We know how much you love your motorcycle, but are you familiar with all the Ontario safety laws?
Motorcyclists love customizing their bikes in order to make it unique. If you like making changes to your motorcycle, keep in mind the important safety procedures that go along with making these adjustments as safety laws are put in place to protect you.
1 | Helmets
In every province and territory, the motorcycle helmet law is very consistent. Any driver or passenger must be wearing a crash helmet that is secured under their chin at all times and the helmet must meet the CSA CAN3-D230-M85 standard. Helmets must be worn at all times when riding the motorcycle – this is the most obvious safety law. Riders can customize their helmets by adding speakers or earphones (some helmets already come equipped with speakers), however, they are strictly for communication and not for music.2 | Handlebars
Handlebars need to be maintained at all times and should not be loose or damaged as this impedes the safety of the motorcycle. A handlebar should never exceed the height of 380mm above the driver’s seat when it is compressed by the weight of the driver. If your motorcycle fails to meet either of these tests, you could be given a fine between $400 to $20,000.
3 | Mufflers
Every motorcycle must be equipped with a working muffler, however, some motorcyclists will upgrade to a custom designed muffler that will often make more noise than the original muffler. This could lead to getting pulled over for making too much noise. There is not a rule in place yet regarding what would be deemed as too loud and the officer pulling you over will use his or her discretion as what they deem as unreasonable noise that warrants issuing a ticket.
4 | License Plate
The license plate on your motorcycle must be visible from 180 degrees from the rear. Some people enjoy having their license plate on the side of their motorcycle where it's not as visible. This goes against the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario and could cost you upwards of $110.