Being a frequent subject of business school case studies is a bit like riding a motorcycle. It is pleasant – as long as you don’t let the thrill of the ride distract you from the dangers ahead.

Take Harley-Davidson. On Friday, workers at the motorcycle maker’s largest assembly plant went on strike for the first time in 16 years. Its shares actually went up on the news despite dark mutterings from Harley that it could end up in the same position as Detroit’s car industry if it does not get its way.