Further Changes to Motorcycle ADR’s Announced for 2016.
The Australian Government has announced a further change to the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) for motorcycles.
This latest change will allow motorcycles and motorcycle handlebars to be wider than the current rules have allowed.
The maximum permitted width for motorcycles will rise from 1000 mm to 1100 mm; for motorcycles with sidecars, three wheeled mopeds and motor tricycles it will rise from 1850 mm to 2000 mm.
The maximum handlebar width for motorcycles will rise from 900 mm to 1100 mm.
The change means that over 4,600 new motorcycles a year will no longer need modifications to handlebars, bodywork, brake and clutch levers, foot pegs and panniers before they enter the Australian market, saving the industry around $3.4 million every year.
Minister for Major Projects Paul Fletcher said the Australian Government and state and territory governments agreed to amend the ADRs, as the amendments will not reduce vehicle safety and will bring Australia into line with other major vehicle markets including the European Union, United States and Japan.
This amendment to the ADR’s comes after a change that removes the requirements for rear motorcycle mudguard extensions was announced by the Government last year.
Both changes are part of the Australian Government’s response to the Productivity Commission Report on Australia’s Automotive Manufacturing Industry to accelerate harmonizing ADRs with United Nations vehicle regulations.
Further reforms will be announced in the coming months and we will keep you updated.