New Anti-Tampering Rules set to limit Exhaust Noise
Motorcycle exhausts are the centre of attention once more, as new rules are brought in to help limit excessive exhaust noise
New rules are incoming which could significantly effect the aftermarket exhaust sector. In short, the new rules mean that any aftermarket exhaust system fitted to a bike must not make any more noise than the standard OEM system it is replacing.
In many cases, an aftermarket exhaust could be sold with a baffle (also called a ‘DB killer’) located at the end of the silencer. With the baffle in position, the volume of the exhaust would be reduced, although in many cases the baffle could be easily removed, opening up the silencer and making the system much louder. Moving forward, it’s likely that baffles will be fully integrated into the exhaust system, making them much harder, or even impossible, to remove.
This was something that the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) addressed in 2023, when, along with the aftermarket exhaust industry and the International Motorcycle Manufacturers’ Association (IMMA), guidelines were set out to combat excessive exhaust noise. These guidelines have led to UN Contracting Parties adopting new anti-tampering provisions specifically relating to vehicle exhaust systems.
Speaking about the new guidelines, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said:
“The adoption of the new anti-tampering provisions marks an important step in ensuring that motorcycle non-original (non-OEM) replacement exhaust systems meet the current regulatory standards. This positive step ahead will reinforce measures against excessive noise addressing concerns raised by citizens and policymakers. ACEM remains committed to supporting harmonised implementation, working alongside authorities and industry stakeholders to ensure compliance and preserve responsible motorcycling.”
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
