ALL ‘BIGGER’ motorbikes over 125 CC will have to have anti- locking braking systems (ABS) fitted by 2016, under new EU rules agreed by MEPs recently.
ALL ‘BIGGER’ motorbikes over 125 CC will have to have anti- locking braking systems (ABS) fitted by 2016, under new EU rules agreed by MEPs recently.
The regulations are aimed at reducing the disproportionately high number of motorcyclists involved in fatal road collisions. However, the law will only take effect if it is formally approved by member states.
The move has been welcomed by Irish MEP Phil Prendergast, who said more lives would be saved if this regulation is passed.
“Irish motorbikes account for about two per cent of licensed vehicles, but represent 10 per
cent of fatalities on our roads. These increased safety require- ments are paramount, given the vulnerability of bikers on our roads,” said the Labour MEP.
If the law takes effect, it will apply only to new two- or three- wheel motorcycles and quads sold from 2016.
MEPs also voted in favour of measures to make motorbikes greener by extending EU emis- sions standards to motorbikes from 2016 and mopeds from 2017.
Bikers have previously protested against EU safety regu- lations, claiming they will push up driving costs.
