When AMF was able to buy HD for a few pennies it was because HD refused to invest in R&D. They were selling 40s technology in 1968. When they were bought back in 81 or so they had the same problem. AMF drained all profit and didn't invest in technology but they did make a lot of dealers and T-shirts. In that respect they saved HD.
The idea of Japan protecting its industry with tariffs is silly. Why did it cost Harley 100% more to make a bike than Honda even after Honda shipped it, paid import duties and had to maintain a parts stream over 1000s of miles? Honda put them all on the ropes, not from tariffs but from technology and price point.
A Honda went longer, cost way less and went faster than anything else. I remember the derogatory term "Rice Burner" but they had to say that in the parking lot as they couldn't catch it to say it.
Look at the 1985 1100 Shadow and look at the Blockhead. I wonder who helped HD develop the motor that saved their company.
If Harley didn't get a new motor that actually ran they were going belly up. That would have been huge tariffs for Honda with no national competition. The worst thing that could ever happen in 83-84 to Honda would have been the loss of HD.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
