Robert Polkamp sent a message to Matthew Levatich that said:
Matt Levatich,
I write to you as a peer with pride in the brand you represent but foremost as a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast. You must be painfully aware that HD continues to loose market share globally on top of the slowing enthusiasm for motorcycles in general. I would like to make the following specific points on some of the motor company models that will highlight the possible misdirection of the brand as it relates to the current lineup. Please bear with me.
Bravo on developing a new softtail lineup with enhanced road manners. It is with great sadness however that the lineup contains mostly visually pleasing models that completely ignore the fundamental purpose of the bikes - the joy of riding. Take for instance the Fat Bob. Specs look good for the most sporting of the softtail but completely ignored the fuel capacity and thus leaves all those riding the Fat Bob fueling every 100 miles or not buying one (like me).
I had the opportunity in 2018 to ride from Florida to Alaska. I desperately wanted to buy a new Harley for the trip and test rode the Sport Glide since weight is crucial on a 12200 mile round trip on not always ideal roads. I already knew what tires I wanted, the most excellent Michelin Road 5, but of course the powers to be at Harley deemed it necessary to equip the Sport Glide with odd size wheels that no manufacturer makes proper sport touring tires for.
Matt, there is a tremendous disconnect between the consumer and the design teams because they either just don't ride themselves or are neutered in the board room. I wish Harley Davidson a successful continued legacy in the motorcycle industry but please consider riding the rails rather than the ties. Harley Davidson appears on a bumpy road right now. Look at what popularity the new for 2020 KTM 790 Aventurer already has. I cannot fathom that American ingenuity can not make a better mouse trap. Thank you. Sincerely.
Robert Polkamp.
