The introduction of the M8 is not different from the introduction of the TC in '99. When the M8 was introduced, all the "beta" testers got in line in spite of the MoCo's history with the introduction of the TC. Rear cam bearing failures were common, the MM EFI system was crap and replaced with a Delphi system three years later, it took 7 years for the MoCo to address the unreliable cam chain tensioner issue, 9 years to upgrade the frame and front brakes and the list goes on. I liken the trans fluid migration issue to the TC chain tensioner issue. The fix for the chain tensioner issue was an aftemarket fix, gear driven cams. I imagine the aftermarket will develop a fix for the trans fluid migration as well since the primary vent is not a fix; just a band aid that mitigates but is not solving the problem. I am amazed that people are still buying the M8 models knowing that the trans fluid migration is still an issue. The only way the MoCo will seriously address solving the problem is for people to stop buying the M8. This issue may become a full recall; just waiting for someone to run the tranny dry, lock it up, crash and sue.
As for the older generation not buying, that is definitely hurting sales; many are no buying the M8 because they know the MoCo history and will stick with the TC which the MoCo finally got right; just took them 10 years to do it. But some are not buying because they are not riding as much as the used to.
As for appealing to the younger generation, the MoCo has recently introduced the "balance bike". A friend recently visited a dealership and there were 50 kids lined up to check them out. Check out the attached video. When these kids are old enough for their first motorcycle, what to you think they will buy? Long term strategic planning by the MoCo; they are no slouch when it comes to selling/promoting the brand.
https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/...-balance-bikes.html?source_cd=Vanity_electric