AMA passes lower sound rules

From the American Motorcyclist Association

PICKERINGTON, OH -- The 2008 American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Congress gathered Oct. 9-11 to consider numerous issues affecting amateur motorcycle competition and recreational riding in the United States.

Most notably, the 2008 AMA Congress passed a 94 dB(a) standard for all amateur and Pro-Am motocross and off-road competition, effective in 2011. The new standard will not apply to land-speed racing, speed trials or drag racing events. The new level mirrors both the 2009 standard for professional motocross and Supercross racing in the United States, as well as the level mandated by the FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme), which governs international motorcycle competition.

Currently, sound limits for amateur motorcycle competition are 99 dB(a) for closed-course competition and 96 dB(a) for cross-country racing.

"Few issues contribute more to misunderstanding and prejudice against the motorcycling community than excessively loud motorcycles, and this measure addresses the issue head-on," said AMA president and CEO Rob Dingman. "This standard is already in place for professional and international competition, making this one of the most cost-effective and easy-to-implement solutions to the sound problem."