When I started this thread I was not downing the use of the metric system. I started twisting wrenches for a living in the early 70's, just before the metric system came of age in the US so I, like many actually prefer the metric system.
HOWEVER, what I complain about is the "METRIC stigma" attached to the Triumph (and other brands)....as if harley is somehow above or better than all of us who ride the metric brands. I have never laid a wrench on a late model BMW bike, but have on many BMW cars,,,,guess what they are METRIC,,,,just like a harley. I still have British standard wrenches and sockets that I used on Nortons, Triumph and BSA in the 60's and 70's.........and I'm really glad I have little use for them anymore.....I actually am planning to take them to the swap meet in Rhinebeck this year and recoup a few bucks.
I think a better designation for harley is "low-tech, air-cooled V-twin with price twice its actual value".......but we know this will never fly. BTW I'm in the process of buying a Victory tourer that has accident damage........and those are even thrown in "metrics". Probably Polaris industries is producing the only true American built iron right now...;just my opinion.