The Dilemma of Loud Radios on Harley-Davidson Motorcycles: A Legitimate Distraction or Just a Ride

I guess I’m more laid back than most. I figure if I’m on a road, I am going to hear road sounds. The blaring radio from a motorcycle last one I heard was a Goldwing so Harley riders don’t have a monopoly on that is no more or less irritating than the thumping base from the Escalade next to me or the coffee can muffler in the Dodge Neon in front of me. All are sounds you will encounter if you are on or near a road. Want peace and quiet? Go camping.

I ride a Harley with speakers and I listen thru earphones 100% of the time. That being said, why do you single out Harley riders? Actually, I think I know the answer to that. I hear a lot more people blasting music from their cars to the point of shaking their windows than I hear from Harleys, but apparently, that doesn’t bother you.

The Problem: Harley-Davidson Voice AVERSION

For the weekend of Arizona bike week, I actually found myself leaving Arizona and headed to California for the weekend. There were gaggles of bikes headed in the other direction, and I really enjoyed the display of all the different types of motorcycles. About the halfway mark, I stopped for gasoline, and this motorcycle club pulled in behind me. Most of them were running full dressers. The most irritating thing is that every single one of them had their radio blasting. They weren’t even listening to the same songs—they were all trying to outmatch each other with the sheer volume of their radios. I, for one, have never understood why someone would ride and listen to music. The motorcycle makes its own music. To each his own, but this was out of hand. What a ridiculous display!

Does It Irritate You When Someone Is Riding a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle with Their Radio Blaring Louder Than the Sound of the Bike’s Engine?

Yes, it does. It does. Uh Huh, it bothers me. I don’t like it. In fact, I hate it. It shows a complete lack of respect for others. Did I mention that I don’t like it—A T T A L L?

Respect and Noise Pollution

I used to fill in in my wife’s store sometimes. It is in a quiet little village on a narrow street. And about once a day, this would ride through with his radio BOOMING. So much that even inside, all of the many stores on the street conversation stopped until he was gone. What I really wanted to do was to stick a pole (no, not there… in his front wheel, causing him to be jerked to a stop.)

Striking a Balance: Respecting Other Road Users

While many people find the sound of a motorcycle with a loud radio irritating, the essence of motorcycling is freedom and adventure. However, this freedom should not come at the cost of disrupting others. Here are a few tips for motorcyclists to ensure their ride is enjoyed by all:

Adjust Your Sound Volume: Consider the environment and try to keep the volume within a reasonable limit. Quiet neighborhoods or areas with sensitive listeners require a lower volume. Use Bluetooth Headsets: Choose a Bluetooth headset that allows you to enjoy your music while minimizing the noise for others around you. Set a Good Example: Ride responsibly and set a good example for other riders. Show respect to pedestrians and drivers alike. Consider the Surroundings: When in doubt, adjust your volume to ensure that your enjoyment doesn’t come at the cost of their peace.

Ultimately, respecting others and ensuring your enjoyment does not detract from the tranquility of others is the key to a harmonious riding experience. Remember, motorcycles make their own music, and sometimes, less volume can lead to louder, more meaningful conversations with the people you ride past.

Conclusion

While the sound of a motorcycle with a loud radio can be irritating, it is important to consider the broader impact on others. Softening the sounds and being respectful can ensure that motorcycling remains an enjoyable hobby for everyone involved. It’s all about striking a delicate balance between freedom and consideration.