Scuba, you have to remember that in most of the USA Harleys are limited to 55MPH... At least it means the sweeper-up can keep close as he picks up the parts that fall off ;) Could also explain why high-speed handling isn't an issue, that and the roads being long and (tediously?) straight compared to the sinuous curves we're blessed with on the right of the pond

As for back-breakers, the "cruiser" riding position is probably why so many US bikers complain about their Hoverlloyds - feet stuck out in front, all the weight on the bum, compared to the European style where you can get "up in the stirrups" and absorb some of the shocks with your legs? Same goes for horse-riding - I tried a "western" saddle once, bum was battered after a couple of hours!
I wonder if that's why they call cowboys and bikers "bad-assed"?
Dave H. (the other one - ZZR1100 and V-Max rider)