It's a topic that has been around and around, but I think Honda gambled with the new Wing in a way that Yamaha and Harley were not willing to do with their touring bikes.
They see what is happening to HD and their demographics...even though HD continues to lead in market share, even grow in market share, one must ask what is the market these days? 50% market share is great unless the number of buyers in that category are steadily dropping...just like a politician having high polling numbers, but loses because no one shows up to vote.
So, Honda is hoping they will capture a new market to replace the average Gold Wing rider, who, just guessing, is near 60 at this point, and on their last bike or second-to-last bike. In the process, they are gambling that these new buyers will come calling while not pissing off the GW faithful too much. I believe they knew there would be pushback from the veteran GW rider.
I don't know which type of consumer category I fall into in Honda's eyes, but I am 42, and like the new GW, but not enough to replace my F6B at this point. I am concerned about the storage space presently, and about the durability of this new machine long-term (just because it is new).
So, this gamble by Honda is certainly a long-term one that will not reveal itself as a winning bet or not for several more years, I am guessing.
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On a related note, I work with several millennials. Like every generation, they have their own unique traits, good and bad and neutral. Three things I have noticed pretty consistently among these 20-35 year olds:
1) Their expression of loyalty is different than my generation (X) and older generations - we tend to be loyal to employers and brands that have served us well, even if there have been lapses in that service from time to time. Millienials hop around between brands and employers, getting what works best for them, as so much has equalized in brands and employers now as a result of understanding their buyers and employees want. I guess it is a successful outcome of competition.
2) Embracing risk and adventure - they still do it - but use a different format. These folks have been raised with access to different stimuli that fulfills that desire, and it often does not involve an engine and wheels, but a career and and travel and technology.
3) Socialization - There is always some online component to it, even if they are in the same room. Bonding through motorcycling or snowmobiling now seems to be isolated to those who live mostly in rural areas (steadily decreasing population).
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