Bikers in Altbach frustrated: expulsions and protest on September 27th!

Bikers in Altbach frustrated: expulsions and protest on September 27th!

In the Stuttgart region, a young biker group is under pressure. Laurin Montigel, Neo Stippa and Sarah Siebert are frustrated by the expulsions that were issued against motorcyclists in Altbach. These measures, taken by the police, ended the regular meetings of the “Stuttgart Bikers” group, which had previously been a popular meeting point for motorcycle enthusiasts. However, complaints about noise pollution and littering have escalated the situation, leading to a noticeable estrangement between bikers and authorities. The change is particularly abrupt: the parking spaces in Altbach are now deserted, whereas they used to allow for a lively exchange. The bikers are now planning a demonstration on September 27th to fight for a new biker meeting place in the Stuttgart region. The rally starts at 11 a.m. at the round sports hall in Waiblingen with a motorcycle ride towards Jägerhaus Esslingen, returning around 1 p.m.

The reasons for the expulsions are varied and range from excessive noise emissions to traffic violations that led to dangerous situations. The city's public order officer sees expulsions as the mildest means of relieving the situation. Some bikers present at the meetings repeatedly flouted the rules, adding to the anger of local residents. Part of the meeting point in Altbach is also located on private property, which further complicates the challenges of the situation.

Problems in context: noise and lack of understanding

The problem is not just limited to Stuttgart. In the Eifel, residents express similar complaints about motorcycle noise and dangerous driving maneuvers. Mayor Marco Schmunkamp receives complaints every day and feels powerless, while residents report that they cannot find peace even in their own garden. Michael Lenzen from the Federal Association of Motorcyclists is calling for more understanding from politicians and concrete measures against the negative perception that bikers are accused of. The topic of noise reduction is omnipresent, and proposed solutions such as speed limits in towns and increased noise measurements are repeatedly discussed.

The need to promote dialogue between bikers, residents and authorities is obvious. An exchange in Rurberg showed that both motorcyclists and residents suffer from the noise and that there is an urgent need for support from the legislature in order to create practical solutions. Understanding among all those involved will be a crucial factor in optimizing the challenges of traffic safety and noise at the same time and enabling a respectful approach.