I ride a touring bike (ST1100) with a windshield, but absolutely need earplugs, whether I am wearing my full face helmet or an open face helmet. Perhaps this is because the helmets are the newer ventilated Arai models, which are very noisy. I won't even ride to the local milk store without earplugs, because I find the wind noise annoying.
I use the disposable models made by AEARO Corporation under the brand name EAR. I buy them in boxes of 200 sets for about USD 12 a box. You can also buy them at Home Depot and other such locations for about USD 0.25 per set.
I prefer the disposables because the fit well and attenuate sound well, and I don't have to worry about them getting dirty. I find I can re-use a set twice before they no longer conform well to the shape of my inner ear.
I have no problems at all hearing sirens, horns, or even conversation. They attenuate sound, they don't block it entirely. My guess is the decrease in transmission of the sound of a siren or a horn (emergency vehicle) would be no greater than what an automobile driver encounters in a car that has the radio and ventilation fan on.
[This message has been edited by PanEuropean (edited 15 March 2002).]
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