Harley pipes more than just loud noise

I would like to take this opportunity to respond to Mr. Sam Birchill in regard to his comments on the noise of the Harleys.

First, the sound of a Harley is distinctive and a source of great pride to its owner. But Mr. Birchill is in desperate need of motorcycle education. Motorcycles most definitely are not "unmuffled." As a matter of fact, the muffler systems on a motorcycle are more costly than those for a car. Muffler systems are designed at certain decibel rhythms specifically to help the car operators hear the motorcycle so that they don't run us off the road. Car operators stating that they "didn't see or hear the motorcycle" are a major cause of motorcycle/car accidents, which is also why you see all current manufacturers of production motorcycles with daytime headlights. This is a safety issue. Let's take that thought one step forward to leather. I bet Mr. Birchill never knew that the cost of leather per person is about $1,000 plus the helmet. These are safety items as well. Personally, I would rather tear up the leather than skin. Being a safe rider doesn't make us bad neighbors, but it does help keep us alive!

I got the distinct impression that Mr. Birchill was prejudiced against Harleys in particular. Perhaps he is not aware that Harley-Davidson Inc. employs over 425 associates here in Carson City, making it one of the larger employers in this area. Harley-Davidson is also a major contributor to our local charities and sponsors athletic teams as well, not to mention the payroll that employees spend locally in our stores such as grocery, department, pharmacy, automotive dealerships and mortgages to mention a few. Plus we also have a great dealership located here. Harley-Davidson employees are economic contributors to our community as well as its citizens.