Warner
Member
As some of you know from another thread that I started (and got WAY off topic with), I am trying to find out what it takes to be legal in the state of Illinois, and THEN worry about any local ordinances. I feel like if I could prove that I'm legal based on state of Illinois law, I would have a lot more leverage in dealing with the local municipalities. Here's what I found. The state of Illinois classifies an MAB as a "motorized pedalcycle" or moped, and then only if it meets the following criteria:
A motorized pedalcycle (moped) is a motor-driven cycle. It produces two-brake horsepower or less and has a maximum speed of 30 mph. If the moped has an internal combustion engine, the displacement shall not exceed 50 cubic centimeters, and the power drive system shall not require the driver to shift gears.
A moped driver must have a current, valid driver's license of any classification. A person without a driver's license who wishes to operate only a moped must obtain a Class L license. The owner must have a Certificate of Title and a registration plate must be attached on the rear of the moped.
A moped driver may not carry a passenger unless the moped is equipped with a passenger seat and passenger footrests. If the moped is to be driven at night, it must be equipped with a white light on the front that is visible for 500 ft. and a red reflector on the rear that is visible from 100 to 600 ft. when in front of a vehicle's headlights. A red light visible for 500 ft. also may be used in addition to the reflector.
I'm cool with all of this except for wondering about the part that reads "The owner must have a Certificate of Title and a registration plate must be attached on the rear of the moped."
So with this in mind, I referred to an e-mail response that I originally received from the Secretary of State's office when I asked my initial questions that instructed me:
"Should you have additional questions regarding this situation, please contact the Public Inquiry Division at (217) 785-3000. They will be happy to assist you."
So I called them and explained my need to get some clarification. They promptly told me that I needed to call the Secretary of state police at (217) 782-7126, which I did.
They then referred me to the Specially constructed vehicles division at (217) 557-2086. I left a message for that lady (Yes, ONE person in that "division"). Apparently in order to get a registration plate, I would have to build the bike and then get them to inspect it and put a number on it, and that's IF they would even consider the MAB for inspection, which I won't even know until I hear back from this lady, which felt like it could take weeks (listen to her voice-mail message to see what I mean!).
At this point all I can do is wait and see what happens. I feel CERTAIN that if I had a registration plate on it I would NOT get hassled. I will of course keep everyone posted, but based on the vibe that I got, don't hold your breath!
Warner
A motorized pedalcycle (moped) is a motor-driven cycle. It produces two-brake horsepower or less and has a maximum speed of 30 mph. If the moped has an internal combustion engine, the displacement shall not exceed 50 cubic centimeters, and the power drive system shall not require the driver to shift gears.
A moped driver must have a current, valid driver's license of any classification. A person without a driver's license who wishes to operate only a moped must obtain a Class L license. The owner must have a Certificate of Title and a registration plate must be attached on the rear of the moped.
A moped driver may not carry a passenger unless the moped is equipped with a passenger seat and passenger footrests. If the moped is to be driven at night, it must be equipped with a white light on the front that is visible for 500 ft. and a red reflector on the rear that is visible from 100 to 600 ft. when in front of a vehicle's headlights. A red light visible for 500 ft. also may be used in addition to the reflector.
I'm cool with all of this except for wondering about the part that reads "The owner must have a Certificate of Title and a registration plate must be attached on the rear of the moped."
So with this in mind, I referred to an e-mail response that I originally received from the Secretary of State's office when I asked my initial questions that instructed me:
"Should you have additional questions regarding this situation, please contact the Public Inquiry Division at (217) 785-3000. They will be happy to assist you."
So I called them and explained my need to get some clarification. They promptly told me that I needed to call the Secretary of state police at (217) 782-7126, which I did.
They then referred me to the Specially constructed vehicles division at (217) 557-2086. I left a message for that lady (Yes, ONE person in that "division"). Apparently in order to get a registration plate, I would have to build the bike and then get them to inspect it and put a number on it, and that's IF they would even consider the MAB for inspection, which I won't even know until I hear back from this lady, which felt like it could take weeks (listen to her voice-mail message to see what I mean!).
At this point all I can do is wait and see what happens. I feel CERTAIN that if I had a registration plate on it I would NOT get hassled. I will of course keep everyone posted, but based on the vibe that I got, don't hold your breath!
Warner
Last edited: