OFF THE WIRE
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100620/OPINION/6200346/-1/NEWSMA Motorcycle mufflers June 20, 2010 Ah, yes, the sounds of summer on Cape Cod — children laughing, waves crashing, gulls squawking and — here it comes again — motorcycles roaring.
And it's not just a rumble; it's an ear-piercing roar, probably an illegal exhaust system.
That's one sound we wish there was less of to mar the peace, quiet and charm of a Cape summer. It's noise pollution, pure and simple.
Despite what some bikers like to argue, making a motorcycle louder so other drivers will be more aware of it does not make it safer. There isn't one credible study we know of that backs that claim. In fact, "... research shows that bikes with modified exhaust systems crash more frequently than those with stock pipes," according to Motorcycle Cruiser magazine.
It's not motorcycles we object to, and it's certainly not most of the riders. It's just the clueless few who spoil things for residents and summer visitors alike, and for sensible motorcycle riders as well.
Falmouth seems to be taking the lead among Cape towns in dealing with the noise problem, and not just from motorcycles.
At their early April town meeting, residents passed an article, sponsored by Falmouth Police Chief Anthony Riello, to do more about anyone who operates any motor vehicle with a defective and modified exhaust system. The ordinance also targets "unreasonable" horn honkers and drivers playing their thumping audio systems so loud they constitute a public nuisance.
The ordinance is awaiting needed approval from the state attorney general's office before it can take effect.
Meanwhile, Falmouth police are working to educate everyone about the noise reduction effort and preparing for enforcement. Violators will face $75 fines.
Here is what the town is stating on the police department website: "Falmouth wants bikers and motorists to come to town and have a good time. However, we ask that bikers and motorists respect our residents & visitors and their desire to enjoy a reasonably quiet and peaceful community. ... Therefore, we respectfully ask that bikers and motorists muffle the noise, shift to silence, and/or turn down the sound. As long as you don't call attention to yourself in that manner, you won't get a ticket from the Falmouth Police Department."
We think that is a smart approach; educate first, then enforce.
Just off Cape, Plymouth is taking much the same approach. Now we would like to see more Cape towns do more to address the problem, too.
Paying more attention to the problem of noise is a meaningful way for communities to show consideration for their own residents and the thousands of summer visitors who do so much to help our economy. Whether someone lives here year-round or whether its a vacationer who paid big money for a quiet B&B or a seaside motel room to experience some Cape Cod charm, they should not be subjected to a minority of rude noisemakers who have no respect for others.
