It sounds like you're trying to be logical. You'll have to excuse my cynicism, but when it comes to a politician trying to get his hands on my wallet, logic flys right out the window. Don't be surprised if older bikes have to be tested (if for no other reason than to collect a fee) and maybe meet some stock level of performance for that year of bike. Those SOBs won't be happy leaving all that extra money on the table by only testing newer bikes. Hold on to your wallet!

 

FromSmogTips.com, http://www.smogtips.com/need_inspection.cfm

"Currently still exempt from the State of California Smog Check program are: Motorcycles - (Technology is currently being developed to inspect motorcycles ALSO! Projected Date: 04/01/07) "

I don't work for the state (Hah!)butmyfriend's buddy, whom I have met and spoken with,is one of the state CARB legislation authors. Another source is friend's friend who is an assistant to a California State Congressman, who was asked for more information. From The ABATE of California Newsletter, The Bailing Wire, before their abandoning the 4/1/07 Motorcycle Smog Inspection testing program:

"Smog Tests for California Bikes?
The California Air Resources Board, the agency responsible for controlling air pollution in the state, is considering adding motorcycles to its vehicle smog-testing program...
The board reportedly is considering adding motorcycles to the smog-testing program because it believes a lot of California motorcyclists change their exhaust pipes and jetting, which could mean those bikes don’t meet emissions restrictions. The board is also considering other changes to the vehicle inspection program, including requiring annual inspections for certain vehicles. It’s all part of an effort to put together a plan required by this summer by the federal Environmental Protection Agency."

I don't think they're talking about manufacturers, who are already tested before receiving DOT manufacturer licensing within state guidelines, which vary depending on the number produced.

From ABATE of California Newsletter, The Bailing Wire, Legislative Report by Jean Hughes:

[b]"No Smog Check for Motorcycles! This is a good news/bad news thing; it is great news that the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has decided that it will not extend Smog Check to motorcycle emissions, for now, and we have one person to thank for that, Mr. John Paliwoda, who on behalf of the California Motorcycle Dealers Association convinced the CARB folks that the proposed benefits from the tighter emission standards were too small to justify the efforts, and CARB agreed, for now. The bad news is that John has stepped down as the Vice Chair of the PAC. John has been active in ABATE fighting for our rights for twenty years and he has been the PAC Vice Chair for as long as I can remember. I can appreciate that he needs a break, but I hope he won't go too far, as he has

 

Cool. They know how to hire the right PR people. Good press release. We'll see what happens. I know my bike will be exempt.

 

no-one's testing my bike