AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
The popularity of three-wheeled motorcycles is growing in Texas and manufacturers are developing numerous models of these "trikes."
On July 11, 2014, Polaris received approval from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to add their new Slingshot model to their existing line of motorcycles they are authorized to sell.
Subsequently, on November 14, 2014, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles informed Polaris they could not define the Slingshot as a motorcycle because it does not have a "rider's saddle" seat and Polaris could not sell them in Texas.
Polaris dealers across the state now have Slingshot models in their inventory that they are unable to sell because of the reversal of original authorization.
S.B. 449 allows three-wheeled vehicles with seats other than a "rider's saddle" to be classified as a motorcycle.
As proposed, S.B. 449 amends current law relating to the definition of a motorcycle.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 541.201(9), Transportation Code, to redefine "motorcycle" to mean a motor vehicle, other than a tractor, that is equipped with a rider's saddle or one or more seats for the use of a rider and a passenger, if the motor vehicle is designed to transport a passenger, and is designed to have, when propelled, not more than three wheels on the ground.
SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2015.