What Won't Keep You Safe

We bet you’ve heard it said that “loud pipes save lives.” Sorry, but that may well be a myth. When a sound source is moving toward the observer, the frequency shifts upward. When the source is moving away from the observer, the frequency shifts downward. In astronomy, this is the “red shift” that shows galaxies moving away from our Milky Way. For the motorcycle enthusiast, it means that the sound from those loud pipes doesn’t resonate when the motorcycle approaches, but only when it’s past. And by then it can be too late.

Loud pipes can contribute to hearing loss and have been shown to delay reaction time. And, in some venues, they’re not even legal.

A better idea is to wear reflective, bright clothing. And add some lights or reflective decals to your ride.