No more Buell.

IMHO the biggest problem with Buell and the MV line was that they used the HD network of dealers. Sport bike folks do not even think of going into a HD dealer so a large part of the potential market was missed. How many here would think, "Gee, I think I'll run over to the Harley dealership to have a look"? I have known one of my local HD dealer owners for 20 years and the Buells were really just a few bikes on the floor in a sea of Sportsters and Big Twins. I have ridden the new Buells and they were really good performers. Just not my cup of Koolaid. I am saddened to see Buell go away. They had some interesting ideas and bikes.

 

You are absolutely correct. HD have a masterful marketing plan. Dealers can count on selling $3,000 in stuff to the buyer within the 2 years after the sale of a HD bike. My local HD dealer does have full face helmets and protective clothing on the racks, maybe because a number of their sales people ride Buells and the sales force there are all long term employees. In contrast most of my local UJM bike dealers have little to no clothing for sale in any event. Usually a small section of jackets, a few pairs of pants and a reasonable selection of helmets. Track boots? Fugedaboudit! Seems most of my riding buddies buy their protective clothing online rather than from a local dealer, myself included.

As far as miles, some of my friends ride HD's and they will go out for 250 mile day rides, no problem. It is just a different scenario with different goals, but they ride as much as possible just the same. I personally have no problem with Harleys or those who ride them. I always say, "Ride what you like and like what you ride". At least you are out there on 2 wheels, even if it is a Vespa.(which by the way can be a lot of fun) :thumbsup: We all together account for approximately 1% of the vehicles on the road. Rather than toss eggs at each other we should be worried about those who would have us all stop riding due to their fear or other xenophobic reaction that we may hurt ourselves. That's my $.02.

 

Many Harley dealers didn't carry Buells at all, esp. the smaller shops.

Your other post was great, motorhead, but far too grown up for me when I'm in rant mode! :wink: Yes, there are dedicated riders among HD owners, but I see so many for sale w/under 1k mi per year on them. To spend that much money on a bike and all the blingy crap some people put on them and then not enjoy it by riding as much as possible, it's a damn shame.

Back on-topic...Perhaps Buells and the riding styles that go with the bikes (sportbikes and adventure bikes) were just too different for Harley all along. Maybe it's a miracle Buell lasted this long.

Personally, I don't buy the argument that HD brass was so ticked at Erik for sourcing the 1125R motor from Rotax that this move is (in part anyway) retaliation. I could understand them feeling kind of betrayed but if it made the new bike better - and helped increase sales - why would the outsourced mill be a problem?

 

Will Buell's soon be collectible?

 

"I" hope so, but it's doubtful I'll be around that long,, maybe one of the kids,, maybe.

 

Got you on that. When I am in rant mode it is the same thing. I am hoping however that in the aftermath of the Buell canceled madness I will be able to pick one up for cheap to add to my MBS collection of rides. I think I will reach collectible status long before Buell does. :biggrin:

 

I love it! Very funny!