Yes, all of this taken collectively is total BS and yes, motorcycles are being singled out because we are a minority and because of the "outlaw" image that bikers established long ago and, unfortunately, is still being fostered today by some.
Atlantic Station in Atlanta has banned motorcycles. Several of the gated "subdivisions" on Hilton Head Island have banned motorcycles. These are just the two I am most familiar with. Have either of these places banned:
1) Civics/Corollas with the obnoxious (I think they're called "bumble bee") exhaust systems?
2) Pickups with the chrome, 18 wheeler exhausts that will wake the dead?
3) Yard maintenance equipment like leaf blowers and chain saws that exceed the decibel level of a 747 taking off?
The answer is universally NO. The lawmakers trumpet that it is a noise ordinance but it's obviously a money grab and a chance to "stick it" to the biker community.
I have no idea what the answer is. Join ABATE or AMA? Not sure how effective they are. Write editorials to the local press? I think a great starting point would be for NO MORE charity rides that benefit police/fire or any other government agencies in the areas with these ridiculous laws. Obviously, that runs the risk of alienating/pissing off the very people writing the tickets but it would really make a statement.
I'm simply at my wits end and at a loss for further ideas on this one!