U.S. drops motorcycle tariff plan

From the American Motorcyclist Association

PICKERINGTON, OH -- The U.S. trade representative has decided against imposing any tariffs on certain motorcycles imported from Europe in a trade dispute over beef, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) reports.

The AMA, its members, the Motorcycle Industry Council, individual manufacturers, dealers and others had contacted the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative opposing the idea of possibly putting a 100% import duty on certain European goods -- including motorcycles with engine displacements of 51cc to 500cc.

"This is great news not only for U.S. enthusiasts of these European motorcycles but also for the small- and medium-sized American businesses that sell and import these machines," said Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations. "But we have to remain vigilant to ensure that these bikes don't slip onto the tariff list in the future."

Imposing the tariff could have increased the cost of certain imported motorcycles and scooters from manufacturers such as Aprilia, Beta, BMW, Bultaco, Fantic, Gas Gas, Husqvarna, Husaberg, KTM, Montesa, Piaggio, Scorpa, TM and Vespa.

The proposal was put together in retaliation to the 27-member European Union's continuing import ban on American beef treated with growth hormones. EU officials haven't lifted that 20-year-old ban, despite a World Trade Organization order to end it.