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... but ALSO because the Harley dealer network was and is just about the most extensive out there also, and thus might've felt he'd reach the most number of potential customers that way.




Yes but after several years of no go he would (or should) have figured out his brand was held hostage to a dealer network that was more or less burying him.

At some point onwards their quality was acceptable (I also read a lot of favourable reports/posts that he stood behind his product), so, methinks he could have built a more loyal dealer network (to include HD dealers that showed the proper interest).
In view of this I could easily have pictured a broad cult following (especially if marketed in the right category e.g. "streetfighter" - see previous posts).

Given what Ron said earlier about "aircraft carriers or destroyers", you certainly have enough space to create one (a new category, that is).
I still think it's possible, if someone picks up the Buell pieces.

Bedouin. Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).