Excessive vehicle noise may not be a big problem everywhere, but it's huge issue in a densely populated city like London. Constant exposure to such noise prevents restful sleep, affects people's health and well-being, and harms property values.

Don't get me wrong: the majority of motorcycle riders are responsible, respectful road users who ride quiet machines.

But a small minority seem to want to create as much noise and distress to others as possible. It's not about safety ("loud pipes save lives" has been thoroughly dis-proven by statistics), it's about appearing aggressive and macho, and perhaps compensating for the rider's own personal problems.

As for a car who's "muffler rusted off"? Should not be driven until it's fixed, period.