Why is Slate relevant vs. legacy automaker offerings?

[cvollers]

This is going to ruffle a few feathers, but Harley people are used to pushing lifestyle over poor engineering and outdated technology, and my preference would be to employ people who stand firmly behind solid engineering and a quality product over lifestyle and "being in the club"

Yes, just one opinion.

I own a BMW moto (R1200RS). I never for a second considered buying a Harley, mainly because I think Harley owners are always trying to make a statement about who they are…using a Harley bike to make the case. I bought the BMW because it is an incredibly well engineered machine and the ride is sublime. I think the Slate is going to appeal to those people who like to buck trends. Who do things differently. Who don’t follow the herd. Will it be because the Slate is an incredibly well engineered machine? Maybe. But I think its more about being an incredible value with the ability to say something unique about the owner through customization.

 

[Mac-Tyson]

Someone recently mentioned that Slate has a few ex-Harley Davidson people on board, and I think that's a good point of comparison. Harley owners are swimming in 3rd party aftermarket part and customization options, and they have only strengthened people's connection to the brand.

Honestly that's going to be key aspect to Slate's success their conneion to the brand as well as developing a community.

 

[E90400K]

This is going to ruffle a few feathers, but Harley people are used to pushing lifestyle over poor engineering and outdated technology, and my preference would be to employ people who stand firmly behind solid engineering and a quality product over lifestyle and "being in the club"

Yes, just one opinion.

I'll have to differ with you here. You should actually review Harley's lineup. It's far from the un-modern, poorly engineered, outdated product you think it is. Harley has some of the best modern user interfaces for motorcycles in the industry. They have integrated navigation, great mapping software, modern TFT displays, powerful audio systems, antilock braking, ride-by-wire stability control, powerful and durable aircooled and liquid-cooled engines that produce industry leading power. Their lighting systems are some of the best in the industry. Harley basically pioneered the modern drive belt systems most other brands now incorporate into their designs.

Just wanted to inform.

And riding a motorcycle is a "lifestyle" more than the brand.

 

[E90400K]

All that said, I ride a 1999 Honda Valkyrie Interstate, owned since new.

 

[brian10x]

When you have to de-activate the rear cylinder to keep the agricultural level engine from melting down, its time to re-think your engineering.