A Discussion with my Uncle
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Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2010
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A Discussion with my Uncle
So, my uncle, my little brother and I are sitting around after dorking off on the bikes all day.
I'm looking at getting a new one.
Suddenly the conversation takes a weird turn, and my uncle says, "You know, Harleys aren't the best bikes out there, dollar for dollar. You're paying for the status, for the name."
My little brother echoed this sentiment.
But then I asked why they retain good retail value if it's not the manufacturing, and they again said it was just the status.
That said, I've always been under the impression that Harleys are the best street bikes. I know they kind of got creamed there in the 80s from lack of quality control, but I was under the impression it had fully recovered and was again the leader in street bike technology and innovation.
I realize this is a Harley board, so I expect some bias to seep in here, but my hope is that some of you can lend some objectivity to this discussion that we had.
Are Harleys the most advanced and innovative street bikes? Are they the best value?
Why or why not?
I'm looking at getting a new one.
Suddenly the conversation takes a weird turn, and my uncle says, "You know, Harleys aren't the best bikes out there, dollar for dollar. You're paying for the status, for the name."
My little brother echoed this sentiment.
But then I asked why they retain good retail value if it's not the manufacturing, and they again said it was just the status.
That said, I've always been under the impression that Harleys are the best street bikes. I know they kind of got creamed there in the 80s from lack of quality control, but I was under the impression it had fully recovered and was again the leader in street bike technology and innovation.
I realize this is a Harley board, so I expect some bias to seep in here, but my hope is that some of you can lend some objectivity to this discussion that we had.
Are Harleys the most advanced and innovative street bikes? Are they the best value?
Why or why not?
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 873
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From: Just east of the 'bama line, GA.
No, they are not the most technologically advanced motorcycles out there, but I love the timeless designs, the v-twin motor, heavy clunk of the gears, and all that metal.
Shes my first and hopefully she'll go a long way. Just love that old style.
Shes my first and hopefully she'll go a long way. Just love that old style.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 4,530
Likes: 607
From: Raleigh NC
the "best bike" is simply what is best for YOU....
Decide what you want to do.... and buy the bike that best suits YOUR purpose. then you will never worry about what bike is "better".
They all are "better".... just at different things
Decide what you want to do.... and buy the bike that best suits YOUR purpose. then you will never worry about what bike is "better".
They all are "better".... just at different things
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 2,551
Likes: 22
From: Jacksonville Beach, FL.
Here is my take.
At one time they were hard to get, People took great care of them.
Those "other bikes? They were eaiser to get, weren't washed and waxed as much....Sat out in the rain with no cover....
That explains the resale value....What you put into your bike is what you will get out of it.
As for technology....
Same design since????
The only "new" thing about Harley is FI and the computer.
With Harley it is all about "The ride" and "The experience".
At one time they were hard to get, People took great care of them.
Those "other bikes? They were eaiser to get, weren't washed and waxed as much....Sat out in the rain with no cover....
That explains the resale value....What you put into your bike is what you will get out of it.
As for technology....
Same design since????
The only "new" thing about Harley is FI and the computer.
With Harley it is all about "The ride" and "The experience".
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Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2010
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I appreciate the honest answers.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,951
Likes: 6
From: Kingman, AZ
In the big tour/dresser/bagger bikes, what ever we want to call them, I don't know of a better bike tech-wise then the HD FL's.
Gold Wings, BMW's, etc are a different style IMO. But for a nostalgic heavy cruiser style the metrics put out some nice scoots and they may cost less up front but not much less anymore and the "upgrades" tend to run higher. I guess it depends on the style bike a guy is looking at but for the touring bikes I would disagree.
Gold Wings, BMW's, etc are a different style IMO. But for a nostalgic heavy cruiser style the metrics put out some nice scoots and they may cost less up front but not much less anymore and the "upgrades" tend to run higher. I guess it depends on the style bike a guy is looking at but for the touring bikes I would disagree.
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 6,975
Likes: 12
From: NJ
That Uncle of yours is a smart man. I bought my Harley and convinced my wife to buy a Harley because it is an American icon. It has history, soul and mystique few if any other bikes can come close to.
The choice of which bike to buy was simple for me. Didn't even look at anything but Harleys and have no regrets.
The choice of which bike to buy was simple for me. Didn't even look at anything but Harleys and have no regrets.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,389
Likes: 26
From: Windham,Maine
As far as I am concerned there is no better value,my reason is:NO other motorcycle is in the same league as a Harley,in looks,sounds,seperate engine and trans,modification possibillities,close knit group of bros and sisters,picking up women,and finally resale value.Not to mention no other bike rides like a Harley.What more could any self respecting biker want from a motorcycle?