Meeting the Minions

As you are probably aware a revised edition of the rules and regulations concerning Loud Motorcycles went into effect on July 12, 2010. The largest problem is the fact that the wording encompasses all Motor Vehicles, the key word being "ALL".

This is a stop gap measure that came from a citizens group that has attempted similar milder forms of this law and gotten nowhere. Sadly due to the lack of forward motion on any of these attempts they have perverted themselves and their organization with out of state non residents, loudly proclaiming how traumatized they are by loud exhaust coming from all types of vehicles and using Naziesque tactics to get the attention they need.

On Tuesday of this past week I was invited at the behest of the Maine Custom Automobile Association to a task force meeting Chaired by the Head of the Vehicle Safety/ Inspection Division in Augusta with Representatives from all parties concerned including Harley Davidson, who is very aware of the ongoing problem of motorcycle noise. Both the proponents and opponents postured themselves into childish behavior and animosity filled attitudes but were told several times to cool their respective jets or they would have to take a timeout like a redheaded stepchild at preschool.

The reason I was asked to be there was two fold. First to balance out the task force as hobbyists were very much in the minority and second as a watchdog of sorts to make sure that while the minions in house were planning they didn't focus there attention toward us with Hot Rods Custom and even certain Antiques.

This is not over by any means and I have been asked to attend the remaining meetings and will, just to keep an eye on the Sound Police and their followers. Progress is being made in the right direction for the 2 wheeled motor vehicles and hopefully some easement of the rules or at the least, less of a gray area in understanding, may also trickle down to us.