Europe cracks down on noisy exhausts with new anti-tampering rules for motorcycles
European regulators are cracking down on noisy aftermarket motorcycle exhausts, introducing anti-tampering proposals to combat systems that exceed sound levels emitted by standard pipes.
The move, backed by the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), aims to stop riders from bypassing legal noise limits using adjustable silencers, while ensuring aftermarket brands sell products adhering to these legal standards.
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One of the primary issues raised in the proposal is the use of aftermarket systems that can be adjusted, with valves that open outside of the standard testing range, allowing bikes to exceed noise limits.
In the UK, road-legal aftermarket exhausts must already meet EU noise standards. However, the Department for Transport (DfT) has told MCN that it will consult on whether to adopt the new regulations in the future, with a final decision not yet reached.
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“This positive step will reinforce measures against excessive noise,” said ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot.
“The adoption of the new anti-tampering provisions marks an important step in ensuring that motorcycle non-original replacement exhaust systems meet the current regulatory standards.”
Olea Anett Kvalsvik, President of the Federation of European Motorcyclists (FEMA), acknowledged that while noise standards may not need to be lowered further, excessively loud pipes harm the reputation of all bikers.
The new rules were approved by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and will become part of EU type-approval regulations.
