Has anyone else had problems with CA Vehicle Safety Systems Inspections (VSSI)?

[StanR]

I'd appreciate any input if you or your business has had a problem with the California VSSI program (run by the Bureau of Automotive Repairs.) I've been in contact with a local (Sacramento area) restorer and seems that inspections stations will not do motorcycles with drum brakes. Even if they are willing to do it the maximum wear specifications for the brake drums has to be available. The restorer specializes in British bikes (like the BSA I'm dealing with) and confirmed that these specs don't exist, therefore bike can't be inspected. My bike is in the system as a salvage so this inspection is necessary (according to the DMV) to get it transferred and registered. It is definitely a problem for salvaged bikes, but also may be an issue for any that are not in the current DMV computer system (not been registered in 4 years. Although if it was put on non-op it will still be in the system.)

Needless to say, this is total frustration. I'm looking for more backup to attack this issue.

[PaulCDF]

problems with CA Vehicle Safety Systems Inspections



Stan;
Just a thought but maybe contact:

#45 Fort Sutter Chapter
Sacramento, CA 95821
Contact
Tracy Stahlman
President
916-479-4972
stahlman4@yahoo.com
More Info
Web Site: www.fortsutteramca.org

[StanR]

BAR has given me a letter to cover the specs for the brake drums on my bike, now to find a station to do the inspection.

[StanR]

problems with CA Vehicle Safety Systems Inspections



Stan;
Just a thought but maybe contact:

#45 Fort Sutter Chapter
Sacramento, CA 95821
Contact
Tracy Stahlman
President
916-479-4972
stahlman4@yahoo.com
More Info
Web Site: www.fortsutteramca.org

Went to chapter meeting, talked to Tracy and others, no help, in fact more discouraging than anything. Had an inspection station refuse it for no turn signals and front brake not activating the brake light. BAR told him it's not required for this bike, but he still refused, thought it was a safety issue.

[chuckthebeatertruck]

Thank you for updating this thread. It's frustrating to hear more and more about how challenging California makes it for historic vehicle owners.

This is one of those times where I would suggest one of three things:

1) Register the bike out of state. Sell it to a cousin in another state - register it there - ride.

2) Partner up with local car and motorbike clubs to petition the state for historic exemptions. It will be a year or two . . .but this is the most permanent way to deal with it. Likely, it would only apply to 1966 and older models due to the 1967 CARB acts.

3) Put the pressure on AMCA to help. If a set of statutes in a very populous and influential state suddenly make "legal" old bikes illegal because of things like drum brakes and lack of turnsignals . . . well, that means a LOT of bikes covered by the AMCA suddenly become at threat. If we host a road run in California - are we all gonna get nicked by the CHP cause our bikes are "illegal?"

The whole point of being a club isn't just road runs and swap meets -- it's using our collective power to push for change that benefits our hobby/sport.

Everything I know about CA says it is one of the least friendly states to the old vehicle enthusiast.

[PaulCDF]

"Went to chapter meeting, talked to Tracy and others, no help, in fact more discouraging than anything."

Wow thanks for the update. Agree with Chuck above.
I have to wonder WHERE the members of the Fort Sutter Chapter have their bikes inspected?
Or are they all trailered everywhere????