K^2,
Wow! Your comments read like a description of an Obozo voter! A subjective vote for free stuff with no regard of the details, history or experience of the man!
I believe using your brains to choose a motor vehicle based upon its performance and repair record is paramount. I further believe and agree, that style of motor is indeed subjective; however, to entirely rely on your emotions or visceral appeal is reckless.
My answer to: "would buy another because their efficient people movers? Because they don't have mechanical problems? Because of their performance? Don't make me laugh!" is a resounding YES to each of your criteria! I don't have unlimited funds. I want the biggest bang for my buck and I want NOT to be stranded with a broken down motor.
The best part of the article you cited, in my opinion, is this:
Antilock brakes: A real lifesaver
A welcome trend in motorcycle technology is the growing availability of antilock brakes. Bikes equipped with ABS are 37 percent less likely to be involved in a fatal crash, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The reason is simple: Locking up the brakes in a panic stop robs the rider of any steering control. That can easily lead to a skid and crash, which can result in serious injury. ABS can help prevent skids and crashes by allowing the rider to retain steering control during an emergency stop, and it can be especially valuable in slippery conditions.
This critical feature is now standard on many high-end models and adds only a few hundred dollars to the price of more basic bikes—a worthwhile investment in your safety.
Thanks for initiating this thread. It is an important one.
Respectfully submitted,
1olbull
PS: Nothing wrong with that Harley 48 Sportster, for what it is. My two young nephews each have one and are having a blast on them. I note that the graph relates cruisers have less issues than the other styles.
