Below is a response from the American Motorcycle Association, or AMA. I had asked for some assistance because of what is going on here in Florida. I also mentioned that some of us were interested in forming a national organization.
Some of what he said we have seen but there is also some very good information. I will be getting back to him with more to the point information.
Terry
Dear Mr. McGee:
Thank you for using the “Contact Us” feature at
American Motorcyclist Association to inquire about assistance in forming a national organization for motorized bicyclists.
Perhaps the first issue to address is the cause of the police action against those riding motorized bicycles in Florida. What are the police issuing citations for – equipment violations, licensing and/or registration, and/or moving violations? Why are the citations being dismissed in court?
Florida Statutes (see
Statutes & Constitution :View Statutes : Online Sunshine) contain numerous references to “motorized bicycles” (316.003 (2)) and “mopeds” (316.003 (77)) – is there an issue with home-built units not conforming to the definition, particularly with regard to the engine/motor type or size?
From the Florida Statutes, 316.003:
(2) Bicycle. --Every vehicle propelled solely by human power, and every motorized bicycle propelled by a combination of human power and an electric helper motor capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of not more than 20 miles per hour on level ground upon which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels. The term does not include such a vehicle with a seat height of no more than 25 inches from the ground when the seat is adjusted to its highest position or a scooter or similar device. No person under the age of 16 may operate or ride upon a motorized bicycle.
(77) Moped. --Any vehicle with pedals to permit propulsion by human power, having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels; with a motor rated not in excess of 2 brake horsepower and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground; and with a power-drive system that functions directly or automatically without clutching or shifting gears by the operator after the drive system is engaged. If an internal combustion engine is used, the displacement may not exceed 50 cubic centimeters.
Forming a national organization to address motorized bicycle issues is an admirable goal, if the members of the forum are willing to do what it takes to make the organization successful.
My first suggestion is a thorough search for any existing organizations, be they local, state, national or foreign, which work on motorized bicycle issues already. Don’t ignore overseas groups, as they may have already dealt with issues you are interested in.
Whether or not you locate any such groups or organizations, you and the other forum members should compile a (short) list of the issues you’d like to take on in Florida. You mentioned changing Florida law – what area(s) do you have in mind? I’d suggest not taking on too much to start with – focus on the most pressing issue. If it’s equipment related, you need to research all applicable state statutes and federal regulations with regard to vehicles used on public roadways. You may find there are vehicle standards that must be met at the state and/or federal level for motorized bicycles that you can’t achieve.
If the central issue is licensing and/or registration, you’ll find it/them to be strictly a state issue. Compare Florida’s requirements to other states and try to locate the differences that work in your favor.
I’m not sure there is a single reference I can point you to regarding the actual “how to’s” of forming a national organization. Most national groups, such as the AMA and the League of American Bicyclists (LAB; see
League of American Bicyclists * Home), draw their strength and membership from individuals and local- and state-wide groups of dedicated riders.
If you provide more background on the reasons for and types of citations you mentioned, I’ll try to assist you further with suggestions.
Thanks again for contacting us.
Sincerely,
Mr. Imre F. Szauter
Government Affairs Manager
American Motorcyclist Association
13515 Yarmouth Drive
Pickerington, OH 43147-8214
1 (800) AMA-JOIN
1 (614) 856-1900, ext. 1125
