There has been an increasing number of complaints received at the Comox Valley RCMP Traffic Services regarding noisy and high speed motorcycles, and as a result a no-tolerance enforcement action will be taken with problem motorcycles, Comox Valley RCMP state in a press release.
Some of the offences to be concentrated on will include:
• Noisy motorcycles — cuts or no baffles on mufflers will result in a $109 fine and towing of the motorcycle.
Motorcycles are allowed 91 decibels maximum when idling or up to 2000 rpm; motorcycles travelling at higher rates of speed and with high noise levels will result in a speeding fine and fine for noisy operation of a motor vehicle.
• Speeding offences — if a motorcycle or any vehicle is checked on radar or laser and is in excess of 40 km/h, the motorcycle will be impounded for a minimum of seven days and the driver will receive a minimum fine of $368, penalty points, and the drivers licence may be suspended by motor vehicle branch.
• Equipment offences — some of the more common offences include, licence plates not mounted horizontally, handle bars too high (ape hangers) and no foot rests for passengers. All passengers must have a set of foot pegs and be able to reach without stretching. No passenger can sit in front of the driver (often young children are seated in front of the operator).
• Helmets — presently, the helmet law is being re-written, so basically a helmet must properly fit the person.
• Licences — all operators must have a proper and valid motorcycle licence and should see drivers services at ICBC.com for more information.
The traffic section wants to assure motorcycle operators that they are not being profiled but that there is a group of irresponsible operators who travel at high speeds or have very loud bikes, and cause all operators to be painted with the same brush.
Therefore, if you are riding at a high speed or have a modified motorcycle there will be no tolerance and the operator will receive the maximum penalties.
— Comox Valley RCMP