265

Since 1962 , Yamaha has distributed a wide variety of quality

motorized products in the United States . One of Yamaha ' s newest products is the so called all - terrain vehicle which is the subject of this hearing . As everyone acknowledges , ATV popularity has increased due to this products desirab ility in utility , agricultural and recreational applications .

To assist the sub committee in understanding this vehicle , we

would like to briefly describe the vehicle , its features and

uses . We further wish to provide an analysis as to safety considerations and industry activities in this regard . Hope fully , this discussion will answer questions presented in the Subcommittee ' s May 3 , 1985 letter which invited our

participation in this hearing .

For an ATV to perform in the manner expected , it must be

designed with certain intrinsic features .

Traction is all

important . For this purpose , low pressure floatation tires and a solid rear axle are design indicated . High ground

clearance coupled with a center of gravity , which is as low

as practical , are necessary elements . The vehicle must be compact and light . The vehicle should feature a long seat

and wide handlebars to permit operator involvement which is all important for these vehicles . It typically takes a number of years to design and test a new vehicle prior to

a new

production .

Following extensive marketing research and

-

l

-