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Originally Posted by kenwood guy
the reason why Harleys have them because they need them people on the road are so blind these days loud pipes on a harley or any Motorcycle for that matter is needed plus harleys have become a part of "American culture" look at all those bike shows on the discovery channel and you will see what I mean...
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I have heard this 'loud pipes save lives' crap before, and I don't buy it.
1. The exhaust noise is very directional, that is if you are in a car in front of the bike, its much less noticable than if you are to the side or behind.
Therefore, if safety were the issue, bikes would have the exhaust pipes pointing forward, since most of the time, the traffic hazards come from the front.
2. The bikes should have good horns and use them.
3. most drivers rely on visual cues much more than noise. If bikers were concerned about safety, more of them would wear high visibility clothing, bright orange and yellow reflective safety vests, and not all-black leather.
I do agree with you that loud bikes are part of this idiotic North American cruiser bike culture. Why is it then, that bikes are hugely popular all over Europe and elsewhere, and they are all....quiet.
BTW in case anyone thinks I am anti-motorcycle, I own 5 of them.