[t951]

They assisted with the design of the V-Rod engine, that is true. The quality and manufacturing is all HD.

I am glad to hear that crustychief has had good luck with his bikes. All of my friends that had them have had nothing but issues. The only bike that my friends have had with more is Victory, those are all basically factory lemons.

I do realize that they sell a lot of bikes and that is good (as they give US citizens jobs, etc). I also know that they are producing too many of them. There was a time when the demand exceeded the number, sadly those days are gone. HD has to idle their manufacturing lines up to two weeks a year now.

Personally, I have owned a few japanese bikes, all have been reliable. I don't even know anyone that has had trouble with theirs (unless it was heavily modified, which is par for the course).

Overall, I hope quality has gone up at HD. They could be a future GM.....doubtful, but possible.

Also, yes that HD image and brand sells a lot. People have HD tatooed on themselves. I doubt anyone here has a Porsche tattoo. It's a subculture, rich with stories, characters and heritage. I think that alone helps drive its high sales.

So, to sum up.....I hope HD quality has improved. I am glad chief has good luck with his. My personal, and anecdotal experience has shown me that the japanese bikes are superior (and cheaper to boot!). I want HD to succeed as we need all the manufacturing we can get in this country.