For some, motorcycling is not just a hobby, but a way of life. And, there are quite a few, especially lately, who choose to make motorcycles their living. There were over a million motorcycles sold in 2005, which marks the 13th straight year of sales growth. So, the argument that the EPA should leave motorcycles alone is without merit, even though they probably pollute less than cars. And, we have seen that the authorities-that-be are willing to crack down on builders, even if they only make a few bikes per year.

So, it would be smart for owners of bikes and builders of bikes to know what the rules pertaining to the modifications of their bikes are. As this article points out, ignorance is no excuse for breaking the law. The brief version is this: the emissions of motorcycles are being forcibly reduced for the first time since 1980. If you are going to build a motorcycle, you only can do it once in your lifetime without getting it emissions certified. If you want another custom bike, you will need to choose an engine that has already been certified, or pay to have your own certification done (at least $25,000!). If you already own a bike, any modifications done to it that could alter the emissions are illegal. The state's authorities in which you live are responsible for enforcing these laws.

As a motorcyclist myself, I can appreciate that it may be hard for some to comply with these updated laws. However, one reason I like to ride my bike is for the great gas mileage and reduced emissions compared to cars. I'm glad that I can have my cake and eat it too for once!

Related:

• Jesse James & West Coast Choppers fined $271,250 for smog violations
• More on Jesse James, his CARB settlement and his hydrogen-powered land-speed car

[Source: Motorcycle USA]