I think the problem has to do with Harley's marketing...
They make a conscious choice to sell to several niche markets...
Putting themselves in a separate market than other motorcycles... (they have to,... because they aren't really competitive otherwise)...
They have the these markets cornered...
-Patriot/ thugs (Buy American)... which created with the anti-riceburner sentiment...
-Rich yuppie snob, wannabees... the couture fashion riders...(who have turned Harley dealerships into salons)...
-women,... often not very experienced, and looking to prove something...
I know it sounds mean to say,... but it is a reality... and it is something Harley directly pursues...
That said,... there are a lot of good people that ride Harely's...
... but, there are a lot of rude, snobbish, posers, too...
Bike development is restricted by Harley's catering to these niche markets... (they wouldn't think of making "small" bike,... they have to encourage loud, even though they are limited by EPA... they must sell their branded accessories...
...(they even sell cologne's and perfumes, for god sake)...
... and they must overcharge in order to make themselves an elitist brand... the snob factor...
It all adds up to a clientele that is encouraged by product loyalty to snub other riders....
Everybody knows that ain't all Harley riders... but, it is a catered to segment...
If you are honest about it,... Harley's are nothing special...
They aren't very reliable,... they're overpriced, they're technically inferior, and not fast, powerful, or good handling...
... and I kinda' like Sportsters... just not the social baggage they carry with them....
...
... and I'm gonna' catch he!! for saying this...
...