[asphaltgambler]

There is still a lot of development that can be done within the existing product line to stay with the competition. IE: Less weight, more power with less vibration primarily. People can laugh at Harley's engines but the same things were said about the small block chevy some years back.

I distinctly remember GM being grilled about still using 'old and outdated' technology using push-rod engines when every one else at the time went to multi-valve, over head cam, small displacement engines. The reply was - "There is so much more engineering still to refine with a proven design, we lots left to accomplish" .........................they were right.

So look at the current generation of GM's LS-3 engines, vs say BMW's V-8...........................simplicity, lighter weight, fuel efficient, almost bullet proof in stock form. The existing Twin Cam engine platform that Harley uses is very robust and can take a lot of added HP / TQ with stock components. The biggest issue is they need to get away from a 'under square' displacement and go to modern 'over square' design, utilize oval ports in their cylinder heads, better combustion chamber and yes, simple variable cam timing.

I also take issue with some of the above posts on build quality vs the competition. If you look very close at fit and finish, things not readily first seen, my opinion is the fit and finish are as good, if not better than any other cruiser.