Motorcycle News Headlines: Harley Separates Softails, Big Dogs Recalled, Noise More than Annoys

Harley Softails now have their own production line. Better wear those ear plugs. More rider training available in Maryland. Progressive enters North Carolina insurance biz. Big Dog recalling 2004 models for rear brakes.

Harley Dedicates New Softail Plant
Started in 2001, the new plant, part of the company's York, Pennsylvania facility, came on line and will separate production of the popular Softail series from the other Big Twins. It demonstrates Harley's continued growth.
York Daily Record, PA
WGAL-TV, PA

Maryland Adds Intermediate Rider Training Course
In 2003, about 1000 people weren't able to find saddles in Maryland's rider training courses, which were then either Basic or Experienced. A new in-between course aims to add more berths and accommodates intermediate riders.
Hagerstown Morning Herald, MD

"Faster" Will Play at Some U.S. Venues During April
Faster, the movie about 500cc motorcycle GP roadracing is playing at theatres in Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and Ft. Lauderdale this month. It is scheduled to run in Santa Cruz, CA in May and Duluth, MN in June. The link below will keep yopu updated on additional dates. Just viewing the trailer is exciting.
www.fastermovie.com

On-Again, Off-Again Hollister Rally Is On Again
The fourth of July event in central California has resolved its financial and security issues and is about ready to rumble.
Gilroy Dispatch, CA

Progressive Now Offers Insurance to North Carolina Motorcyclists
A change in state law brought the largest motorcycle insurer back into the states insurance market.
Business Wire

Big Dog Recalls 2004 Models
There may be a problem with rear-brake master cylinders, which could cause the brake to drag or lock up.
Safety Alerts

Noise Can Make You Sick
This Time magazine article has some some points that cruiser riders should heed. First, hearing loss increases greatly for people between 45 and 64. The second page also notes that a noisy scooter can wake up 200,000 people. Those loud pipes may be damaging you as well as you neighbors, and even quiet-pipe users may want to consider ear plugs.
Time

Meanwhile, Those Annoyed Strike Back
Residents disturbed by loud pipes get lawmakers and police on their side.
Jupiter Courier, FL

Tennessee Moves Toward Helmet-Law Repeal
The state's senate has passed a repeal measure which would require unhelmeted riders to be over 25, take a rider-training course and pay a $15 fee to help allay the projected $2 million increase in public costs. On the other hand, the Governor may veto it.
The Tennesean, TN
The Nashville City Paper, TN
The Nashville City Paper, TN
WKRN TV, TN

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