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Vehicle labeling on the full - sized ATV ' s indicates that the vehi cles are not to be used by riders under 16 years of age unless super vised by an adult . On all of our ATV ' s produced since May , these labels will also carry a minimum age recommendation of 14 years of age , a warning about the unique handling characteristics of ATV ' s and a warning that even though the ATV has three wheels , it can tip over in any direction if it is improperly used . We believe that this type of label responds to the concerns raised by CPSC .

Suzuki is one of the sponsors of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America , which began to develop an ATV rider course on its own before any awareness of CPSC ' s interest in ATV accidents . The rider course has been implemented on a nationwide basis . Suzuki will promote awareness of the SVIA course by including the toll free telephone number in our future print advertisements and product brochures . The SVIA course is quite impressive in equip ping novice riders with fundamental riding skills and safety aware ness in 6 hours or less .

Suzuki has also provided for its customers publications developed by SVIA containing tips for riding ATV ' s safely . Additionally , Suzuki has prepared a booklet containing two of the SVIA publica tions and will include this booklet with all vehicles produced in the future . In addition to reaching future customers , Suzuki will send past customers a copy of this booklet along with other safety infor mation .

Currently underway is a major project to develop voluntary standards for ATV ' s . The SVIA ' S Voluntary Standards Committee is working in conjunction with CPSC to develop comprehensive ATV standards covering age labeling , design features , rider train ing and vehicle dynamic performance criteria .

Even though Suzuki ' s ATV ' s reflect state - of - the - art features , we are always seeking to improve our products in all areas . Our ATV ' s will continue to incorporate new safety features as they become feasible . We expect that the voluntary standards activity will aid this effort .

In summary , Suzuki is committed to working toward continually improving ATV safety . As a responsible company , we want every one of our customers to use our products safely . Through Suzuki ' s own education efforts , through our work with SVIA and through our work with CPSC , we are confident that ATV riding will become a safer experience for ATV users across the country .

Thank you very much . [ The prepared statement of Mr . Walsh follows : ]