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Some riders even go a step The engine roar, in these cases,
further by installing aftermarket
exhaust systems designed to
make the bike's sound even more
aggressive. These modifications
can amplify the engine's roar,
adding a level of drama and
e x c i t e m e n t t h a t m a n y
motorcyclists find satisfying.
There's something primal about
the deep rumble of a motorcycle
engine that resonates with a rider,
evoking a feeling of power and
control.
In fact, studies have shown that
certain sounds, particularly those
associated with motorized
vehicles, can trigger a release of
dopamine—the brain's "feel-
good" chemical. The louder and
more aggressive the sound, the
greater the rush of dopamine.
This is why many riders find
themselves blipping the throttle
even when there's no mechanical
need to do so: it feels good.
Road Etiquette and the
Dangers of Overdoing It
While blipping the throttle is
largely harmless, it's important to
note that revving the engine
excessively can be disruptive and
even inconsiderate. There's a
clear difference between a gentle
throttle blip and revving the
engine at full throttle, especially at
a stoplight. The latter can be
annoying to other drivers and
pedestrians, and in some cases,
can even be dangerous. Over-
revving your engine can startle
others on the road, leading to
potential misunderstandings or
accidents. This kind of behavior,
often referred to as "rev
b o m b i n g , " i s g e n e r a l l y
considered poor motorcycling
etiquette.
Most motorcyclists understand
that noise pollution and disruptive
behavior are not conducive to
positive relationships on the road.
However, some riders might rev
their engines aggressively in
moments of frustration or
impatience. This can happen
when drivers are stuck in traffic,
or when a rider feels the need to
assert their presence on the road.
LHR Motorcycle Magazine Issue 09
can be a form of expression, a
way of signaling frustration or
even asserting dominance.
But even if it's meant to relieve
stress or convey anger, this type
of revving is rarely productive. It
can come across as rude or
threatening to other road users,
and it can also endanger the rider,
as revving too hard might cause a
loss of control or contribute to
unsafe driving behavior. It's
important for riders to maintain
mindfulness and ensure they're
not unnecessarily disrupting the
flow of traffic or alarming others.
Conclusion: A Blend of
Habit, Reassurance, and
Expression
In the end, the practice of revving
a motorcycle engine at a stoplight
is a complex behavior driven by
multiple factors. It's rooted in
mechanical needs, such as the
days of carbureted engines, but
it's also a product of habit,
reassurance, and personal
expression. For some, it's a way
to feel connected to the bike, to
ensure the engine is running
smoothly, or simply to indulge in
the thrilling sound of the engine.
While the practice might seem
u n n e c e s s a r y i n m o d e r n
motorcycles equipped with fuel
injection, it remains a part of
motorcycling culture. The key,
however, is to remember that
moderation and etiquette go a
long way. Blipping the throttle at a
stoplight can be a harmless and
even enjoyable habit, but
excessive revving can disturb
others on the road and detract
f r o m t h e o v e r a l l r i d i n g
experience. LHR
21
January 2025