R714-161. Equipment Standards for Motorcycle Safety Inspections, R714. Public Safety, Highway Patrol, Utah Administrative Code

Utah Administrative Code (Current through November 1, 2019)

R714. Public Safety, Highway Patrol

R714-161. Equipment Standards for Motorcycle Safety Inspections

R714-161-1. Authority

Latest version.

This rule is authorized by Subsections 53-8-204(5) and 41-6a-1601(2).

R714-161-2. Purpose

Latest version.

The purpose of this rule is to set minimum equipment standards governing motorcycle safety inspections in accordance with Sections 53-8-204 and 41-6a-1601.

R714-161-3. Definitions

Latest version.

(1) Terms used in this rule are found in Sections 41-1a-102, 41a-6a-102, and 49 C.F.R. 571, et seq.

(2) In addition:

(a) "division" means the Vehicle Safety Inspection section of the Utah Highway Patrol;

(b) "inspector" means a person employed by a station licensed to conduct safety inspections;

(c) "online inspection certificate" means an inspection certificate created electronically through the Vehicle Safety Inspection System;

(d) "online inspection program" means the web-based inspection program used to record safety inspections;

(e) "OEM" means original equipment manufacturer;

(f) "paper inspection certificate" means an inspection certificate created by paper form; and

(g) "station" means a business or government facility located in Utah that is managed or operated by a valid permit holder and conducts safety inspections.

R714-161-4. Incorporation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards

Latest version.

This rule incorporates by reference the standards found in 49 C.F.R. Part 571 as the minimum standards a motor vehicle must meet to pass a safety inspection, unless state law provides a different standard.

R714-161-5. Applicability of Rule

Latest version.

This rule applies to all motorcycles.

R714-161-6. Inspection Procedures

Latest version.

(1) The inspector shall complete the following tasks prior to inspecting the vehicle:

(a) collect the appropriate paperwork such as registration, title, and bill of sale;

(b) verify the vehicle identification number (VIN);

(d) record the vehicle mileage;

(e) enter the inspection date and inspector number if using a paper inspection certificate; and

(f) determine whether the vehicle needs a test drive and the purpose of test drive.

(2) If a test drive needs to be conducted off the station's property, the customer shall be informed.

(3) The inspector shall examine the vehicle by completing the following tasks:

(a) inspect the windshield, if equipped;

(b) inspect for adequate visibility from required mirrors;

(d) inspect for play in the brake pedal;

(e) inspect the horn;

(f) inspect high and low beam headlights;

(g) inspect headlights for proper aim;

(h) inspect parking lights, tail lights, signal lights, brake lights, marker lights, and reflectors;

(i) inspect for the proper color of lights;

(j) inspect tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation;

(k) inspect body and fenders;

(l) inspect battery and electrical wiring;

(m) inspect exhaust system; and

(n) inspect master cylinder.

(4) The inspector shall examine the vehicle's suspension and undercarriage by completing the following tasks:

(a) inspect wheel bearings;

(b) inspect shock absorbers;

(d) inspect the fuel system.

(5) The inspector shall examine the vehicle's braking system by completing the following tasks:

(a) inspect for loose or missing lug nuts;

(b) inspect wheel spokes;

(d) inspect pads or shoes;

(e) inspect rotors or drums;

(f) record the brake measurements using the online inspection program or on the paper inspection certificate if not using the online program;

(g) inspect for fluid leaks; and

(h) inspect brake hoses.

(5) The following procedures apply when a vehicle fails the safety inspection and the inspector is using a paper inspection certificate:

(a) the inspector shall complete a full vehicle inspection even after a reject item is found;

(b) if a vehicle fails an inspection and no repairs are immediately made at that station, then the inspector shall give the customer a rejection inspection certificate;

(d) a customer with a rejected vehicle has up to 15 calendar days to complete all repairs and return to the same station to verify repairs at no charge;

(i) customers may contact the division to request a waiver of additional fees if they exceed 15 days for circumstances beyond their control, such as backordered parts;

(e) the inspector shall return the State Tax Commission and owner copies to the division within 45 days of the inspection date for rejected vehicles that fail to return to the inspecting station;

(f) the inspector shall document any item rejected and repaired during an inspection as repaired on the inspection certificate;

(g) any inspector at a station may verify repairs of rejected items;

(h) if all rejected items have been repaired, the verifying inspector shall sign the safety inspection certificate; and

(i) if the verifying inspector is not the original inspector, the verifying inspector shall sign the safety inspection certificate, and enter his or her inspector license number on the safety inspection certificate.

(6) The following procedures apply when a vehicle fails the safety inspection and the inspector is using an online inspection certificate:

(a) if all rejected items have been repaired, the verifying inspector shall sign the safety inspection certificate;

(b) if no repairs are made, the inspector shall print the rejection inspection certification and give it to the customer;

(d) a customer with a rejected vehicle has up to 15 calendar days to complete all repairs and return to any station that conducts online inspections to verify repairs at no additional vehicle inspection charge;

(i) customers may contact the division to request a waiver of additional fees if they exceed 15 days for circumstances beyond their control, such as back ordered parts;

(e) the inspector shall document any item rejected and repaired during an inspection as repaired on the inspection certificate; and

(f) any inspector at a facility may certify repairs made to rejected items.

(7) The following procedures apply when a vehicle passes the safety inspection and the inspector is using a paper inspection certificate:

(a) the inspector performing the inspection shall sign the vehicle inspection certificate; and

(b) the customer shall be given the State Tax Commission and owner copies of the inspection certificate.

(8) The following procedures apply when a vehicle passes the safety inspection and the inspector is using an online inspection certificate:

(a) the inspector shall print the vehicle inspection certificate and give it to the customer; and

(b) the inspector performing the inspection shall sign the printed inspection certificate prior to giving it to the customer.

(9) The following inspection report procedures apply when the inspector is using a paper inspection certificate:

(a) the report forms shall include the following information:

(i) date the inspection was completed;

(ii) owner's name;

(iii) year and make of the vehicle;

(iv) vehicle identification number;

(v) appropriate notation in any of the repair columns;

(vi) total cost of the repair, including the inspection fee; and

(vii) inspection certificate or sticker number;

(b) inspection certificate or sticker numbers of paper books shall be listed in numerical order starting with the lowest number and listed in groups of 25;

(d) duplicate inspection certificates or stickers shall be noted as "duplicate" on the report form;

(e) lost or stolen inspection certificates or stickers shall be listed as "lost or stolen" on the report form;

(f) inspection certificates and stickers rendered unusable through mishap shall be recorded as "voided" on the report form and inspection certificates and stickers shall be returned to the Vehicle Safety Inspection office;

(g) rejected vehicles that have not returned within 15 days to the original station shall be included in the report, and the words "rejected," printed on the same line as the rejected certificate is listed;

(h) failure to submit the required reports may result in suspension or revocation of a permit; and

(i) the inspector shall return the State Tax Commission and owner copies to the division within 45 days of the original inspection date for rejected vehicles that fail to return for re-inspection.

R714-161-7. Registration

Latest version.

(1) When reviewing registration papers of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the vehicle registration certificate, vehicle identification number, license plate, and vehicle description for agreement;

(b) enter the manufacturer's vehicle identification number and license plate number into the online program or record on the safety inspection certificate if not using the online program;

(d) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(i) the registration certificate, vehicle identification number, license plate, and vehicle description are not in agreement; or

(ii) the vehicle identification number is missing or obscured.

(2) The inspector shall examine the vehicle's license plate and comply with the following requirements:

(a) if the vehicle is registered, verify the license plate is securely mounted and clearly visible; and

(b) advise the customer when the license plate:

(i) is not securely fastened to the rear of the vehicle, in a horizontal position, not less than 12 inches from the ground when measured from the bottom of the license plate;

(ii) is not located in a clearly visible position; or

(iii) is covered with foreign material or otherwise not clearly legible.

R714-161-8. Tires and Wheels

Latest version.

(1) When examining the tires and wheels of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the wheel bolts; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when wheel bolts or nuts are loose, missing, or damaged;

(b) check the wheels for damage; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) any part of the wheel is bent, out of round, cracked, re-welded, or if any spokes are missing, loose, or broken; or

(B) a wheel is not centered on the axle or wobbles in excess of 3/16 inch at three equally spaced intervals around the circumference of the tire;

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when the wheel bearing play exceeds the manufacturer's recommended tolerances;

(d) check the tire tread depth, which may not be measured on the tread wear bar; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) any tread wear indicator contacts the ground; or

(B) the tread depth is less than 2/32 when measured in any two adjacent major tread grooves at any location around the circumference of the tire;

(e) check the tire's condition; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) a tire has any damage including cuts, weather cracks, or cords that are exposed; or

(B) a tire is worn to the extent secondary rubber is exposed in the tread or sidewall area;

(f) check the tires for bumps or bulges; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when a tire has visible bumps or bulges indicating partial failure or separation of the tire;

(g) check for tires that are re-grooved, re-cut, or labeled "not for highway use"; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when a tire has been re-grooved, re-cut, or is marked for other than highway use; and

(h) check the valve stems;

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the rubber stems are cracked or cut; or

(B) a metal stem lock nut is missing; and

(i) check the tire pressure with tire pressure gauge; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when tires are flat, have noticeable air leak, or are inflated to less than 50% of the vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire pressure.

R714-161-9. Steering

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the steering system of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the steering head bearing and front forks; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the steering head bearing adjustment does not meet the manufacturer's recommended torque value maximum for turning; or

(B) there is detectable play or roughness within the steering head bearings;

(b) check the rear wheel centerline; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when the rear wheel does not track within one 1/2 inch of the front wheel;

(c) check the handlebar for proper construction and determine if it is constructed of at least .060 inch thick metal tubing; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) cracks, deformation, or improper alignment are found;

(B) handlebars are loose or not secure;

(D) the throttle grip is broken or missing; or

(E) handlebars are not constructed of at least .060 inch thick metal tubing; and

(d) check front forks for looseness, binding, and leakage; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when forks are loose, or there is evidence of binding or leakage.

R714-161-10. Brakes

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the braking system of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check to ensure the vehicle is equipped with front and rear brakes; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) any brake fails to produce adequate braking; or

(B) the vehicle is missing the front or rear brake;

(I) a vintage vehicle is only required to have one operational brake if OEM;

(b) check hand levers and foot pedals; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) a hand lever is broken or sufficient leverage cannot be applied;

(B) a hand lever or foot pedal is improperly positioned, misaligned, or does not return freely;

(C) modifications made to the hand levers or foot pedal make a hand lever or foot pedal inaccessible for adequate leverage and safe operation; or

(D) a hand lever or foot pedal is rusted, frozen, or inoperative;

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) brake adjusters are unable to be locked;

(B) the brake adjustment changes when the fork is extended;

(D) the cam-operating lever has been repositioned on the shaft to avoid replacing a worn cam, worn shoes, or worn lining;

(E) there is binding in linkage or components;

(F) there is wear in the cam or if springs are not strong enough to return and hold shoes against cam; or

(G) any brake component is missing or broken;

(d) check springs, cables, cotter pins, devices, couplings, and grease retainers; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) cables are frayed, broken, or pinched during normal operation;

(B) cotter pins are missing or broken;

(D) grease retainers are leaking;

(e) check the hydraulic hoses and tubing for leaks, cracks, chafing, flattened, or restricted sections; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) hoses or tubing leak;

(B) hoses are cracked or chafed exposing metal or fabric cord;

(D) hoses and tubes are not securely fastened;

(E) the master cylinder leaks or the fluid level is lower than the manufacturer's specifications; or

(F) leakage is found anywhere in the braking system or wheel cylinder;

(f) check the brake lining for contamination and wear, which must be replaced once it has been contaminated;

(g) check the wear indicator or adjustment indicator arrows on vehicle with an enclosed rear drum; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) linings are contaminated with oil, grease, or brake fluid;

(B) the thinnest point of the lining measures 1/32 inch or less or the pads are worn to the wear indicators; or

(h) check the vehicles brake drums for external cracks, mechanical damage, or wear beyond manufacturer's specifications; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) there are external cracks or evidence of mechanical damage; or

(B) the brake drum is worn beyond the manufacturer's specifications; and

(i) check rotors and friction surface for mechanical damage, contamination, or wear beyond manufacturer's specifications; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) a crack extends to the edge of rotor or there is evidence of mechanical damage;

(B) the friction surface is contaminated; or

R714-161-11. Lighting

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the lighting system of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check for proper headlamp equipment and proper functioning; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the headlamp is not marked USDOT approved, unless it is a vintage vehicle that was manufactured prior to USDOT markings;

(B) the headlamp minimum height is less than 22 inches or more than 54 inches to the center of the low beam;

(D) the headlamp fails to light or the headlamp switch fails to function;

(E) a non-clear headlamp covering is placed on or in front of any headlamp;

(F) the headlamp is tinted, colored, or painted;

(G) the vehicle has no headlamp or more than two headlamps;

(H) lenses are patched, taped, or covered with any foreign substance, unless it is patched with another automotive lens piece, is glued on, and is permanent; or

(I) the headlamp is a pulsating headlight that is not USDOT approved;

(b) check the headlamp aiming on both the high and low beams; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when the low or high beam is out of adjustment;

(c) check the turn signal operation for proper functioning as designed by OEM, if the vehicle was originally equipped with turn signals; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) a turn signal is missing and the motorcycle was manufactured after January 1, 1973;

(B) a turn signal fails to function properly;

(C) a turn signal lamp is not the correct color, which must be amber on the front of the vehicle and red or amber in the rear of the vehicle; or

(D) there is any cover over the lens;

(d) check the stop lamp for proper functioning; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) a stop lamp on a vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1969 fails to operate when the front or rear brakes are applied;

(B) a stop lamp on a vehicle manufactured before January 1, 1969 fails to operate when the service, or foot brake, is applied;

(D) a stop lamp is painted or is covered by any non-clear lens cover or material;

(E) a stop lamp has a blue dot taillight; or

(F) a stop lamp bulb or lens is tinted or covered with any material that impairs the intended original performance characteristics of the light;

(e) check to ensure the stop lamp properly operates with the front brake application and separately with the application of the rear brake, if the vehicle was manufactured after January 1, 1969;

(i) vintage vehicles that were not manufactured with handlebar actuated brake lights are exempt from the requirement in Subsection R714-161-11(1)(g);

(f) check the tail lamp for proper functioning; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) at least one of the tail lamps, covers or lenses is not the color red;

(B) the lamp is not visible from 1,000 feet; or

(C) a tail lamp bulb or lens is tinted or covered with any material that impairs the intended original performance expectations of the light;

(g) check for a rear reflector and verify it is the color red; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when the reflectors are missing or are not the color red;

(ii) when one reflector is used, the inspector shall verify that it is mounted at the rear centerline; or

(iii) when two reflectors are used, the inspector shall verify the reflectors are evenly spaced about the rear centerline; and

(h) check for driving light operation; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the headlamps or driving lamps are not properly aimed; or

(B) the headlamps are any improper color, painted, or are covered by any non-clear lens cover or material.

R714-161-12. Electrical System

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the electrical system of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check for proper operation of the horn, which must be audible for at least 200 feet; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the horn is missing, loose, fails to function, or is not electrical;

(B) the horn button is not easily accessible; or

(b) check for proper functioning of switches, including the headlight high and low switch, engine kill switch, turn signal switch, and brake light; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when any required switch is broken, missing, or fails to function properly;

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when the insulation is worn, bare wires are exposed, or wires show evidence of short circuiting or are inadequate to operate items properly; and

(d) check for loose connections and proper functioning in the vehicle's wiring connections; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when connections are loose, corroded, or fail to function properly.

R714-161-13. Windshield

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the windshield of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the windshield, if equipped, for cracks, scratches, discoloration, obstruction, light transmittance, and ensure it is an approved type of windshield;

(b) check the tint of the wind deflector to ensure it does not interfere with the driver's vision; and

(i) the driver's vision is obscured due to cracks, scratches, or discoloration;

(ii) the windshield is not an approved type;

(iii) a stiffener device is mounted in the line of vision; or

(iv) there is less than 70% light transmittance.

R714-161-14. Frame and Body

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the body of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the frame for welds, cracks, or structural damage; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when there are welds, cracks, or structural damage that constitute a hazard;

(b) check the fenders for proper mounting, cracks, breaks, bends, and sharp edges; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when fenders are missing, improperly mounted, cracked, bent or have sharp edges;

(d) verify the rear fender covers the top half of the tire;

(e) check the chain, sprocket, or belt protective guards for proper operation; and

(i) advise the customer when chain or belt guard is missing, broken, or cracked; or

(ii) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the chain is worn beyond manufacturer's specification;

(B) the sprocket is worn beyond manufacturer's specification; or

(f) check the seat for proper attachment;

(g) check the seat's locking device and determine if it functions properly; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the seat is not properly and securely attached; or

(B) the locking device fails to function properly;

(h) if the seat is designed for two people, check the seat area for hand holds to ensure the hand holds are properly attached and of sufficient strength and size to adequately support 200 pounds; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when a hand hold is not present, when required, or when it is not of sufficient strength and size to adequately support 200 pounds;

(i) check the foot rests on a vehicle that has a seat designed for two people; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when foot rests are not present, when required;

(j) check the frame and mounting brackets on the engine; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when the engine mounts or brackets are cracked or broken;

(k) check the vehicle stand for proper operation; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the stand fails to hold the vehicle in an up-right position;

(B) the stand fails to stay in the stored position or is secured by wire or other methods; or

(l) check the left side mirror; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) the left side mirror is missing; or

(B) the left side mirror is broken, cracked, or otherwise damaged to the point rearward vision is obscured.

R714-161-15. Suspension

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the swing arm bushing of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the swing arm bushing and suspension, which must be adjusted according to the manufacturer's tolerances; and

(i) issue a rejection inspection certificate when the swing arm bushing is worn beyond the manufacturer's recommended specifications.

R714-161-16. Exhaust System

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the exhaust system of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the exhaust system for proper operation; and

(i) advise the customer when joints are loose, broken, or if any leakage exists; or

(ii) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(A) components are not properly mounted or supporting brackets are not secure;

(B) the muffler has been removed or is not functioning properly;

(D) the exhaust system has been changed or modified and is not as effective as OEM specifications.

R714-161-17. Fuel System

Latest version.

(1) When inspecting the fuel system of a vehicle, the inspector shall:

(a) check the fuel system for any leaks and ensure it is secure;

(b) check to ensure the gas tank meets OEM specifications;

(d) issue a rejection inspection certificate when:

(i) any part of the fuel system is not securely fastened;

(ii) there is leakage at any point in the fuel system; or

(iii) the gas tank is not properly capped or does not meet OEM specifications.

R714-161-18. Off-Highway Motorcycle

Latest version.

(1) An off-highway motorcycle may be inspected provided that it has been modified to be street legal.

(2) An off-highway motorcycle that has been modified to be street legal is subject to the same vehicle standards in this Rule.