Interpretation ID: aiam3684

Dear Confidential: This is in reply to your letter of February 24, 1983, asking for a interpretation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 123, *Motorcycle Controls and Displays*.; The last sentence of paragraph S5.3.1 is: >>>'If a motorcycle is equipped with self-proportioning or antiloc braking devices utilizing a single control for front and rear brakes, the control shall be located and operable in the same manner as a rear brake control.'<<<; You have asked if your interpretation is correct that this sentenc does not preclude the use of single control braking systems which do not incorporate 'self-proportioning' or 'antilock' braking devices. Your interpretation is correct, (sic) The sentence establishes a requirement that applies only to those self-proportioning devices with a single control. It does not require a second control nor does it preclude a single control system without proportioning devices.; You have also asked that we provide clarification as to wha self-proportioning means. This term includes any brake input device the actuation of which applies braking torque to both the front and rear wheels. Use of such a self-proportioning device does not preclude additional brake actuation devices. Examples include certain current model Moto Guzzi motorcycles.; As you have requested the publicly available copies of your letter an this response shall not include your name and address. If you have any further questions, we shall try to answer them.; Sincerely, Frank Berndt, Chief Counsel