For me its not really about buying American in as much as getting the most value for my hard earned dollar. If an American company can compete, I will then turn over my hard earned dollars for their product. To me the American Cruisers are the real deal.
To me, there are no real cruiser alternatives with the looks, quality, fit, feel and finish that I am looking for. I can for sure agree if one likes the looks of the Indian lineup it certainly seems like a nice well made bike.
When I compare dollar for dollar the value of a HD against the metric bikes (many of which I owned and were great bikes) to me personally they do not come close to my 2014 Road King as far as fit, finish and hardware. They were good reliable bikes but not put together like my RK. But to be fair, the metrics can be bought at much lower prices.
So with that said, at greater expense I feel like I am getting my moneys worth for that extra money I spent. I am leary about long term reliability but that goes with the territory, time will tell. Im one to appreciate the way things are put together and the HD is perfect for me.
Also for me personally, owner satisfaction plays a part for me as well and its kind of cool for me, as long as it doesnt let me down to be owning a HD.
Add to that the rock solid handling, smooth as butter throttle, ABS and ride, this bike has so impressed me. Now, it better be reliable. But I chose the HD on the merits of the bike.
Personally based on what you wrote, to me, it seems you have more of a thing against HD owners, not sure why, me personally I dont care what bike someone rides and I am thrilled your enjoying your Indian, we can all hope over time, it proves to be a good solid reliable bike, competition is good!
Intimidated? Not sure why someone would be, its a cruiser bike and I think, hands down the American companies hold this market. For the life of me, I do not know why an HD owner would feel intimidated maybe its just your perception?
Its not what you ride, its what you enjoy, to me that is what riding is about.