This used to be a genuine rivalry.    Triumphs were lighter and faster.   Brando rode one in The Wild One.  James Dean, Steve McQueen and Dylan rode them.   

Harley built the Sportster to compete.   Both companies have seen some very dark days since their golden years, but Harley has won the battle, at least in terms of sales.   

Just goes to show you, there’s  no accounting for taste.