France: Give And Take On Motorcycle Laws |
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File under France Safety
Author: Mike Werner
Location: Normandy, France
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It looks like there's been some horse trading done between the French government and the motorcycle associations (FFMCFederation Francaise des Motards en Colere - Angry French Biker Association, an association of bikers fighting for the rights of motorcycle riders). For years French bikers have been trying to get the 100 hp limit removed.
Many present day motorcycles have more than 100 hp, and we all know that the horsepower on a motorcycle is not what makes it dangerous (in the first place it's the biker, followed by the torque).
After many appeals and court cases right up to the European courts, the French government is finally going to allow us to ride a motorcycle as it was intended by the manufacturer. There's no date announced yet, but it should be by next year.
It means I should be finally getting the new Ducati 1200 Multistrada...
But on the flip-side, starting the 1st of January 2012, all motorcycle riders will be required to ride with a fluorescent vest. Only yellow or orange are permitted. So not matter how pretty your leather jacket is, you'll be putting a fluo vest over it. Maybe it's a good thing, since in some countries, the UK notably, fluo vest are common, and I guess statistics show that cars see us quicker. It makes sense, but I have not seen any statistics showing the real results.
But the French government is planning to go further. They want to legislate even more protective clothing. For example they want to follow Germany's law that make motorcycle boots mandatory. And approved jackets with armor. So far, it's just talk, but since a presidential election looms next year, it might become one of those things that need to be sacrificed.
At least we can shortly get 100+ hp motorcycles....
Via: Le Repaire des Motards
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