Future of Motorcycles

I have been watching the market and things really seem to be taking a turn. Remember about a year and a half ago when shows like Build or Bust, Biker Build-off, and American Chopper where getting a lot of attention? It seemed like you couldn't open a magazine without being bombarded with raked out, tricked out and heavely fabricated art/machines.

This was, as I assumed, a fad. Sure you still have a number of high priced eye candy art possing as motorcycles. But the future my friends is the PAST. Just look at the new MotoGuzzi V7 classic, the Triumph Boneville, Ducati Sport Classic, MV Augusta Brutale, even Harley is going retro with their XR 1200. And don't count Yamaha and Suzuki out either. The "new" Suzuki TU 250 and the recently unveiled concept bike from Yamaha called the Sakura are revisiting the past for future innovation. Retro is in!! And, I for one am ecstatic about this new old turn. Admittedly I was just a kid in the '70's (don't feel bad, I'll be old someday too) but I can't get enough of these bikes. I love those old UJM's, and Britt bikes of old. They're timelessly cool, and these new retro's have all the cool and all the new tech to keep them on the road more than in the garage.

Maybe this is what the market is demanding, goodlooking low frills bikes that can handle a multitude of tasks. After all the economy is in bad shape, and the days of having 3 bikes in the garage are possibly a thing of the past. So looking for a bike to commute to work, do some lite touring and bar/cafe hopping just makes a ton of sense.

The industry has been lamenting for years that my generation just isn't interested in the big over sized cruisers, and the cost of keeping up with a sport bike is something that most guys my age just can't do now. Plus, there is a stigma that goes with owning a "crotch rocket" that is just not appealing to me. I am no hooligan or punk kid, and neither are my peers. We're married, have kids, and are in some mid level and mid pay employment. We're not looking to go to the track, or tour 1,ooo miles. We just want a comfortable well made ride that doesn't look like we're trying too hard to look cool.

Beneath all that is a social conscience that speaks to my generation and those coming up behind me. We are conscerned about fuel economy, emissions, and wokers rights. Harley, Honda, BMW are you really listening to what we want, or are you listening to a bunch of old guys that are already loyal to your company? By the way the days of brand loyalty are over. Just because we buy a Honda today, doesn't mean we're going to look for a Honda next time we buy a bike. You have to continue to prove yourself.

But for now, I'am just as content to keep riding my old bike who knows maybe it will be cool again someday.