Posted by Jim on March 06, 2000 at 01:02:28:
OK, Folks. I just researched the EPA regulations that WD keeps telling us about. He's right.... sort of. (Now don't take what I say as Gospel, look it up before you do it. I refuse to testify at anyone's noise violation hearings!!!!)
Here's what I found:
The place to look is "epa.gov" that'll link you to the Govt Printing Ofc (GPO) website which has all the regulations. I searched for "noise" and found two sub-parts that apply to us.
The second part (actually the first part I found- which is why I'm addressing it first) seems to contradict WD. This is (for anyone interested) US Code, Title 40, CFR 205, Subpart E, Motorcycle Exhaust Systems. It talks about what the manufactures have to tell you, like: "Federal law prohibits any modification to this exhaust system which causes the motorcycle to exceed the Federal noise standard. Use of the motorcycle with such a modified exhaust system is also prohibited. Acts likely to constitute tampering include removal or puncturing the muffler, baffles, header pipes, or any other component which conducts exhaust gases." Note the part about "exceed the Federal noise standard." It lays out various standards for everything from mopeds to off-road bikes. It also talks about how the manufacturers have to perform tests and have their configurations certified by the EPA. They also have to specify on all aftermarket stuff exactly which bikes it has been tested on (so if it says its compatible, its the company's fault if you exceed the standard). It says nothing about making something illegal by making it louder, only that if you make it too loud, you are in violation.
The first part (again, second part I read--- I'm doing this chronoligically so I won't get confused---- let me know when I lose ya!), "USC 40, CFR205, Subpart D, Motorcycles," initially seems to back up the Dr. It basically says that any tampering with the system (anypart of it) to make it louder (other than repair, maintenace, or replacement with approved parts)(seems there may be a loophole to go after when writing term papers or defending yourself the next time you run for office) is illegal. BUT then it turns around and says that if the "tampering" doesn't exceed the noise standard, it IS NOT "tampering," and IS NOT illegal. (which basically shoots down the need for the loophole.....)
Of course, the lovely folks at the EPA also provide a reminder that states and localities can pass further restrictions, so you never know. Now I'm no lawyer, but it seems to me the basic answer is that you can tamper away to your hearts' content, but don't get really loud. How loud is really loud, you ask? Well, I'm a tank commander in the Marines, so I may have a different definition that you....
-KTRS(and the decibels)D,
-Jim