Motorcycles

Reading J.P. Cunningham’s letter on motorcycles (July 5) left me thinking I had just watched “The Wild One” with Marlon Brando.

I have to ask, where are these flame-throwing motorcycles with open exhausts? Any off-road motorcycle operating on state land in California is required to have a spark arrester fitted to the muffler or silencer to prevent any sparks or flames from escaping. The majority of street motorcycles have mufflers but don’t have spark arresters. Riders can also be issued a noise citation if they are riding without a muffler.

I am an avid off-road motorcyclist and compete regularly in organized motocross events. I want and try to project a positive image of motorcycling at all times and, while not being a fan of loud street motorcycles, felt I had to respond to these issues.

MICHAEL RIGDON

Hermosa Beach