06-21-2017, 06:04 PM
You know... I hope this doesn't turn into a Harley bashing thread. My Harley requires less maintenance than my Honda does, has 23,000 no issue miles on it, doesn't leak oil (in case anyone is wondering), has better fit and finish, has no chain to lube... I could go on. So come on...
As for the Ducati purchase. I'd be surprised to see that happen. They did nothing with MV when they had it (as far as I know) and the only thing I could see come from this would be a whole bunch of debt. They've owned MV, they partnered with another Italian brand in the 60's, they've built snow mobiles, boats too I think, and they were owned by AMF in the '70's. None of these worked out very well. They'd be smart (imho) sticking to their core product and making it even cooler and better. Indian is starting to eat into their market share and it's not coming from the sport bike or exotic angle either... But, perhaps it would bring a younger customer into the dealers which is what everyone wants. The whole industry is in a funk because 'the kids' aren't riding. They're playing on their electronics!!!
As for the Ducati purchase. I'd be surprised to see that happen. They did nothing with MV when they had it (as far as I know) and the only thing I could see come from this would be a whole bunch of debt. They've owned MV, they partnered with another Italian brand in the 60's, they've built snow mobiles, boats too I think, and they were owned by AMF in the '70's. None of these worked out very well. They'd be smart (imho) sticking to their core product and making it even cooler and better. Indian is starting to eat into their market share and it's not coming from the sport bike or exotic angle either... But, perhaps it would bring a younger customer into the dealers which is what everyone wants. The whole industry is in a funk because 'the kids' aren't riding. They're playing on their electronics!!!