Polaris Slingshot Controversially Banned in Texas

For years, businesses have been flocking to Texas, wanting a piece of the freedom and lack of restrictions. In fact, just last year, Rick Perry went to California on a massive recruiting trip for this very reason. “This is Texas Gov. Rick Perry, and I have a message for California businesses: come check out Texas. There are plenty of reasons Texas has been named the best state for doing business for eight years running,” he said in his infamous 30 seconds radio spot.

But, as free as the business practices in Texas are, it appears that the roads are a little more strict. Earlier this week, the Texas Department of Public Safety decided to ban the Polaris Slingshot, a new 3-wheeled sports-vehicle, because it lacks the necessary components to be considered a car and it doesn’t quite fit as a standard motorcycle, either.

According to a letter sent out by Polaris HQ, the company says, “Customers will not be allowed to register Slingshot vehicles as a street legal motorcycle in the state of Texas. The explanation we were provided is that the Slingshot does not meet the current definition of a motorcycle in Texas due to our seating which requires that riders sit in a ‘saddle’ position.”

Adding to the controversy is the fact that the ride is legal in most other states AND that Texas had previously approved the car for distribution. Not surprisingly, it appears that the company will be fighting this decision to the bitter end.

Currently, the Slingshot starts at $20,000 and features a 173 horsepower 2.4 EcoTec engine that is hooked up to a five-speed transmission. It is certainly a unique ride, but should it be given space on the road in Texas? What do you think?