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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