Getting it together – BMF goes for full integration Wednesday, 14 Nov 2007 10:22 Transforming knowledge into economic benefits In its response to the Government’s Command Paper, ‘Towards a Sustainable Transport System’, the British Motorcyclists Federation will be demanding that motorcycles should be taken seriously as a key part of solving Britain’s transport problems.
Congestion and pollution are the overarching issues that need to be tackled and this is where motorcycles, scooters and mopeds can play their part say the BMF. “The consultation states that it will help form policy for the next 30 years so this is why we are going full tilt on this” said Chris Hodder, the BMF’s Government Relations Executive.
Now that the intention is that transport is no longer to be categorised by mode e.g. rail, bus, cycling, etc., but by function, the BMF sees this as the big opportunity to get the motorcycle taken seriously. “There is a lot of prejudice out there,” said Chris, “previously motorcycles have be en treated as more of a nuisance than an alternative option, and this has to change if we are ever to get anywhere”.
Chris went on, “The standard question has always been ‘are you taking the bus, train, bicycle or car?’ Now the question is ‘what is the most appropriate way of making this journey?’ This is where we see our advantage. Transport policy based around the purpose of a journey is where motorcycling can make a positive contribution.”
Taking the various functional categories in the white paper: (for the term motorcycle, include any powered two wheeler i.e. motorcycle, scooter or moped)
1. Competitiveness and productivity – motorcycles are relatively cheap to own and run. Motorcycles reduce journey times because due to their size they suffer less from congestion. Journey times by motorcycle are more predictable and reliable and thus time can be more productive.
2. Climate change – Because motorcycles are smaller and lighter than cars, they use less energy. Motorcycles also produce less CO2 per km than cars, especially in an urban environment. They also cause less pollution during manufacture, use fewer raw materials and are easier to recycle.
3. Safety, security and health – contrary to popular belief, more people riding motorcycles will reduce accidents. (Motorcycle ownership has increased by 60% in the past 10 years while the accident rate has actually reduced.) On wider general health aspects, as motorcycles pollute less than other motor vehicles, they help improve air quality.
4. Quality of life – motorcycles improve the work life balance due to shorter travel times. Motorcycling is also fun and therefore improves quality of life. Motorcycling has a club culture which increases social inclusion.
5. Social equity – because motorcycling is relatively cheap, it is more accessible than car ownership, which in turn allows better access to services and employment. Riding a motorcycle is often a social activity in itself and is enjoyed by all ages, cultures and both sexes.
Government and the public at large need to realise that motorcycling is not solely a 30-something white male leisure activity say the BMF, hundreds of thousands of people young and old depend on their motorcycle for everyday, economical and convenient transport and this should be encouraged, not discouraged.
The BMF wants to see positive discrimination for a change:
Exemption from parking charges
Exemptions from tolls and congestion charges
Use of bus lanes
Use of Advance Stop Lines
Secure parking facilities in towns and cities
Secure parking facilities at airports and rail station s