Buy into a proven network of Original Equipment manufacturers of motorcycles

Going with an established company with a full dealership network gives you the peace of mind that comes with a product manufactured from a consistent assembly process, backed with an OEM warranty and a network of trained service techs familiar with the motorcycle, as well as a parts supply chain that is far less likely to run dry. On the other hand, you run the risk of being a "me too" dealer, depending on how well established the OEM brand is within your sales territory.

I recommend: Victory may seem like a small American motorcycle manufacturer compared to Harley Davidson, but they're backed by Polaris, a world leader in snowmobiles and ATVs. This offers another advantage, particularly if you're in the Snow Belt: year-round recreational vehicles from one manufacturer. Buell began as a custom crafter of sport bkes; they are now a subsidiary of Harley Davidson. The potential is to get the best of both worlds: a Harley "halo" effect by association, but a bike that's distinctly not another cruiser.

Acquire a taste for custom motorcycle suppliers

Custom motorcycle manufacturers tend to focus on one aspect, usually custom frames or bodywork, and ship in the rest--drivetrains, suspension and brakes. On the plus side, you may proudly vend the only motorcycle in town for a given brand. However, you may own an orphan: no mass-produced spares, no factory-trained repair force, the potential for warranty conflicts from the various sub-assembly suppliers, or worse--a brand that suddenly goes out of business.

I recommend: Founded in 1994, Big Dog Motorcycles produces five models; they also have a line of accessories and apparel. For a European or industrial look, check out Exile Cycles. Founded in 1995 by British-born Russell Mitchell, Exile sells both complete motorcycles and motorcycle kits you can finish yourself.

Venture into more exotic territory with motorbike manufacturers that head off the beaten path

While the vast majority of American motorcycle manufacturers focus on boulevard cruiser variants, a minuscule number focus on other markets. The most obvious market is off-road, as roughly 30% of America's roads are unpaved.

I recommend: If you like the idea of going where no bike has gone before, contact Rokon, manufacturing the only two-wheel drive motorcycle since the late 1950s. Yes, BOTH wheels are powered. While motorcycle manufacturers have produced diesel engines from time to time over the past century, currently there is only one American manufacturer mass producing diesel motorcycles: Hayes Diversified Technologies. They have pushed back production of the Bulldog for the civilian market in order to concentrate on military contracts.