02-02-2018, 01:09 AM
(02-02-2018, 12:21 AM)EmptySea_imp Wrote: I agree, except with "leap of faith". I think, as you state, that this move was a calculated business decision, not necessarily made from desperation, but more from realization that they must be more efficient and innovative in design and production if they are to remain viable.
The reason why I guess I call it a leap of faith is because they need to maintain their current base while growing a new base. The transition from old to new can create a lot of conflict with old and new HD riders. You don't want to shun the old and discourage their potential future investments, but you also want to appeal to people like me who like retro/sport heritage bikes but don't like the brand in its current state. If done sloppily it will create brand identity confusion and much like Indian before, struggle to maintain a consistent base and lose on sales and growth. HD is clearly large enough to sustain their business for some time, they just need to make practical decisions. It's not the end of the world for their brand, they just need to be able to compete at the same level as the popular import brands.
edit: By compete against other brands, I mean take full advantage of manufacturing automation yet still offer bespoke options for the classic riders who can afford them.