Do you think long-tour bike riders are treated different than other travellers? Why?
 

I always feel it makes a difference arriving on a motorbike. The further away, the more remote the pplace you reach, the most marked the impression.
Locals seem to ignore drivers and often are in two minds about backpackers yet welcome you and your bike with curiosity, often with admiration.
Do you have the same impression? Why do you think it's different? Admiration for motorcycles? Recognition of bravery?

Just wanted to contrast opinions.
Thanks
DD

While traveling across the US I found myself being approached by a lot of people simply because I was on a motorcycle with Illinois plates and a couple states away. Some were amazed that such a thing was even possible on a sport bike. I can only imagine this is the case while traveling around the world? Hopefully I'll find out first hand for myself in 2010.

Different treatment from me
 

My wife and I have been putting up motorcycle travellers who are brave enough to come to Mex City. We have had over 20 travellers so far and never a bad one. I think this is different treatment as I wouldn't put up a car traveller as we would have nothing in common. Bikers for some reason are different from other people and therefore attract attention.
So if you are coming to Mex City send me a PM and experience Mexican hospitality-

The scene: My saddlesore 1000 attempt.

The situation: Approaching an intersection in rural Rajasthan, about 600 km from my start point, a bit drowsy, I approach an intersection on the highway and see a badly parked truck blocking my field of view. A good long blast on the klaxon that I was using as a horn. Everybody looks up to see the source of the exuberant howl.

Including the cops who are manning a checkpoint at the intersection. I am waved over.

Sub Inspector (Clearly, has not seen a fully kitted rider before): Is that horn allowed in Mumbai (looking at the number plate)
Me: No, but I use it on the highway for safety reasons (point out the truck)
SI: Where have you come from?
Me: Ludhiana
SI (some surprise):When did you leave?
Me: midnight
SI (shocked): And where are you going?
Me: Mumbai, have to reach by midnight
SI (Taking a step back): You can't go just like that. You have to have tea with us!

:D

Spanish Cops
 

Bikers are different - and get special treatment.
Riding solo near Cordoba I went down a slipway the wrong way because the tank was totally empty and I saw a petrol station on the other side of the dual carriageway.

Two mean-looking motorcycle cops saw me arrive..watched me get filled up ( attended service)..
then sidled over to me. I thought uh-oh...they smiled, pointed at the bike and said 'how many horsepower?'. We spent a little while chatting about bikes and how impressive it was riding alone then they waved me on with a little salute.

Makes your day doesn't it?