The Harley Davidson Lifestyle
The slight mention of Harley Davidson brings to mind raw power, oozing machismo, and anything that is extremely hard core. One imagines a powerful man with bulging arms, decked with tattoos of poisonous snakes and fearsome dragons, long hair, a muscle shirt,piercings and all the works. The Harley Davidson after all is a legendary giant in the motorcycle industry that rakes in more than half the US market customer share.
It was a fun surprise when I came across an article about the height of the seat of a hog being a major concern to almost all of their customers. Apparently, the seat height needs to be perfect to assure comfort while atop their monster ride. I had the perception that people take out their hogs on the road for a display of power but most just want a convenient cruise.
It makes sense that while on top of a macho ride, it is important to maintain composure. The perfect seat height does give one the confidence of knowing they can be able to lay their feet flat on the ground when needed. A rider desperately reaching for a foothold would not be a commanding sight.
When you scan Harley Davidson history, it is clearly dominated by rebel images with raked out choppers like Dennis Hopper in Easy Rider, or moody nonconformists who take to the open road to escape boring jobs and loveless marriages.
These days, you’ll be amazed at the diversity of Harley owners. You will see a guy who leaps off his hog and excitedly opens his laptop to check and update his facebook account. You’ll probably find a sexy clean cut woman who dials her cell phone to check how her kids are doing in college.
There is a dramatic change in the clientele demographics of the Harley Davidson apparently because people want to own a hog for different reasons these days. While some are keeping true to the lifestyle, others simply want the prestige it brings.
Whatever their reasons are, one thing is clear. The hog is picked for the reputation it holds. It is power and freedom – an icon. When you are atop a Harley Davidson, you become a legend, and you are part of its rich history.
The Harley Davidson is clearly in a league of its own in the motorcycle industry. It is timeless classic, and will always represent strength and craftsmanship. It will always speak of freedom and will forever rule the road.
