Did You Know It's Now Illegal--in the U.S.--to Sell Dirtbikes/Motorcycles Designed for Kids?

In a well-intentioned effort to prevent children under 12 from being exposed to lead in certain toys, the government has tripped up and made it illegal for your local motorcycle shop or ATV dealer to sell vehicles for kids. You know, they might start biting on that lead battery terminal or something.

Yeah, I know I said I wasn't going to write about politics for a while, but I can't help myself on this one. This is stupid and shouldn't be happening. It prevents kids who enjoy bikes and ATVs from getting replacement parts when needed, or from getting that shiny new bike they wanted, and it effectively eliminates an entire revenue stream for local dealers!

The legislation took effect in February 09 and is called the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA). I heard about it through my subscription to "American Motorcyclist" magazine. I'm all for protecting children from lead in toys, but when you're riding a motorcycle or ATV, it isn't the same as chewing on an old windowsill!

It appears a stay has been granted on enforcing the law, but that only means fines won't be imposed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Technically, sales of these vehicles are still illegal, and any state attorney general could prosecute a dealer or private individual if he/she was pissed off and felt like it.

Read more here and ask Congress to exempt youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the CPSIA. I've sent in my request! Just think about the dealers--like they really need another economic gut-punch right now. And the children--think of the children!