The Personal Blog Of
Boston Motorcycle Attorney

Harley Davidson vs. Metric Cruisers
November 20, 2009

There is no argument around the fact that Harley Davidson is the undisputed champion in the cruiser motorcycle world. There are dozens of motorcycle brands that compete with Harley but none evoke the same level of passion. Harley Davidson’s place in motorcycle legend is secure.

Myth and history aside, Harley Davidson motorcycles are not always the best motorcycles dollar for dollar as some other brands. These brands have eroded some of Harley Davidson’s customer base, especially during tough economic times.

Metric cruisers, loosely defined as bike with engine sizes measured in cubic centimeters, have established domination the global motorcycle markets in all segments except heavyweight motorcycle class.

Even in the heavyweight class, the gap is closing quickly as the metric motorcycle producers offer newer and more innovative motorcycles.

Honda Motorcycles, the largest motorcycle company in the world is Harley’s closest competitor in the heavyweight section with about 14% of the market, is still a dwarf compared to Harley’s 50% share. Honda is still a huge threat with several motorcycle offerings that Harley cannot touch. At the same time, smaller competitors like Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Yamaha are offering bikes with the same level of innovative style and price.

• Honda Fury is a bike sure to lure some potential Harley buyers away. With innovative, air cooled, chopper styling, The Honda Fury is a great buy for under $13,000 and a great option against Harley’s Softail line.

• Suzuki Boulevard M109R2: The Boulevard M109R2 is one of the most distinctive heavy cruisers on the road and its mix of style and race inspired performance is unmistakable. This bike is ready for the open road for approximately $13,000.

• Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager: Aimed at the Harley Davidson’s large touring bikes, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager offers 10 gallons of storage and all the amenities of a cross country touring bike for under $18,000. That is nearly $10,000 less than some Harley models.

• Yamaha VMax: Voted the Best Cruiser for 2009 by Motorcyclist Magazine, the VMax is the ultimate muscle cruiser.  At $19,000, it is a bet on the expensive side but right off the showroom floor this bike is a show stopper.

Harley Davidson makes beautiful motorcycles but with lower prices and aggressive styling, metric cruisers are beginning to close the gap. For now, Harley is still the king.