“Navigating JPJ’s Road Regulations”
Recently, a wave of interest has surged through the Malaysian web community regarding motorcycle customizations. This heightened curiosity comes in the wake of announcements from the police and JPJ about their intensified efforts to curb unlawful alterations. This crackdown encompasses detentions and identification of individuals employing modified motorcycles on public roads, what is extensive modification and personal customization with aftermarket accessories for personal satisfactory upon owning the motorcycle.
I think in general contrary to popular belief, there haven’t been any groundbreaking regulations or laws governing motorcycle modifications that prompted this sudden surge in enforcement. Instead, it’s the skyrocketing popularity of customized motorcycles, fueled by viral videos involving celebrities, that has sparked the authorities’ interest. It’s essential to remember that both the police and JPJ have long held the authority to take action against illegally modified vehicles, whether they have two or four wheels. This authority is vested in them by the Road Transport Act of 1987, which empowers them to act against those who knowingly modify their vehicles. Let’s delve into the details of this act and how it impacts modifiers and their motorcycles.
Unearthing Motorcycle Modification Myths: Deciphering Malaysian Law
The Rumble of Noisy Exhausts
One of the most conspicuous modifications involves altering exhaust systems, often in the form of a straight pipe with baffles removed. Advocates argue that this modification alerts nearby drivers to the presence of a motorcycle, coining the phrase “loud pipes save lives.” However, if the exhaust noise surpasses the legal limit defined by the VTA, it remains in violation of the law. While a slight deviation of two to three decibels above the VTA limit may be tolerated at the discretion of enforcement officers, anything beyond that invites strict action. My question here what if I installed an aftermarket exhaust but it still sounds below the limit noise after an accident or upgrade performance?
Tackling Tyre Troubles
Here refers more to the smaller displacement segments as “Tayar Sotong” or Narrow Tyres have become a signature of modified kapchais, aiming to reduce rolling resistance and boost speed. However, downsizing tyres below VTA-approved specifications poses serious risks, including reduced grip and potential overloading. This is a leading cause of accidents, especially during
This modification stresses the suspension and frame, violating the VTA.
Covering Your Tracks – Legally
Swapping out bodywork or ‘coversets’ is a common practice among motorcycle enthusiasts. However, any change in colour that deviates from what’s registered must be promptly reported to JPJ within seven days. Alterations that substantially change the silhouette of the motorcycle are considered offences.
Reflections on Rear View Mirrors-(I always kena this!!!)
Rear view mirrors are crucial for rider safety, and their absence is a blatant violation of regulations.
Unraveling Number Plate Nuances
“Fancy” plates, as deemed by authorities, are another regulatory concern. JPJ rules outline strict requirements for motorcycle number plates, and any deviation constitutes an offense. While these violations are typically compoundable, the maximum penalty can reach RM300.
Cables and Engine Upgrades
Upgrading brake and clutch cables or installing braided steel brake hoses is a popular modification. As long as these enhancements don’t compromise safety, they are permitted under the law.
Engine modifications, however, remain a contentious issue. While many enthusiasts seek to enhance engine reliability, authorities consider most upgrades, like oversized pistons and ECU swaps, unlawful.
The Price of Non-Compliance
If a modified motorcycle is intercepted on a public road, authorities have the power to seize it. In addition to confiscation, owners face penalties of up to RM3,000 for retrieval. The motorcycle must also be restored to its original condition within seven days and re-inspected by JPJ. Failure to comply may result in a staggering RM20,000 penalty.
Keep in mind that these regulations pertain exclusively to vehicles used on public roads. Custom and racing motorcycles transported for show or competition purposes are exempt from these restrictions.
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