It's Over | 25 Years at Harley-Davidson Motor Company
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- Опубликовано: 8 сен 2024
- Rob just lost his job at the Motor Company and he shares his thoughts and stories about the last 25 years working there.
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Custom parts: windshield, floorboard relocation kit, handlebars, mirrors, tour pack, Cobra Race Pro Slip on Exhaust :)
2019 Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage
Custom parts: HD whitewall tires, Get a Grip grips, Moustache Engine Guard, matching Tourpak
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I remember walking out of a place after 15 years. I got to my vehicle and turned and looked at the factory for a few minutes and remembered all the good times, all the hard times, all the money I made, and I thought well I’m not welcome in there anymore so let’s move forward. I’ve had a few jobs since then, met many new friends, and learned a bunch of new skills. Overall my quality of life is actually better now. Life is good. Live on bro
I did same thing when i left to work for the doc except i was still welcome but it was time for me to move on.
I can relate; I knew my days were numbered when my company told me they had to reduce my hours to support the younger employees. I thought, wow, ageist?
HD corporate lost sight of what made them rich and famous and that is the consumer.
Blackrock & Vanguard ruined HD
Yep and Ford, and Chevy, and Fender…. Massive bummers
They got big because they were affordable American made bikes that targeted the lower middle class and broke club riders. They are now not affordable and have branded themselves as a luxury vehicle company similar to Cadillac, Lexus etc.
The reality is, they never gave a damn about the customer. They care about the bottom line. Which is true for all big companies. The problem is the Harley fanboys have bought in hook line and sinker into the marketing scheme of Harley family and Harley community. Meanwhile ignoring the decades of putting out substandard products, slapping a new paint scheme on the same old bike adding 5k to the msrp and calling it new. Then maybe adding a few cubic inches of displacement every 5-10 years but never actually updating the bikes to keep people from complaining too much.
It wasn’t until Indian made a roaring comeback did Harley start actually trying to innovate and do something new.
Thats the problem with Woke companies and DEI people... they are more focused on the ideology than the customer base that causes the company to grow and prosper.... these moron ideologs cant comprehend that... there is something seriously wrong with them from the mental capacity.
@@myronmosley2167 they were pretty expensive 20-30 years ago, you had to be a doctor or lawyer or make some hardships in your life to buy a new one, a buddy of mine bought a new dyna glide in 99 it was well over 20 grand ....
I'm sorry that you were laid off. My mantra is "as long as I wake up, I have a chance to do something great." Keep on riding and moving forward.
I love it!!! Thanks!!!
No tears from me, I finally fired HD. in 2000. With a New Indian Challenger. With not one regret.
The Challenger is a great bike. I've worked on a couple recently and I'm not really impressed.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Go woke Go broke !!! Next in line is Harley Davidson…
The circular reasoning fallacy is an argument that assumes the very thing it is trying to prove is true. Instead of offering evidence, it simply repeats the conclusion, rendering the argument logically incoherent.
Reductionism: (also, Oversimplifying, Sloganeering): The fallacy of deceiving an audience by giving simple answers or bumper-sticker slogans in response to complex questions, especially when appealing to less educated or unsophisticated audiences.
@KrisGerhardt-h5r Doesn't change the fact that knuckle draggers will eventually have to confirm to the rest of an evolving society or go the way of the dinosaur.
@KrisGerhardt-h5r Dog-Whistle Politics: An extreme version of reductionism and sloganeering in the public sphere, a contemporary fallacy of logos and pathos in which a brief phrase or slogan of the hour, e.g., "Abortion," "The 1%," "9/11," "Zionism,""Chain Migration," "Islamic Terrorism," "Fascism," "Communism," "Big government," "Taco trucks!", "Tax and tax and spend and spend," "Gun violence," "Gun control," "Freedom of choice," "Lock 'em up,", "Amnesty," etc. is flung out as "red meat" or "chum in the water" that reflexively sends one's audience into a snapping, foaming-at-the-mouth feeding-frenzy.
The Identity Fallacy (also Identity Politics; "Die away, ye old forms and logic!"): A corrupt postmodern argument from ethos, a variant on the Argumentum ad Hominem in which the validity of one's logic, evidence, experience or arguments depends not on their own strength but rather on whether the one arguing is a member of a given social class, generation, nationality, religious or ethnic group, color, gender or sexual orientation, profession, occupation or subgroup. In this fallacy, valid opposing evidence and arguments are brushed aside or "othered" without comment or consideration, as simply not worth arguing about solely because of the lack of proper background or ethos of the person making the argument, or because the one arguing does not self-identify as a member of the "in-group.
Othering (also Otherizing, "They're Not Like Us," Stereotyping, Xenophobia, Racism, Prejudice): A badly corrupted, discriminatory argument from ethos where facts, arguments, experiences or objections are arbitrarily disregarded, ignored or put down without serious consideration because those involved "are not like us," or "don't think like us."A very dangerous, extreme example of Othering is Dehumanization, a fallacy of faulty analogy where opponents are dismissed as mere cockroaches, lice, apes, monkeys, rats, weasels or bloodsucking parasites who have no right to speak or to live at all, and probably should be "squashed like bugs." This fallacy is ultimately the "logic" behind ethnic cleansing, genocide and gas ovens. See also the Identity Fallacy, "Name Calling" and "Olfactory Rhetoric.
@KrisGerhardt-h5r Did they decide to not move operations overseas?
@KrisGerhardt-h5r The A Priori Argument (also, Rationalization; Dogmatism, Proof Texting.): A corrupt argument from logos, starting with a given, pre-set belief, dogma, doctrine, scripture verse, "fact" or conclusion and then searching for any reasonable or reasonable-sounding argument to rationalize, defend or justify it.
Your enthusiasm for HD means nothing to the megacorp. They will not miss you. Your contributions will not be remembered. Cogs in the wheel. That is all.
Ditto
I’m sure your comment made him feel a lot better.
It's not about feeling better. We are tools to them. Not partners. You may be a useful tool for 20 years or 2 days. That is all.
That’s across the board. Any and every where you work. Disposable heroes.
Totally get it…when you work somewhere that long, you make friendships…that is the hard part. I know I was a “gun for hire”, but it is hard to not have those relationships.
Good luck. Things changing with Harley big time over the last 20 years and not for the better!
..it may get better now, this guy is gone..Lma0
You're a very good and kind man Rob Decker and we're PROUD of you ! You have worked incredibly hard your whole life but now there is more freedom and hopefully less stress to pursue your dreams. We're looking forward to watching what that remarkable brain of yours comes up with. ❤
Thanks ❤️!
For anyone reading this, this wonderful lady is my mother…so she can be a super fan from time to time 😁
@@mkebikers ❤
i miss my mom.. bless yours bro ❤ bless you both
@@ФЯЮИ ❤
Man i feel for you, in March i got laided off after 14 years working for someone, and a total of 34 years as a mechanic (auto/truck) and personally i walked away , disgusted . I put in all these years for nothing, no bennys, no 401k one lousy week vacation, so i went after something i always wanted , got my CDL-A with all my endorsements and now going to be driving tractor trailers . I am 55 so anything is possible in life , good luck man. 4:25
Congrats on the new career! Sorry to hear how things went for you, but you landed it!! Thanks for watching! More to come!!
That's tough. You may be relieved as driving can be rewarding.
I was a mechanic right out of highschool. Did it for about 8 years then one day just decided to drive trucks. Drove for about 13 years and got tired of that then went back to turning wrenches for about 10 years then went back to driving. I'm 54 now just working towards retirement not gonna turn wrenches professionally again my body just can't handle it. But what I've learned is as a technician is it's a high stress laborious job with low pay little chance of raises with no appreciation for your hard work. Driving is simple didn't hit things and every year you get a raise. I do p&d over the years I've met hundreds of people and made lot of friends doing my job. I still have all my tools do what I love most in my 3 car garage working on my classic cars the reason I became a mechanic in the first place.
@@stoneyswolf yes me too, love working on my cars and motorcycles at home , wish I had a garage as big as you do lol, next home , be well.
1990s were the boom years for H-D because it was "peak boomer". I could see a slow and steady decline as we die off. DEI just massively accelerated that demise. Keep the positive attitude and you'll do just fine! This country needs MEN like you more than ever!
They had the chance to grab gen X. But failed at that. Harley has been failing since the 90s. Yes they made money but their customer base was already shrinking and they were already out pricing their customers. The company never once tried to get new riders, yeah they offered training courses, but their bikes are not made for beginners. Their reliability has always been an issue until the 90s and no new riders can afford that. Harley has always just been a brand, not really anything too special about their products, until it was too late.
DEI? Please get back on your meds.
What do you mean? Do you think dei will not negativity affect the company?@really2345
You don't even know what DEI is. Just repeating crap you heard from some talking head! Another internet parrot!
First, I would like to say thank you for all of your service in the motor company. As of today, we all are in shock over the motor companies decision to continue down the path of DEI. We as riders, and long time lovers of this iconic brand, are completely in shock . What is going on with our beloved company? I own a Harley Davidson repair and design shop. We are busy as hell with older motorcycles. The good hard working people who ride aren't going to pay 50,000 dollars for a bike. Harley has outpriced its core customers and now are discontinuing parts as early as 2011. They are doing this without any other company picking up the part. So, how are these other riders going to fix there older bikes? And the obvious, getting rid of you. These are the decisions of a company in great decline. Wake up people!!! How in the hell does an American icon such as Harley Davidson, go to shit like this? I'm praying that they make better decisions, such as get rid of that climate activist they call a CEO and the idiots on the board. God bless you my friend, and any company or anything at all, will be happy to have you.
Yes it’s very sad especially when you know the history !!! I’m so tempted to trade in my 23 Lowrider and get an old one or buy another brand.
It's pretty easy to understand. Not everyone that rides loves HD. HD is a Bloated Company that really had no direction. The company hasn't been competitive for decades. The Boring Boomers with their 401K packages and nothing to do kept HD alive. HD squeezed every nickel that they could out of them. But in the end there is no place for an expensive inefficient heavy motorcycle. Now there are hundreds of thousands of them in the back of garages all across the country that haven't been started in years. The Bloated Boomers have lost interest and the younger generation doesn't have the money or interest in HD. It's all over for HD.
I 100% agree with you. I just bought a 2007 FHLX from my friends son and I had originally planned to just ride for a couple of years and trade it in to get a new bike (something I’ve always wanted since I started riding) but after seeing story after story of Harley going woke I refuse to buy anything new from them. I’m going to completely rebuild my 2007 into a powerhouse performance bike and ride the sh*t outta that bike for many years to come. I refuse to support a company that hates its core customers. Harley is going down the path of budlight, John Deere and tractor supply and it will be their downfall which is extremely sad given how much of an American icon the brand is.
I fixed my 2008 (discontinued parts) Harley flhtcu by buying a top of the line ( the only way they come) 2023 Honda Goldwing . So I won’t need parts for at least 150,000.
@johnjohnson2855 that's funny.
You should have talked about the changes made by HD that took your job.
I really wanted to hear as well. This man is loyal to the core, obviously he couldn’t talk about it.
@@mikkelwagner65doesnt want to lose his severence package
@@JohnS-il1drmean to say like that
@@kauko8124 I guess you're to soft to handle the truth!
Ha! "handling" the truth this last month has been all I have done...trying to stay positive over here.
I was a V.P. at a university who, after a change of presidents, was to be fired. Fortunately, I was prepared for retirement and did so at age 64. It was the best thing that happened to me for my mental health and allows me time that I never allocated for family and God. After retirement I traded my 2014 Ultra for a 2019 Street Glide Special which has now gone away for a 2023 Street Glide CVO in Whiskey Orange. You will be OK and may find that this new chapter is wonderful. I hope you do. Be safe, keep the faith and I look forward to seeing your new adventures.
You have some history too! That whiskey neat color almost got me...legendary orange closed the deal though. I love my new CVO.
You're gonna be OK brother. Just a new chapter about to open. Loved your story.
Congratulations on your 25 years at Harley. Good luck on your future endeavors.
Thank you! It was a wild ride for sure!! I am so glad I was able to experience it!
Count your blessings. I can assume you are fully vested in Harley Davidson's pension plan? You know how many MILLIONS of people in this country would trade places with you right now? All I got for 35 years in my industry was "don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out." Health is wealth. You are blessed whether you know it or not. Get out there and ride that nice bike you've got. Your life is just beginning. See you down the road!
So true , I worked as a mechanic for 34 years as a mechanic and I got nothing, except my own personal 401k.
Great reminder…I am super blessed! And yes, the pension was stopped in 2006, but peeps were grandfathered in.
I hope you open your own shop, man. You will never look back!
You are right
Mike, just stumbled across your channel. I live just south of Milwaukee and a recent convert from a Honda Goldwing to a 2024 Ultra Limited. Sorry for your career coming to a close at HD. It is refreshing to hear someone like yourself recognize the opportunity and experience you had working for Harley Davidson and appreciation for the company, the brand and products. While you are starting another chapter, you sound thankful that you had an opportunity many will never have. You’re a class act. Hope to see you on the road, ride safe.
Great bike upgrade Dan!! You cannot beat the comfort and the bad-assery of the Ultra! I hope to see you sometime! If you spot me at Homecoming, don't be a stranger!!
Prayers sent. It can happen to any of us. God has a plan.
You are so right! God is good!!!
I’m sorry about the layoff but I pray that God will open a new door for you and He will give you the wisdom and courage to fearlessly walk through it! God Bless
Sorry to hear this, new subscriber. To many times they go after us old guys. It truly sucks. Prayers for a new direction.
Thanks for the prayers Bruce…I need them! and thank you also for the sub! Hope you enjoy the adventure!
Companies demand loyalty but don't give any in return.
It does hurt to go, but I could have left at any time and they would have had to figure it out too...its tough.
What a ride! 25 years! Hope you got a gold watch at least. Must have been cool to be on that team during those years because you got to see alot of changes before we did.
It really was pretty cool! I spent a LOT of money though with all that anticipation 😂
Hey. I got laid off after working at a place for 22 years. It ended up being the best thing that could have ever happened to me. Found a new place that has been
Good luck!
Well, it happens. I was 52 and lost my job at US Air as an A&P mechanic after 9/11. I was hired the next day at a Coast Guard Air Station. I just retired on Dec. 31st, 2023. I told my wife it was the last rabbit I could pull out of my hat. Don't give up, the sun comes up tomorrow. ( I ride a Sportster 🙂)
@@redr1150r so encouraging! Thanks for watching!!
@@redr1150r and ride that sporty!!!
@mkebikers I was interviewed and hired in 20 min.. I told them I needed a chair and a drink of water. I rode my BMW down there 50 miles in the rain, with no rain suit. I went to the interview soaking wet. They talked about that for a long time after. I had not taken any vacation at US Air for 2 1/2 years. They gave us 2 weeks to go before our termination date. I got another job, so I felt it was better to grab it while it was there because how long would a check for vacation time have lasted me with no job ? Things worked out. I had veterans status, and I was prior civil service, and I eventually got my Civil Service postion back. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome.
P.S. - 10 of my friends followed me down there. 😉
P.P.S. - I almost forgot. They kept my 2 1/2 years of vacation pay, because they said I was considered a "Voluntary" resignee, because I found a job the next morning, and left . I could have waited, because they did give us 2 weeks. It was a real union stab in the back, my name was the last one on the first list. I was an irritant at meetings. 🙂(What I said did come true.)
Thank you for your contribution to the life of two wheels so many of us love and you got to do it at the top dog🇺🇸👍
I'm sorry to hear about the job loss. I sold everything last year and now I just travel full time. It was the best decision I ever made. We stay on BLM and National Forest land for free. Talking about Harley history my first and last Harley was the V-Rod. I absolutely loved it and bought it for a number of reasons, one of them being the camaraderie of Harley Riders. It was me and two of my friends who purchased new V-Rods at the time. I won't have another, the way we were treated by other Harley members was absolutely ridiculous. When we went to events we were treated like lepers, lol. It was crazy! Good luck with you brother and keep your head up, I wish you the best!
Sorry to hear about your lay-off. This is my first time tuning into your channel and by the sound of it, I can't help but feel that you'll land on your feet. Good Luck!
I appreciate that
I found your channel today and really enjoyed hearing what you've experienced at the same company I worked at for just over 22 years which I retired from in 2018. Many of the products you talked about in this video were one's that I'd worked on as well, either at the York plant or the Milwaukee part. I also remember seeing the FXR2 and FXR3 at the York plant and how it stirred up the folks who worked there; they thought it was so cool.
It took me at least a year after I retired to break the 8-5 routine I had become so used to. But, take my word, you'll get there. Welcome to the next chapter of your life my friend.
I’ve ridden all the brands. HD isn’t who they think they are. They are just another corporate supplier. Nothing more.
i agree, if i was to buy a cruiser, it would be a Goldwing better made, more reliable, better value, and customer service and cost
@@krwd And they assemble the Honda God Wing in the USA.
I’m on Kawasaki Versys 1000 at the moment. Nice
Great video and an excellent story. Im sorry you lost your job. I feel your pain, with an advanced career, and having to go back to square one, it is a real mental challenge. Best of luck with everything.
My heart goes out to you. I was diagnosed with leukemia, and cancer and had a heart attack. I applied for social security only to find the people I worked for did not participate in social security we knew this when we were young but a 20 something guy would rather have the few extra dollars to spend. We thought we would never grow old. We did. Thank God I joined the army and retired. ,It wasn,t til I applied for social security. That i found .out that the people I worked, for didn't pay in., The little working. Guys, like us deserve better than what we get
Losing a job is tough. Good thing you’re tougher. 💪🏽
Thanks Bryan! I really appreciate it!
Definitely sucks… but I think you do know what you should do next. You’re currently doing it. You have a solid RUclips channel. I think you should put all your energy into this. I think you can grow a great channel. Stay blessed and good luck!
Dude!!! I love the way you are thinking! Thank you so much for the encouragement and support!!!!
We are a dying breed of loyal and passionate workers who stay with companies as long as we do. Are ideas are no longer their ideas anymore so we don’t make the cut. I will be making a leap of faith soon myself and applaud you for moving forward. Keep the positivity and share when you can with the rest of us in the “dying breed club”.
Thank you
@@How2whatwere it does kinda feel like the way of the world now…I remember the horror of watching Michael Jordan playing for Washington and thinking that he should never be in anything but a Chicago jersey. I think you are right though - there is so much talent that can be used, just need to know where to go next! Best wishes on your next move my friend!
You are the man Rob! So proud of you and honored to call you one of my best friends. We wouldn’t know each other if not for Harley Davidson motorcycles. Everything happens for a reason and I know without a shadow of a doubt you will land in the place you belong! Sturgis here we come!!!!
Thanks Ryan! I really appreciate you man! You have been super helpful as I am going through this weird time.
On to next week…I cannot wait for the epic adventure we are about to have!!!
Lost my job of 23 years in 2008. Made ink for everything and they treated us like gold . But things happen and the family owned business family wanted to retire. I lost 20 pounds to stress and found another job. Retired now but still see my old family. It does suck
Unfortunately, this is the world we live in. Companies don't care about dedication, tenure, commitment and passion anymore. They will find a trainable monkey to replace vested and valuable employees. You have opportunities here sir. Take a bit of down time, get your head on straight, and land in another, better place. If you brought 25 years to a place, you have marketable skills that someone will want.
Congratulations, this is the first day of your life in true Freedom. Take all of that accrued experience and put it to work. Maybe at a Harley dealership or maybe your own Harley service shop/store. Either way you´ll be back on top in no time. This is your finest hour, make no mistake.
Hey - thanks for the encouragement!!! I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
I visited the HD plant and museum in York 25 years ago. I wished I could work there. It would've been a career for me too.
I worked at the MoCo for 10 years. Went through the same emotions after a reorg and layoff. I had definitely invested too much of myself in my Harley identity. There IS life after a layoff. The good news for you is that, if you still want to work, Buell is hiring! They're just the other side of the lake from you in Grand Rapids, MI. By the way, I still have my 2006 VRSCR which I have ridden to 17 different states.
I would guess most Harley owners still love their machines. So just because the company is fking up and it's not the only time I am not ready to abandon mine. I love it. It's great fun highly reliable and I am going to continue with my life on my machine.
Prayers for you and your family on the next portion of your journey. 🙏
Thank you so much!
I own a 2015 Breakout, built in York, just rolled 9,000 miles…. First bike I have ever rode and makes me smile every time I ride
Hey Mike - You are an amazing and kind person. Surely things will bounce back. So glad that your RUclips channel is doing well.
Love and Regards! ❤
Thanks Abhi! I appreciate the support!!
I work in the video game and tech industry in the San Francisco Bay Area. In the 25 years you worked for Harley Davidson, I have been laid off 17 times. (I'm including studio/start-up/company shutdowns as well.) You should be thankful you had the same job since college for so long. Good luck on your next venture.
Wow! I hope all is well for you now. I am super grateful for the career I had at Harley, but it was hard at first to see it go.
I ride a V Rod I bought new in 2006 along with my Kawasaki, Suzuki and KTM. I don’t ride my V Rod really far but I have a lot of fun riding it locally. I’ve been spending lots of time riding the back country on my KTM adventure bike these days.
Nice! I just saw a VRSCA at bike night last night...it is in the video coming out today at noon CST. Great Bike!!
V-Rod is a death machine, inferior brakes, the solid wheels are brutal on a windy day,,they are dangerous to say the least. And the location of the exhaust would always burn the legs. Got rid of that bike and the Women that wanted me to get it😂. The V-ROD had a tiny gas tank and a thirsty engine. Nobody wants to group ride with a V-Rod😢
@@michaeljkasnter not trying to change your mind to like the V-rod as no bike is for everyone. My perspective of ownership is much different than what you describe. My bike didn’t come with solid wheels so no problem there. My bike came with Brembo brakes which actually work really well. The next model year after I bought mine they came out with anti-lock brakes and a bigger 5 gallon tank so even better. I bought a 5 gallon conversion tank for my V-Rod shortly after I bought it so the small tank issue was an easy fix. It’s a fast, fun boulevard cruiser. I own 5 bikes so I have different bikes for different types of riding. If I could only have one bike would the V-Rod be it, probably not but as one of many in my garage I definitely get the itch to take it out and leave most air cooled rolling Harley couches in the dust….
Great video, and fascinating! So sorry to hear you were laid off. There are few revelations in life quite as sobering as finding out your life-donation to the employer didn't mean to them what it meant to you! As I've watched the customer service quality die in the dealerships here in CA, I guess I'm not surprised by HDs decline. It was inevitable. Well, god bless you sir in all your new endeavors! May you have much success and many years ahead to pursue your dreams!
@@markbradley5444 I worked with some dealers in CA…who is your local dealer?
Unfortunately if you are involved with any manufacturing here in the USA you will be faced with the “What’s next” time in your career. I worked for companies you have all heard of and by no fault of my own had to deal with the same thing. Hang in there my friend. There’s a good life after what you were familiar with.
Thanks Franklin!!
Amazing story and career. I also just recently lost my job of 27 years. Same. Cutbacks and reorganization.
So sorry to hear about that. I know how you feel. Working on my resume this morning and getting excited about what could be. Keep your head up!
I’m a Harley owner owner since 1969. Still own that Sportster and 9 others. My son owns 2, his son owns 1, my brother owns 4, his son owns 1 and his son owns 1. Let’s just say there will not be another new Harley in anyone’s garage and no more OEM part bought. My son’s company went down the same road and he was let go after 20 years. It was a blessing in disguise for him and the other 2 guys he worked with.
Interesting... First video of yours I have watched. What has happened to you and is currently happening to lots of dedicated workers in America is going to have a devastating effect on the future of this country. I'm subscribing because I want to hear more about your story, from a genuine and honest position as a true fan of motorcycling, and what you think may be happening at HD. 👍
Thanks for watching and subscribing! There is a bunch more content coming relating to the MoCo. I have 25 years of material 😂
See my story above. all too true. The rust belt is still expanding to this day. When I retired from Ford in Cleveland, we had a foundry and 2 engine plants. 5th largest auto complex in the world in '78. Now, two of those plants are gone. Razed to the ground with only CEP#1 left to tell our tale.
@@unionrdr wow...the auto industry (and Powersports) is just changing so much so fast.
Man my prayers are going out to you and your family. I am so sorry for the layoff, but after listening to you I know that you will still land on your feet. I just got a 2024 Breakout and I absolutely love it. I will definitely be looking at your channel from now on.
Thanks for the support and thanks for watching. Hope you enjoy that. Awesome breakout!!!
Good luck to you going forward. Do not take this lay off the least bit personal. I worked for the Brown Army for 23 years intending to leave at 66. They had other ideas and determined to rely upon contract technical rather than local in house. I retired on SS early but truth is I had a tough time of it. Just remember that your job is not your self worth. Anyway HD and the current administration have little to do with it. The Fed didn’t help but it was coming anyway. Either AI automation/robotics or real estate/labor cost would do it anyway. Reality is you can’t sell 40k bikes to folks making 35k income unless it’s at no interest and then it’s still tough. Be well and again good luck!
You are so obviously an intelligent, well spoken, and positive/inspiring individual. It was THEIR loss to lose a worker like you and I can tell your next venture will be BLESSED to have you on their team. Onward, my brother!
I made it to the end. Best of luck to you and what a amazing career. I have a 97 Heritage Softail and just picked up a 2017 Road King Special. Amazing bike. Been riding harleys for 33 years now. Nothing like it.
You have two iconic motorcycles my friend! We also had a Road King Special in the garage a couple years ago. Such a great looking bike!! Thanks so much for watching...lots more to come!
Mike, I owned two 99’ Heritage Softails . I think it was the best bike HD ever produced. It was underpowered, handled poorly, and didn’t stop well, but it produces the best rider feedback ever created. In retrospect I regret selling mine. I hope that you don’t make the same mistake. Cheers!!
Hey Rob, it was a pleasure to have worked with you throughout the years at Harley-Davdson you will be missed. I also left my dealerships and retired in December 31 and I love it but of course I miss the brand.
Likewise Gary!!! You really helped me to understand what dealers were looking for. If you are ever in Milwaukee...give me a shout!!
Good luck boss stay up !!!!
Someone needs to make a bud light replacement badge for the Harley
Thanks for history lesson on the bike. Were you part of the team that made the 2 wheel in the front Harley trike ? Seems like y'all was ahead of the can am . Good luck in your future endeavors.
I worked on CVO from a powertrain perspective for several years and then when I was connected with CVO product development, I was in support but after they had developed that vehicle, it is really cool and you can still see that the museum over in the archives!
Great video from the ❤️ & yes, I did enjoy it, Thank you !!! . . . 25 years ago, I bought my first house & my first new car then, when I went back to work the next day, I was told that I was going to be laid off from a job I really liked, along with, almost, everyone else . . . that following weekend, I went down to my new house & met my new neighbor, who mentioned they had an opening where he worked & in less than 2 weeks, I had a new job that was one that was Better than the one I had before . . . Don't give up, just reinvent yourself & keep the Faith ❤
thank you for the encouragement!!
HD riders are dying off 😮
Optimism and resilience
2 wonderful words separately
Put them together
I can't wait to see what happens happens next
👍
You seem like a humble, proud American. After recent information on that company I can only guess why you were let go. God bless.
Great presentation. Just do this till social security. You're good at it. Good Luck. 👍
Thank you 🙌
Harley is woke. Orvis is woke. Coca cola, Pepsi, Ford. You live in a lie--we all do
Truth. I work for one of the aforementioned companies and they are very woke. Not a surprise though. Gods word tells us all.
Ha Ha, you guys are so funny. Stupud but funny.
@jonr1122 you might try learning to spell those big words before using them. I’ll help. It’s stupid… ha ha.
..don't forget this platform you are on dimwit
Bought my first herley in 2012. Streetglide ember red sunglo. Its been great. Did cam chest at 57,000 miles with cyclorama 570-2 cams 2 winters ago. 98.7 h.p. and 116 ft lbs tourque. Still un touched top end. Clutches and compensator this past winter. Its a beast now.
that color!!! Loved that color! I used to work in Powertrain manufacturing, and one thing I will never do until I have to is open up the motor. I know a lot of people love to do stuff right away, but I think you did it right. Put 57K miles on - then opened it up and made some upgrades!
Just sold my street glide..harley went woke and to be honest working their and getting laid off was a given...and the union isn't what it was years ago..
You can’t take away or trade passion when it’s a pleasure. Stay with what you know and happiness will follow.
Hey man, met you down at the museum a few weeks ago and we talked about your new 2024 street glide. I parked next to you on the clubbed out super glide. Sorry to hear about the news, it’s always weird when a big chapter in our lives is over. Cheers, I know you will do well regardless.
HEY!!! I remember running into you! Thanks for watching! Thanks for the well wishes too! Weird moment in my life right now for sure! See you at bike night!
Never been a Harley guy (and won’t pretend to be) but I respect you as a mechanic and share your love of bikes. I am sorry to hear how your best years could have made that dealership better. Now we all now lose out on all of that experience over the years. Companies in general do not understand the difference between training and experience. Experience takes time. Lack of experience costs companies money but they are too short sighted to see that.
Content content content. Start popping out more and make RUclips your business
@@F6B_ADVENTURES I love that idea! You have really been going hard at it lately too!!
@@mkebikers Yepp! Securing the bag!
2017 and older Harley’s have exceptionally large amount of aftermarket parts available. Us Biker/Builder/Chopper guys will keep Harley rolling with or without HD getting they’re $h!t together! Sincerely sorry to hear about your separation. I don’t know you but you’re clearly passionate for the brand. (HD’s fault & mistake letting you go) sad to see the direction Harley’s headed! As a builder/biker I was shocked over the years when their parts became less and less available. Luckily many USA after market parts companies saw this coming. Not sure how I came across your video but I enjoyed it Thank You! You rode the tail end of the best years including “100th Anniversary” ((1935 1/2 - 2017)) you should be PROUD! Best of luck moving forward!!!
CONGRATULATIONS! NOW YOU CAN BEGIN LIVING YOUR LIFE YOUR WAY! Remember the scene from "EASY RIDER" When Fonda pulls off his watch and throws it in the dirt? I retired in 2010 after 32 years as a Nuclear Class Steamfitter/Weldor L.U.598 PASCO WASH. I got up that morning walked into my shop took off my watch placed it on my Fab table and SMASHED THE FUCK OUT OF IT WITH A THREE POUND HAMMER! yeah Man go do you! Stay Safe watch out for left turners!
I love it! I have definitely been operating in a retired state the last couple weeks. I have to get back to work though...can't retire yet!
Funny you warned me off of left turners...I had one take me out a few years ago, but that is a story for another day!
New subscriber, and new to Harley. I rode a Goldwing for 20 years and hung the helmet up to raise two boys. I never really liked Harleys because they were loud and most riders didn't ride with protective gear and because of what I thought they stood for. Fast forward to now and I am looking at used bikes. The sales person at one of the dealerships wanted to put me on a Shadow or a cruiser type bike. I sat down on a bike while talking to the salesmen and to my surprise I was comfortable. It was an 06 Sportster. I rode it and bought it. It will be fun following you into your next journey. I was laid off from Volvo in 2014. 15 years with them and FORD. Now I work in IT storage solutions.
It's funny. When I first started at Harley, I had a Yamaha FZR600 sport bike. I bought my first HD in 1999 - a MY2000 Fat Boy. It was amazing! I was telling everyone at work how comfortable the bike is, and they all looked at me like I had two heads. In their minds, the Fat Boy was one of the least comfortable options from Harley. Glad you found your ride! Thanks for sharing!!!
hay i worked for volvo cars na and my wife still works for them. My mother worked for volvo cars na also!
@@andrewslagle1974 is Volvo still Volvo? I do like them.
I'm selling my Harley. They went woke.
You and a bunch of others, I’m seeing tons of them here now in yards for sale. Who is going to buy them? They went woke!!! You are stuck with it.
I retired from HD in January after 25 years of service. Walking away was by far the best decision I ever made and don’t miss the place one bit. Leaving on my last day was the best feeling ever.
Great place to work when I started but in a rapid decline the last decade or so. I feel for the people still working there and how poor management decisions may affect them in the future.
Consider yourself lucky that they parted ways with you. H-D is about to experience their Bud Light moment and I feel sorry for the rest of the employees who are being drug into this.
I don’t have a bike 🏍️ but I’ve always supported the brand buying T-shirts from the dealers I visit when I visit the East Coast on vacation (NY/NJ/CT) !!! I wear them as work shirts 👕 now & my heart ❤️ goes out to you & your family !!! I hope nothing but good things come your way, sending positive vibes from Northwest Indiana (next door to Chicago) 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽 !!!
Hey dude, just stumbled on this vid. Sorry to hear about the way the MoCo treated you. I think that they are headed down the wrong path for sure. I bought a Sporty 883 in '97 and still have it. I recognized your timeline from the late 90's, and you didn't lie. Was a big time for HD. Thought it was funny when you brought up the TC88. I have a 2002 FXDL sitting in the garage with that very motor in it. Runs good. Will need to check the tensioners pretty soon though. Good luck in the future.
Tensioners…ugh. The big issue with TC motors…congrats on going this long with the originals!!!
Thanks for that inside history on the Breakout. I have a 2013 with all of 3100 miles on it!
Much appreciated....my wife has a FXR3 in blue, a bike that will be passed down to our son. I own a 07 Night Rod Special... only to be ridden around town.
Nice bikes!!
Gosh, you were so fortunate to be a part of the Harley factory. Your knowledge of the bikes and everything about them is immense. You would be a great asset to a Harley dealership.
Stumbled upon your channel. Sorry to hear about your position at HD being cut. But hearing and watching your video makes me feel you’ll do just fine. Thank you for bringing up the Street Glide and the Breakout, having just downsized from a SGS to a 24 Breakout. My long touring days have ended, so a Breakout was my choice. Subscribed and looking forward to your journey!
Welcome aboard! You have excellent taste in motorcycles!! Thanks for subscribing!
Indian might have a spot for you with all your experiences. Best of luck.
Ugh...still feels a little dirty to go that direction right away...maybe I need a little time. :)
Nicely done!
Thank you for your work! I'm sorry to hear you lost your job! 😢
Health is the key to any future, both physical and mental.good fortune to you...Michael.
Thx MKE B for an informative and entertaining video of The milestones of your experiences at HD. I had a similar experience after 31 yrs with 2nd largest electric utility in the US. It took me a long while to recover. Hope your's won't be as long and most important is rewarding to you. Enjoy your free time for riding your bikes especially with family stay healthy.
Thanks Bill!!
Sorry for your job loss. I worked very hard for a company for 27 years, then when I was 60 & 1/2 yrs. old they tried to fire me for something and I then proved to them that I did nothing wrong so the company CEO said "you make a lot of money so we're firing you anyway"! That was just before the covid fiasco, I'm also physically disabled so I needed that desk job and needed to work at least another 6 years or so before I could possibly afford to retire, never found another job and now I'm 65 and struggling to survive on Social Security which I had to file early for at 62, things are going to get worse. Good luck.
Sorry to hear that…praying for you man!
After the SHOCK of the Laid-Off comes the sense of FREEDOM. I'm retired since 2013 on SS since 2015.
Mr Rob D.,
I thank you for your employment at Harley Davidson for 25 years. I wish you great health, safety, and security in your future. My first Harley-Davidson motorcycle was a 1996 Ultra Classic Electra Gide and 1994 HD Sidecar that I purchased used in 1998. I don't own it anymore due to a TBI on the highway in 2008. I struggled coming back to normal. Don't worry about working anymore. Enjoy your future with family and friends. Keep the shiney side up! Might see you on the road some day. Sincerely, Pete Monzingo
Thanks Pete!
Sorry to hear that you are no longer part of HD. Things happen that are out of our control. Life goes on. I stumbled across your channel and look forward to seeing what's next.
Thank you for watching!!
I’ve been through this. It’s really, really hard. No doubt. But it’s something that can be overcome. Take some time to process and reflect on what you’d like to do next. Then, build a plan. It may not be easy and there may be setbacks. Just resolve to carry on and have faith in yourself. You can do it!
I was laid off after 8 months in 1982. Started under AMF, new owners laid off 400 at York Pa. at old bomb factory. Torn down long ago. Bought a 81 AMF super glide leftover. $500 rebate and 20% employee discount was 1 cheap hog. Still running today
I feel ya. In 2016 my job was outsourced to India. They made us think we were going to get hired for one of these new undetermined amount of jobs. 6 weeks of knowledge transfer and then kicked to the curb. 1 month severance. What a slap in the face.
I tested positive for cov yesterday and can barely watch and comment on youtube videos right now. Live life to the fullest everyone. If i survive i will come back to this post in two weeks.
What a great video! This is one of best, taking us on your journey. Sharing the stories as you saw them the last 25yrs. I’ve owned Vrods and I loved them. I had parenting duties to attend too. So the longest trips were 400 mile days, but you know I was always comfortable on them and it seems everyone else had it. One of them was completely chromed out, they were both 03 Anniversaries. I had purchased the solid chrome wheels. Then I started chroming the hand & foot controls. Then I purchased from HD a complete chrome body set they offered. Let’s just say she was a show stopper, that’s one that got away and it eats at me. Agree with you on the Breakout that baby is gorgeous. It may just be me but I see a lot of Vrod influences on that bike. The only thing HD had done wrong on the BO (IMO) was for a few years that 3.5 tank wrecked the flow and symmetry again (IMO) I’m a new sub and really enjoyed your video. I wish you good luck on your future life travels. I’m sure the best is yet to come for you😎
Thank you so much! You gotta share a pic of that chromed out vrod!!! Sounds amazing!
I was so FRKN PROUDgot hired in 2003 and cried in 2010 myself my wife and my son booted out. After that Keith Wandell?? union buster gets@a 20 million bonus. I think I cried more for my son. Came home sold EVERYTHING HD related including any decals.😢
Well congrats on 25 years, I'm very sorry it ended the way it did. I'm not sure what your job was, but perhaps you had a hand in making some of the bikes I've owned? If not directly maybe indirectly. You've had a unique experience that most people will never have, I hope you can look back on it fondly.
Absolutely look fondly at the time I had there! and I indirectly worked in manufacturing (I was an engineer), so never got to actually make one, but sure helped others to do it. Super glad you love the bikes!!
Alot of people who love everything about motorcycles and the people behind the industry feel your pain. Thank you for the year's you invested.
thank you for the kind words!
Thanks for your personal insight. It was super cool to listen to your exeperience at the Motor Company. Best wishes and greener pastures ahead!