MOTORCYCLES AND AUTOCYCLES
Senate Bill 160 as passed by the Senate
Sponsor: Sen. Tom Casperson
House Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
Senate Committee: Transportation
Complete to 5-26-17
SUMMARY:
The Michigan Vehicle Code contains definitions of both "motorcycle" and "autocycle." Senate Bill 160 would include an autocycle within the definition of motorcycle and also slightly modify the autocycle definition.
Under Section 25a of the Vehicle Code, the term "autocycle" is currently defined as:
An enclosed motorcycle that is equipped with safety belts, rollbar, windshield wipers, steering wheel, and equipment otherwise required on a motorcycle, and which has not more than 3 wheels in contact with the roadway at one time.
SB 160 would define "autocycle" as:
A motorcycle that is equipped with safety belts, rollbar or roll hoops, steering wheel, and equipment otherwise required on a motorcycle, has not more than 3 wheels in contact with the roadway at one time, and is not equipped with a straddle seat. (Bolded text is proposed language). The revised definition would strike the words "enclosed' and "windshield wipers."
The term "motorcycle" is defined in Section 31 as a motor vehicle having a saddle or seat for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than 3 wheels in contact with the ground but excluding a tractor. The bill would explicitly include the term "autocycle" within the definition of motorcycle.
MCL 257.25a & 31
FISCAL IMPACT:
The defined term "autocycle" is used in three places in the Michigan Vehicle Code:
· Section 312a requires a motorcycle endorsement to an operators' or chauffers' license (i.e. a driver's license) before operating a motorcycle—other than an autocycle.
· Section 312b establishes a specific motorcycle endorsement requirement for operators of 3-wheeled motorcycles—other than an autocycle.
· Section 257.658 establishes crash helmet and seat belt requirements specific to autocycles.
It's not clear to what extent—if any—the proposed definition of "autocycle" would affect the motorcycle endorsement requirements of Sections 312a and 312b.
Although defined separately, autocycles are currently considered a subset of motorcycles for registration purposes. Autocycles are currently registered as motorcycles and pay the registration tax for motorcycles under Section 801. The bill would not change this.
The bill does not appear to have a material fiscal impact on the state or local units of government.
Fiscal Analyst: William E. Hamilton
■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.