My first bike was a 1971 Honda CL350 (bought new). Owned a few Japanese bikes over the next few decades (mostly because the bikes in the Harley and European dealerships all had pans under them to catch the leaking oil). Bought the first Harley in the late 90s, then other Japanese bikes, then other Harleys, and so on. Currently own the Sportster below (for around town and short hops) and an FJR1300 for long trips. Never considered a move from or to Harleys or Japanese bikes as being up or down, just over.

 

First bike, if you can count it as such, was a moped basket case I put together and rode with no brakes when I was 14. First real m/c was a 69 250cc Yamaha twin. Been through a bunch since then, but only recently decided to get a HD. A move up from the moped for sure. I've had faster and better handling, though.
It seems well made and solid and I'm happy as can be with it so far. Suits the way I ride now.
2009 Street Glide

 

Started with a zx-6r kawasaki Ninja, and just recently (March) moved to the harley world. A lot more comfy riding on all of my messed up body parts lol..

 

I started on a V-Star 250 but then succumbed to peer pressure and just bought a SuperLow - lovin' it!

 

Had over 30 bikes in my life time. It took until age 65 and 25 of them before I understood and appreciated HD.

 

Started with CB750K in 1977, Yamaha Venture in 1986, Just sold it for 2010 Ultra Limited, If the $100 club doesn't put me in the poor house I'll never go back to Jap bikes again...Ô¿Ô

 

My first bike was a Kawasaki 750LTD, then a Honda Shadow 750. Now it's an 08 Street Bob.

 

Moved up 04 CBR600RR -> '07 Vulcan 900 Custom -> '08 Super Glide

 

First bike was a yamaha 650 special in 1980 or 79. I forget..lol

 

i guess you can say i started out on a Harley unless you count the 5hp Briggs and Stratton mini-bike i had when i was 7 or so...