The problem I see with their going after the niche market is the on-set of rider fatigue. These smaller bikes might be good for the occasional 50-100 mile jaunt or down to the local tavern for a beer but for the warrior that wants to ride 300-500 miles a day these riders will be constantly wanting to stop. Even riding a softtail over 150 mile can be take its toll. The stock seat on my Springer (FXFSTI) was horrible and my legs and tail bone would be numb after 50 miles. The guys on the big cruiser had their feet up, stereo blasting and cruise control set and I would be digging my bike out of my butt and throttle hand would be swolled up. I bought a big 16 inch saddle and I could ride all day after that especially if I was loaded down with gear.
Yes, I know all too well about rider fatigue. I had dirt bikes as a kid, and as soon as I was old enough to get a driver’s license, I bought a small Honda runabout. It was perfect for what I used it for, just running around town.
Some friends of mine talked me into going on a multi-state trip over a holiday weekend, and I was never more miserable in my life (and being young, I tolerated misery much better than I do now!). The vibration practically rattled my back fillings out!
I sold that bike in the 1970’s, and now that I am in my 60’s and approaching retirement, I might consider another bike. Like my old one, it would be used as a runabout. I like the old retro cruiser look. And any thoughts of cross country touring would be fantasy. A 100 mile day trip to Galveston would be as far as I would take it. So, something like this bike might be just what I am looking for. The bikes Royal Enfield builds aren’t racers, just leisurely cruisers. I probably fit their demographic.