Aloha all, Dustin here.
Over the years I've met and ridden with people from all walks of life - from Dr.'s to students and am fascinated by the diversity of bikes and different types of bikers. But the one type of biker I don't understand are the Harley extremists. I just don't understand the phrase "If it's not a Harley, it's not a motorcycle."
Don't get me wrong - I love a nice Harley, and I admit, I've always felt cool cruising around on one (rentals - I've never owned one). But to say that it's not a motorcycle if it doesn't have the H-D logo on it???
From the trials and tribulations of others, including multiple bike mechanics, I don't think I have the desire to own one, or even offer them as a rental for others. There are so many other cool bikes out there (that are way cheaper too!) that I just don't know if it's patriotism talking or ignorance when they say things like that.
So my come-back to that phrase is now "If it's not a Harley, it's not in the shop!"
Shoot me an email and tell me what you think - whether you agree or disagree. I'm curious on feedback. Heck, send me an email just so I know that people actually read this thing.
DustinEdwards@ThrillSeekersHawaii.com
Aloha
The thing I don't get about Harley riders is why 95% don't wear helmets. I live in MN and riding on cold days in November I see HD guys and their passengers riding without a helmet! Brrrr. Maybe they think it makes them look tough?
ReplyDeleteTo each their own but it seems like there are different bikes for different applications. The cool thing about riding is how much riders love their bikes. I still look at mine when I open the garage and I can't believe its mine!
-Airhead rider
It isn't really the riders/owners, it is the hype from those that don't even own a bike. If you have a HD your cool, and if not, well not so cool. I suppose the branding image HD has from all the $ they have spent on advertising as well as classic movie apperances has paid off for them. Can you imagine Easy Rider with everyone on Honda VTX and Goldwings? Just not the same I guess. Still, most non owners associate HD as the best and frown on metric bikes without even a clue to the dependability of them. Ignorance is bliss I suppose.
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