MOORLANDERS MCC

Moorlanders MCC, known locally for their annual Egg Run, called on fellow motorcyclists in the area to join them on Sunday 25^th September.  We met at the King’s Head, Five Lanes, and were pleased at how many local bikers turn up to our offical Start Point for the MAG Action Now EU protest run.  MAG representatives also came along to support

At 1pm, the time set for all Start Points around the UK, we set off down the A30 towards Bodmin, using the inside lane, riding at around 40 mph.  

The ride, a nationwide event organised by the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) was intended to draw attention to a raft of EU proposals aimed at motorcycling. The local ride mirrors over 70 others that will take place around the UK at exactly the same time.

A proposed EU Regulation threatens the right of owners to modify their machines, and yet another one, which aims to harmonise roadworthiness testing, would single out motorcycles for regular roadside checks.

Besides the EU proposals, domestic legislation in France will undermine motorcycling as part of an integrated transport policy and the rights of those who ride, because the French Government intends to:
• Make all bikers wear high visibility/reflective clothing
• Prohibit filtering between cars in traffic jams
• Prohibit bikes over seven years of age from urban areas

MAG’s Campaigns Manager, Paddy Tyson said, “MAG is determined that the onus of blame should not be shifted to riders in an accident situation where a 3rd party didn’t actually look and conspicuity arguments are irrelevant. Both French and Irish Governments have failed to provide research to support their ideas and MAG is concerned that the insurance industry in the UK may impose compulsion, when educating all road users in hazard avoidance, would be more effective”.

Regarding the EU Regulation, Paddy said “The motorcycle industry has been under severe pressure recently with new licensing directives dissuading riders and what our congested roads need are more bikes, not increased legislation to discourage them”.

The demonstration was also intended to express solidarity with French and Irish riders.

For more information about the local event contact MAG Central Office 01926 844064  paddy.tyson@mag-uk.org