California Air Resources Board

SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board (ARB) has negotiated a settlement with television personality Jesse James of West Coast Choppers for $271,250 stemming from the sale of more than 50 new and/or custom-built motorcycles that were not certified to the state's strict emissions standards. The sales occurred between 1998 and 2005.

"We take our mission to enforce air quality laws seriously," said Catherine Witherspoon, ARB Executive Officer. "It's vital for all dealers to understand that if they sell uncertified motorcycles to California residents, chances are high that they will be caught and held accountable." 

Emissions data shows that an uncertified engine in a motorcycle can emit up to 10 times more pollution than a certified one. "California has the poorest air quality in the nation, so every ounce of pollution we clean up makes a difference," added Witherspoon. 

Witherspoon went on to say that West Coast Choppers is now building emissions-compliant motorcycles.

West Coast Choppers is based in Long Beach, California.