The results were dramatic. After two years it only needed to sell 35,000 bikes instead of 53,000 to break even. However, even though their bikes had become as good as the Japanese in the market place, it hardly made a difference. H-D was caught in a price war between Yamaha and Honda who made their models cheaper than ever and flooded the US market. H-D sales fell still further. Eventually, the US government agreed to put heavy, but temporary tariffs on imports of large Japanese bikes. H-D used this breathing spaces to rebuild its relationship with customers. It did this emphasizing Harley as a symbol of American way of life. Its test-ride promotion and the Harley Owners' Group made owners feel like one of the family. Riders enjoyed wearing H-D clothing and thousand met at an emotional 85th birthday celebration. By 1989, H-D had jumped to 59% of the heavy bike market.