If I remember correctly the thing that saved HD was a tariff on "rice burners" over 700cc or any imported bike. I don't believe that was ever rescinded.
It was recinded. Funny.... all the Japs did was stamp the engine cases 699 cc. I know Yamaha did this on a few of their bikes to skirt the issue.
My '86 Honda Shadow has a 694 cc engine.
The fact that a couple of upstart scooter, race, and dirt bike makers could bring Harley to its knees in less than 20 years is hillarious.
Japanese bike: better quality, better longevity, better performance, better price. Oh, with Harleys, you get to be part of the legend. Whatever. Keep the tshirts, coffee mugs, and all the other overpriced trinkets that you buy while you're waiting for your ride to get out of the shop . . . again. I'll be riding.
Nothing against Harley's per se, aside from the price, just something about the stuck-up R.U.B.s that tend to ride them only on the sunniest days of the year, and won't even talk to you unless you have a harley as well.