I have seven questions regarding today’s motorcycles to which I have no answer (actually I’ve got a pile more, but I’ll keep it manageable for now). I’m thinking maybe I should write the motorcycle industry a letter to help with my ignorance. If I did, it might go something like this:
Dear Motorcycle Industry,
In recent years I’ve owned and/or ridden a number of motorcycles including sport bikes, scramblers, cruisers, dirt bikes, scooters and mopeds. For the most part I’ve been left with a great riding experience. Problem is I’ve also been left with great confusion.
So I’d like to pose a few questions in an effort to free my mind of nagging ignorance.
1. In your multi-billion dollar industry, why hasn’t an accurate fuel gauge yet been invented? (Harley Davidson, please don’t weigh in as half your bikes don’t even have one). I’m tired of being amazed watching my bike cover 80% of its range on only 1/4 of a tank, then watching in amazement as my fuel indicator falls faster than a fat skydiver the remaining 3/4 of the way.
2. Maybe the answer to question #1 can be partly explained by the fact you’re too busy trying to invent an accurate speedometer? It would be nice not having to add 10% to my indicated speed or using a GPS to learn how fast I’m really going. Please let me know how this project is progressing.
3. Can everyone get together on how to measure horsepower (and torque) so we riders can effectively compare bikes? Can’t you all pick just one RPM standard and all measure from just either the crank or the wheel? No offense Harley, but please sit this one out as well – I’ve never seen a horsepower figure within 100 miles of Milwaukee
4. In the age of safety, why can’t all new street legal bikes be manufactured with LED lighting and a flashing brake light module? What costs $30 you can easily mark up 300% without most consumers giving a rat’s ass. Who knows? It may even grow sales.
5. Likewise... Self-cancelling turn signals? I’m tired of my helmet-protected ears not hearing the clickity noise for miles after each turn. The confused traffic behind me would assuredly be grateful.
6. Is there really no way to make ABS brakes available as an accessory after purchase? Even at a ridiculously marked up-price? It’s a shame some of us have to buy a new bike in an effort to ride safer.
7. When in God’s name will you figure out how to design a comfortable seat for any bike less than $15,000? Can’t you just hire someone away from Mustang or Corbin? Hell, they solved this riddle decades ago and they’re a bump on a log in comparison.
Well Motorcycle Industry, that’s all I have time for now. I’ll anxiously await your response. Until then I’ll remain my usual self – confused.
Hugs and Kisses,
Tripp On Two Wheels
