MONTH IN BIKES
CURRENT PASS RATES
Despite calls for improvements, data shared at the MCIA conference showed 40,249 riders passed a motorcycle test in 2023. Although 6.2% down on the previous year, 71% of new male riders were younger than 40, with that figure at 64% for women.
ELECTION INCOMING
Political conversations point towards a general election taking place in 2024, which could shove the motorcycle licence back in the spotlight as politicians focus on the here and now to either gain or retain power. It could, of course, see a change in government, which could affect the political outlook on the motorcycle industry.
A NUMBER OF Conservative and Labour politicians are now backing proposed reforms to the UK motorcycle licensing structure, with a focus on greater accessibility and affordability to get more people on two wheels.
Speaking at the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) annual conference, figures from both parties said reform is needed and pointed to environmental benefits as part of net zero targets.
In a pre-recorded video message, Transport Committee chairman Iain Stewart (Con) told the audience: “I support your call for a full scale review of the L-category [motorcycles, scooters, three-wheelers, and quadricycles] licensing regime and I’m looking forward to helping you hold the Government to account on its action plan promises.
“By emphasising the advantages in urban mobility, last-mile delivery efficiency, and the future of urban and suburban transport, you have transformed the conversation – making the sector more attractive and appealing for politicians to engage with.”
This was supported in person by committee member Fabian Hamilton (Lab), who told the c
