North Dakota § 39-27-06 - Steering and suspension systems

§ 39-27-06. Steering and suspension systems

1. Motorcycle steering and suspension systems must be designed and engineered to provide the operator with the means of safely controlling vehicle direction under all maneuvers required for normal and safe operation. 2. The rear wheel of a two-wheel motorcycle must track behind the front wheel within one inch [2.54 centimeters] with both wheels in a vertical plane when the vehicle is operating on a straight course. On a three-wheel motorcycle, the midpoint of the front or rear wheel track distance must be within one inch [2.54 centimeters] of the single front or single rear wheel track when the vehicle is proceeding on a straight course. The vehicle must be equipped with an adjustment feature that will provide proper wheel tracking. 3. The steering head must be provided with a bearing or similar device that will allow the steering shaft to turn freely in rotational motion only. 4. All motorcycles, except three-wheel motorcycles, must meet the following specifications in relationship to front wheel geometry: MAXIMUM: Rake: 45 degrees - Trail: 14 inches [35.56 centimeters] positive MINIMUM: Rake: 20 degrees - Trail: 2 inches [5.08 centimeters] positive Manufacturer's specifications must include the specific rake and trail for each motorcycle or class of motorcycles and the terms "rake" and "trail" must be defined by the director by rules adopted pursuant to chapter 28-32. 5. Handlebars must be of sturdy construction, adequate in size to provide proper leverage for steering, and capable of withstanding a minimum force of one hundred pounds [45.36 kilograms] applied to each handgrip in any direction. Handlebar grips may not be located above the shoulder height of the seated operator. The handlebars must provide a minimum of eighteen inches [45.72 centimeters] between grip after final assembly. 6. Handlebars must be equipped with handgrips consisting of a material and surface pattern to ensure firm, nonslip gripping for the driver. 7. Every motorcycle must be equipped with a suspension system and such suspension system must be applicable to at least the front wheel. The suspension system must be effective in reducing road shock and designed for the purpose of maximizing vehicle stability.