Harley-Davidson: What’s Next?

That’s always an interesting question. “What’s next?” It can mean so many different things. In this case it is the question we have for our favorite motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson.

As it sites right now HD has a great line up. The added the Street series of bikes in the last year, the touring bikes are leading the way and of course you have the Dyna, Sportster, and Soft Tail line ups. We ask again “What’s next?”

At no point in the last 50 years has HD had more competition in the cruiser market. The resurgence of Indian, more Japanese cruisers with legitimate performance and style, as well as the continued success of Victory are healthy reasons to push the brand into new territory. Polaris with their Victory and Indian brands had a 74% increase in sales in the first quarter of this year. The majority of it was Indian but that is still ridiculous levels of growth.

So what do we as the buying public want from HD?

1. Less maintenance: Every competitive brand has longer maintenance intervals and use systems that are easier to work with. Change the oil on another brand and there is usually only a filter and drain plug. No gaskets to replace, no primary covers to remove and back to riding quicker.

2. Heat management: HD has made major strides in this department but still lag behind the competition. We don’t mean just switching to liquid cooling. Other brands use directed oil passages to strategically lubricate and cool internal components improving engine temperatures and performance.

3. Speaking of performance: Lighter components, upgraded brakes, and more ground clearance would improve the handling, acceleration, and braking on every single model HD makes without having to add displacement or horsepower. It would also make the bikes safer, easier to operate, and more fun to ride.

Now before I get lynched for heresy these are suggestions to stay on top. HD still sells more heavyweight cruiser than any other brand by a large margin. That isn’t reason to stagnate, the last time that happened Honda almost put HD out of business.

Tell us what you think in the comments below or in the forums…