“Autocycle” Bill Proceeding In CT

HARTFORD – A bill that would allow the sale of Polaris’ Slingshot (pictured) as well as other three-wheeled “autocycle” motor vehicles in the state is moving forward in the Connecticut General Assembly.

Approved by the Transportation Committee in a 31-0 vote on March 18, Raised SB No. 936 creates an “autocycle” category of motor vehicle that would not require an “M” endorsement to operate.

An autocycle would be defined as a motorcycle derivative that “(A) does not have more than three wheels in contact with the ground, (B) is designed to be controlled with a steering wheel and foot pedals for acceleration, braking or shifting, (C) has a seat or seats that are fully or partially enclosed and in which the occupants sit with the legs forward, and (D) is equipped with safety belts.”

On Monday, the bill was referred to the Office of Legislative Research and Office of Fiscal Analysis. Regarding an “M” endorsement, the bill notes “no such designation shall be required for the operation of an autocycle.”

Under current state law, the Slingshot may not be sold in the state.  It was back in December that the Department of Motor Vehicles, after taking a test ride, reaffirmed an earlier judgment that the Slinghot cannot be “classified or registered as a motorcycle.”

In a Dec. 10 letter to Polaris, the DMV suggested that Polaris pursue relief through the legislature. Two “autocycle” bills were introduced and a there was a public hearing in February, which eventually resulted in Raised S.B. No. 936 being crafted. If passed by the legislature, autocycles would become legal as of July 1.

Damon Libby of Libby’s Motoworld in New Haven, which wants to sell the Slingshot, has been pushing for legislative relief. “I’m optimistic, but I don’t want to get my hopes up,” he said of the bill’s current status.

Passage of the bill presumably would not only allow the sale of the Slingshot, but of three-wheelers built by Elio and Morgan.

– By Bud Wilkinson