Motorcycles in London bus lanes from today

Motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters in London are from today entitled to share red route bus lanes with buses, cyclists and black taxis as part of an 18-month trial to ease congestion.

The decision follows a three-year study in which motorcyclists used the bus lanes in Brixton Road and Finchley Road. The number of collisions fell by 42 per cent, but the opening up of bus lanes to motorbikes is being opposed by cycling organisations.

Four thousand people have signed a petition against the move and today (5/1/09), lobbyists from the London Cycling Campaign will hand out leaflets to cyclists in Hyde Park warning them of the new rules.

In answer to critics who have argued that motorcycles pose a disproportionate threat to pedestrians and cyclists, the mayor has said he will reassess his decision after 18 months.

Mr Johnson said: “I am determined to make it easier to get from A to B in our great city…One of the ways we can ease congestion is by encouraging people to get on their bike, whether pedal or powered.”

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Motorcycling can be a practical and relatively green means of transport, but care must be taken that its promotion does not jeopardise cyclists or pedestrians in urban areas.”

The London cycling boom

Thousands of commuters have discovered the benefits of cycling to work in London. Motorcycles in cities can be a more practical option than cars – but bicycles are the ultimate green urban transport. In the last 8 years, the level of cycling in London has almost doubled.

Should motorcycles be allowed in bus lanes?

Not if it has a negative impact on the safety or number of cyclists, but relative to almost every other type of motorised transport, motorcycles can be an efficient, low-carbon way of reducing urban congestion – particularly for those unable or unwilling to cycle. If the purpose of bus lanes is to allow bus services to operate more efficiently, then there is no reason to bar motorcycles. As with other forms of motorised transport, motorcycles can be noisy and driven dangerously fast. However, it seems unlikely that banning them from bus lanes is the most effective solution to these problems.

Do I need cycle insurance?

The short answer is yes. Bikes are vulnerable to theft and in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else. Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement, third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they will even come out and recover you and your bike. More info

Related cycling stories:
Cycling tips
London moves nearer to mass cycle hire scheme
Bikeability
Cyclists still at risk from HGVs

What is the ETA?

The ETA is a not-for-profit organisation providing motorists and cyclists with green breakdown cover, including a specialised service for electric vehicles. The ETA exists in order to campaign for sustainable transport – when you buy our services below you help fund our charitable work.