Press Release | December 2, 2009
As proud advocates of environmental protection and in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Program for the past two years, the FIM has been committed to the reduction of sound levels. In another bold step toward this initiative, and with the support from manufacturers and promoters, the FIM has introduced the new “Two Meter Max” sound test method.
The new test procedure is carried out with the sound meter positioned two meters from the rear of the motorcycle at an angle of 45* from the silencer. The engine is then tested at maximum rpm. The “Two Meter Max” will be applied starting in 2010 in Motocross, Enduro and Track Racing World Championships.
“The new method will be much more evident for our fellow citizens and for the fight against excessive noise,” the FIM press release states. “The noise levels permitted will be an important first step in the reduction of sound levels, with an average reduction between three and six dB/A, compared to the current situation, depending on the discipline.”
For motocross and track racing, the maximum noise level permitted at a distance of 100 meters will be 81 dB/A, and in enduro the maximum noise level permitted at a distance of 100 meters will be 78 dB/A. This action will be relayed in a new FIM campaign called “Ride Quiet” which the FIM states will benefit the future of motorcycle racing as well as motorcyclists on the street.
Vito Ippolito, FIM President said: “For the past 15 years, FIM has become a leading sporting federation, actively involved in the study and application of solutions to fight against environmental nuisance. The rules of the new sound test method for competition, represents a significant progress. I’m really pleased with the collaboration with our partners to achieve this agreement. “
Jean-Pierre Mougin, FIM Deputy President and Chairman of the Steering Committee for the reduction of sound levels added: “A major step has been made with the implementation of this new method, thanks to an excellent cooperation between manufacturers and promoters, not to mention the strong impulse given by the Danish federation (DMU). This is important for the survival of all FIM off-road disciplines. The FIM had to react effectively. 2010 will constitute a first step in the fight against noise nuisances and the results will define the future actions.”
