First of all, don't misinterpret the topic as an anti-Rune statement. It's not: I think the Rune is a beautiful motorcycle and by far the most daring move by a motorcycle manufacturer that I can remember. I ride a 2004 ST1300 ABS but LOVE the Rune and I might buy one if I were in the market for a pricey cruiser.
This is what I perceive as the problem for Honda: dealers here are all sitting with Runes in stock. One dealer was actually advertising them for $5000 off on the back of the local Motorcycle Trader magazine. They don't seem to be selling the way Honda probably hoped the would. My theory: most buyers of expensive cruisers want a custom bike. The Rune is in essence already pretty radically custom - it has a very distinctive look that isn't going to change a whole lot with accessories. For that reason I'd be surprised if this bike succeeds in the sales dept. for Honda. That would be a terrible shame because Honda would lose millions - and be very hesitant to make such a bold move again.
I'm sure Rune owners are in love with the bike - what's not to love after all? But can the Rune succeed at a price that is approaching the custom chopper market? I'd love to hear feedback from Rune owners on this topic - particularly if you disagree and why.
Despite all this if you own a Rune and are happy join the happy Honda owner's club - I am LOVING my ST1300 after the first 900 miles. I couldn't be happier with a product purchase than I am with my new bike.
This is what I perceive as the problem for Honda: dealers here are all sitting with Runes in stock. One dealer was actually advertising them for $5000 off on the back of the local Motorcycle Trader magazine. They don't seem to be selling the way Honda probably hoped the would. My theory: most buyers of expensive cruisers want a custom bike. The Rune is in essence already pretty radically custom - it has a very distinctive look that isn't going to change a whole lot with accessories. For that reason I'd be surprised if this bike succeeds in the sales dept. for Honda. That would be a terrible shame because Honda would lose millions - and be very hesitant to make such a bold move again.
I'm sure Rune owners are in love with the bike - what's not to love after all? But can the Rune succeed at a price that is approaching the custom chopper market? I'd love to hear feedback from Rune owners on this topic - particularly if you disagree and why.
Despite all this if you own a Rune and are happy join the happy Honda owner's club - I am LOVING my ST1300 after the first 900 miles. I couldn't be happier with a product purchase than I am with my new bike.