Kerala High Court bans two-wheeler modifications

Motorcycle modifications are relatively affordable, easy to carry out and for most bikes, the options are aplenty and readily available. However, certain common modifications are illegal and the Kerala High Court has asked the motor vehicles department and police to take action against modifications being made to motorcycles, including loud silencers and different handlebars.

Justice V. Chitambaresh gave the directive after a motorist named Francis M. C. had filed a petition against a check report that was filed against him, stating that he had violated provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Francis had fitted a straight handlebar and replaced the stock silencer with a louder one on his Royal Enfield motorcycle. Both of these are very common modifications carried out by Royal Enfield owners.

"Thunderous noise emanating from motorcycles deafens the ears and also poses a serious health hazard, especially to the ailing and aged commuters on the road. The sound level has to be brought down to the decibel limits prescribed under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 in order to abate the sound pollution," the judgment said.

The court deemed shorter handlebars illegal as well, as they can affect the equilibrium of the vehicle. Mudguard-less motorcycles also pose a threat as they spread dirt and road spray (during the monsoons) on the rider and other motorists. According to the ruling, the removal of the pillion rider's handle (grab rail) or saree guard should not be permitted either and the standard glare-free headlight should not be allowed to be replaced with glittering ones.

While it remains to be seen how the authorities respond after this directive, this isn't the first time that modified bikes have come under the scanner. Last year, transport authorities in Bengaluru were cracking down on premium bikes and superbikes that violated noise regulations.

Source: Times Of India

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