Northwest Cycle Report

News and Events for Motorcyclists in Washington, Oregon and Idaho

Archives for the ‘Rants and Raves’ Category

Are Motorcycle Dealers Driving Away Buyers?

By John Davis • Jan 4th, 2009 • Category: Rants and Raves

A new study indicates that over half of new motorcycle buyers reject certain brands because of dealer-related issues. How much influence has a dealer had on your choice of ride?



Cease and Desist

By John Davis • Aug 1st, 2008 • Category: Rants and Raves

It’s been an interesting week. On Monday I received a letter from the legal counsel for Cycle News magazine. The letter explained that Cycle News is a registered trademark and that the owners of the mark feel that my use of the phrase “Cycle News” on my site and domain name infringed upon their trademark. [...]



Target Zero?

By John Davis • Jul 1st, 2008 • Category: Rants and Raves

Keith Chaplin’s front page story in the June 29 issue of  the Skagit Valley Herald describes the Washington State Patrol’s “Target Zero” initiative. The objective of this initiative is to “eliminate motorcycle fatalities by 2030.”
First, it is refreshing to see the WSP taking action to reduce the number of motorcycle fatalities in our state. [...]



Dear I-5 Stunters

By John Davis • Jun 20th, 2008 • Category: Rants and Raves

You have made my life so much easier. No longer do I have to try to convince people that motorcyclists do not have death wishes and are, in fact, a safe and responsible bunch. You have finally revealed the truth for all to see: motorcyclists really are the irresponsible, reckless, speed-demons that the general public [...]



Turning Red Into Green

By John Davis • Jan 22nd, 2008 • Category: Rants and Raves

Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels was all smiles when he announced earlier this month that the city would be installing an additional 24 red light cameras at 19 intersections throughout the city. And why shouldn’t he be smiling? The one-year red light camera pilot program, using only six cameras, generated over $1 million dollars in revenue [...]