Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Letter: Loud motorcycles? Be thankful

OFF THE WIRE
FROM RICHARD R. FLUHR PRESIDENT, CUSTOM RIDERS, INC. 21906 HILL DRIVE, BERNARD, IOWA
Motorcycles, charity and loud pipes. What do these things have in common? It is the common thread that binds a small segment of Dubuque's population together.
Recently, it was brought to my attention that the local police department has been on an aggressive campaign to ticket local motorcycles for loud pipes and excessive noise. Although it is true that some motorcycles can seem to be a little excessive in their roar, I would like to point out that it is a small price to pay for the large amount of charity work that is done by these riders.
Remember the biker adage, "Loud Pipes Save Lives."
I would like to remind the citizens of Dubuque about the value that motorcyclists bring to the community.
In 1999, our club started the "Tour de Dubuque Ride" for Hospice of Dubuque. Since that time, we have raised more than $150,000 for this great organization. Like many riders and other clubs in this area, we are constantly conducting rides for local charities and individuals who have fallen ill or on hard times.
The next time you hear a motorcycle with loud pipes, let it remind you of all the good charity work that is being done by these individuals. Possibly, unbeknownst to you, one of your family members or loved ones may be receiving assistance from those same annoying motorcycle riders. So rather than cursing them out for their loud machines, maybe you should be thankful that they are there, supporting you and our community.