Bikers Go Slow On The M1

25 September 2011, 13:30

Hundreds of motorbikers have staged a go-slow protest on the M1 over planned new rules that could stop bikers modifying their machines.

Convoys travelling at 45mph set off north and south from Junction 15a at Northampton at lunchtime on Sunday 25 September 2011 planning to ride around 20 miles, to Junction 13 for Bedford and Milton Keynes South.  Other bikers set off from the Little Chef on the A5 near Fenny Stratford, Milton Keynes.

The rides were among more than a hundred demonstrations taking place across the UK.

Those behind the protests are unhappy about proposed new EU rules they say will threaten the right of motorbike owners to modify their machines, and would also mean motorbikes being singled out for regular roadside checks.

They are also unhappy about rules planned for France and Ireland that would require motorbikers to wear high visibility or reflective clothing to make them easier to spot.

Paddy Tyson from the Motorcycle Action Group said  "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."

"The motorcycle industry has been under severe pressure recently with new licensing directives disuading riders and what our congested roads need are more bikes, not increased legislation to discourage them."