Motorcyclists get killed by motorists kind of a lot. Once we've conquered the basic hurdles of cornering and not going too fast, cars are our biggest threat. And we're already on the relatively risk-tolerant side of things.

Judging by the way motorcyclists in the bay area drive, "obsession with safety" is about the last thing I'd accuse them of. They're some of the worst offenders for weaving and doing dangerous stuff in crowded traffic conditions.

yes and when people on motorcycles get into accidents at 50 or 60 mph the results are often horrific.

...that's kind of the point you're replying too. they're afraid of being annihilated by much larger vehicles.

I can see both sides but am biased towards your point - if it's called an "e-bike" it'll be viewed differently than a "motorcycle"