FARMERS reliant on quad bikes are being urged by local dealers not to panic as the federal government's quad bike reforms come into effect.
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From October 11, all new and imported second-hand quad bikes sold in Australia must now meet the first stage of the government's mandatory safety standard, which includes being tested for lateral static stability.
Bikes must also display the angle at which the quad bike tips onto two wheels and carry a roll over warning label on the quad bike.
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The impending change has left many stakeholders concerned they would not be able to buy their favorite brands.
These concerns were heightened when major quad bike retailers Honda and Polaris exited the market earlier this year due to the reforms.
However, Tamworth Auto Moto Garage's Andrew Kings told the Leader there would still be plenty of products available to service farmers' needs.
"We carry the full range of CFMoto quad bikes and they will be adapting to the new guidelines and staying on the market," Mr Kings said.
"Farmers who have their preferences of other brands will be able to still buy them until stock runs out or those brands adapt to the new legislation and continue bringing out new products."
Mr Kings said he was confident there would be an adequate amount of quad bikes on the market for consumers.
"From what I understand, a lot of the brands that have said they won't be sending any more stock out here, still have got some stock," he said.
"I think people will still be able to buy that stuff, provided the manufacturer meets the first stages of the reforms.
"Honestly, I think those dealers that have had extinction sales and that kind of thing have gone a bit over the top because there will still be quad bikes available in Australia.
"I understand some of the misconceptions around the reforms and there will be groups that will fight it all the way, but I just think it's important consumers know they still have options."
The reforms have been brought in by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), to help improve quad bike safety.
"This first stage of the standard is a significant step in improving the safety of quad bikes in Australia, and addressing the extremely concerning rate of injuries and fatalities caused by quad bike accidents," ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh said.
"Consumers will now be able to have confidence that quad bikes they buy will meet a certain level of quality and safety."
The introduction of the reforms comes after two recent quad bike accidents in the region, one near Moree which left an 11-year-old boy fighting for life and another at Lower Creek, East of Armidale.