PEDAL POWERED BUICK CAR GETS BUSTED!

This stripped down 1986 Buick Regal was fabricated by Montreal artist Michel De Broin. It features seating for 4 people or if you prefer "working occupants". The car was taken out for a spin in Toronto back in October of 2007 and was pulled over by the fuzz within 15 minutes. The car had to towed back to the art gallery where it was being shown off. The driver was issued a citation for operating an unsafe vehicle with a fine that could range from $60 to $500. The artist plans to tow the vehicle to the courthouse on the day of the trial and drive it back after being acquitted.

If I would have done this, I would have placed reflectors in the wheels as required by the Highway Code here in Quebec, removed the original VIN and stamped my own on the new frame, registered it as a bicycle with a plate, make the lights and flashers to work and slapped a "slow vehicle" orange triangle in the back. The only other requirement for a bicycle under the code is the minimum of one brake on the rear wheel and the thing would be street legal, but it couldn't drive on a highway. The car did run in Montreal and was pulled over, but the Montreal officers did not issue any ticket.

The case is due to be heard in early April, keep posted.

UPDATE

The court case was heard and the Judge ruled that even though the vehicle looked like a Buick regal, it wasn't a Buick Regal but something that was made to look like one. The Judge dismissed the charges that the vehicle was dangerous. Citing the report of the issuing Officer, that mentioned the candle powered headlights, the Judge ruled that they were not dangerous and that the vehicle was safe to operate. So not guilty. With the price of Gas, it's an example to be followed. I'd love to build a pedal powered rat VW bus :)

Gerry :)