03-20-2016, 05:40 PM
This question was raised recently in the UK when it was learned that the new Bonnevilles were to be made in Thailand. I think it is very easy to assume something sinister behind the question but I don't think this is true. One question which is to be asked is, "are we merely buying a bike or are we buying into a brand"? My main concern is the machinery but the brand also has some influence. If I were to buy a Harley I would be disappointed if it was made in the UK. Some of the romance would disappear from the product. I would prefer my Honda to be made in Japan as this would cement the bike with the nation and with its history. The new Triumphs were almost universally accepted when Mr Bloor bought the name nearly thirty years ago and some of this acceptance must be put down to the sympathetic approach to the brand but also to the fact that the new factory was close to the original and employed some of the original workers and their families. I feel national pride has a role to play here together with a desire to cling to motorcycling heritage.