[asphaltgambler]

It's certainly a gamble, but if the design is sound and executited well - they may just be the leader in the market where currently little or no competition. I know many here dislike or poo poo HD's product line, but that's ok. Some of that is deserved in past generations. Like it or not, they basically created the highway cruiser segment and catered to what their core buyer wanted.

Often, even dating back to the early 70's they gambled on design changes, took some risks to move forward. Some may argue that those things were largely cosmetic or parts borrowed from other models - which is true. In comparison, no different than what major car manufacturer was doing in the same era.

HD has the deepest pockets and largest dealer network of any other motorcycle brand which is key to make something like this success. All too often they are erroneously compared head-to-head with other makes sport bikes or hybrids of sport bikes which is apples-to oranges.

$30k is a steep price point, but does anyone remember how much the first Tesla was? The cheapest one today is high $60's.

HD always had good engineers, especially since the late 80's, outsourcing to other great engineering firms including Porsche to aid them.

I have Harley blood running through my veins, it's a almost a love affair for me. Now - I do like all motorcycles, but I cheer for Harley Davidson in this case for sure, that they establish a foothold and are a quality example