Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 1334

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning conversion kits on motorcycles.

Sponsors: Representatives Shea, Taylor, MacEwen, Schmick, Holy, Short, Kagi, Orcutt, Overstreet, Rodne, Klippert, Hargrove, Condotta and Parker.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Revises and standardizes the definition of "motorcycle."

  • Authorizes the use of stabilizing conversion kits on motorcycles.

Hearing Date: 2/5/13

Staff: Jerry Long (786-7306).

Background:

Motorcycle means a motor vehicle designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, on which the driver:

Current motorcycle skills training programs are available for two-wheeled and three-wheeled motorcycles. The operator of a motorcycle must have the appropriate two-wheeled or three-wheeled driver's license endorsement in order to operate a two- or three-wheeled motorcycle in Washington.

Private industry has developed equipment kits that may be added to a motorcycle to provide additional stability. There are some states that authorize the use of stabilization kits.

Summary of Bill:

The definition of a motorcycle is revised to mean a motor vehicle designed to travel on not more than three wheels not including any stabilizing conversion kits.

The definition of a "motorcycle" in the Motorcycle Skills Education Program is updated to be the same definition as the chapter definition and clarifies that it excludes off-road motorcycles.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.