When Polaris rolled out the three-wheeled Slingshot model back in 2014, it kicked up a lot of interest and excitement, but also some confusion in regards to licensing.Where, exactly did the open cockpit creation fit in the licensing scheme of each state, given the fact that federal regulations slotted it in as a motorcycle?
Did operators need a motorcycle license or validation to operate one? If the state required helmets for all motorcycle operators, did that include the Slingshot? Did it get motorcycle license plates, automobile plates, or something else altogether?Polaris SlingshotSince then, Polaris, the Slingshot’s manufacturer that also owns Indian Motorcycle, has been working with legislators and regulators to lift the fog and come up with state-by-state classification uniformity nation-wide.“Since introducing the one-of-a-kind Slingshot in 2014, we have partnered with state officials to properly classify the operating requirements to a standard driver’s license,” said Josh Fulkerson, Slingshot Sr. Director. “Our efforts have led to incredible results with 43 states reclassifying three-wheeled vehicles. We continue to work diligently on converting the remaining states.”As of this writing, a lot of progress has already been made with the state of Mississippi adopting a new “autocycle” classification that closely aligns with similar changes in 42 other states. Under new rules, as of July 1, 2018, state residents can operate a Slingshot with a valid state driver’s license rather than the previously-required motorcycle endorsement. Under an “autocycle” classification, drivers do abide by the state’s motorcycle helmet laws.All Slingshot models are powered by a 173 horsepower, 2.4L four cylinder GM engine that produces 166 ft-lbs of torque. Slingshot’s 2018 lineup includes three models, the S, SL and SLR, and two limited-edition offerings, the Grand Touring LE and SLR LE. Pricing ranges from an entry-level $19,999 (S) to $30,999 (SLR LE).
New 120th Anniversary H-Ds + Andrew Hewkin, Artist and philanthropist
byMotos and Friends by Ultimate Motorcycle
Hello everyone and welcome once again to Motos and Friends, the weekly Podcast brought to you by the editorial team at Ultimate Motorcycling. My name is Arthur Coldwells.
Motos and Friends is brought to you by the 2023 Suzuki Hayabusa. Head into your local Suzuki dealer now, or visit suzukicycles.com to learn more.
The new 120th Anniversary Harleys have been announced today, and in this week’s first segment Editor Don Williams takes us through the exciting updates to four models. The hero is probably the latest RoadGlide CVO with its spectacular 120th livery and badging.
In our second segment, Associate Editor Teejay Adams chats with celebrated artist and philanthropist, Andrew Hewkin.
Andrew chats about his life of unusual coincidences which have taken him on an unexpected and entertaining journey. Traveling through more than one hundred countries, Andrew captured the flavor and essence of the world. He takes us through a few of his hair-raising stories of travel and intrigue that he has expressed visually through over fifty years of his art.
He is a regular contributor to Childline Rocks in his capacity as Cultural Attaché for the Sons of Royalty annual motorcycle ride, and paintings of Cuba, Marrakech, Mexico, and most recently Kerala in Southern India, have been auctioned off for the charity. His work has also contributed to ‘The Princes Trust’, ‘Heart on my Sleeve’, ‘Fight for Sight’, ‘Cancer Trusts’ and many others.
Andrew is a supremely talented, kind, and fascinating man.
So, from all of us here at Ultimate Motorcycling, we hope you enjoy this episode!
Andrew’s biography “Before the Paint Dries…” is available on his website AndrewHewkin.com