To direct the Secretary of Transportation to issue certain regulations to update the definition of motorcycle, and for other purposes.
Sponsored By: Representative Van Orden, Derrick [R-WI-3]
In Committee
Summary
Standardize the federal definition of motorcycle. This bill would require the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations within 120 days to amend 49 C.F.R. §571.3 so the regulation matches a statutory definition. The definition describes a motorcycle as a motor vehicle originally manufactured with motive power, with a seat or saddle ridden astride, designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, steered by handlebars, using handlebar and foot controls for acceleration and braking, and capable of exceeding 30 miles per hour.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
New motorcycle definition for makers and riders
This bill would direct the Transportation Secretary to update the federal definition of "motorcycle." The agency would have not later than 120 days after enactment to write rules. The new definition would cover vehicles as originally manufactured and ridden from a seat you straddle. It would require handlebars, hand and foot controls, no more than three wheels in contact with the ground, and a top speed above 30 mph. If enacted, this would change which vehicles must meet federal motor vehicle safety standards. It would clarify safety coverage for some riders while raising compliance and reclassification costs for vehicle makers, modifiers, and sellers.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Van Orden, Derrick [R-WI-3]
WI • R
Cosponsors
Obernolte
CA • R
Sponsored 6/3/2025
Fitzgerald
WI • R
Sponsored 6/26/2025
LaHood
IL • R
Sponsored 12/18/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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