Auntie ABATE / “Cuz” Report

“But they never taught us what was real,

Iron and coal, chromium steel.”

This is kind of how some politicians and some of the media are behaving lately. Green energy and social justice are admirable concepts and things that should be receiving serious discussion. However, the realities of the social and economic costs of these ideas are ignored in the rush to “save” society and the planet. What is real is that many cannot afford to purchase and drive an electric car or motorcycle. The price difference between a used Honda CRV and a Nissan Leaf or Chevy Bolt will pay for an awful lot of gas and maintenance. Another real thing is the need for coal and oil, not only for the energy to make green stuff, but for the tons of paint and plastic that goes into these things. “Real” also includes the mining and manufacturing of the various heavy metals used in the production of solar panels and batteries, and the disposal of these things when they reach the end of their useful life (recycling is not always an option).

ABATE of Wisconsin is in a unique position in that we represent what is currently one of the most economical and low impact methods of personal transportation. Within the limitations of the weather, an internal combustion motorcycle can travel at a fraction of the cost of a car and without the range anxiety of an EV. ABATE members need to continue to remind our lawmakers and decision makers about the benefits of motorcycles and how they can be beneficial to the future of transportation.

jas

Dear jas,

The idea of “all electric” gives us a lot of food for thought and your points are well taken. Keeping our lawmakers aware of our very real motorcyclist concerns is what ABATE is all about. Any new technological idea needs to be looked at from all points of view and needs to be put in perspective. While everyone wants better air quality, getting there is going to be a long process. Our biker old timers are not so keen on giving up their older motorcycles and just plain enjoy working on them and keeping them running. New is good, but old is better if you like to get your hands dirty. So, if you have these same thoughts and want to ensure our way of life, be sure you get to know your legislators and their views. Be sure to get good information at your ABATE meetings. Be sure to go to Lobby Day every year and for gosh sakes – answer those calls to action. It takes a village, you know.

“Cuz”