Originally Posted by 2manybikes
In the states of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, bicycles had real license plates in the 1950's. I have a couple. I believe they stopped registering bikes as the trouble was not worth it, possibly it ended up as a cost, and not a revenue. If anyone knows the exact reason I would love to hear it. The police enforcement probably cost more than it was worth.
Do you tax a $50 value bicycle at 10% for $5 a year? The paperwork to register the bike every year probably costs $25.
That was then. Now bicycle cost a LOT more,by comparison, and are becoming more popular again.
Back in the 50's bikes were for kids & teens. Now adults ride as a means of transportation just as
they do in the rest of the world. All of which means less road tax from cars which means that bikes
will be on the taxing plate sooner or later.
