Important Press Release

MOTO CROSS MACHINES - EXCESSIVE NOISE

Statement by the South Eastern Centre Moto Cross Combine

At the meeting of the South Eastern Centre Moto Cross Combine on 15 January, there was some discussion about noise levels at moto cross meetings, especially four stroke solos. The problem has increased in recent times in step with the growth in the popularity of four stroke machines, whilst at the same time environmental pressures from outside the sport continue to grow. There is fear among organisers that if nothing is done soon to arrest the increasing noise levels there could be risk of circuits being lost to the sport.

Preliminary and informal discussions have been initiated at national level, these will be continuing and will be elevated to international FIM level as necessary. In the meantime, as a first step, during the 2003 season the South Eastern Centre Moto Cross Combine will undertake a programme aimed at achieving rigorous enforcement of the existing requirements at meetings that take place within the SE Centre. To remind competitors, the existing requirements are set out in the current edition of the Handbook and are as follows;

CONTROL OF EXHAUST SOUND LEVEL; The Clerk of the Course may exclude any machine which exceeds the maximum permitted sound level, or which in his opinion is deemed to he excessively noisy. The sound level of a Moto Cross machine controlled according to the FIM/ACU method and measured at a half a metre distance and at 45 degrees from the end of the silencer will not exceed 98Dba (The precise method of testing, is described in see Sound Control Regulations also contained in the Handbook.) Random or spot checks may be made by the ACU Sound Control Officials of the sound level of any machine taking part in any ACU meeting in addition to any routine checks at scrutineering.

The engine piston stroke in millimetres must be permanently and prominently displayed on the crankcase for use in sound control calculations.

Competitors are reminded to take these requirements into account when preparing machines for racing, when presenting them for scrutineering, and to keep silencers in good condition throughout periods of racing.