Federal Agencies Hosing Motorcyclists at Both Ends

Published 06/09/2015 | By Roger Joseph

Posted by: Rick Podliska on Monday, June 08, 2015
Posted at: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency hosed motorcyclists by announcing the Renewable Fuel Standard proposal that would increase the risk of inadvertent misfueling for motorcyclists and all-terrain-vehicle owners by forcing the widespread availability of higher-ethanol fuel blends, such as E15.

Then, the U.S. Department of Agriculture hosed motorcyclists by unveiling a $100 million slush fund to double the number of higher-blend renewable-fuel pumps. Under the blender pump subsidy program, the USDA will administer competitive grants to match funding for state-led efforts to test and evaluate innovative and comprehensive approaches to market higher blends of renewable fuel, such as E15 and E85.

Here is the kicker.

The EPA calls for higher ethanol blended fuels, and the USDA spends taxpayer dollars to make it happen, on the same day. I liken this regulatory tsunami to taking a one-two punch to the gut and having to say, “Thanks, I want more.”

Was it coincidence?

Our government took these actions despite knowing that none of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and ATVs in use in the United States is approved to use E15 or higher ethanol blends. Using those fuels in motorcycles and ATVs is illegal and may cause engine and fuel system damage and void the manufacturer’s warranty.

Had it with being hosed? Join the AMA—it’s where riders belong!