Why do you think the news media always?

I agree though I'm not sure why. Stupidity on the part of the reporter maybe?

My local newspaper recently did that. Reporting that a Harley-Davidson motorcycle collided with a pick-up truck. They did not mention the make or model of truck. They also felt it necessary to report that the rider and his passenger were not wearing helmets (we have no helmet law in my state, that fact was not mentioned) even though the article went on to say they were not seriously injured, only receiving minor cuts and abrasions. No mention of any head injuries.

So again, two questions....Why was it necessary to mention the make of motorcycle and that they were not wearing helmets. Neither had anything to do with the accident. They didn't even report who, if anyone, was at fault.

Irresponsible reporting at its best.

Harley Davidson is unique in its image. People who ride a Honda might buy a Suzuki or a Yamaha next time, but people who ride Harleys don't want a -motorcycle-, they want a Harley. People who couldn't tell a Triumph from a Ducati can recognize Harleys. The company has worked very hard to build this image.

So if a newspaper story tells you the rider was riding a Suzuki GSX-R, 95% of people have no idea what that is. But when they say he was riding a Harley Davidson, every reader immediately gets a picture in his mind. The picture is not always 100% savory because a big part of he Harley mystique is the 'bad boy' image of bikers with tattoos and do-rags and skull jewelry.

The vast majority of non riders know one motorcycle brand. Harley. To them any motorcycle is a Harley. I walked into the bowling alley one night, with my helmet three people asked me what kind of Harley I rode. When I'd tell them I don't ride a Harley I ride a Triumph I get a lot of blank stares. Just like everyone calling the bike in that McDonald's commercial with the rain a Harley, because it had a v-twin. Some people just don't get it.

I think it's got more to do with a loss of a real bike,an expensive one,"A BIKE or A BIKER".I know no better than Bob but,I would say it would be more appropriate to call a Harley a Harley than a bike comparing it like those a dime a dozen out there.The news will catch more with name Harley than simply said bike or a Yamaha.They're not depicting it as an unsafe or otherwise.Actually Harleys are less stopped or harrassed by cops than other bikers riding other models.

Japanese bikes shatter into a million pieces and all look the same in an accident? LOL

I have no clue. hahaha.

Maybe Harley pays the media to advertise for them.....

I see you point.but i really have no answer.The media does what it will without regard for fallout