"Need another subforum vs too many subforums" heh, perhaps this illustrates some of the difficulties with trying to appease
everyone
What we're shootin' for is a lil something for everyone, regardless of mechanical
or forum experience. While we appreciate a lil bit of effort the administration doesn't mind if you post motorbicycle related topics in 'General Discussion' or seek a more specific section for example. If do we spot a thread that would be better served elsewhere, we move it w/a temp redirect ofc.
One of the things we very much discourage are cries of "use the search n00b" & while it would be nice if more folks did as so much has already been covered in great detail, such outright dismissal of a new member is honestly extremely rude... setting it as an automatic feature would be almost as bad, personally I'm not a fan of such mandatory redirects & constraints - there's places I've not bothered to join due to such. Linking to a previously explained solution is
far more effective (leadin' by example n'all), but if that's too much bother... well, mebbe that's why they didn't look either lol
While redundant questions are redundant
often a new member joins
after they've gotten most of their first bike built, flustered and anxious because they've encountered a problem and/or stoked because they've found something "new" they wish to share - they'll post a thread in their excitement despite the fact it may well have become "old hat" to our more experienced folks... TBH I'd hate to quash such enthusiasm with formalities.
There's also the fact that the more basic questions provide an opportunity for our less experienced members to try and help, to try and return the assistance they've received, to feel like they're contributing - which they are
Interestingly - both rules 2 & 3 cover the suggestions regarding search:
http://motorbicycling.com/f21/please-read-these-simple-rules-2.html