Harley Tool Kits: A Dying Tradition or Just Progress?

So I was reading this article about Harley no longer including tool kits with new bikes. Seems like they're trying to save weight and costs, but I remember the good old days when every bike came with a basic kit. What do you all think? Is this a loss or just progress?

As a Harley loyalist, I hate to see them drop the tool kit. It was part of the experience, you know? But honestly, most new riders don't even know how to use them. Still, for us old-school folks, it's a bummer. I always keep a full tool roll on my bike anyway. You can't rely on a tiny kit for real repairs.

I get the cost-cutting thing, but from a professional standpoint, that factory kit was never enough for anything serious. It was more of a 'just in case' thing. If you're riding a modern Harley, you're likely near a dealer or have a cell phone. I'd rather they put that money into better parts or lowering the price. But I do miss the nostalgia.

Yeah, but think of it this way – you can buy a decent aftermarket kit for $30 and it'll be better than what Harley used to include. Plus, if you're on a budget, that $50 they might have saved by not including the kit could go towards a tank bag or something. I'm all for it. Progress over sentiment, I guess.

Good points all around. I guess the real issue is that riders should be prepared regardless. Maybe it's a sign of the times – less shade-tree mechanics and more tech. But I'll always have a wrench in my saddlebag. Thanks for the input, folks.