I DARE YOU!

There is a fight brewing, a fight for equity under the law.

NOISE IS NOISE and it doesn't matter who is making it - offenders should all be charged and dealt with the same way under the law.

THAT's the FIGHT, that's what this is about.

Riders in Edmonton Alberta are being singled out and treated differently from other road users when it comes to noise.
 The fines are higher, they are pulled into noise check stops, inconvenienced. No other road users are pulled over for noise checks. Why are the fines for cars and pickups $125 but riders pay $250?


This is what Liane Langlois has to say about how things are going for this Fund Raiser that is to fund the court case that is about to set a precedent regarding motorcycle only noise checks:

"In the city, tickets are going fast for the event but the help from our "extended family" across the country on the crowd funding page is a bit slow despite all I've done to try and help everyone else.
It's all good. You get what you put in. If we fail because of lack of support and the laws start escalating, no one can say we didn't try to stop it."

THIS IS TRAGIC PEOPLE -
PLEASE DONATE NOW - $2, $5 whatever you can:

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/motorcyclists-opposing-discriminatory-legislation/x/5510812

I want you to read the information on the M.O.D.E.L. Edmonton site:
www.modeledmonton.com  Educate yourself...it is important for all who ride, NO MATTER WHERE IN CANADA YOU LIVE to get involved.

I don't have a lot at the moment, but I had $10 that I donated.
If every Canadian rider I can touch did the same, the $5,000 needed to fight this fight would be raised in no time.

If you live anywhere near Edmonton, consider attending the fundraiser: http://www.modeledmonton.com/noise-is-noise-fundraiser.html

If you have a business that relies on or enjoys dealing with riders, consider kicking something in for the silent auction or supporting it financially.

If we all did one small thing - got involved in some small way -  the funds needed to fight this fight would be in the kitty already!

I DARE YOU to stand up for the rights and freedoms of all riders. 

CANADIAN CHARTER OF RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS

15. (1) Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.

Our Charter says the we all have right to fair treatment under the law - so let's preserve that right by fighting for it!

Every right and freedom that we do not defend is one the government feels it has the right to take away from us.

Our soldiers have and continue to die to defend those rights and freedoms - will it really hurt you to defend our rights and freedoms on our own soil by donating $10? By getting involved?

Is $10 really so much to give to protect our community and its right to be treated like any other road user?

                                     UNITED we RIDE - DIVIDED we Walk.

If you say to me, I live in Ontario, Nova Scotia, BC etc. and what happens in Alberta doesn't affect me - THINK AGAIN.

Talk to people who live in Bathurst NB -talk to people from Fredericton NB, Talk to people in Saskatoon SK...Talk to people in Windsor ON...Talk to people in Oakville ON

I will be monitoring the fundraising on Indiegogo and I will be on your arse until we raise the minimum of $5,000 that M.O.D.E.L. is looking for.

THIS FIGHT WILL SET PRECEDENT!

So if you want this nagging BI#%H off your arse, get out your credit card - or log into your PayPal account and head on over to:
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/motorcyclists-opposing-discriminatory-legislation/x/5510812
AND MAKE THAT DONATION NOW!

For the time being I will step off my soap box and wish you all a great day...

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider




Disclaimer:
All data and information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. The Belt Drive Betty Blog makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site & will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.

Noise is Noise - A Fundraiser

Edmonton was the first city to enact a Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaw back in 2010.

It has caused a lot of grief for a lot of people.  It is a highly discriminatory bylaw as it treats motorcyclists different than it does other road users.  The fine is higher and there are specific motorcycle only road checks for noise that can take anywhere from 1/2 hour to 1 hour of a riders time.

Regarding the fine; under the Alberta Traffic Safety Act, cars and other passenger vehicles only pay 115 dollar fine for a noise violation but riders pay $250!

I urge you to watch this interview with Liane Langlois of MODEL Edmonton and to visit the www.modeledmonton.com web site to learn more about the Motorcycle Only noise bylaws in Edmonton and other regions.

MODEL Edmonton has 5 years of statistics and information that make for very enlightening reading.

The major message here is that NOISE is NOISE and everyone who breaks noise laws/bylaws should be treated the same.

Watch for my article tomorrow on the Calgary & Edmonton Motorcycle Shows!

The Beat the PMS Blues Online Show n Shine is getting lots of entries and there are some nice looking rides in there!

This is a free contest for registered members of www.beltdrivebetty.com and there are incredible prizes up for grabs from our sponsors www.BigBlueInCanada.com and Strip Club Choppers of Canada - East & West!

I am on the road to Hope as I have an eye exam at Hope Optical to get my Liberty Sport Glasses ready for riding season!  Cindy a Hope Optical has an Optometrist on staff and she herself  is an Optician who rides with her hubby Rudy.

If you find yourself in the Hope BC region, check her out and get your glasses from a Rider Friendly Business Association member!

Have a great day!

If you are fortunate enough to live where you can be riding, please ride like everyone around you is blind and cannot see you!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Does being socially conscious really mean muffling your pipes?

Does being socially conscious really mean muffling your pipes?

Well, apparently not!

Watch this video from Jekill and Hyde an exhaust manufacturer from the Netherlands that seems to have hit on a product that can make your motorcycle more socially acceptable.



Some on my Facebook Page where I shared this, this morning, have asked the question how does it affect the tuning, I have no answer to that question, however, I can tell you that according to the company's LinkedIn page, it took them 14 years to develop the product!

Many riders will tell you that noise can be controlled by the way you use your throttle alone, and that statement is true enough to a degree, but what about those nasty Motorcycle Only Noise Check Stops where they rev your bike up?  Are you going to pass?

Well, with pipes like these one could pass, easily.

It seems like a solution that could offer the rider the best of both worlds, the sound of a throaty pipe and quiet when leaving your driveway at 6 am, or putting through the neighbourhood on the way home late at night.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on socially acceptable pipes!

Have a great Monday everyone!

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

The first crash of the Canadian Riding Season

A fail to yield charge has been levied against a driver who turned in front of a motorcycle in Essex County on Sunday. The rider has non life threatening injuries. According to the article, the OPP said that 1/3 of motorcycle crashes happen in intersections. They are warning drivers to signal properly for turns and lane changes and to look in their mirrors and around their vehicle before turning or changing lanes to ensure there are no other vehicles around them. The article also warns that motorcycles are hard to judge so to give more time and room.

The rider has not been identified.

With riding season almost here in most places across this great land, I cannot express enough that we need to ride like everyone around us is blind and cannot see us.

Let's do our best this season to arrive at our destinations safely each and every time we ride by taking no chances with our own safety.

Be hyper aware of your surroundings, go practise those rusty skills before you head out and please consider wearing good gear especially in urban situations where the majority of crashes take place, remember that 1/3 of crashes involving motorcycles happen at intersections and shorts, sandals and tank tops are not going to protect you in a crash.

The Noise Bylaw debate is heating up in Saskatoon as R.A.G.E. members there are vocal about the inequitable treatment of riders compared to other road users.

In Australia, Newman Campbell and Jarrod Bleijie are being sued by a lawyer over comments made that accuses lawyers who defend bikes as being part of a "criminal gang machine" and would do anything to defend their clients.

There are lots of new model reviews, and interesting articles in the news feeds over at www.beltdrivebetty.com where our work is keeping you informed.

Have a great day and if you are blessed enough to be riding, please ride like everyone around you is blind and cannot see you.

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Troubling things...

The troubling things in the news today are laws and bylaws that seem to be unfair to the many because of the few.

Designed to crackdown on the "Bikies', the new licensing fees and requirements for tattoo parlours is seen as labelling of an industry instead of an individual.

The new law requires shop owner to:
Pay a licensing fee of $1150
Each employee to pay a licensing fee of $35
Every person associated to the shop must undergo fingerprinting and criminal background checks.

According to the article in the Bayside Bulletin:
Body Shaker Body Art has a blanket ban on tattooing or employing members of bikie gangs, but Trinity said innocent workers were being punished.

"I've got a clean slate, but I've been told that I'm guilty until proven innocent by a licence that has nothing to do with our capabilities of tattooing or running a business," she said.

"We don't feel it's our problem and we don't feel like we should be involved. We shouldn't be labelled the same as the rest of them." End Quote

Am I alone in thinking that these fees are just a way for the government to fund their war on the bikies?

Another troubling thing is the commentary over the motorcycle only noise bylaws in Saskatchewan.

Double standards and unfair tarring of an entire community because of the few...

According to Christina Cherneskey, news director at 620-CKRM in Regina, she feels that motorcyclists should move out to acreages and that mayors across the country should adopt tougher policies on noise. 

According to the article, she quotes a CAV member - Neil Nemeth: “You’re hearing sirens, you’re hearing fireworks, you’re hearing all kinds of other noises going on. What makes motorcycles more offensive?” asked Neil Nemeth of the unit.

“It’s a city,” Nemeth added. “You’re going to have noise. If you want complete silence, move to an acreage.”

At the end of her article she states the following:

While lower sound levels might be good for residents in general, some motorcycle enthusiasts are less than pleased.

Motorcyclists don’t like the law, and have moved a motorcycle charity run out of Edmonton and into towns without such noise bylaws.

All municipal councils owe it to their constituents to ensure their neighbourhoods are peaceful and quiet. As Regina’s council works to entice more people downtown, it needs tighter restrictions on retrofitted motorbikes.

And Saskatoon needs to continue its work.

Canadian mayors must then agree on a unified resolution to create a nationwide standard.

The abrupt revving of these vehicles simply demonstrates a lack of respect for those nearby who have no interest in hearing that racket.

Perhaps it’s the motorcyclists themselves who should move to the acreages. End Quote

This woman clearly does not see the double standard and sadly not many others seem to either.

I think that most people would rather see our community be targeted as the only noise offenders who are tested than be the ones in their cars and trucks being tested and inconvenienced.

NOISE IS NOISE - why are only bikes being tested and WHY did the MMIC feel the need to make this community a target in such a way - the road to hell I guess, really is paved with good intentions.

I'd love to hear your feedback on these two topics.

Do you feel that Australia is going about the war on bikes right by forcing compliance to finger printing, criminal background checks & extreme licensing fees on Tattoo Parlours?  

Do you think that noise testing and fines should be the same across the board for every offender or should motorcyclists pay more than others and be tested where others aren't?

That's it for me today, if you are blessed enough to be riding, please ride like everyone around you is blind and cannot see you.

Belt Drive Betty

Editor & Rider

Our saviours - the MMIC

In Australia there is an article about a man and his motorcycle repair shop and how the VLAD Laws are costing him his livelihood.

In Manitoba you can be arrested with a Peace Bond as someone who MIGHT commit an offence in the future if the police suspect your patch is an "OMG" Patch.

In Bathurst New Brunswick where the Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaw has been adopted there have been articles on restaurants and pubs closing citing loss of the motorcyclist's business.

Innocents always get hurt when laws are applied unfairly.

The Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaws hurt the community but so do those who behave in a way as to be deemed as show off's, those who have to wick on that throttle to gain attention.

It is a case of the many paying the price for the actions of the few, the same as it is with all other laws that infringe on freedoms and rights.

I live in Grande Prairie Alberta, I ride a stock motorcycle. I have never modified the exhaust of my bike.  And yet, I fear riding in Edmonton.  Why? Because when I am on the road, it is generally as a reporter going to an event, and time is of the essence for me.  If I am pulled over in a motorcycle ONLY noise check stop, I could be detained for upwards of an hour. My bike, I am positive would pass the test, but I don't want to be held up as I don't enjoy being late.

And, I am not alone, I know many riders that avoid going to events in Edmonton, that ride around the city and avoid the restaurants, pubs etc that cater to riders.
The charities suffer, the businesses suffer and the rider does too.

Noise is a problem in all urban centres.

Enter our saviours - the MMIC, the people who brought us the J2825 testing standard.

The MMIC, Moped Motorcycle Industry Council has taken it upon themselves to promote a motorcycle only noise test called the J2825 that they and their American counterparts paid to develop.

Apparently, they did so thinking they were helping the industry...

From the MMIC Website:
The SAE J2825 Sound Test for Motorcycles

On-highway riders and their bikes don't have to be victims of questionable sound-level checks anymore, thanks to a new procedure developed by the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) in partnership with SAE International, and the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC), as one of its funding partners.

The MIC and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) established the SAE J 2825 sound test, which will provide a quick, easy, economical, and science-based tool for accurately identifying motorcycles with excessively noisy sound emissions.

Now, law-enforcement authorities have a simple, quick, economical tool for accurately identifying motorcycles with excessively loud exhaust systems. The SAE document J2825, "Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of Stationary On-Highway Motorcycles," meets the need for a practical, consistent roadside sound test. END QUOTE

Also from their website:

BEGIN QUOTE: Sound Emissions

MMIC member companies' products meet all Transport Canada sound emission standards. The industry is working with provincial ministries to develop consistent sound emission policies across the country. The industry is committed to continue to reduce sound emissions. END QUOTE

MMIC and its member manufacturers and distributors recommend the new SAE J 2825 stationary sound test procedure for on-highway motorcycles and encourage the implementation of these standards across Canada.  END QUOTE

If that is the case - if what the MMIC claims is true, and they are committed to reducing sound emission, why is it their dealers will sell you ILLEGAL exhaust systems?

Take a look at most aftermarket pipes and you will see a stamp on them "FOR OFF HIGHWAY USE ONLY"  They are generally meant for racing applications not highway use.
When you buy those pipes a dealer will point that out to you and if you agree to have them installed to improve horsepower and engine performance, and get a fine, you and you alone are on the hook.

Inconsideration and the need to make money in business have brought us to this cross roads.
What is the answer to people learning to share this world responsibly?
I have no idea - but I do not believe that singling out our community for special stops, higher than normal fines compared to other vehicles for the same infractions...

NOISE IS NOISE and if you are going to force one segment of the population to conform to a noise rating, then it should be good enough for everyone else.

When are we going to see a noise test for ALL vehicles?

I doubt we ever will - the automotive industry does not seem to feel any pressure to reduce noise by vehicles.

So riders, it seems that because the industry created this test and endorses it, we are stuck with bylaws that are discriminatory. Or are we?

What say you?

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Costs - Edmonton's Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaw

For riders in Edmonton, the battle lines have been drawn.
The city of Edmonton is looking to INCREASE the fines for loud pipes.
The fine stands at $250 for the first offence.

According to an article in the Edmonton Sun, motorcyclists aren't being disproportionately targeted for noise violations - but how true is that statement?

Begin Quote: The report states 338 motorcyclists have been charged under the Motorcycle Noise Bylaw since it was enacted three years ago. In comparison, 714 motor vehicle operators have been charged for noise under the Traffic Safety Act in the same time frame - including 494 during motorcycle season. End Quote

338 motorcyclists in a city with approximately 13,000 motorcycles
(M.O.D.E.L. Edmonton Numbers)

714 motor vehicle operators in a city with 602, 783 registered vehicles. (http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/Content/docType47/Production/vehreg2012.pdf)

But motorcycles aren't stopped or ticketed disproportionately?

Well, let's do the math...

338 divided by 13,000 =  2.6% of motorcycles
714 divided by 602,783 = .00118% of vehicles - please take into account this figure does not include tourists, or others from outside communities using the roadways in Edmonton Metro.

According to the same article in the Sun - "Of the 338 tickets written, 108 were voluntarily paid and 151 were challenged in court, with 86 being withdrawn or dismissed." End Quote

Now lets do some other math.

338 motorcyclists ticketed.
108 tickets paid: 108 x $250 = $27,000
65 convicted: 65 x $250 = $16,250
86 were with drawn (Quashed)
79 Are still before the courts
Total Income: $43,250

I used the Rate Sheet information from Edmonton to create a budget of sorts for the costs of this Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaw and it can be seen here: http://www.edmonton.com/files/Rate_Sheet.pdf

Initial Costs:
Training & Equipment Costs: $68,000

Operational Costs:
3 police officers per motorcycle noise check - each motorcycle check takes approximately an hour.
3 officers x $60.00 per hour = $180/hour for 338 hours = $60,840
1 police car @ $50 per day: 338 hours divided by 8 hours (a normal work day) = 42 day x $50 = $2,100

Administration Time:
If it takes an officer 1 hour of admin and court prep time per ticket then 338 x $60 = $20,280

Time in the courts: 
If the courts time is worth let's guess here and say $750 per hour (Judge, clerk, 2 peace officers/sheriffs, crown council, building costs) and the average traffic ticket takes 1/2 hour to fight that means 338-108 voluntarily paid = 230 divided by 2 - 115 hours of the courts time @ $750/hour = $86,250
(79 tickets are still to go before the courts but I have added them in here to reflect the costs as closely as possible.)

Costs that are known or calculable:
$68,000 - Initial training and equipment
$60,840 - Police officer wages
$2,100 - patrol car
$20,280 - Police officer wages for admin and court prep
$86,250 - Court Time costs
$237,110 - Total Costs 

$237,110 - $43,250 = -$193,860 and that's just a rough estimate!

Moral, ethical and legal questions regarding the discrimination issues of this bylaw aside, is this really an effective use of the time of 3 police officers, court resources and taxpayers money?

I guess Edmonton City council thinks so.

What say you?

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

Background information on the bylaw, provincial statutes and the fines:

From the Edmonton Police Department Website:

Excessive Noise from Vehicles

We’ve all experienced it, vehicles with loud stereos that seem to vibrate the walls of your home as they pass by and vehicles with modified exhaust systems that can be heard for several city blocks.

Edmonton, like other urban centres throughout the country, is receiving repeated complaints about excessive vehicle noise. Numerous noise complaints have come in through city councillors, the Chief’s town hall meetings, in the media and the public calling in on the police complaint line.

Loud and excessive noise can be characterized as noise that becomes a nuisance to the general public, taking into consideration the nature, location, time and proximity of the source to residents and members of the public. An example of this would include a loud auto stereo or car, truck or motorcycle exhaust emitting sound to the extent it disturbs patrons at a café, nearby residents or other motorists on the roadway.

Loud and excessive noise is now being addressed as a community disorder issue in Edmonton. Traffic and Patrol members are conducting an enforcement campaign in an effort to crack down on offenders.

If operated normally, most original or equipment in any vehicle should not emit excessive noise. Check the equipment that you do have to ensure your exhaust system does not emit excessive noise through a widened outlet that amplifies the noise. Also ensure that your system is equipped with baffles. Have consideration for those around you and avoid aggressive use of your equipment.
Fines for Violation

The EPS will charge violators at three benchmark noise levels tested with the motorcycle stationary.:
Violators in excess of 92 dbA at idle for all motorcycles
Violators in excess of 96 dbA at 2000 rpm for motorcycles having less than 3 cylinders or more than 4 cylinders
Violators in excess of 100 dbA at 5000 rpm for motorcycles with 3 or 4 cylinders.

The fine for violation of this bylaw is $250.00.

Sections of the Traffic Safety Act can also be used when dealing with excessive noise.
TSA Noise Laws

The following sections of the Traffic Safety Act (TSA) Vehicle Equipment Regulations (VER) or Traffic Safety Act (TSA) Use of Highway and Rules of the Road Regulations (ROR) pertain to excessive vehicle noise.

In summary they state:Section 61 TSA- VER refers to a motor vehicle propelled by an internal combustion engine. It says that the exhaust muffler must not produce excessive noise or flames and sparks. It goes on to say that the exhaust outlet cannot be widened or have a device attached to it that increases noise. The fine is $115.00.

Section 82 TSA- ROR states a person shall not create or cause the emission of any loud and unnecessary noise from a vehicle or any part of it, or from anything or substance that the vehicle or a part of the vehicle comes into contact with. The fine for this section is $115.00.

Section 87 TSA- ROR relates to driving a motor vehicle in a residential area between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. that disturbs residents. This section requires a complaint from a resident. The fine for excessive noise under this section is $115.00. A complainant must appear in court as a witness if charges are laid under this section.

Section 115 (2)(f) TSA says a person shall not do any of the following: drive a vehicle as to perform or engage in any stunt or other activity on a highway that is likely to distract, startle or interfere with other users of the highway. The fine for this section is $402.00 and carries 3 demerit points.

The Discrimination Begins - Power of the People Pt. 2

The 2014 riding season has not gotten underway in many regions on Canada yet, but our lifestyle and machines are already under attack.

Saskatoon is moving for a motorcycle noise bylaw with a 92 decibel level and they will be using the controversial J2825 SAE Test to measure the noise from your motorcycle.

The 92 decibel J2825 Motorcycle Only Noise Test created by the Society of Automotive Engineers for the MIC and MMIC is slowly spreading across the country.

Watch the video to see how its conducted:

Something YOU NEED to know about the J2825 and your motorcycle's insurance:

If the officer/s conducting the test damages your bike, your insurance WILL NOT cover the damage and your only recourse is to sue the officer/s, not the police service but the officer/s. 

DOCUMENT YOUR STOP with video and get the officers names and badge numbers on paper.

In Atlantic Canada, we have the City of Bathurst that does not want motorcycles or our ilk in their community. They passed the discriminatory motorcycle only noise bylaw in 2011, the same bylaw has been passed in Edmonton and many other communities across the country. Riders in Atlantic Canada have formed the Atlantic Motorcycle Coalition to stop the spread of this discriminatory practise brought down on the community by the manufacturers. In Edmonton there is MODEL to help you fight your noise tickets, but they can also provide information to you or a rights group you belong to that can help you no matter which province or territory you live in. For you riders in Saskatchewan, you can contact RAGE if you need help. Canadian Riders are not alone in being singled out for special attention either. In the state of Illinois motorcycle poker runs are now required to pay a $400.00 fee to hold a poker run and each stop must buy a special license worth $150.00 We all know about the bikie crack down in Australia and how innocent riders are being detained and harassed all in the name of getting rid of the 1 percenters. I will say it again, as the discrimination begins - The Power of the People can affect change, but not unless you join an association or group and provide them with documentation on the situation you face.  (Read my blog post from yesterday to get the links and information on the various riders rights organizations in Canada.) Unless you make your voice heard by people who can actually do something it's just whining & snivelling. And we know that whining and snivelling is NOT going to get us anywhere,

Here are a few ideas on what you can do this riding season to protect our way of life: #1 - Self Policing - not always a popular option, but turning your back on the show offs who ruin it for the rest of us is one thing we as a community can do easily.  Don't give the attention seeker the attention they are looking for. IGNORE THEM, SHAKE YOUR HEAD and TURN YOUR BACK ON THEM.  Laughing, encouraging or cheering for them only feeds their ego and eggs them on and that is ALL bad for the rest of us. #2 - Respect - remember we have to share our cities and communities, we need to be good neighbours and that means being respectful in hospital zones, residential areas and in business sectors where people are eating on patios and conducting business in their offices. Because other drivers often make more noise than we do, we need to lead by example by being respectful.  While we all know that in urban riding situations cracking the throttle can and often will wake the driver up who is drifting into your lane, cracking your throttle to show off only causes us to loose a tool in our self defense tool kit. Use your pipes only when needed in urban riding situations. Being well trained in emergency stopping and manoeuvres, being highly aware of your surroundings and decent riding gear for physical protection are still the best protection you can have out there. #3 - Be a Part of the Solution - Join a riders rights association in your region and for Alberta, Yukon and Northwest Territories where there is no association other than MODEL Edmonton (Motorcyclists Opposed to Discriminatory Exhaust Legislation), document your stop and make sure you have a good lawyer. #4 - Film & Photograph - Using a helmet cam or a bike mounted camera can often times provide the evidence you need regarding stops and crashes, so consider making that investment. Historical information is hugely valuable for lobbying groups. We are collecting information to have at the ready just incase we ever get a national riders rights association off the ground in this country. If you wish to share your information on a stop you think was uncalled for or you experienced any kind of profiling, discrimination or harassment, you can fill out the Police Harassment Report on our site.

We have two choices, either work to protect our lifestyle or be prepared to be harassed and discriminated against and learn to like it.

That's the way I see things - what are your thoughts?

Have a great Tuesday everyone and if you are one of those lucky beggars who is riding today - I don't want to hear about it, I have PMS so bad, I might just snap! Seriously, ride like everyone around you is blind and cannot see you.

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

The MIC is opposed to minimum noise levels from electric motorcycles? Seriously?

In today's news feeds comes an article out of the US that has me scratching my head.

MIC opposes minimum noise levels for electric motorcycles

According to the article: The NHTSA has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for FMVSS No. 141, Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. The rule would set minimum sound requirements for hybrid and electric vehicles, including but not limited to, motorcycles. Pursuant to the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act in 2010, FMVSS No. 141 is designed to ensure that blind, visually impaired and other pedestrians are able to detect nearby hybrid and electric vehicles in a range of ambient environments. End quote.

It seems reasonable that in today's noisy world there should be some noise emitted from all vehicles in order that person's who are visually impaired and blind be able to detect the presence of a vehicle.

Why would the manufacturers be opposed to a minimum noise requirement from electric motorcycles?

According to the article the manufactures are concerned that the addition of a stereo system to an electric motorcycle would shorten the range of the motorcycle and that riders are better at detecting danger than the average motorist:

In the MIC’s comments, the organization argued that because of the unique attributes of motorcycles, the NHTSA should not need to require a minimum sound for them. The MIC says that motorcycle riders are better able to see and avoid pedestrians because their sight is unobstructed, and motorcyclists are more alert because of their vulnerability. The MIC also stated that electric motorcycles are not quiet, so they shouldn’t need to be subject to minimum sound requirements.

The MIC stated further that adding a speaker system to electric motorcycles to emit sounds would be an issue because motorcycles have less space to add such a system, the weight of the system would have a large effect on the motorcycle’s low-speed stability, energy consumption of the speaker system would have a greater impact on a motorcycle’s range and the price of installing the system would be higher than with automobiles. End Quote.

I am confused - I get that the electric motorcycle's range might be shortened - but seriously - motorcycles have less space for a sound system? I guess the MIC has never ridden a full dressed H-D or many of the other motorcycles that have onboard stereos.  And what's this idea of holding the motorcyclists responsible for the safety of others?

I sometimes wonder at the wisdom of the Manufacturers Industry Council - these are the same people who brought us the J2825 SAE test...

What are your thoughts on this topic? I'd dearly love to know.

There are numerous articles in the news feeds today that may have interest to you, check them out at www.beltdrivebetty.com

We are getting some great name suggestions for my Beaver Mascot - have you recommended a name yet?

We have a week left for you to get your machine entered in our online show 'n' shine - it's free to enter and we have some great prizes up for grabs!

I leave you with a few funnies shared with me by friends from Facebook and via emails...

Have a great day everyone.
Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider

BAN - Bikers Against Noise Bylaw

There is a movement happening in Ontario called BAN - Bikers Against Noise Bylaw.  They have a petition that you should consider signing.

They can accept signatures from anywhere on this petition!  So WHY should you get involved? Noise Bylaws are springing up everywhere, they are inconsistent, and often, too often the technologies used require the police to follow certain formulas and techniques that can be misrepresented as facts.   What do I mean by that? Well if the officer does not do the test accurately you can be inconvenienced and charged wrongfully.

These bylaws become an impediment to tourism - a mainstay of our economy, they are also discriminatory and many a municipality will say no other technology is available to measure cars and trucks noise but they wold be wrong and misinformed.  The Noise Snare catches everyone - so if the issue is really NOISE, then the Noise Snare should be being used.

Injustice - tarring all riders with the same brush - it's WRONG folks...

Here are a few quotes I came across about injustice and how it harms and how to resolve it....

“You just need to be a flea against injustice. Enough committed fleas biting strategically can make even the biggest dog uncomfortable and transform even the biggest nation.” ― Marian Wright Edelman

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
― Martin Luther King Jr.

“It's my duty as a human being to be pissed off”
― Eric Bogosian, subUrbia

If you choose not to get involved because you think it does not affect you, YOU WOULD BE WRONG - tarring every rider with the brush of inconsideration is as wrong as tarring every rider with the brush of criminal...

In other news:

According to an article in the Toronto Sun, BIKERS are involved in fraud and financial crimes 

There are some great articles on custom bikes, including one on a Jet Powered Suzuki, 

Under Brands there are some great reviews on the new Ducati's and the 2013 Victory Judge...

Pop on over to www.beltdrivebetty.com to see what's happening today that might affect your day or your world!

Have you voted for your favourite bike in our show 'n' shine? Its fast and easy - help a friend win some incredible prizes!!!!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S Day everyone...

I leave you with a few funnies shared with me by friends on Facebook and in emails...

Have a FABULOUS Tuesday!

Belt Drive Betty

Editor & Rider

So what is a human life worth?

Like many riders I am sure, I was dismayed at the $115 fine given to a Rocky Mountain House man who pulled a left hand turn in front of a rider that resulted in the rider's death.  Our justice system is broken. It has been for a long time, because the rule of law and justice are often at odds with each other.


Case in point - the Edmonton Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaw.  When Stuart Young won his case in court and the judge berated the lawyer representing the city for the evidentiary issues and then praised Stuart for his preparedness and told him he should become a lawyer, the city's council decided to file an appeal. Then they withdrew the appeal because of evidentiary issues. That appeal cost Stuart and a ton of riders who supported his fight close to $4,000 dollars and the city does NOT have to reimburse him. If it had gone all the way to trial and Stuart had won again his legal fees would have had to be paid by the city. What a morally wrong way to do things, but then the city's Motorcycle Only Noise Bylaw is also legally and morally wrong.  


I wished that all municipalities were like Calgary and willing to use the Noise Snare - a technology that nails ALL noise offenders equally!


Yes, our justice system is broken and I for one have no idea how to fix that but I do believe we have the ability as riders and tax payers to affect change that may one day start to impact the justice system.


How? Well, first off I think we need to take responsibility for our own actions. 
I feel we should all have to take a training course before we get on a bike. I feel that education should be the very first thing on our priority list and that we should just do it without being mandated to but then again we are dealing with human nature so maybe it should be mandatory..... 


I also believe that all of us should have to, at renewal time for our license, take a rules of the road exam - a written test to see if we remember what the rules of the road are. 
Too many people who hold a drivers license should not be on the roadways - again that is my humble opinion, I saw so many examples of that while on my 20,000 Km trek across this magnificent land.


I was told yesterday that a man in Grande Prairie AB got a $2,400 fine for using his cell phone while driving, he was charged with driving with undo care and attention so he will loose points too. Alberta's hands free/distracted driving law does not come in to effect until September 1st.  Obviously there was at least one police officer who decided to take a stand and use the laws that are on the books to make his point loud and clear and you can bet that this man will not use his cell while driving again. 


I do not see why we need more new laws - if the ones on the books were actually enforced I think more people would be paying attention to their driving.


Are stiffer fines the answer? I am not sure. 
I believe that education is the key to most of the challenges that are out there.  
Too many drivers seem to think they are more important than the next driver. 
They will cut you off, pass you on the right, tailgate - all in the name of getting 8' further ahead.


In writing this editorial, like every one that I write, I did some research and found a few good places for you to test your knowledge of the rules of the road.


Here are some of them:
Pass the Wheel: http://www.passthewheel.com/sample_test.asp


Find a Driving School: http://find-a-driving-school.ca/free-g1-practice-tests/g1-practice-test-road-signs/


Canada Drivers Ed: http://www.canadadriversed.com/


APNA Vancouver: http://www.apnavancouver.com/bc-driving-test/


There are many more places on the internet where you can challenge your knowledge of the rules of the road and sign knowledge. 


Maybe we should just start challenging ourselves to be better drivers and riders.
But remember even when YOU know the rules of the road, unless you exhibit extreme caution at intersections and in other situations that arise - be prepared to be dead right as too many others out there have forgotten the rules of the road. 


Too many others out there feel they are more important than you are.
Apathy, self importance and ignorance are our WORST enemies...and I am not sure if there is a cure for any of those things other than education! I know people who flout the law and even when disqualified from driving get behind the wheel like it is their right. Fines and penalties do not always work.


Please - today as you ride, remember to ride like everyone around you is BLIND and can not see you. YOU and your knowledge and skill are your best offence when it come to being safe out there!


As always, I love it when you talk to me  - please share your thoughts and opinions on driver/rider safety and awareness...


In Other News:


In Dawson Creek BC driver error caused a crash on Alaska Avenue


In Kamloops BC things are gearing up for the Canadian HOG Rally


In Shediac NB the Motorcycle Rally is all set to go!


In Quebec there was a third fatal motorcycle crash in Montreal in one week


In Newfoundland an American Female Rider is thrilled to be able to continue her journey as good people help out.


And our very own Sea Dawg has a little Name the Water falls contest happening - can you tell him where this picture was taken? http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/latest-travel-tourism/340-contacts/12182-guess-where-this-picture-was-taken


To catch up on all of the news of the day that affects you as a motorcyclist visit our web site: www.beltdrivebetty.com


Have a safe and enjoyable weekend everyone, talk to you all again on Monday!
Belt Drive Betty

Your Motorcycle & The Noise Bylaws

In our Forums on www.beltdrivebetty.com there is a very important message from Liane Lanlois from the Edmonton Motorcycle Club regarding your motorcycle and the testing of it by police officers for the noise bylaw.

If - during the testing, something happens and an officer over revs your bike and something happens to the engine, if the bike is knocked over - your insurance does NOT cover the damage. You will have to sue the EPS and the individual officer to recover your costs. It is highly recommended that you photograph and video tape the entire procedure. Make sure you take the officers name and badge number. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING. Not only will this help you in the advent that the officer somehow hurts your baby but if you do get a ticket it will aide you in fighting it. Here is the link to the info in our forum: http://www.beltdrivebetty.com/index.php/whats-hot/forum/73-the-coffee-shop/5446-noise-bylaw-15442-petition-update?limit=6&start=84

Thanks for sharing that information with the rest of us Liane!  I think this information is valuable to those going through the Caledon ON region as well!

In other news:
From Kansas...Clutch & Chrome Magazine reports that Big Dog may be going out of business - apparently the story was first reported by Cyril Huze, where in he claims that dealers are stating that they got calls from head office saying they were closing the doors, reportedly, Big Dog is saying those claims are not true.

In Kamloops BC, the police are reporting that the North Shore Motorcycle Club "demonstrated a clear allegiance to the Hells Angel" when they attended a dinner/fundraiser at the Ukrainian Orthadox Centre this past weekend.

In Ontario - the OPP are warning sport bike riders and all motorcyclists to watch your speed.

Have a fantastic Tuesday - and if you are riding PLEASE ride like EVERYONE is out to get you.

Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider
www.beltdrivebetty.com
www.bustedknucklechronicles.com

How are you voting? What is motivating you?

Municipal Elections are upon us.

Like everyone, you need to vote based on the things in your town and city that are taking place, but if you ride a motorcycle I am asking you to consider a few things...

If you read the news about Motorcycle ONLY noise bylaws that are being introduced everywhere - I ask you to truly consider the consequences of not voting and of whom you might be voting for.

If you allow a discriminatory piece of legislation to pass because you did not vote, how are you going to feel when you get a ticket? Make no mistake, if the test - the J2825 is not administered properly - you WILL get a ticket. An unfair ticket that you will have to go to court and fight or face loosing hundreds of dollars out of your pocket - because this Bylaw comes with a repeat offender clause that can see fines escalate up to $10,000 dollars - that's right - TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS. (Caledon Ontario's bylaw allows for $5,000 for repeat offenders)

People - the reasons noise bylaws have become an issue are:

1: the motorcycle manufacturers thought it would be a good idea to pay for and set a standard for motorcycle noise so that tickets issued by police officers would not be subjective - however, the test is flawed because it can not be PROPERLY done on the road side - too many other ambient noises can affect the results. It is the MMIC going around the country showing the various communities how the test works...for those of you who don't know who the MMIC is - Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council

2: the inconsiderate of our community are making noise an issue for those who are sick, elderly or trying to sleep - that DOES NOT mean the rest of us who are law abiding should be subjected to unfair laws.

Do you realize that the automotive manufacturers are NEVER going to commission and pay for noise standards to be set?  Do you realize that stereo manufacturers are NEVER going to commission and pay for noise standards to be set? Why? Because they work under the assumption that 95% of people are going to use and enjoy their products responsibly and that is not up to them to police their consumer.

You do realize that the guy with the boom box in his car - you know the one - the guy/gal that drives by your house nice and slow so that the windows rattle out of your house with the base so low that you can hear/feel him coming for two blocks...HE/SHE is probably NEVER going to get a ticket for excessive noise...neither is the guy/gal with the chipped up diesel pick up running straight pipes....or and other noise offender - why? They are not easy to single out the way a motorcycle is. It truly is that simple folks.

If we - as tax payers, as voters continually fail to hold our elected officials responsible for their actions we are going to be legislated to death - the trend - in case you haven't noticed is to treat tax payers and voters as if we have ZERO ability to think for ourselves.

If you watched the Fifth Estate on the 16th of October you will see the dangerous, dangerous way of thinking that has pervaded the RCMP in this country for over 30 years - if you haven't, if you think I am so full of BS that my eyes MUST be dark brown, that I am a fear monger the way I have been accused of being in the past - think again...
I URGE you to watch this TV Episode originally aired on October 16th 2010 - and to remember this is CANADA this happened in..
http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/2010-2011/enemiesofthestate/

Our police services call the shots in this country or so it appears - the politicians in this documentary - the people supposedly running this country had NO IDEA what the police services - the RCMP in particular were up to. The documentary made my blood run cold...watch it and tell me how you feel.

What is next for our community here in North America?

Let's look around this big old world of ours and look at the trends - trends that only we as a community can do anything about...BY VOTING - being active...

Look at Europe and what is happening over there.
Because of the explosive growth in motorcycling, there has been an increase in motorcycle fatalities. It's a trend that has happened right around the world.

Now in Belgium and potentially later in the EU they are looking to restrict when you can have a motorcycle license from 21 to 24 years of age. At 18 you can drive a car but you won't be allowed a street bike license until 24? HMMM

Read the article from Virginia...
Look at the new helmet law in BC...
Look at Saskatoon SK, Caledon ON  and Edmonton AB and Bragg Creek AB

Look at the Motorcycle ONLY Check stops that have been set up...the NHSTA in the US is being urged to stop  funding them, BC had two that we know of this year...

All around the US there are places you can NOT ride a motorcycle, there are restrictive noise bylaws being implemented - look what the Governor of California just signed...

If you can not see that our community is being singled out as a hot topic for politicians - then our community - our way of life is doomed to be legislated against time after time  and why?

Because the politicians can be seen as doing something - as looking good to the constituents in their riding's who are vocal and displeased with us. Make no mind that once they get rid of us they will move on to another topic but once they are done with the motorcycle community we will be left in tatters enjoying only a few things about riding that we remember from days gone by. THE FACE OF MOTORCYCLING WILL CHANGE - are we going to have any say as to how?

It is only by voting and policing our own that that will happen...
So are you going to vote?

I supply you the links to all of the articles - one's I have NOT Written - that I have had NO Hand in - PLEASE read - educate yourself. As a responsible motorcyclist I URGE you to get out and vote.

Remember if you DO NOT VOTE - you are giving your vote to the person who is against us and YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO WHINE when crap goes really sideways.

As always, I would love for your feed back on this topic - remember however - in order for your two bits worth to be noted you MUST be willing to put your name to it. Anonymous comments will only be accepted if you email me your real name.


There is A TON Of news again today - to get caught up with what is happening in the world of motorcycling visit www.beltdrivebetty.com where we scour the news feeds to bring you as much relevant information about motorcycles ads we can.


Belt Drive Betty
Ride & Editor
The Busted Knuckle Chronicles
www.bustedknucklenews.com
www.beltdrivebetty.com

Noise & Sound - the differences - some clarifications and facts

If you go to the Occupational Health & Safety Web Site for Canada you will see that measuring sound and it's effects is far more complicated than one might believe.


Pitch, pressure and velocity have a lot to do with measuring SOUND.

NOISE is all about subjective interpretation.

I have researched a number of sounds and found some great comparison charts for you to look at to understand what's going on here and how our community is being judged and measured.

There are a lot of charts that measure the SOUND - decibels of various things:

Table 2 Typical Noise Levels
Noise Source	dB(A)
pneumatic chipper at 1 metre	115
hand-held circular saw at 1 metre	115
textile room	103
newspaper press	95
power lawn mower at 1 metre	92
diesel truck 50 km per hour at 20 metres	85
passenger car 60 km per hour at 20 metres	65
conversation at 1 metre	55
quiet room	40

From the Centre for Hearing and Communication:

Home	Work	Recreation
50 refrigerator 50 - 60 electric toothbrush 50 - 75 washing machine 50 - 75 air conditioner 50 - 80 electric shaver 55 coffee percolator 55 - 70 dishwasher 60 sewing machine 60 - 85 vacuum cleaner 60 - 95 hair dryer 65 - 80 alarm clock 70 TV audio 70 - 80 coffee grinder 70 - 95 garbage disposal 75 - 85 flush toilet 80 pop-up toaster 80 doorbell 80 ringing telephone 80 whistling kettle 80 - 90 food mixer or processor 80 - 90 blender 80 - 95 garbage disposal 110 baby crying 110 squeaky toy held close to the ear 135 noisy squeeze toys	40 quiet office, library 50 large office 65 - 95 power lawn mower 80 manual machine, tools 85 handsaw 90 tractor 90 - 115 subway 95 electric drill 100 factory machinery 100 woodworking class 105 snow blower 110 power saw 110 leafblower 120 chain saw, hammer on nail 120 pneumatic drills, heavy machine 120 jet plane (at ramp) 120 ambulance siren 125 chain saw 130 jackhammer, power drill 130 air raid 130 percussion section at symphony 140 airplane taking off 150 jet engine taking off 150 artillery fire at 500 feet 180 rocket launching from pad	40 quiet residential area 70 freeway traffic 85 heavy traffic, noisy restaurant 90 truck, shouted conversation 95 - 110 motorcycle 100 snowmobile 100 school dance, boom box 110 disco 110 busy video arcade 110 symphony concert 110 car horn 110 -120 rock concert 112 personal cassette player on high 117 football game (stadium) 120 band concert 125 auto stereo (factory installed) 130 stock car races 143 bicycle horn 150 firecracker 156 capgun 157 balloon pop 162 fireworks (at 3 feet) 163 rifle 166 handgun 170

So if you read these charts - your garbage disposal makes about the same sound levels as a motorcycle at 2000 RPM is being allowed in Edmonton, a leaf blower makes MORE as does a snow blower or a chainsaw. Hell a crying baby makes more sound than what they want to restrict motorcycles to...

Reading Federal Law says that any motorcycle over 175 cc's is not to exceed 82 db's
Canada does not "write" it's own laws in many cases but uses as in this case US law.

If you use the American Motorcycle Association Web Site you will see that in California the motorcycle noise emissions are capped at 96 db's: http://home.ama-cycle.org/amaccess/laws/result.asp?state=CA

Now according to many web sites - the pitch of a leaf blower is one of the most hated sounds around...and that has nothing to do with sound level and everything to do with pitch if I am understanding anything I read .

The more I read, the more I learn the more frustrated I get with what I perceive to be
BS being handed to us...I feel like we are being lied to by so many people and I can not wait for a lawyer to help us make sense of all of this. Truly - this is the most confusing mumbo jumbo I have ever read through.

In the news today:

 The Fire Fighter's Burn Camp kicks off this week in BC

In Alberta a Ft McMurray rider was killed in the early morning hours Saturday.

In Ontario a man is dead and his passenger in hospital after a crash on highway 17 near Yesno Township.

Also in Ontario another squeaky wheel is complaining to Windsor council about motorcycle noise.

Newfoundland and Labrador is getting a motorcycle museum courtesy of Selwyn Rose who is revving up to tell as much of the motorcycle history of the province as he can.

In Cape Breton the rider that was killed on the weekend has been identified as 25-year-old Steven Andrew Sorrey of Sydney

If you are one of the fortunate and you are riding today, PLEASE, ride like everyone around you is blind, cannot see you and is out to get you and please, Ride Proud not Loud - save those pipes for when they are truly needed - when someone is about to violate your lane.

Belt Drive Betty

Maximum sound level when measured from a distance of 50 feet behind the motorcycle is based on the motorcycle's year of manufacture. Before 1970, the limit is 92 decibels; 1970 through 1972 is 88 decibels; 1973 though 1974 is 86 decibels; 1975 through 1985 is 83 decibels. After 1985, the noise restriction is limited to 80 decibels.

Read more: Motorcycle Traffic Law in California | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/about_6304692_motorcycle-traffic-law-california.html#ixzz0tNyzdBN7

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