Why Electric Motorcycles Are Death Traps – And Why Harley-Davidson’s Gas-Powered Machines Are Still the Safest Choice
By Bobby Darvish - darvishintelligence.blogspot.com
As a lifelong motorcyclist and conservative, I believe in practical, time-tested solutions over trendy innovations. Electric motorcycles are gaining popularity, but I see them as "death traps" on the road, primarily because they lack a critical safety feature that has kept riders safe for decades: the rumbling, unmistakable sound of a traditional gasoline engine. Unlike Harleys and other classic bikes, electric motorcycles are dangerously silent, reducing their visibility and audibility to other drivers. And let’s be real—when you’re on the open road, the low, comforting growl of a Harley can mean the difference between life and death.
1. The Silent Killer: Electric Bikes Aren’t Heard
Motorcycles, by nature, are less visible than cars. One of the only things that make a motorcyclist noticed in traffic is the sound of the engine. According to a study published in Accident Analysis and Prevention, audible motorcycle engines enhance situational awareness for surrounding drivers, which lowers the risk of accidents involving motorcycles (Wells et al., 2004)c motorcycles, by contrast, are almost completely silent. As we know, many car drivers are distracted or inattentive, and without the added warning of an audible engine, electric bikes increase the chances of fatal accidents.
Additionally, the notion that “loud pipes save lives” isn't just an old biker’s adage. It’s rooted in the psychology of auditory perception. Studies on the human response to sounds show that people react faster to loud noises. Motorcycles like Harleys, with their iconic rumble, aren’t just about personal style—they’re about survival.
2. Range Anxiety: Harleys Go the Distance
For those of us who enjoy cross-country rides, range matters. Electric motorcycles often boast range capabilities, but the reality is that they still fall far behind gas-powered bikes, especially on longer journeys. The popular Harley-Davidson Road Glide, for example, can go upwards of 200 miles on a single tank, whereas most electric motorcycles average less than 100 miles per charge (depending on terrain, speed, and other factors) .
Add e fact that charging stations are still scarce outside urban areas, and it becomes clear: electric bikes don’t hold up for serious riders who value the freedom of the open road. With gas stations readily available along highways and rural routes, you’re never far from refueling. But with an electric bike, riders have to strategically plan their routes to find charging stations, if they’re available at all, and deal with the lengthy charging times, which can take hours. Harleys are simply more practical and reliable for long hauls, an essential aspect of motorcycling that electric bikes just can’t fulfill.
3. Dependability and Repair: Gasoline vs. Electric
The sound of a gasoline-powered engine is more than just noise; it’s a symbol of reliability. Harley-Davidson bikes are renowned for their rugged, straightforward engineering, which has made them a favorite among riders who want something they can count on. If you’re out on the road and something goes wrong with a gas-powered bike, repairs are straightforward, and mechanics are widely available. In contrast, electric motorcycles are complex machines that require specialized knowledge and parts, which are far less accessible, especially in remote areas .
Harleys, with itional gas engines, offer a sense of independence—one that aligns with the conservative value of self-reliance. Out on the open road, you can troubleshoot many issues yourself or find someone nearby who can help. Electric bikes, on the other hand, necessitate a dependence on specialized charging stations, specific parts, and technicians trained in electric motor repair.
4. The Harley Sound: Safety Through Presence
Harleys aren’t just iconic because of their look—they’re iconic because of their unmistakable sound. That deep rumble resonates with other drivers and pedestrians, signaling presence and caution. In 2016, The Guardian reported that loud motorcycle engines could act as a “perceptual trigger” that increases a rider’s visibility to others on the road (Gallagher, 2016) .
The Harley engine sounstinct that other drivers can immediately identify a Harley by its rumble. Electric bikes, in contrast, are almost completely silent, eliminating this crucial safety advantage. The safety that comes with a Harley isn’t just in its build quality; it’s in the fact that drivers around you know you’re there.
5. A Culture of Independence vs. Technological Dependency
A major appeal of motorcycling has always been the freedom, the independence, and the sense of being one with the machine. Electric motorcycles represent a very different ethos—a reliance on batteries, charging stations, and software updates. While these bikes may appeal to some, they don’t embody the spirit of freedom that bikers like myself love. Riding a Harley feels like connecting with a tradition of self-reliance and independence, traits at the heart of conservative values. You’re not relying on the latest technology or infrastructure; you’re riding a machine with history, with an identity that aligns with the open road and the American spirit.
Conclusion: Tradition and Practicality on the Road
In my view, the electric motorcycle movement has sacrificed practicality for trendiness, creating a silent “death trap” that lacks the rugged safety of a gas-powered Harley. As conservatives, we know that there is wisdom in traditions that have been proven over time. Harleys may not be the quietest option, but they are the safest, most reliable choice, and embody a connection to freedom that electric motorcycles can’t match. When it comes to motorcycling, a roaring engine and a gasoline tank aren’t just symbols—they’re safety features that, quite simply, save lives.
References
Wells, S., Mullin, B., Norton, R., Langley, J., Connor, J., & Jackson, R. (2004). Motorcycle rider conspicuity and crash related injury: Case-control study. Accident Analysis and Prevention, 36(4), 441-447.
Harley-Davidson Road Glide Specifications. Harley-Davidson USA. Retrieved from https://www.harley-davidson.com
"Why Electric Motorcycles are a Pain to Repair." Motorcycle News. Retrieved from https://www.motorcyclenews.com
Gallagher, P. (2016). "Do loud motorcycles save lives?" The Guardian. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com
No comments:
Post a Comment