Went on our annual toy run this morning that is in aid of the Salvation Army.

I went with a mate of mine who was on his 2004 Sportster which he has just bought as a second bike. (Other bike is a Road King) It is still fitted with the standard mufflers.
One of the other Harley riders on the run asked him when he was going to get Screaming Eagle pipes fitted so that it would sound like a real Harley.
Is it the mentality that if you have loud pipes it must be a good bike.

I have Staintuned pipes fitted without the restricters and they definitely aren't loud. I ride without ear plugs and have no problems.