Home : News : Local News New Law Could Make Loud Motorcyclists Pipe Down

SB435 was passed by the state legislature and is now on the Governor's desk. It targets noisy bikes that have replaced factory exhausts with louder ones.

The bill would regulate noise levels and emissions of modified motorcycles. Those who are against the bill say modified bikes are still cleaner burning and more fuel efficient than most cars.

“Not all after market pipes are louder than stock pipes. Or purchased to be loud. They're purchased because the stocks might not be available or the cost,” said Peggy Day, a Sales Manager at Harley Davidson Fresno.

If passed by governor Schwarzenegger, it'd require that stickers be displayed proving the motorcycle meets EPA requirements. Cory grace who admits he has a loud motorcycle, says it would be a burden and has a good reason for having a loud bike.

“You are going to hear me before you see me, and that's a safety factor,” Cory Grace, a motorcyclist.

First time offenders would receive "fix it" tickets of $100. Repeat offenders could face fines of $100 to $250.

It's actually been a federal law since1983 and the bill makes it enforceable in California. It would only apply to motorcycles and parts made after 2013. The American motorcyclists association sent a letter to the governor, who's a motorcyclist himself, asking him to veto the bill.