Sometimes, billboards have a way of stirring up controversy. They may aim to educate or simply grab drivers’ attention. However, one particular billboard from Harley-Davidson has sparked a nationwide debate due to its “offensive” language that has rubbed many people the wrong way.

The ad was quite simple. It encouraged people to hop on a Harley and live a more courageous life. The tagline, however, raised some eyebrows:

“Leave all the bulls**t in the wind behind you.”

This ad was crafted by the Bayside Harley Davidson dealer in Portsmouth to resonate with potential buyers who longed for the open road. The general manager of the dealership, Shawn Robinson, loved the boldness of the tagline and believed that people should overlook the curse word used in the ad.

Riding a motorcycle offers a sense of freedom and allows riders to leave their everyday worries behind. Robinson explains, “You do put everything behind you when you get on a bike. You let all the daily bs, the boss, the wife, the kids. I mean, it goes away, so it’s a true saying.”

To Robinson’s surprise, many members of the local community found the billboard offensive. Located along I-264 East, it quickly drew complaints, with people calling the dealership to voice their disapproval and posting scathing responses on social media.

Robinson defends the ad, stating that both the billboard company and Harley Davidson approved it, and they did not believe the term used to be offensive. However, some men in the area were furious, as they believed the ad set a bad example for their sons and daughters.

Brian Robbins expressed his concern, saying, “Before you know it, there will be nothing but a bunch of idiots swearing around my kids with zero respect for innocence. My six-year-old (who reads everything she sees) will read this and be shocked. Think about the kids when using profanity. There are a time and place for it. But not on a public highway.”

Mark Bethel chimed in, agreeing that although there is freedom of speech, ultimately, it is the billboard companies that have the final say.

Portsmouth City Councilman Bill Moody confirmed that the billboard was within Bayside’s property, meaning it was within their rights to display it as they wished.

Robinson expressed that their intent was never to offend anyone but to capture attention through advertising. He hoped that they would gain some visibility from the controversy, much like any other advertisement. Furthermore, he urged the community to focus on the real issues facing Portsmouth, such as its economic challenges and the need for approval of a downtown casino.

Opinions on the sign remain divided. Supporters argue that the billboard’s target audience, bikers, would not find it inappropriate. On the other hand, parents with young children point out that the billboard was on a public highway.

So, what do you think about the sign? Should it stay, or should it go? Let us know your thoughts.