... I thought it was Mike Hunt LOL
I wonder if the problem my not be a loose connection between the spark plug cap and the wire proper? The cap (a hard spark plug boot sort thingy) has a threaded shaft that spins into the center of the spark plug wire. On my 2005 P250, I had a similar issue to this.
As to the durability.. they are bullet proof. I have over 30,000 KM on my bike.
As to Honda copying.. I understand Kymco made scooters and other sub assemblies for Honda before setting out on their own. Kymco makes the motor in the new BMW Enduro bike and BMW advertises (well... maybe confirms in their materials) this fact. They still make the engine and CVT for many different quad and snow machine companies in addition to their own quads and side-by-sides.