[Z-man]

I used to ride, and am looking for a new ride (past: Yamaha Seca 750, future: Suzuki V-strom 650 ?).

I understand the 'I want to do everything to make myself known' idea, but in reality, it doesn't work. Inattentive drivers simply don't see bikes. A motorcycle is 1/4 the size of a modern car, or even less. The average car/suv driver simply does not pay enough attention on the road to consider smaller vehicles out there, especially in in the North East. I've had cars turn on their signal, look at me (or through me) in their review mirror, and turn into my lane when I was riding, despite my rather bright headlight.

A loud exhaust doesn't help too much when you are cruising at highway speeds and a car infront of you desides to change lanes into you. By the time you blip the throttle, it is too late.

Used to be that HD riders were a rough crowd. Hooligans, criminals, mean old folks with beards and scars. At least that is what the stereotype was. These days, riding a Harley is very trendy. So the corporate businessman / executive is the new HD rider. Why do they need loud pipes? Perhaps to compensate for a small winkie, or the fact that their bosses belittle them. While some believe in the "Loud Pipes Save Lives" mentality, it is really more of a "Look at Me! I ride a Harley because I am Over-compensating for my Insecurities" phrase the applies more...

Ducking for cover...
-Z-man.