As a responsible motorcyclist and a concerned citizen, I am writing about the incident that occurred in New York City on Sunday, Sept. 29, involving an SUV driver and some motorcyclists.

I am troubled by this so-called road rage incident. The SUV driver allegedly caused serious injuries of a biker, and some motorcyclists apparently assaulted the driver. Some in the media have reported the facts, but others are sensationalizing the story.

Those of us who ride support rider education and often raise funds for charitable causes in our community. The safety of all road users, especially motorcyclists, is of the utmost concern to me and I do not support actions by any road users that violate the law.

Each year, the American Motorcyclist Association sanctions hundreds of well-organized recreational events. At these events, law-abiding motorcyclists gather to enjoy camaraderie and spend their tourist dollars in host cities and surrounding communities.

One unfortunate event of this kind, reported frequently by national and local media, can create a false image of all motorcyclists by the general public.

Motorcycling has become an enjoyable mainstream activity, and almost everyone today has a family member or friend who rides. The actions of the motorcyclists portrayed in the video of the encounter in New York City do not represent me, my friends, or the vast majority of the 27 million motorcyclists in America who ride responsibly.

Linda Taylor

Manchester

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