REPRESENTATIVES FROM the motorcycle industry met Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick today, for an emergency meeting to prompt a six month delay to the introduction of the new-style motorcycle test, scheduled for the end of this month.The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI), the Motorcycle Rider Training Association (MRTA) and Riders Edge (Harley-Davidson rider training) were able to explain their concerns to Mr Fitzpatrick and senior representatives of the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). The call for a delay is also backed by the Institute of Advanced Motorists, the Motorcycle Action Group and the British Motorcyclists Federation.
The industry’s concerns are centred on the road safety risks to novice riders who in many cases will be forced to ride long distances in order to take a motorcycle test. There is also a strong business case to delay implementation of the new test.
The MCI’s Craig Carey-Clinch said: