Perceptual Mapping Analysis of the Cruisethorr Perceptual Essay

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Perceptual Mapping

Analysis of the CruiseThorr Perceptual Map and Market Positioning

The intent of this analysis is to evaluate the simulations involving perpetual mapping for the CruiseThorr and RRoth motorcycles, the latter model launched as part of this simulation. Each of the situations are described, followed by a recommended solution and results achieved. Additional questions are also answered at the end of this analysis pertaining to product differentiation, product repositioning and product lifecycles,

Analysis of Scenario-based Simulations

The initial situations, recommended solution and results of each iteration of the simulation are presented and analyzed in this section.

Situation Analysis

The first simulation begins with the CruiseThorr losing market share as younger buyers don't have the high disposable income to afford it The 21- to 35-year-old age group is interested in motorcycles yet cannot afford the CruiseThorr, and also find the model to be behind the times in terms of their taste. Compounding this challenge is the primary target market aging and not replacing their motorcycles as often. The designs have also gravitated to the needs of the older riders, which are not as attractive to the younger, more affluent riders the brand is attempting to attract. In addition, quality is a highly valued attribute of motorcycles in general and especially valued in the higher-end units. Harley-Davison is a very powerful brand based on their ability to combine extreme freedom with exceptional safety of their motorcycles and the experiences they deliver (Bachand, 1988). CruiseThorr enters the first iteration of the simulation with a motorcycle perceived as being very expensive, safer than many others in its class with a product design at parity with the market. For all these strengths the lifestyle image the CruiseThorr portrays is older than the target market the company is attempting to sell into.

Recommended Solution

The recommended strategy put heavy emphasis on Lifestyle Image (9), Quality Engineering (8) Service Offerings (7) and Price (5).

Results

The CruiseThorr exceeded the median average for Lifestyle Image by a very wide margin in addition to Product Design and Styling.

Stuck Writing Your "Perceptual Mapping Analysis of the Cruisethorr Perceptual" Essay?

The perceptual map showed that the CruiseThorr fell far behind on Safety and Price however. The unbalanced nature of the perceptual map showed how emphasis one attribute over another can completely change the equilibrium of a product's perceptual map. The use of perceptual maps is invaluable in defining the optimal balance of positioning attributes over time (Hooley, 1979). There needs to be a revamping of the product strategy to better manage these dimensions of the product's perceptual map.

Situation Analysis

The CruiseThorr has continually experienced dropping market share and a battle for mindshare with the younger potential customers. The repositioning efforts from the past iteration are not working. The company faces the decision to either reposition the CruiseThorr or launch a model specifically designed for the needs of the younger motorcycle buyers.

Recommended Solution

The decision is made to launch a new motorcycle, the RRoth. This specific model will be priced in the $21,000 TO $23,000 price range, be sold through distributors, and promoted through a wide variety of events. These promotional events include sponsor events including Daytona, offer insurance and protection plans on the new model, offer free test ride, hire celebrities as endorsers and publicize through Hollywood films. Additional Services to be include Training to Dealers, Club Membership, Financial Services and Services to Owner Groups. This is very comprehensive series of enhancements to the traditional product mix of any new product introduction activities. The combined effects of marketing mix factors can….....

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"Perceptual Mapping Analysis Of The Cruisethorr Perceptual" (2012, December 09) Retrieved July 3, 2025, from
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"Perceptual Mapping Analysis Of The Cruisethorr Perceptual" 09 December 2012. Web.3 July. 2025. <
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Latest Chicago Format (16th edition)

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"Perceptual Mapping Analysis Of The Cruisethorr Perceptual", 09 December 2012, Accessed.3 July. 2025,
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/perceptual-mapping-analysis-cruisethorr-83511