Right-wingers are swearing off motorbikes now after declaring a boycott against much-loved brand Harley-Davidson because of its support of LGBTQ+ inclusion and Pride.

The American giant has become embroiled in a right-wing backlash after music-video director Robby Starbuck accused it of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts.

The term DEI typically refers to progressive programmes that promote equity and inclusion, but has been appropriated by conservatives in the past few months as a way to criticise anything that features or benefits minorities.

“Harley-Davidson seems to have forgotten who their core customers are,” Starbuck said in a post on Monday (22 July). “I don’t think the values at corporate reflect the values of nearly any Harley-Davidson bikers.”

Failed-political-candidate-turned-right-wing pundit Starbuck provided no evidence that Harley-Davidson’s “core audience” are bigots who are against DEI initiatives.

“Do Harley riders want the money they spend to be used later by corporate to push an ideology that’s diametrically opposed to their own values?” he went on to ask.