Promoting and encouraging safe driving behaviours and the safe operation of motorcycles saves lives, not loud bikes.
Summer in Vancouver brings beautiful weather, but it also brings noisy vehicles. There is no question that the debilitating sounds from these vehicles disturb the peace and enjoyment of those who live, work, and play in Vancouver.
The increase of these noisy vehicles on the roadways has resulted in an increase in citizen complaints and concerns. There is no evidence that the loud mufflers assist in terms of safety for motorcycles.
“The focus is not about targeting motorcycles, but rather making sure people who live downtown or use the city’s public spaces are able to enjoy themselves,” says Acting Inspector Ken Eng of the VPD’s Traffic Section.
In the Province of British Columbia, motorcycle mufflers are restricted to exhaust sounds of a maximum 91 decibels. Many aftermarket motorcycle mufflers are tested at 112 decibels. Unnecessary noise from a vehicle’s engine, tires, brakes, or exhaust may result in a violation ticket for $109 plus three points.
