[Buzglyd]

I've often wondered why harley didn't label the Buell as its own. Perhaps Harley is waiting to see how it sells first.



I don't know if I agree with your 90% theory. I think a lot of squids here hate Harley and wouldn't buy one no matter what, especially if it offered less performance for more money.



The sportbike field is littered with good bikes that didn't sell because they weren't the "latest and greatest" (Honda Superhawk anyone?). And like longride says, squids are into magazine test numbers. Hell, KPaul keeps magazines in his tank bag I swear!



I'm reminded of a speaker I saw at a business conference a few years back. He was the CEO of a large pizza chain which got into trouble branching out into other markets (extra quick delivery, two for one cheap pizzas, etc.) His point in his speech was "know your niche."



Harley is the absolute definition of that.

 

[Buzglyd]

I did see a artist's rendering of a VRod motor in a Monster style bike. It looked good but it's my understanding that the VRod motor is heavy. It was designed to look good and conceal hoses and wiring, not to be light.



Now imagine the Buell with the new KTM twin in it and Harley on the tank! I think you're onto something there.

 

[Buzglyd]

I totally agree with you on this one.



With the amazing level of technology offered in current Japanese sportbikes, I wonder if they even make the tiniest profit off of them or do the cruiser sales support the sportbike R&D.