Ever ride a Valkyrie, a Gold Wing or an ST? I had a Harley as a teenager and that was enough. I realize their quality is better now, but they aren’t as comfortable or as high performance as the Japanese or German makes. I currently ride a 97 Valkyrie (manufatured in Ohio BTW) and its the best riding experience I’ve had to date.
I kinda like the Rune. My sole ride on it was fun, but truth to tell, I wouldn't own one. If someone gave me one, I'd sell it and buy a chopper with an air-cooled V-twin. It's not a brand thing. I hold the V-Rod in the same contempt.
I'm no fan of the Wing at all. Fairings and screens are just the antithesis of what I consider to be a good ride. Probably exactly what the average winger thinks of my ape hangers and leather bags.
I really have to STRONGLY disagree with you on comfort. Harley's strength is and always has been the high degree of customization. Want the pegs 3 more inches forward or back? No problem, huge aftermarket. I asked the guy at the Kawasaki dealership recently if the forward controls on the Meanstreak could be moved to a mid control position, and the answer was a flat, "No." That kind of thing just doesn't exist in the Harley world. You can do whatever you want.
Performance is lost on me. My bike is much faster than I am. Theoretical speed based on the SE ignition and gearing is about 145. I took it to 120 once and backed off. Anything over 90 is absolutely pointless to me. With 80lbs of torque at 2500rpm's I have more acceleration than I'll ever use, so why would I want more?
Btw, the Marysville, OH plant is closed now. All Hondas are now 100% imported.