Triumph North America did have headcount for supporting RAT before the economic turndown. Their original vision for RAT was a local dealer supported activity meant to boost sales.
Rockets Across America was an idea created by the original members of this site. At a time when the motorcycle industry was in a turndown as well.
It's all about connections; whether it be the internet, bars, tracks, rallies, girls, and etc. The problem has been that few communities are willing to embrace that it's all about having a good time.
Having fun is difficult for some manufacturers when they aren't utilizing resources effectively.
Shawn, you make a fair point. Harley owners just naturally group together and a fair few of them have expressed interest in Triumph. It is too bad that Triumph turns a blind eye to this as it could be such a lucrative revenue stream.
Maybe I would have more luck pinging someone at HQ.