Once again residents in residential neighborhoods will endure the annual
'Alley Sweeper' rally that sends motorcycles down Portland's public back alleys, mostly in quiet neighborhoods. While there isn't any law against being a pest, the rally shatters the nerves of those living on streets with alleys behind them.
"I've been listening to this noise all morning long, this is crazy
and wrong," said Northeast Portland resident Melinda Williams.
Some neighbors don't appreciate seeing adventure riders, who
typically ride in small groups in rural areas, whizzing by their back
alley garages and yards.
"There are children, they play in the yards,"said Mark Knutson, who
lives next door to Williams. "Having motorcycles flying through here in
mass, is not safe or right."
The jerks who perpetrate this nuisance have the predictable justifications.
"It's to promote motorcycle awareness and all these alleys are here for
public access," said organizer Eric Nordquist. "It's a social event for
riders and those who enjoy watching."
