Got a Big Johnson yet?

Wee Willy · Apr 21, 2010

At a press conference late Monday, the C.E.O. of Johnson Marine, makers of Johnson outboard marine engines and other recreational equipment, unveiled a new line of heavy weight cruiser style motorcycles designed to compete head to head with industry leader Harley Davidson. Peter Long, Johnson brands marketing manager said, "We have studied the market and determined that Harley, while highly successful, has narrowly missed the mark when targeting motorcycle buyers". Long added, "We at Johnson are convinced that our product hits the target dead center and promises to draw sales away from Harley Davidson in a way that no other motorcycle has been able to accomplish". The new line of bikes, marketed under the name Big Johnson Motorcycles will, according to Long, deliver what Harley has only promised. "Our research shows that this, a Big Johnson, is what Harley buyers are really after".

At the unveiling of the new line on Monday several current Harley owners agreed. "When I bought my Harley, what I really needed was a Big Johnson." said one Harley owner, "But I see now that riding a Harley is no replacement for having a Big Johnson". Manager Long also said that his company would follow the lead of Harley Davidson and cash in on the huge market of non-motorcycle related products. "We realize that not every guy can have a Big Johnson" said Long, "But image is very important to people. If they don't have a Big Johnson, they at least want to project the image of having one." Asked if he anticipated Big Johnsons showing up in the hands of Harley owners, Long said that it was unlikely. "I just don't see the need to have a Harley if you have a Big Johnson." he said. "And I can't imagine someone who spends all of their resourses to aquire a Harley having a Big Johnson. I think it boils down to this- you either have a Harley, or you have a Big Johnson, but you are unlikely to have both. Given the choice," said Long, "I think most guys will opt for the Big Johnson."

Another force driving sales for the company will come from women. A survey of the wives and girlfriends of nearly 1,000 potential motorcycle buyers indicates that less than 5% would approve of their partner spending $15.000 on a Harley Davidson. But, when asked if they would be willing to spend the same amount to get their partner a Big Johnson, nearly 4 out of 5 thought that this would be money well spent. One female present at the product unveiling was quoted as saying, "There is no way I will let Lonnie drop 15 grand on another one of those Harleys, but 15 grand to get him a Big Johnson? Well that's something we could both enjoy, and it's something he really needs." Carla Roundheel, manager of the dealership network now being established, said her motto is simple, "I service what we sell."

Big Johnson Motorcycles will be traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the abbreviation PNSNV.