Three things we learned about Harley Davidson in 2018

With 2018 wrapping up and the what seems to be ever persistent media that all motorcycle life will cease to exist in the coming years, this year has been a pivot point for Harley Davidson. A time for identity , progression, and domination. Much like the divisions politically within the USA, Harley Davidson finds its self at ends with its base. The aging boomers and good old days Harley fan that doesn’t want anything to change. Since, like everything else in life, there is constant change, Harley too must change. In earlier posts , we’ve talked about this .https://midlifemotoz.com/2018/07/24/harleys-2018-sprout-think-of-them-as-baby-groot/  

https://midlifemotoz.com/2018/08/01/the-future-is-electric-for-harley-at-least-with-livewire/

Here are 3 things we know about Harley Davidson after 2018

I. Harley , being rooted in history and nostalgia, has created a sensitive niche. As the population continues to evolve in the USA, the popularity of big, and expensive new bikes has and will continue to suffer. There is no doubt that their image and their machines have a following and remain “cool”. If left unchanged, they will slowly fade away.

II. Harley rolled out some aggressive changes this year to their model line up. From all-electric bikes to street fighters, and even adventure bikes,there is a new Harley coming. This is a clear acknowledgment that they know they need to evolve to the larger potential market. Instead of being known as the old guy fat cruiser motorcycle, they’ll be seen as a dynamic and broad brand that resembles something more like Yamaha and Honda .

III. The world is a stage. While domestic market is important. An American based company that isnt strong on its own soil will not succeed. Knowing that around the world, populations are growing, income is growing, and streets are becoming more crowded, Harley Davidson has the chance to continue to evolve into a global bike leader, and not just a niche machine. Harley has shown increased investment globally. More of an active effort to stand out in South America and Europe.

There will always be the old , easy rider image of Harley Davidson, but 2018 has shown us they are willing to do what is needed to survive. Some loyalists frown at HD’s departure from big, old styled machines, but the reality is, for the changing needs of the consumer around the globe, Harley is doing what is needed.

Happy New Year Harley Davidson. Bring on the bikes.