I met a guy at the Antique Motorcycle rally (AMCA) in Denton, NC in May that had a 3 year old Harley Full Dresser with 150,000 miles on it, and never any problems - just change the oil and renew the brakes and tires. The "real" riders of Harleys have a great respect for Beemers and are quite ready to compliment them. What we all seek is a good ride and value for our money. Another guy I met walked over (he had a '76 R75/6) and was admiring my RT. We talked of the many runs he'd done back and forth from Florida to California on the R75 and what a fine bike it is. He mentioned that he'd always ridden old Indian Chiefs (and still has a few) but that as he got older, he wanted a smoother ride. Most of the folks where I work ride Harleys and are some are so-called 'Rounders like me. I know for a fact that they pay no where near the maintenance costs that I do, but, on the other hand, their Harleys generally cost way more than my Beemer. Let each ride their own and make their own justifications for same...I like all motorcycles - each has their charm and place. There are "lemon" stories no matter the brand and it's up to the manufacturer to make good on the warranty.