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Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Autocycle class effective July 1, 2016

Effective July 1, 2016, Motor Vehicle Administration, (MVA) will begin titling and registering certain 3-wheel motorcycles known as Autocycles. These unique vehicles are constructed using both automotive and motorcycle equipment, but with the majority of the equipment being based upon automotive equipment technology. The Maryland State Police, Automotive Safety Enforcement Division has created a Standard Operation Procedure(SOP) for all Maryland Inspection Mechanics/Stations to follow in regards to the inspection of this class vehicle. This SOP can be located on the Maryland State Police website on the ASED page under downloads http://mdsp.maryland.gov/ASED/Pages/Downloads.aspx

These unique vehicles will be inspected at class “A” inspection stations by class “A” inspection mechanics. These vehicles require at least a class “C” (regular, motorcycle endorsement not required) driver’s license and you are required to wear a DOT approved helmet, unless the vehicle has an enclosed passenger compartment. Seatbelts are required to be worn when operating these vehicles as well.

If you have any questions about this vehicle or the procedures for inspection refer to the SOP mentioned or contact your ASED assigned station supervisor.

2 comments:

Rebel Without a Clue said...

Very good to hear. Now Polaris can start selling the Slingshot in MD without the owner registering it in VA.

Linda said...

I do not believe these things are motorcycles. We worked very hard this legislative session to be sure that the accident statistics are not lumped in with the motorcycle stats. Because of our work, there will be a seperate check box for vehicle type on the officers forms. And yes with or without an enclosed top you must wear your seatbelt. Helmet and seatbelt are required for open top models. Please for safety sake, learn to drive these before you go out on the road. They are very different than a motorcycle and handle much differently that a car. Also, I ride a very unique trike and have almost been run off the road or hit by people trying to see what it is and the "Oh my that is a woman!" look and trying to take pictures. Please, be aware of the cars near you! Safe rides to all my motorcycle/trike peeps. (IMHO the slingshot is neither) Linda