Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Beowulf on January 31, 2020, 06:53:41 AM
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I want to like this.But at the price i feel an aprilia Tuono offers so much more. Or i mean you could buy a nice Ducati monster. Anyone of which would make mince meat of this. I think harley is way overpriced on this one. Specially considering the kz900rs. Thoughts?
https://www.cycleworld.com/harley-davidson-bronx/
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Nice, but I wish they had named it, da Bronx.
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Going to keep waiting for the Harley Davidson Staten Island model LOL
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Harley makes a Griso! :grin:
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Harley makes a Griso! :grin:
The griso is just sexier. Tbh im saving my pennies for one.
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They can expand the model with colors and have the Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Staten Island. Or how about the "Subway" ?
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I like it. It looks like something Harley needs to pull in fresh meat.
If I was running the show, I'd have upper management types "dropping in" and walking through my Dealerships. I'd shitcan any place where employees weren't
100% behind this bike/motor. My experience at several places was that Buell seldom got a fair shake and V-Rod didn't fair much better. Yep, just cut THAT dealership off at the knees..
I'm "rooting" for a healthier hog farm. :afro:
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What price?
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Nice looking bike!
John Henry
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I'd wager the marketing team doesn't care about the Aprilia or the Monster. It's an American power cruiser made, I think, for that market. Time will tell.
As for the Aprilia, not many anywhere in the US of A are buying that bike. I get your point, though. I'm not sure it matters t the target market.
I know several Buell owners-performance vs other bikes was low on the chart for them. They wanted an AMERICAN power bike, and it offered plenty for those owners, or so they tell me.
This is a detailed discussion for sure. And it sure appears the Mo-Co is placing a lot on it. On another note, I saw both bikes at Cleveland. They look the part, and the Pan-Am (airplane, anyone?) looks miles better in the flesh than the pics, which make the front fairing look hideous.
http://hamlincycles.com/special-deal-on-aprilia-tuono-factory/
Come and get it.
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Who would've thought even 3 years ago that HD would bring something like the LiveWire, PanAmerican & Bronx to market within a years period of time.
Finally the wheels of change are grinding in another direction at the Motor Company. Good for them. I hope their efforts bring in a much needed younger
generation of riders.
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"MONSTER" Italian beauty!! :thumb: :cool: :wink: :smiley:
(https://i.ibb.co/BGFY5sP/Screen-Shot-2020-01-31-at-8-16-19-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/BGFY5sP)
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I think it is a nice looking machine. 115hp ought to move it along pretty well, even though I suspect it weighs as much as my CalStone. I hope they sell a bunch of 'em!
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I can't wait to check out the Pan American, AKA "Dirt Glide" in person.
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Good looking bike, don't like the name. Nothing in this segment is as attractive as the original Monster from 1993. I hope they sell a bunch of them.
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I can't wait to check out the Pan American, AKA "Dirt Glide" in person.
I went to the Harley store in town and they had no clue what I was talking about when I asked about it.
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I fear, like Buell, the Harley dealers won't know what to do with them.
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I went to the Harley store in town and they had no clue what I was talking about when I asked about it.
Why am I not surprised. Bet they could have told you all about the latest chrome accessory for your Softale.
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Why am I not surprised. Bet they could have told you all about the latest chrome accessory for your Softale.
They tried.
When I asked about "new bikes", they tried to show me the liquid-cooled Milwaukee line which I said wasn't what I asking about.
Puzzled looks in return.
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They tried.
When I asked about "new bikes", they tried to show me the liquid-cooled Milwaukee line which I said wasn't what I asking about.
Puzzled looks in return.
I get it. When I was out in SoCal, I stopped by a Harley dealer because Cycle Gear said they thought they had Nolan helmets. They didn't, but they were putting on a dog and pony show with food and music, etc. There was a Livewire there, and absolutely *nobody* was looking at it. :grin: I looked it over, thought, "uh huh, uh huh," and left. I may have been the only one..
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Yeah, look.
I probably wouldn’t piss on one if it was on fire, but mercifully they’re moving away from that arse on the ground “cruiser” stereotype that’s just getting painfully old..
You can ride one with an actual “helmet” now, without looking like you’ve borrowed your Mum’s riding gear and personally, I hope they go ok with it.
I don’t know that performance is as big a factor as is generally perceived, have a look at the slugs we ride. Even a Griso is an underpowered relic compared to an RSV 1000 Aprilia or similar. Three quarters of us couldn’t ride our way out of a wet paper bag compared to what the bike “can” do and the honest ones know it..
The REALLY honest ones admit it.
Here in Oz, you WILL lose your licence in a few short weeks if you habitually speed and thus most are steering away from balls out performance.
You rock up to a ride on a Desmosedici now, with matching leathers and knee scrapers that you dusted with an angle grinder an you’ll cop heaps.
If I was a Yank, I’d look closely at the Harley..
Bugger the power claim.. :popcorn:
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They can expand the model with colors and have the Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Staten Island. Or how about the "Subway" ?
Ooohhh...!
That’s tempting, I’ve always fancied a 9 incher...!
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Yeah, look.
Even a Griso is an underpowered relic compared to an RSV 1000 Aprilia or similar. Three quarters of us couldn’t ride our way out of a wet paper bag compared to what the bike “can” do and the honest ones know it..
The REALLY honest ones admit it.
The Japanese supersport bikes sales are in the toilet (at least in the U.S.) Nobody under the age of 45 can afford the insurance. I just sold a 2012 Road Glide for about $1500 less than book value and was glad to get it. I'd love to have another big touring Harley in my garage but just can't justify the cost. To move up to the Milwaukee 8 even used is stlll $18 to 20,000 or more, depending on model. By the time they depreciate enough for me to buy one, I'll be too old to ride it!
I don't know what HD plans to do to get the dealerships on board with their upcoming line of water-cooled twins. They'd better have a plan though, or they will gather dust in a corner of the dealership just like the Buell's did.
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I am no fan of Harley Davidson but this bike looks to be a very good effort to branch out into new territory and I applaud them for it. I hope this bike sells for HD and they move away from the wana be bad ass image they have packaged for far too long.
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The Japanese supersport bikes sales are in the toilet (at least in the U.S.) Nobody under the age of 45 can afford the insurance. I just sold a 2012 Road Glide for about $1500 less than book value and was glad to get it. I'd love to have another big touring Harley in my garage but just can't justify the cost. To move up to the Milwaukee 8 even used is stlll $18 to 20,000 or more, depending on model. By the time they depreciate enough for me to buy one, I'll be too old to ride it!
Except that the dirty little secret is you could get a new, old stock, police model for about $16-17k.
Hell I'm hearing of Electra Glide Standards going for about that too.
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I think a 750cc and a 975 (or whatever) would be a great move for HD. There are reportedly lower percentages of young people getting driver's lic!!
Cars, with the taxes and insurance are getting just too expensive for all the you people getting out of college with60K student loans and 40K starting jobs, especially competing with finding love a d setting up a home and family. The disposable income that was the hallmark of the middle class is disappearing. I think MG realizes this trend and is focusing on 750-850 range and will this segment, competing with Royal Enfield and Japan Inc.
I wish them all well but am frankly not optimistic.
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What price?
Exactly what I was wondering. How can someone say it is overpriced when the article didn't mention price?
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I really like the looks of the Bronx, and am looking forward to a test ride.
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I read an article somewhere and an informed source mentioned the $20k range. I don't know how true it was but knowing Harley sounds very plausible.
kk
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Harley stood pat too long. They are behind the rest of the industry and have alienated the very riders they now seek. I hope they are able to make this work.
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Harley is new to the marketing game since their reemergence from the AMF years they have never had to play that game, and became arrogant because there was always a waiting list for a new machines.
Times have changed and the Mo company is feeling the pain of learning how to respond to a new demographic.
The Harley core will have to get over it.
Time well tell if $20K+ pushrod 45 deg V twins with...Gulp...press ed together cranks can survive in todays market.
"Join the brotherhood" is pretty tired...
:-)
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Tazio & Motormike nailed it.
1st problem, the sales floor.
2nd problem, the price. IMO the older riders that can afford the new direction HD's don't ride this style.
I've moved on from HD but really appreciate their American success story.
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It appears that everyone's comments have a good degree of validity to them. Plenty of good points made.
It'll be one for the Harvard Mgmt school if they succeed, or not. I'm interested either way.
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Looking at the pictures I don't think it is a pushrod motor. I have seen some drawings and some possible specs but I don't remember much. Again I am old and sometimes have to look at my phone to see what my name is. :cry:
I have been a former Harley owner and have some mixed feelings. My first was an 883 Sportster, which was a good bike but I needed more. I moved on to a 2006 88" Softail Deuce. I would still have this bike if it hadn't been lost when my shop burned down. It was a great bike for what it was. When I was trying to replace it I could not find anything used that hadn't been owner screwed up with obnoxious exhaust, ape hangers etc. So I bought a new 110" Softail Slim. It was nowhere near as good as the Deuce was. The engine was terribly noisy mechanically. I was able to quiet the valve train by upgrading the lowest bidder originals. But I was at a loss with the bottom end noise, not knowing what was causing it. Probably primary chain and balancer chain but probably no real fix. My Guzzi has loud valve train noise but it is because of the design not poor engineering so it doesn't bother me.
I think some of Harley's problems come from continuing to take an old design and continuing to make it bigger and bigger. Not gaining them anything but more warranty problems due to owners trying to make more powerful. These two new models, Pan American and Bronx, seem to be moving in the right direction but are probably a day late and dollars too much. They seem to have the horsepower but I am afraid Harley will price themselves right out of the market. They are going to have to be in the $12k to the $14k range to be competitive. I don't think that is going to happen. However I wish them the best. I'll get off my soapbox now.
kk
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What, are all you guys high? Harley blows, always have, this pedestiran attempt at something different for them will blow as well.
If I wanted a HD I have one, but I don't, and the reasons are too many to list in an hour.
Hey, but if you like them, knock yourself out. I'll just keep on being a hater. :evil:
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I like it. It looks like something Harley needs to pull in fresh meat.
If I was running the show, I'd have upper management types "dropping in" and walking through my Dealerships. I'd shitcan any place where employees weren't
100% behind this bike/motor. My experience at several places was that Buell seldom got a fair shake and V-Rod didn't fair much better. Yep, just cut THAT dealership off at the knees..
I'm "rooting" for a healthier hog farm. :afro:
I was in a Harley Shop today wearing a Triumph riding jacket and rode up on my Royal Enfield Himalayan. Everyone greeted me with a smile and some asked about the Royal Enfield. They were all knowledgeable about the new bikes coming down the assembly line.
Many of the dealers I have stopped in have already been building scramblers out of Streets and 883s.
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They tried.
When I asked about "new bikes", they tried to show me the liquid-cooled Milwaukee line which I said wasn't what I asking about.
Puzzled looks in return.
Did you specifically ask about the Pan American and the Bronx? If not, they have no reason to tell you about them when they can possibly sell you a "new" bike today. That is how sales works. :rolleyes:
My local Nissan dealer is trying to unload all the '19 Titans before the redesigned '20 models hit the lot, so they are not going to mention them to someone who doesn't know they are coming next month.
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Harley is new to the marketing game since their reemergence from the AMF years they have never had to play that game, and became arrogant because there was always a waiting list for a new machines.
Times have changed and the Mo company is feeling the pain of learning how to respond to a new demographic.
The Harley core will have to get over it.
Time well tell if $20K+ pushrod 45 deg V twins with...Gulp...press ed together cranks can survive in todays market.
"Join the brotherhood" is pretty tired...
:-)
I bought my first Harley in 2016. I have signed up for emails from every motorcycle manufacturer so I can be informed when new items and deals come out. Harley sent me an email mentioning that if I buy a new bike they will give me a 5 year Extended Service Plan for $1. The same week the local dealer sent me an email stating that they would give me NADA retail for my trade in and I pay MSRP for the new bike. All told it was equivalent to getting 30% off the price of the bike. I'd say that was some good marketing without "discounting" the price of the bike like the Japanese have to do to move them.
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Roots in the 1994 VR1000.
"I think Harley got a little off track
Took 'em twenty five years to welcome it back.
But, it's better than not comin' back at all
Many a good plan I saw fall.
And even now, every time I dream,
I hear the men and the women and the superbikes scream."
-Whiskey Sam
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I bought my first Harley in 2016. I have signed up for emails from every motorcycle manufacturer so I can be informed when new items and deals come out. Harley sent me an email mentioning that if I buy a new bike they will give me a 5 year Extended Service Plan for $1. The same week the local dealer sent me an email stating that they would give me NADA retail for my trade in and I pay MSRP for the new bike. All told it was equivalent to getting 30% off the price of the bike. I'd say that was some good marketing without "discounting" the price of the bike like the Japanese have to do to move them.
I'm not talking about fire sales and trying to move largely unsold machines/inventory all manufacturers do that. They probably make more money w/ridding accessories like duds and do rags and vests boots. (profit margins)
They are between a rock and a hard place.
The core HD guy will always want a big 45 degree twin. Its the sound and culture. They are looking for a "you meet the nicest people on a Honda", somehow that just doesn't fit the typical HD guy.
Its the big picture, "where do we go from hear?" not BOGO.
I'm talking about a plan to stay alive in these times when the riding public is aging riders or uninterested in things that are real, preferring the virtual world.
If they can't find a path they will go the way of the public library.
They have to live up to their own image and when that image is bigger than life or out of date,it could be a real struggle or not possible.
:-)
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Did you specifically ask about the Pan American and the Bronx? If not, they have no reason to tell you about them when they can possibly sell you a "new" bike today. That is how sales works. :rolleyes:
My local Nissan dealer is trying to unload all the '19 Titans before the redesigned '20 models hit the lot, so they are not going to mention them to someone who doesn't know they are coming next month.
Think the new one will continue to look more like a ford than a real ford does?
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What, are all you guys high? Harley blows, always have, this pedestiran attempt at something different for them will blow as well.
BS Chad.
They will sell and take units away from the current offerings.
The Yanks wanted to go Harley, but did not want to buy into the “thing...”
It’ll be another V85 story.
Why don’t we lay our cards on the table now ? I’ll have a few bob on them being a success, anyone got the ticker to take my bet ?
Probably not... :popcorn:
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Harley's don't blow.
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Rumor has it that the new Indian will be called *the Slapout* .
Dusty
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Exactly what I was wondering. How can someone say it is overpriced when the article didn't mention price?
Far as price the other article i read said 15000 starting. I stepped array from this thread expecting it to die like my others. Lol
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I'm not talking about fire sales and trying to move largely unsold machines/inventory all manufacturers do that. They probably make more money w/ridding accessories like duds and do rags and vests boots. (profit margins)
They are between a rock and a hard place.
The core HD guy will always want a big 45 degree twin. Its the sound and culture. They are looking for a "you meet the nicest people on a Honda", somehow that just doesn't fit the typical HD guy.
Its the big picture, "where do we go from hear?" not BOGO.
I'm talking about a plan to stay alive in these times when the riding public is aging riders or uninterested in things that are real, preferring the virtual world.
If they can't find a path they will go the way of the public library.
They have to live up to their own image and when that image is bigger than life or out of date,it could be a real struggle or not possible.
:-)
The Rushmore Road Glide Ultra was a brand new model so your theory is not valid.
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Think the new one will continue to look more like a ford than a real ford does?
It is circulating on YouTube now. I really like my '19 King Cab. Sub $30k for it.
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The Rushmore Road Glide Ultra was a brand new model so your theory is not valid.
Huh?
Dusty
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I can’t wait to test ride this bike. Looking for a naked American UJM.
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"Did you specifically ask about the Pan American and the Bronx? If not, they have no reason to tell you about them when they can possibly sell you a "new" bike today. That is how sales works. :rolleyes:"
Maybe this is why my local MG dealer doesn't know a thing about the V85 TT Travel. :evil:
kk
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Harley's don't blow.
Correct...
They suck..!
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahrer7NmzNI
Assuming from this video, subliminal message that the "Bronx" will be one of the bikes made in India?
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Huh?
Dusty
What are you missing Dusty. He said fire sale to sell unsold machines, yet the Road Glide Ultra I bought was the first Rushmore Road Glide Ultra to show up at the dealership. There was no limitations on the direct marketing I received for leftover, largely unsold models like car manufacturers use.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahrer7NmzNI
Assuming from this video, subliminal message that the "Bronx" will be one of the bikes made in India?
and that is how internet rumors continue.
I have the Royal Enfield Himalayan made in India from English engineering and no issues with the bike. It is true that Harley is going to assemble some bikes in other countries for that region's market to get around tariffs.
This is different than the Japanese manufacturers getting bikes assembled in Thailand for import into the US, or European manufacturers getting bikes assembled in Thailand and India for import into the US.
My Nissan Titan is more American than GM, Ford, or Ram.
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My hobby and passion is riding and wrenching vintage motorcycles. My latest addition to the stable is a 1983 FLHT Shovelhead , finally road worthy. I finally own a piece of Harley history weighing in at a whopping 760 lbs same size but 200 lbs more than my Cali 1100. The 940 pound behemoths Harley is trying to sell us is not going well IMO.
I find the HD live wire , pan american, and now Bronx streetfighter exciting along with the Indian Chalanger. About time HD start to cut ties with us old push rod, OHV crowd and compete with with the rest of the cycling world with water cooled OHC engines. I would love to see HD and Indian compete in F1 and not just flat track racing. Maybe this is a step in the right direction. Win on Sundays , sell them on Mondays.
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I was in a Harley Shop today wearing a Triumph riding jacket and rode up on my Royal Enfield Himalayan. Everyone greeted me with a smile and some asked about the Royal Enfield. They were all knowledgeable about the new bikes coming down the assembly line.
Many of the dealers I have stopped in have already been building scramblers out of Streets and 883s.
How do you like your Royal Enfield Himalayan if I could ask?
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and that is how internet rumors continue.
I have the Royal Enfield Himalayan made in India from English engineering and no issues with the bike. It is true that Harley is going to assemble some bikes in other countries for that region's market to get around tariffs.
This is different than the Japanese manufacturers getting bikes assembled in Thailand for import into the US, or European manufacturers getting bikes assembled in Thailand and India for import into the US.
My Nissan Titan is more American than GM, Ford, or Ram.
Not so much anymore with Ford.
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They'll sell twice as many of those as they will Live Wires.
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Maybe this is a step in the right direction. Win on Sundays , sell them on Mondays.
That hasn't worked in years. In the motorcycle industry, I'm not sure it's ever worked. If it did, Suzuki would be the biggest motorcycle seller in the country. Back in the 1990's Mat Maladin and Ben Spies won every AMA road race Yoshimura Suzuki entered. Sadly nobody in this county pays any attention to motorcycle racing. Ever been to the Daytona 200? The stands are empty.
Oh, by the way. Harleys do not suck. They weigh too much and cost too much, but they still don't suck. The length of this thread proves that. Imagine if a Moto Guzzi discussion could stir up as much interest on a Harley blog....Nah!
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I think the new Bronx is a great move in the right direction! It may have a slow sales start in the beginning but I believe when non-Harley riders see the new, first of it's kind "Naked Sport" Harley, (without a barcalounger riding position), I think it will do well. The old Haley types are getting older and fewer. No they will not be attracted to a this sport bike but that's not whose coming up through the ranks... it's the younger riders who have been turned off by the Harley bikes & image. This is a fresh start! I hope it is a raving success. I live 2 mile from our HD dealer and I will take it for a test ride to see what its like. It will take a lot to take me off my 1200 Sport!
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Nice! I hope they do well with it. This really could appeal to younger blood. My kinda bike
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"Imagine if a Moto Guzzi discussion could stir up as much interest on a Harley blog....Nah!"
On the Harley site I still visit one of the guys has a VRod. They don't even talk about those either.
At the end of my Harley days I was getting pretty tired of the Harley culture. Loud pipes, bandanas, trashing other brands and some of their own models including Sportsters, etc. When I had my Sporty I absolutely no respect.
kk
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Sportsters are a total blast to ride.
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At the end of my Harley days I was getting pretty tired of the Harley culture. Loud pipes, bandanas, trashing other brands and some of their own models including Sportsters, etc. When I had my Sporty I absolutely no respect.
kk
I like Harley's but want nothing to do with some of the knuckleheads that ride them. I'm always astonished at how quickly some people can F*#K up a perfectly good motorcycle. 30 years ago I went to an ABATE meeting. One was enough.
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I wished I had kept my Sporty considering the amount I got for it. It was an 883, a really fun bike to ride on local rides. My main complaint was the terrible rear suspension. A decent upgrade would have cost about a quarter of what I paid for the whole bike, Not very cost effective. But for bopping around town would have been just fine.
kk
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I think Harley will have a hard time pricing these bikes with what is already out there. Most other manufacturers have had existing products to build off of. Harley is starting with a clean sheet.
kk
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looks a lot like the Yamaha MT-01. Too bad we never got that one here.
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Oh come on. It’s fun to hate on HD! It’s like hating on your football rival. Regarding HD riders potentially ripping Moto Guzzi riders, why would they? They are king of the hill, Guzzi isn’t more than a pimple on their old ladies ass!
So yes they suck! If you like them, great I don’t care. HD sales are shrinking, but with decent leadership they will survive and likely thrive, be it much smaller than today.
Guzzi on the other hand appears to be growing!
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How do you like your Royal Enfield Himalayan if I could ask?
I am loving it! As long as you don't have to get on an interstate it is a fun, comfortable, easy to maintain ride. Been doing a lot of exploring lesser traveled roads and paths on it with 3000 miles in the 10 months I have owned it.
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I like Harley's but want nothing to do with some of the knuckleheads that ride them. I'm always astonished at how quickly some people can F*#K up a perfectly good motorcycle. 30 years ago I went to an ABATE meeting. One was enough.
Unfortunately Mike, that goes for every brand of motorcycle. Harley doesn't have a monopoly on knuckleheads. I buy bikes I am interested in riding, not because of the other people who ride them. I have found with most motorcycles that the more I like the look, the less I like the ride. Supersport bikes are very uncomfortable for me. Raked out cruisers slammed to the ground handle like crap.
I ride a Road Glide Special which is growing in popularity, but has always been considered the ugly Harley. I love the ride of adventure bikes but they are almost universally ugly.
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I think the new Bronx is a great move in the right direction! It may have a slow sales start in the beginning but I believe when non-Harley riders see the new, first of it's kind "Naked Sport" Harley, (without a barcalounger riding position), I think it will do well. The old Haley types are getting older and fewer. No they will not be attracted to a this sport bike but that's not whose coming up through the ranks... it's the younger riders who have been turned off by the Harley bikes & image. This is a fresh start! I hope it is a raving success. I live 2 mile from our HD dealer and I will take it for a test ride to see what its like. It will take a lot to take me off my 1200 Sport!
The dealership experience is what will seal the deal. So many multi-brand conglomerate dealerships today using 1950s sales models to sell bikes. If you need service from them it is a real hassle. My local Harley dealer will pick up your bike from your home and bring it in for service whether it is paid service or warranty or recall. They sponsor parties with bands and food. They have MSF beginner courses on site. Many Harley dealerships I stop in at hire motorcycle enthusiasts who actually ride. Most of the sales people who greet me when I walk into a multi-brand dealership have never even ridden a bike, and know nothing about what they are selling.
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Just an observation....
(https://i.ibb.co/1LbRC45/image.jpg) (https://ibb.co/1LbRC45)
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I ride a Road Glide Special which is growing in popularity, but has always been considered the ugly Harley. I love the ride of adventure bikes but they are almost universally ugly.
I can go ya one better. Used to ride a 1989 FXRT. Still the most comfortable touring bike they ever made. But nobody liked the look. Most people thought it was a BMW! I'd still be riding it if some lady hadn't pulled out in front of me on my way back from Sturgis in 99. (Ouch!). Instead of a sticker that said, "Sturgis 99, I rode mine" I had one made that said, "Sturgis 99, I wrecked mine!"
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If you look at the picture, in the article, of the rider set up for the corner you can see that the riding position looks cramped. The Harley Street had the same issue. It is as if the H-D engineers can't quite design a bike that is not in the "feet forward" mode. I used to work for a Harley dealer and I grew weary of trying to defend antiquated designs in a modern market. Don't get me wrong, Harley engineers have done superb work in taking a design, with its roots in the 1940s, and making it oil tight and not explode at prolonged modern highway speeds.
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Overall the bike looks nice... ...Have to see it person ,up close the engine as shown in the photos looks like a plastic toy engine...
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I have a couple of riding buddies that have been riding Harleys for years, they love them. I've never owned a Harley until last year, don't really like the looks or performance of most of them, but I like the one I ride. I do like the looks of the Bronx, I hate the name, and I'm not crazy about the odd shaped headlight shroud. I think it would have looked much better with either the single unshrouded headlight or even dual headlights similar to the Harley Fat Bob or Triumph's Commander. As far as the dealership experience, out of the four brands that I own, the dealership experience is the best at the local Harley dealership. It doesn't matter whether your in there buying parts or looking at bikes, the local Harley dealership takes care of you quickly, and with knowledgeable friendly service. They have a customer lounge area that's always open to customers and stocked up with hot coffee, bottled water, cold drinks, soda's and snacks free to any customer that comes in (buying or not) and they let you know its there. You can feel that they're making an effort at trying to retain customers.
At least once a month they organize rides, throw a party with bands, host a free BBQ, and its open to anyone who rides, regardless of brand. Sometimes I've ridden the Griso up there, and sometimes I've ridden the Triumph. Although I currently no longer own a Triumph, my local Triumph dealer comes close to this dealership experience, its the Triumph boutique type of store. I haven't experienced anything near this level at any of the local Japanese powersports dealerships (Honda, Kawasaki). Unfortunately not at our local Eurosports bike dealer either, who no longer carries MG. Over the last few years the demographics of the Harley owner has been changing with the times. There are still a lot of the typical leather vest, bandana wearing, chaps sporting Harley riders out there, but there are also a lot more typical safety gear wearing clean cut riders out there on Harleys too. I'm not concerned about having a certain look or image, and I'm not really brand loyal either. I ride what I ride because I like the ride, regardless of brand. When I'm out on the road on multi state trips, I find most riders above & beyond friendly, except for maybe BMW owners.
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I have a couple of riding buddies that have been riding Harleys for years, they love them. I've never owned a Harley until last year, don't really like the looks or performance of most of them, but I like the one I ride. I do like the looks of the Bronx, I hate the name, and I'm not crazy about the odd shaped headlight shroud. I think it would have looked much better with either the single unshrouded headlight or even dual headlights similar to the Harley Fat Bob or Triumph's Commander. As far as the dealership experience, out of the four brands that I own, the dealership experience is the best at the local Harley dealership. It doesn't matter whether your in there buying parts or looking at bikes, the local Harley dealership takes care of you quickly, and with knowledgeable friendly service. They have a customer lounge area that's always open to customers and stocked up with hot coffee, bottled water, cold drinks, soda's and snacks free to any customer that comes in (buying or not) and they let you know its there. You can feel that they're making an effort at trying to retain customers.
At least once a month they organize rides, throw a party with bands, host a free BBQ, and its open to anyone who rides, regardless of brand. Sometimes I've ridden the Griso up there, and sometimes I've ridden the Triumph. Although I currently no longer own a Triumph, my local Triumph dealer comes close to this dealership experience, its the Triumph boutique type of store. I haven't experienced anything near this level at any of the local Japanese powersports dealerships (Honda, Kawasaki). Unfortunately not at our local Eurosports bike dealer either, who no longer carries MG. Over the last few years the demographics of the Harley owner has been changing with the times. There are still a lot of the typical leather vest, bandana wearing, chaps sporting Harley riders out there, but there are also a lot more typical safety gear wearing clean cut riders out there on Harleys too. I'm not concerned about having a certain look or image, and I'm not really brand loyal either. I ride what I ride because I like the ride, regardless of brand. When I'm out on the road on multi state trips, I find most riders above & beyond friendly, except for maybe BMW owners.
:thumb:
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I can go ya one better. Used to ride a 1989 FXRT. Still the most comfortable touring bike they ever made. But nobody liked the look. Most people thought it was a BMW! I'd still be riding it if some lady hadn't pulled out in front of me on my way back from Sturgis in 99. (Ouch!). Instead of a sticker that said, "Sturgis 99, I rode mine" I had one made that said, "Sturgis 99, I wrecked mine!"
I was hoping the sport glide was going to get a fairing like that. The aftermarket answered the call and you can get FXRT style frame mounted fairings to put on your modern softail. My BIL collects original paint FXRs and has an FXRT in his collection. I've always been and always will be a frame mounted fairing rider. Otherwise a bikini shield is all I can tolerate on a bike.
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I had the first year SuperGlide with the rubber mounts and EVO motor. 1983 if memory serves. Rode that motorcycle all over New England many times. It was great as I recall. Sorry I sold it after a few years. I also had one of the very first SoftTails ever made. 4 speed chain drive with fish tails! Loved it.
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The dealership experience is what will seal the deal. So many multi-brand conglomerate dealerships today using 1950s sales models to sell bikes. If you need service from them it is a real hassle. My local Harley dealer will pick up your bike from your home and bring it in for service whether it is paid service or warranty or recall. They sponsor parties with bands and food. They have MSF beginner courses on site. Many Harley dealerships I stop in at hire motorcycle enthusiasts who actually ride. Most of the sales people who greet me when I walk into a multi-brand dealership have never even ridden a bike, and know nothing about what they are selling.
Look man , I know you want to believe the guys working in HD shops are all riders and genuine motorcycle enthusiasts , but trust me , they aren't any different than car salesman . They know what the brochures tell them , maybe one out of ten know anything more than that . Throwing a rah rah party means nothing , if you knew how much money most HD dealers made on chrome geegaws and T shirts , and on finance charges it might seem odd that they don't buy every customer a ticket for a 10 day cruise . Like my nephew who worked as a salesman for ten years in one of those mega HD boutiques said , "wholey shyte , we are screwing our customers" .
Dusty
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Look man , I know you want to believe the guys working in HD shops are all riders and genuine motorcycle enthusiasts , but trust me , they aren't any different than car salesman . T
Dusty
Which is one of the main reason Buell failed. If you were a salesman, would you push the bikes that earned you a $100 commission check, or the bikes than earned you a $900 commission check?
Unless Harley can figure out a way to do a mass brain transplant of its dealer sales staff, I expect history to repeat.
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The dealership experience is what will seal the deal. So many multi-brand conglomerate dealerships today using 1950s sales models to sell bikes. If you need service from them it is a real hassle. My local Harley dealer will pick up your bike from your home and bring it in for service whether it is paid service or warranty or recall. They sponsor parties with bands and food. They have MSF beginner courses on site. Many Harley dealerships I stop in at hire motorcycle enthusiasts who actually ride. Most of the sales people who greet me when I walk into a multi-brand dealership have never even ridden a bike, and know nothing about what they are selling.
The idea is when you walk into a dealership you have done your homework and know as much about the machines your interested in than anybody there, salesmen are for the paperwork.
"can't see the forest for the trees"
:-)
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I ride what I ride because I like the ride, regardless of brand. When I'm out on the road on multi state trips, I find most riders above & beyond friendly, except for maybe BMW owners.
[/quote]
Been riding BMWs for 'bout 48 years, been rare to encounter a fellow rider of any brand that wasn't friendly.
?you have bad eyesight? (or maybe your not friendly yourself)
:-) :smiley:
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Which is one of the main reason Buell failed. If you were a salesman, would you push the bikes that earned you a $100 commission check, or the bikes than earned you a $900 commission check?
Unless Harley can figure out a way to do a mass brain transplant of its dealer sales staff, I expect history to repeat.
No idea how other dealers paid , or if there was a mandated pay scale from the MoCo , but my nephew was paid $250.00 for every new unit he
moved , and $150.00 for each used unit . Or he was until a certain sales manager from a Mercedes dealer came in and changed everything . for years my nephew moved 300+ units a year himself and made a lot of ghitis , those numbers declined dramatically starting in 2017 .
Dusty
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If I were a salesman at a Harley Davidson dealership, I would expect to make considerably more if I sold a $35,000 CVO than if I sold a Sportster. If not, I'd find other employment rather quickly.
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The idea is when you walk into a dealership you have done your homework and know as much about the machines your interested in than anybody there, salesmen are for the paperwork.
"can't see the forest for the trees"
:-)
Not shit sherlock. That is why I made the statement I made. When I walk into the Harley Dealerships I have visited everyone there to sell or service bikes I have talked to knows about the product. When i walk into the multi-brand dealerships I know more than everyone in there. The are truly there to just do the paperwork. That is my experience.
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If I were a salesman at a Harley Davidson dealership, I would expect to make considerably more if I sold a $35,000 CVO than if I sold a Sportster. If not, I'd find other employment rather quickly.
Reality is it doesn't take anymore time or effort to sell a $35,000. CVO special than it does to sell a Sportster 883 . In fact , the CVO is easier at time because the people who buy those occasionally pay cash , or have their own financing .
My nephew could sell the fool out of any motorcycle brand , he sold for a large multiline dealer for 2 years before moving to the HD place . He sold a tonne of used bikes , his boss pushed him to stop selling used and sell more new bikes . Which tells you where the real profit is , because the actual simple dollar margins were greater on the used bikes , sometimes as much as $2,000.00 more net , but the finance charges over 5 or 7 years weren't as much .
Dusty
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Not shit sherlock. That is why I made the statement I made. When I walk into the Harley Dealerships I have visited everyone there to sell or service bikes I have talked to knows about the product. When i walk into the multi-brand dealerships I know more than everyone in there. The are truly there to just do the paperwork. That is my experience.
Your rhetorical splendour leaves me speechless!
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If the reviews are good, I will be getting a Harley Pan American when they come to market.
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Your rhetorical splendour leaves me speechless!
Now that is something I would have to see to believe. :cool:
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Looks Harley is cutting back on some it's promised models, perhaps the Bronx being one.
You could see the writing on the wall a year ago. The old CEO developed all these new bikes but rather than take these to market, he was replaced. That just never works. Anyone could guess that the new CEO would never deliver the other guy's baby.
https://youtu.be/uIxtbV2eggk
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If I leaned in that direction a low mileage VRSCR Street Rod would fit the bill. $5K or less for one in NC. 9K miles. Awesome engine, handles well and brakes well. Would be better than my Buell S3 Thunderbold.
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I don't lean in any Harley direction. But I had a feeling that changing CEOs during the introduction of new bikes didn't make sense.
The guy doesn't say the Bronx is dead but "iffy" and thinks the Adv bike is a go.
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Yeah i was reading the bronx is probably a no go. Disappointing i think it would been a real home run. Harley is confusing in their approach. I think the bronx had a better chance than the pan america. Was rooting for both. Love my roadster though i will eventually rejoin the Guzzi fold.
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I think the new CEO's approach will be a disaster. He wants to make fewer and fewer bikes, so Harley can charge full MSRP for them. That's right, make more of the same, only fewer, and charge more for them! He seems to think he can turn HD into Ferrari! One of the main reasons Harley sales are in the tank now is they've simply gotten way too expensive for the average income (and even above average income) rider. Add in the "aging out' of the baby-boomer ridership and you have the problem Harley Davidson finds itself in.
Every ex-Harley ride I know says the same thing, the bikes have gotten too heavy for them. Harley needs to put some R&D into cutting the weight off their touring bikes, so old farts like me can extend their riding years. Set a goal of cutting 100 lbs off their bloated 900+ lbs full dressers. Use whatever exotic carbon fiber, magnesium, aluminum and (dare I say it) plastic that's needed. Don't see how it could cost any more that their $30,000 and up CVO's cost now. Call them "Electra-Lites" or "Ultra-Lites," but just get the weight down. 900+ lbs. with a tank of gas...Jesus!
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It doesn't bode well when a company ditches the CEO for another in the middle of a product launch. Harley has certainly burned through a lot of cash with defunct VRod, Buell, MV, the little bikes, and now this new line.
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I want to like this.But at the price i feel an aprilia Tuono offers so much more. Or i mean you could buy a nice Ducati monster. Anyone of which would make mince meat of this. I think harley is way overpriced on this one. Specially considering the kz900rs. Thoughts?
https://www.cycleworld.com/harley-davidson-bronx/
Kinda Low in the torque range, 70 ft lb. That 60 degree V will sound just like a Honda Shadow. I wonder if the Bronx model will steal itself LOL. Sounds like a last gasp for HD, sad to see.