| Author | Message | ||
     Titus |
After reading about the eminent demise of the race kit several questions remain. 1. Why would HD/Buell kill a profitable accessory? 2. Does this mean that the race ecm will be discontinued as a stand alone purchase? 3. Is there specific legislation or EPA rules forcing the issue? 4. What options do we have if these parts become unavailable and at what cost? Details, Details, I Need Details! Thanks in advance for your input! | ||
| Jim_sb |
Hello Titus, I have HEARD and READ that this issue is EPA related and also pertains to the Screaming Eagle items for Harley's as well. As a side note - the local HD dealer (used to sell Buells but gave up) has become embroiled in battles with the "locals". It seems that residents nearby their 2 store locations have "had it up to here" with noise from the bikes, parties into the night with live bands (you know how those Harley folks like a good party!), etc. and are now taking action against the HD Dealer. I think it's a sign of the times - as our nation approaches a population of 300 million people - with more pouring in legally and illegally each day - we are more crowded than ever - noisier than ever, highly polluted, etc. Because we choose to do something (ride) that is outside the norm there will always be more of "them" than there are of "us". In a society where majority rules "we" have no chance against "them" if "we" are not mindful of their concerns. Loud pipes and race ECM's are not constitutionally protected rights. I tread lightly. Off road, on road. I keep my bikes quiet. Sure, I pass cages all the time but I do it in a manner that is safe for me and unintimidating to the cage driver. My advice? If you WANT a race kit for your bike get it soon. PS. I don't think the gov't can per se make aftermarket products illegal, all they can do is force the manufacturers to PROVE that the modified vehicles still pass EPA tests for noise and emissions. This has been successfully done in CA for many years for cars and trucks. That doesn't mean they don't get modded - they do - but the paperwork has to be in order. Regards, Jim in Santa Barbara |
