Electronics are Ruining Motorcycling! Why Some Motorcyclists Are Saying Goodbye to Gadgets and Going

As technology overshadows the world, electronics have crept their way into every aspect of life, and yes, this includes pavement-pounding by way of a two-wheeled beast. Electronics have, in fact, revolutionized motorcycle riding, changing the manner in which we ride and how we connect and engage with our motorcycles. However, while technology has made life easier and safer in more ways than one, some contend that electronics are ruining the traditional motorcycle experience.

One of the most significant changes that electronics have brought about is the addition of traction control, anti-lock brakes, and other safety features. While these features make riding safer, they also eliminate a great portion of the skill and the thrill of the ride. With advanced electronics, riders can no longer feel the power of the engine or the adrenaline rush of controlling the motorcycle's acceleration and deceleration. Instead, they rely on technology to prevent accidents and protect them from the risks of the ride. In fact one of the main arguments against the incorporation of electronics in motorcycles is that it takes away from the essence of the sport. Riding a motorcycle used to be about skill and control, with the rider relying on their own abilities to maneuver the vehicle. However, with the introduction of electronic riding aids such as traction control and ABS brakes, the need for skill and control is being eliminated. Now, a rider can rely on these electronic aids to do the work for them, which takes away from the thrill and excitement of the ride.

Additionally, electronics in motorcycles have made them more complex and expensive to maintain. Traditional motorcyclists can maintain their motorcycle at home, but with electronics, a bike's maintenance requires specialized knowledge and equipment, making maintenance more expensive and less accessible to the average rider. The increased complexity of motorcycles with electronics also makes them less durable, as electronics are more prone to malfunction.

The entertainment aspect of motorcycling has also taken a hit with electronics. With GPS systems and communication devices, the sense of adventure and the thrill of getting lost on a winding road has all but disappeared. The feeling once felt by traditional riders of getting away from the world has become an uneventful and dull experience for riders who rely on electronics. And not to mention, for any of you die-hard Harley fellas: wouldn’t it be hard to get that Panhead euphony with a 200 piece HD14 Stage 5 audio kit installed blaring Reba Macentire’s Greatest Hits.

Finally, a significant issue raised by technology critics is the potential for hacking into motorcycle electronics. As an increasing number of motorcycles incorporate complex electronics, they also gain a vulnerability to cyber attacks that could be dangerous to the rider. With everything from the fuel injection, engine controls, and brakes controlled by a computer, the ability to interfere with these systems could cause severe injury or even death. That’s right! The biggest new vehicle boosting craze will be taking place directly from some evil-genius’ laptop, hacked from afar by greasy fingertips…

In conclusion, while the motorcycle industry has benefited from electronic advancements, the repercussions of using them are also being felt. While the technology makes the riding experience safer, it also takes away the feeling of true motorcycling freedom. Moreover, the increased maintenance, cost, and complexity of motorcycles with electronics, as well as the loss of entertainment value, has soured the riding experience for many traditional riders. The need for cybersecurity measures can bring additional peace of mind, but also adds another level of complexity to an already intricate system. Thus, although the use of electronics in motorcycling may be helpful in some ways, it is ruining the traditional motorcycle experience for many riders.