Hi folks
I’ve had various opinions on this, but can’t find anyting official.
Do you require a sidecar build to be Low Volume Certified, or any other sort of certification?
I found http://www.lvvta.org.nz which states:
What rules are there for modifying a motorcycle or trike, and where do I find them?
LVVTA has yet to develop the motorcycle or trike LVV Standards, however these are on the list of projects for the future. In the mean-time, you can use the LVV Formset (link above) as a guide, and work closely with your LVV Certifier.
I’ve emailed LVVTA to see what they say.
I found a reference in a discussion from 2008 on a local motorcycling forum that stated:
the rule is that a detachable sidecar needs no WoF in itself. It’s not a part of the bike. Like a trailer. There’s no VIR manual for sidecars (is for trailers) . Nor is there a rego fee prescribed. Nor does a sidecar have a frame number or VIN.
But , if it’s a built in one piece sidecar (like a racing sidecar) the it would need compliance . That makes it a class LE (ie a trike) .
I also found a WOF book current as at 20th November 2013 which indicates the below points specifically in relation to sidecars:
http://www.glenitiautos.co.nz/site/glenitiauto/files/in-service-certification-(wof)%5B1%5D.pdf
There is no consistency in the document regarding the spelling of sidecar, I found sidecar, side-car, and side car all in use.
From 01/11/15, the rules have been clarified to state that all motorcycles fitted with a sidecar must have a LVVC, otherwise they will not be able to get WoF compliance.
The rule does not apply to sidecars manufactured as a unit, e.g. Urals. All others (regardless of age) must comply.
I am just in the process of finding what this will mean for my chair. The main things that they will look at is steering, mounts, & brakes. And a grab for $450, for the compliance process.