* A very high percentage of the motorcycle fleet in NSW is fitted with aftermarket mufflers.

* The NSW motorcycle fleet uses aftermarket exhaust systems extensively, for reasons of economy as well as for cosmetic reasons. The exhausts are exposed on a motorcycle and consequently are subject to damage in even the most minor of falls, such as in a parking area. Riders take pride in their machines and like them to “look good” and the market provides for this. Motorcycles are normally fitted with one or two mufflers, with a smaller number of machines with up to six mufflers.

* Original equipment pricing sets the baseline for purchasing decisions. Original equipment mufflers are expensive, much more so than for cars, because they are also cosmetic and style items.

* Aftermarket mufflers are available in highly desirable finishes as well as “basic” materials, and many owners choose to fit these, for reasons of appearance or lighter weight. Many advanced modern materials are used in construction and generally present a more desirable appearance than the fairly basic factory original equipment.

* Pricing for aftermarket mufflers can be from less than half the Original Equipment Manufacturer(OEM) replacement cost, up to double, depending upon brand, material, quality or features.

* Typical costs
* Honda VTR1000, original equipment, $570 each side, or aftermarket from $450 to $700 per side. These would generally be purchased in pairs.
* Suzuki Bandit 1200, original cost $1339.00, aftermarket, $600-$800.
* Kawasaki ZX-9, original, $1,072, aftermarket, $600- $1000.
* Harley-Davidson, original, $1,000 to $1,600 depending upon model and motor type, aftermarket from $240-$1,300

* Costs of installation must be added to these figures.

* These are all popular models and prices are for machines that are four or more years old. These prices may be readily checked by placing a telephone call to the local dealers.

* Given that motorcycles are bought and sold with aftermarket pipes fitted, that registration inspection allows aftermarket pipes, the financial impact of the EPA Legislation upon owners, riders, dealers and the local manufacturing base of muffler manufacturers, is significant.

* In the Regulatory Impact Statement prepared by the EPA prior to introduction of this Regulation, it was assumed that no cost would be borne by the motorcycle owner. Clearly this is assumption is wrong. The RIS is also wrong on a number of other points.