MOVE TO MAINSTREAM MOTORCYCLING
22 February 2005 - DEPARTMENT FOR TRANSPORT

Road Safety Minister David Jamieson today announced the publication of the first National Motorcycling Strategy designed to ensure the ''mainstreaming'' of motorcycling as a means of transport.

The strategy recognises that an increasing number of people are
turning to motorcycles and scooters in order to beat congestion as
well as riding bikes just for the sheer fun of it.

The strategy aims to ensure that:

* motorcycling is recognised as a ''mainstream'' mode of transport.

* transport planning and infrastructure decisions fully take
motorcycling into account.
* motorcycle design continues to improve.

* the attitudes and behaviour of both drivers and motorcyclists is
focused on looking out for each other.

* pre-test and post-test training continues to improve, making it
attractive to riders.

* the motorcycle test is reviewed, including a review of the delivery
of the Direct Access Scheme.

David Jamieson said:

''This is the first national motorcycling strategy and clearly
demonstrates the Government''s commitment to addressing the concerns
of bikers, ensuring that the needs of motorcyclists are fully
considered when making future decisions.

''For the first time we have a framework of actions to be pursued over
the next few years. Working together with the government, the
motorcycle industry and motorcycle user groups can help to ensure
that motorcycling becomes fully recognised and catered for as a means
of transport on our roads.''

Craig Carey-Clinch, Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI) Director
of Public Affairs added:

''The industry is delighted to welcome this extremely important step
in motorcycle policy development. Now that National Motorcycle
Strategy is in place, we can move forward and further develop
policies which can improve safety, access and security for motorcycle
users.''

www.dft.gov.uk

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