfair trade practices abroad? So the idea is to impose tariffs on foreign countries that result in tariffs against our goods? Corporations are mandated to make profits for the shareholders. They aren't mandated to make good products or to make them in the US. They're mandated to make money. MONEY! That's what HD really does, and they do it by using the product they produce, the commodity known as the Harley Davidson motorcycle. Tariffs will cut in to HDs profits enough to make shareholders seriously consider dumping shares. In the end, they don't give a crap about the motorcycle or where it's made of the people that ride them. Their end game is simply to MAKE MORE MONEY! And that's what they'll do by moving manufacture overseas. Our President is calling to boycott a company that employs a lot of Americans. Every day he does one or two or three or more things to betray my trust. What's your opinion? Hate on me if you want, but it really hasn't gotten anyone anywhere yet...

[@falkhorn0915]

Rey Mendez so true

[@larrymcgraw5133]

Another guy that actually understands capitalism and, the stupidity of Donald Trump.

[@SA-hk8xj]

Best line from an old HD rider: It’s a giant vibrator. Once she gets on...you can get her off 😜 And it’s true 😉👍

[@SoHoundDawg]

This BS is nothing new for Harley. They've had money issues for many, many years. Remember when they sold out to Brunswick AMF back in the day? Now they're just finding a new scapegoat to pin this on.

[@JohnDoe-ny1wp]

The "FAB FOUR"...John, Paul, Larry and Curly. My FIRST Harley, which I still own , is an 1978 Sportster. ANY REAL BIKER knows they were under AMF,,,,the Bowling Ball People. Most parts were Japanese. From forks to Carb. I'm older than these "wannabes"..."sidewalk commanders" . I bought mine on the income I was making not my retirement. Harleys continuation to catering to these FAKE FOUR types will be their downfall.

[@swinfield5899]

sorry but y'all need to take some of that hard earned money you waste on harleys and Harley merchancise and get a clue. its not about loyalty, sorry but Harley is in business for one reason, money.

[@riphaven]

they go overseas to keep costs down, yet the prices of the bikes feel like they were made here. That sounds like BS to me.

[@albertprasetyo6846]

OMG...I think Harley only exists in movies. I have never seen it in MotoGP, Super bike, Moto Cross etc

[@Lavaman3682]

An inferior bike? Please! You are ON an inferior bike. A bike that has had to resort to protectionism (tariffs in the 1980s) rather than actually make a quality product. A bike that refuses to become modern (Porsche designed the engine for the vrod, sorry guys), quashes innovation (Buell), doesn't protect its dealers (too many), and is more focused on selling tshirts and Barbie Dolls than bringing in new customers to their Needless Markup bikes. HD has watched its customers get older (see also: Cadillac) and done very little to innovate. They are finally realizing their world value as a brand and going after new customers overseas. Harley is NOT "all bikes". They are one very specific (and popular!) bike: a v-twin cruiser. That's all they make. Period. Nothing wrong with that, but if you want to ride a v-twin, American made cruiser, try Indian (RIP Victory).

[@otomackena7610]

Very well explained. also these guys are bunch of 50&60 year old how long are they going to be HD customers they are going to die out soon.They think they can threaten HD the truth is HD dont care about these loyalist not anymore because the sales are dipping biking culture is going down their customers are bunch of old guys who are going to die soon hence they are trying to innovate themselves with new models like livewire,pan american etc to appeal to younger audience so they can stay afloat.

[@uptown_rider8078]

Lavaman3682 that’s stupid. Why do you think Harley is the number one motorcycle manufacturer. Indian has gotten a rise in motorcycle sales though, and Harley has declined, but Harley’s still the giant in The Valley, and its been that way for years and years.

[@antsquirly7654]

As much as it galls me, I have to agree, to a point. This recent move isn't about keeping costs down and tariffs, it's about share holders keeping their stock profits. I can't do squat about it, but I'll keep my '78 Sporty and when I can, will buy an Indian. After all, it was the first motorcycle made in this country.

[@JI-sg5uy]

These people whine about American Made but 90 percent of there clothes, household goods, etc etc are made overseas. Yeah makes perfect sense

[@EvilTwin123]

1982 Honda cb450 1982 Honda cb900 2006 Kawasaki KLR 650 1993 Honda cb750 NightHawk. I don't foresee myself buying a rumbling Harley anytime soon.

[@EvilTwin123]

@C L "Betty White"? No way. Old classic that everyone loves. Hence the name

[@mrheru8627]

Bahahaha.... Meanwhile rest of the world using Kawasaki, Ducati, Suzuki and Honda 🤣😂

[@ALA-uv7jq]

And Indian.

[@PAULY-P]

Yep, I have a Harley Deuce, Suzuki Hayabusa, and an Indian Chieftain Special. Love all 3. All 3 are blacked out. The Busa is most reliable and cheaper insurance believe it or not. For some reason the Busa handles bumps better. Makes no sense. But what does make sense is that i get to have all 3, for the moment👍

[@revmatch8240]

Pauly P I hope to have a stable of used, weird, two wheeled contraptions. Don't car too much about who made them or where they come from.

[@Chalky.]

The closest thing to brand or country loyalty I've got with bikes is all but 2 of my bikes have been Japanese, with the others being Italian, but most Harley riders are brain dead with their brand and country loyalty.

[@markj6506]

Yep i like em all for unique reasons, still have my first bike,'78 Honda cb750,last year with electric and kick start,'06 Suzuki C90t,) '08 Screamin Eagle Road King CVO. Still love riding the cb750 ,the lean angle is awesome and when you do all the work on them yourself its a good feeling.@@PAULY-P

[@gatfro1]

Kinda sad I dont really see anyone from my age group. I love Harleys.

[@markhorton8578]

Unfair competition? It was President Regan who put massive tarriffs on Foreign bikes over 750cc back in 1987. It is wasn't for that, Harley would not be around now. Unfortunately the management squandered the the benefits of advantage. Slow, poor quality and overpriced management produce the same kind of bikes. The old guys already had a strong sentimental attachment to the brand. But the HD management has failed miserably to generate that in new customers. Now you have to save till you are old to afford one, people want bikes before then.

[@johncahill3018]

"We are rabid Americans so we believe our industry should remain in our country"...says the man wearing clothing made in Malaysia, smoking a South American cigar, standing in front of his saloon that sells alcohol from all over the world. Harley's are assembled in the US, not made in the US. The whole "our bikes are better than your bikes because ours are Murican" is just tribalism. It's kind of funny to watch Harley move more assembly overseas, where those overseas owners will also undoubtedly think of their bikes as American. And Harley owners here will adapt their tribalism to accommodate overseas assembly...they weren't the first, and they aren't the longest surviving, but perhaps "oldest, continuously in-production American motorcycle?" They'll think of something...

[@SynValorum]

They will send everything through Liberia after assembly in an extremely difficult travel route to claim it has been ordained and touched by all that is American!

[@neiltitmus9744]

If bmw can make there cars in the USA then Harley can make there bikes in Europe

[@leonidassaber7335]

John Cahill it's not his fault

[@ericsarnoski6278]

Harley riders are a aging and dying off demographics, the market has been flat for over 10 years. It was Marlon Brando riding a NORTON in the "Wild Bunch " That launched the bike craze. It wasnt that the US postal service or that the cops were using them . Harley fans have two stark choices , they can either let the brand dye off due to ever decreasing US sales , or they can accept the fact that in order for their name brand to survive it has to pursue a market that gives them a chance of survival and growth. Can't have both.

[@herbwag6456]

Eric Sarnoski actually Brando rode a Triumph in the film The Wild One.

[@ericsarnoski6278]

Herb Wag , dang, another British bike.

[@longjohnnyvee4857]

Actually the name of the movie you're referencing was "The Wild ONE". In it, Lee Marvin, who played "Chino", the leader of the "bad" gang, rode a Harley Flathead. I have read that it was the ongoing association of H.D. with "bad bikers", that led "the Fonz" to be only seen riding English bikes after the first few episodes of Happy Days. Also, I would argue that the motorcycle craze started in the dawn of the 20th century as internal combustion engines became practical. and was over by the time the price of a Ford model T was cut to its all time low of less than $300 in 1925. Only H.D. survived the transformation of motorcycles from transportation to toy, in the USA.

[@ericsarnoski6278]

LongJohnny Vee , all valid points

[@carlgoogle2869]

Eric Sarnosk,i nah! They need to lower prices & build water cooled racers too. They are beautiful bikes but way too expensive and similar in design.

[@felixalbion]

Overpriced, slow, bad handling, terrible build quality and overpriced.

[@execration_texts]

@Neil Zutshi they drag hard parts around almost any corner at over 20 mph...

[@tinman7130]

@@execration_texts mine don't. how many Harley's have you owned or ridden? or did you just read that on the internet so it must be true

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@Neil Zutshi Yup Harleys handle well as long as you are going straight .. and their suspension is so crappy you need to spend another $4,000.00 on aftermarket suspension ..

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@@tinman7130 What Model HD do you have most have a very low lean Angle hitting the Exhaust or the luggae on the pavement if you lean a little in a curve..

[@omarsalgado9715]

@Yama Satru Other brands show the same effect. It's not to a particular brand. Just look for some vids here, unless you want to remain highly biased.

[@stevenartmann2642]

One thing I noticed in the video, the age of HD owners, looks like young people aren't buying into the brand, and they are the ones who are the future of the company. A few years back I seriously looked into buying one, I test ride a street glide, had it for 3 days, only 600(demonstrator) miles on it and it broke down on the third day! Bought a BMW RnineT instead

[@mrrolandlawrence]

yeh in the UK a Harley is also known as a "mid life crisis bike". Really no kids buying them at all as no kids have that kinda money loose.

[@harrydehnhardt5092]

I'm not so into BMW bikes but the RnineT is an eye-catcher.

[@canguyen1590]

I have 14 years of riding on me, and I've always wanted a Harley, and as I progress and upgrade, it's people like these that makes me want to not buy one. I have a love for the sporter and we all know what these people says about them. I've since graduated to Ducati and BMW, there's no down grading now

[@shadowworlds]

Nothing is all amerian any more. If you think other wise your living in a dream and need to wake up.

[@johnjacob688]

And they acknowledged that in the video.

[@ShermanSitter]

I have my alarm clock set, don't wake me up yet! :)

[@richardburns9772]

Shadow Worlds what about your mom?

[@markmark5269]

I left a bit of Australian in his Mum.

[@tank2449]

bs. alot of the better gun makers are made in the usa, i buy alot of made in american stuff. my carry belts, ammo etc....

[@fatcatt3981]

I love Harley's but the Honda goldwing is made in the USA.

[@Ryan.......]

Around 2010 Honda moved Goldwing production back to Japan. I think they converted the Goldwing plant in Ohio to produce cars. EDIT: Correction, the Honda motorcycle plant in Ohio is now a support facility for the Honda auto plant in the same town.

[@michaelkane6797]

Honda moved Gold Wing production back to Japan in 2012.

[@jcdenton4621]

Yeah, but have you seen a new Goldwing? They look like something a Prius owner would drive 😂

[@sheek3222]

Harley's are nice bikes. I don't ride one, I like my Japanese bikes. Most people who are posting negatively of Harley have never owned a motorbike. That's the reality. We are the 1% of vehicles. Everyone has an opinion.

[@jarnosaarinen4583]

Yeh you wouldn't want a bike of a company that can't build a primary chain tensioner!

[@jeffreyponting9524]

That was a built in design flaw. Sell you a $25,000 bike, then have you come back every two years and pay $3000 dollars for them to install a couple 50 cent parts, and feel honored to do so because you are riding the legendary Harley Davidson. They should of come from the factory with great to gear timing like the kit S&S came up with to fix the problem that shouldn't of existed to begin with. The 2006 and newer models gave to much crank run out so the gear to gear timing won't work, back to those cheap plastic parts that last 15,000 miles. The younger generation does their homework. And isn't willing to pay a premium price for inferior quality no matter who's name is on the gas tank.

The price nowdays is freaking redicilous!

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I own my 4th H-D right now. I bought it a couple of months ago, in the midst of all of this rhetoric. The NYT should interview the more intellectual H-D owners and stop spreading the propaganda. H-D is no different than Ford, if there is a foreign market with a demand for H-D's products, why wouldn't they work around the tariffs and build For Those Markets in an area that isn't affected by the tariffs? The MOCO isn't talking about selling foreign made motorcycles in the US.

[@johnmoe7845]

Nothing says midlife crisis like a Harley.

[@kurtfranz6676]

There's enough HDs on Craig's list to last 20 yrs.

[@twilightshooter4990]

I love the Indian Scouts and Chiefs !

[@thabrownieviking]

Love dusting Harley's on my scout :)

[@ronazbill8087]

I even have the tee shirts that were made in Milwaukee, now all you find is the made in china ones, and the old ones used to last a lot longer

[@toyota420xp]

Harley sales are down. Big expensive bike sales arent necessarily down. They make an inferior product