OBJECTIVE: to establish a genuine single market for motorcycles.
COMMUNITY MEASURE: European Parliament and Council Directive 97/24/EC relating to certain components and characteristics of two- and three-wheeled motor vehicles.
CONTENT: the Directive relates to the procedure for the approval of two- and three-wheeled motor vehicles (motorcycles) which was the subject of Framework Directive 92/61/EEC of 30 June 1992. It concerns the regulations which apply to the following components and characteristics:
- tyres,
- lighting and signalling equipment,
- external protrusions,
- rearview mirrors,
- measures to combat atmospheric pollution,
- fuel tanks,
- measures to prevent tampering,
- electromagnetic compatibility,
- the permitted noise level and the exhaust system,
- components for attaching trailers and sidecars;
- safety-belt anchoring points and safety belts,
- windows, windshield wipers and washers and devices for de-icing and de-misting.
From the date of entry into force of all the standards laid down in the Directive (the dates differ according to the various provisions), there will be a Community type-approval scheme for motorcycles.
Certain regulations, including the most controversial, require special examination:
- tyres for powerful motorcycles: the Directive permits any replacement tyre to be fitted which complies with the requirements of the Directive;
- measures to prevent tampering which is designed to increase the power output of motorcycles: these measures shall only apply to mopeds and lightweight motorcycles. Within a period of three years from the implementation of the Directive, the Commission will carry out a study to establish whether the measures to prevent tampering are appropriate, insufficient or excessive, and may propose new legislative measures.
DATE OF ENTRY INTO FORCE: 18/08/1997
DEADLINE FOR TRANSPOSITION: 18/12/1998
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