RMM sound limit information, regulations, and management.
As we approach the midpoint of our second complete season, we want to take this opportunity to give a shout out to the thousands of individuals from racing organizations, track event participants, sponsors, and spectators that have already visited RMM, and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come!
Supporting our development plans of this world-class motorsports circuit, the team at RMM continues to build on our amenity planning, fine-tune our on-track experiences, and seek participant feedback and engagement.
Through ongoing engagement, one of the most common topics we get inquiries on is sound.
What is the sound limit at RMM?
While it is a simple question, because sound limits at our circuit are measured as an hourly average at the track perimeter, the answer can be complicated.
What we can say—is that, in most cases, your vehicle should pass RMM sounds limit requirements if it does not exceed 98 dBA measured at 15m from the tailpipe.
What we cannot say—is that 98 dBA is an absolute limit in all cases. There are circumstances where that number could be a little lower, or even a little higher. If our systems are forecasting that the aggregate sound level may exceed our average limits prescribed by our operating permit then we may have to reduce that limit below 98 dBA.
How do I know how loud my vehicle is?
Most drivers likely won’t know the specific sound level of their vehicle. We have had drivers assume their vehicle was too loud, while it wasn’t, and we have had the opposite also be true.
To know what sound level your vehicle emits, RMM can test your vehicle’s sound. If through testing it is found that your vehicle risks pushing that measured average over the allowable limit, we can make recommendations on a solution. Sometimes it’s as simple as utilizing a different performance mode on your vehicle, or installing an exhaust insert. Rest assured, your excitement level at RMM is not diminished when sound is reduced.
Arranging sound testing
You can arrange sound testing in a few ways. First, if you are participating in an RMM Performance Driving School, this is a great opportunity for us to test your vehicle and let you know the sound levels. Virtually all vehicles are within limits for our schools because unlike a track day, for most of your school session you are not going to be at full throttle. Your second option is to contact us directly and arrange sound testing at one of our member sessions.
Email us at info@rockymotorsports.com to arrange sound testing for your vehicle. Drive-up testing without an appointment is not available.
What happens if the limit is exceeded?
If when at an RMM event our systems forecast that we could exceed the allowable average limit, RMM will manage the situation by removing vehicles from the track, starting with the loudest vehicles as identified by our sound measuring system. If you are removed from track for sound issues, we will provide one opportunity to make modifications to your exhaust system or vehicle settings to reduce the sound levels. A second infraction would conclude your day at the track. If reducing your sound requires a larger intervention or fix than is possible that day, a credit will be applied to take advantage of the next available track day so that you can make the required changes.*
The best guideline is: if your car or motorcycle met the sound requirements last year, it will meet the sound requirements this year. If you have already made modifications to minimize sound, keep them.
We have operated many events at RMM, from race weekends to track days, and sound limit infractions have only been an unresolvable scenario for a very small percentage of the thousands of cars and motorcycles that have lapped at RMM.
We look forward to seeing you out there!
If you have additional questions and/or concerns about your vehicle’s sound level at RMM, please contact us directly at info@rockymotorsports.com so that we can best respond to your inquiry.
*You will have to show us what changes you have made. Maximum average sound limit levels of the circuit still apply. Credit is only applied to a subsequent track day should the vehicle exceed the sound limits in the first session. Credit will only be available at RMM Public Track Day events; third party track days do not have to comply with a credit system. Reducing throttle input to manage sound at an RMM Public Track Day event is not an acceptable solution. RMM has the right to update this disclaimer without notice.Â
