As for the Motor Company not being happy with the story–it seems to me that over the past 25 years it has moved away from those who really like to ride to trying to attract those who like to pretend to ride by going all upscale. Long gone are the “classic” motorcycle shops because they did not fit in with the “corporate image” HD wanted to project.

Also, HD and its HOG (Harley Owners Group) organization used to make Harley owners feel “special”–not so much now. At one time HD and HOG used to operate a “Fly ‘n’ Ride” program exclusively for HOG members–certain designated dealers offered factory owned bikes for rent to at a significantly reduced rental daily rates. That got eliminated a few years ago. I used to go on a Fly ‘n’ Ride once a year but with that change have not bothered.

I’ve had a really good time at each of the four I’ve been at–but there really was a different feel at the 95th compared to what the 110th was like–e.g. no necessity to pre-register or get a ticket to the parade–I got into the parade at the 95th by showing up in the vast parking lot at 4 a.m. and lining up. Never got into the other three.

Maybe having a polished, clean cut corporate image makes sense if you’re looking to attract investors and keep your shareholders and bankers happy, but it might not be shared by many of their once loyal riders.

So, I say kudos to Mark for taking a few jabs, making me laugh, causing those at the Motor Company who take themselves too seriously a little discomfort and providing a somewhat accurate, if less sterile depiction, of what took place in Milwaukee at the end of August, 2013,

By the way, there’s a good reason sometimes “for resorting to the same old stereotypes.” Doing so conveys an image of what was once the case and perhaps allows one to engage in wistful thinking that it might return.

bbb (aka Harry)