Friday Funny: Cops Want Bikers to Wear Neon Chaps

"In 2006, the most recent data available, 521 Florida motorcyclists were killed on the road, up from 441 in 2005.

Officials are optimistic the campaign will reduce that number. But in a state where helmets are optional, they may have an uphill battle.

'I've got black chaps, black vest, black T-shirts, black shoes,' said 62-year-old Gary Dove, sipping on a cup of beer Wednesday night outside Quaker Steak and Lube on 49th Street N in Pinellas Park. 'I support the Florida Highway Patrol, but I certainly wouldn't wear vibrant green chaps.'

Neither would Larry Diehl, 52, of Seminole, among the dozens of motorcyclists parked outside Quaker Steak.

'In the spirit of riding a motorcycle, I think we should be able to go out like anybody else that drives a vehicle and wear what we want to wear,' he said, while walking around with his son, Charlie.