The "Social Circle" is a group effort between readers, social networkers and the OnMilwaukee.com editors. Every Monday, we ask a question via Facebook and Twitter and then post the responses from our Facebook "likers" and Twitter followers in this column. Well-known Milwaukee movers and shakers will contribute, too.
Once again, this week’s Social Circle question triggered a wide range of responses.
Although most people agree Harley-Davidson is a point of pride for Milwaukee, many have issues with the noise the bikes produce. But not everyone. Some just straight up love 'em.
What are your thoughts on Harley-Davidson motorcycles? To read the entire thread from the original post go here.
Pamela Anderson: "Love. When I hear the rumble I know it's summer. Iconic."
Steve Braley: "Love my bike. Wish more Harley aftermarket parts were made here. Also wish motor-clothes were made in USA. I have a 2011 Road Glide with 43,000 miles on it."
Jill Braun: "I miss my Fat Boy!"
Mike Cameron: "Milwaukee Iron! Good stuff."
Patrick Davies: "They are probably the most beautiful motor transport machines on the planet. It's a great thing to have associated with Milwaukee. The sound ... I get it, it's part of the whole package, but I prefer that they not be so loud. I highly recommend wearing a helmet, regardless of your ride: HD, Yamaha, Trek, Supreme or Rollerblade."
Nick Dee: "Play toys for white collar criminals who want to play bad ass on the weekends. The younger generation of bikers are now riding crappy foreign sport bikes thanks to Harley's greed."
Fred "Too Much Metal" Gillich: "We all hate the noise – so 20th century. Love the new electric Harley."
Paul Jonas: "The cops should enforce the same law that requires mufflers on cars."
Karen Kiffel: "They are gorgeous bikes and it is a very proud heritage for the city of Milwaukee. I am very proud that Harley-Davidson is headquartered here in my city. However, I would echo the comments that they are way too loud. Living Downtown, during any kind of rally, it is unbelievably loud. The loud pipes actually cause motorists to startle on the highway which reduces safety. Other than that, it's a proud heritage."
Jennifer Ramel Kramer: "It's the best fashion accessory I own, it goes with absolutely everything I wear. I love mine."
Paul Christophe Leyer: "Probably one the most uniquely identifiable products in the world. TV shows and movies often incorporate the word "Harley" into the script, the character using the bike is tough and independent. H-D bikes have a well established clientele and image."
Barbara Miner: "Love the motorcycle and all the iconic emotions it stirs up. But. I hate, hate, hate the noise. And there's no need for the noise. The motorcycle has enough else going for it."
Jennifer Morales: "Beautiful but deaf-ly."
Stonie Rivera: "Just doesn't get any better."
Anthony Shafer: "Small manhood crisis."
Jen Skladanek: "My buddy Mikey J always says, ‘If ya have one ya better know how to fix it ‘cuz repairs are expensive!’ And I prefer a Triumph or a Norton (cafe race style / vintage bikes) over a Harley any day."
Kevin Sloan: "Would like to own one but could never justify spending $10,000 or more on something I can only use for a few months of the year. Plus, I don't have $10,000."
Toni Spott: "Love."
Amy Taylor: "Love the business they bring to Milwaukee, and the legacy of true dependability and cache of a great American product. Kinda hate the noise. Blasphemy, right? I know."
Peggy Romo West: "Simply Milwaukee. Love them!"
Carrie Ann Wisniewski: "I ride one and love it, but will always have a soft spot for cafe racers. Nick and I have an old BSA we are fixing up."