Interpretation ID: aiam2841
1436 So. Sherman Street
Longmont
CO 80501;
Dear Mr. Hoppe: This responds to your letter of May 3, 1978, in which you request determination as to whether the three- wheeled motor vehicle which you are designing is a 'motorcycle' or an automobile ('passenger car') for purposes of complying with federal motor vehicle safety standards.; The vehicle falls within the definition of 'motorcycle' set forth i regulations under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966:; >>>'Motorcycle' means a motor vehicle with motive power having a sea or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground. (49 CFR Part 571.3(b))<<<; Accordingly, the vehicle would have to meet the requirements of safet standards applicable to motorcycles. I have enclosed an information sheet explaining where you can obtain federal standards and regulations.; I want to point out that in April 1974, this agency proposed a revisio of the above definition of 'motorcycle' under which this term would be limited to two-wheeled motor vehicles and to three-wheeled motor vehicles with handlebars and no passenger enclosures. I have enclosed a copy of this proposal. However, in view of the time that has elapsed since the proposal was issued, the agency has decided not to issue a final rule on this subject without providing another opportunity to comment.; Sincerely, Joseph J. Levin, Jr., Chief Counsel