Look at the model line ups of the big 4 Japanese manufacturers.
Kawasaki and Yamaha have by far the most desirable models in the categories where most bikes sell. FZ09, FZ07, Tracer, Ninja 650, Z900, Ninja 1000 all sell.
Beginner sportbikes...Suzuki built the terrible selling GSX250R , which is good competition for the 1988 Ninja 250.
Honda has the CBR500R (CBR300R is not even worth mentioning). Compare the CBR500R to the Ninja 400...The Ninja is lighter, faster, better handling, better suspended, more engaging to ride, fun on a track, and way less expensive. The Honda is....."crickets"