Bikers call for more bus lane access

Motorcyclists at the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) bike conference this week called for greater access to bus lanes.

A delegate survey of 130 motorcyclists, representing the IAM’s 19,000 motorcycle members, overwhelmingly supported bus lane access for bikers (92 per cent). The move could have significant improvements for the safety of motorcyclists, say the IAM.

Dave Shenton, IAM Motorcycling Manager and Conference Chairman said: “This survey confirms motorcyclists are becoming increasingly concerned for their safety now that urban roads are busier than ever.”

In London, the Mayor’s Transport Strategy recognised that motorcycles take up little space and noted the high number of collisions and injuries involving motorcyclists. As a result TfL (Transport for London) ran a pilot study in 2002 to help the debate on whether or not motorcyclists should be allowed to use bus lanes. The results show a benefit for powered two wheelers, although it also raised issues for cyclists and pedestrians.

Mr Shenton added: “We would like to see more of an open minded approach towards allowing motorcycles to use bus lanes more widely. It makes little sense for motorcyclists to filter within inches of stationary vehicles when an empty piece of tarmac, only a few feet away, leaves them more visible, separated from cars and causing less anxiety to everyone. If the main road leaves motorcyclists and other road users in a more vulnerable position, it make sense to let them utilise bus lanes.”

The IAM Motorcycle Conference also saw the inaugural presentation of the Lord Strathcarron Award, named in memory of the “motorcycling peer” who was the first motorcyclist to take the IAM bike test. The award went to Martyn Buckland of the Wilts and Bath Advanced Motorcyclists Group.

Presentations were given by Karen Cooke, MCIA Motorcycle Safety Manager, and Dr Alex Stedmon of Nottingham University, where a pioneering motorbike simulator has been developed.