I got my first motorcycle license in NZ many years ago - and the rule still applies - you had to get a license to ride a scooter. You also have to hold the steps to getting the full license longer, and cc's are restricted. Even though cc's dont mean much in regards to the power of the bike. But maybe BC should do the same? Maybe minimum riding gear should be mandated like Helmet, fully enclosed fastened footwear, riding or leather gloves, full length pants at least jeans and riding jacket or full leather jacket? Now Im not sure if anyone is following my blog, but I would be interested in your thoughts?
http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/getting/motorcycles/motorcycle-licence.html
Transplanted kiwi now living in Victoria Canada. Have discovered a passion to ride motorcycles and an even bigger passion to ensure riders safety on the roads. Follow me on twitter@Kiwi_Deb
Deb I think ICBC has changed licensing to graduated, but that only applies to people who have never driven before & are getting their license for the 1st time. Personally I think the graduated licensing should apply to anyone who is switching classes ie car driver's motorcycle. I also think there should be a restriction of the number of cc's a new rider can have in the first year, i.e 500cc max. We already have a helmet law, I don't think you would have much luck legislating the type of apparel people wear. I would rather them make taking a motorcycle novice course & traffic course manadatory for all riders, same thing for car drivers approved driver training.
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes to gear, personal freedom over common sense seems to be the norm. Unless it is a legal requirement. Still I am with you on this.
ReplyDeleteThere are a fair amount of motorcyclists out on the road who don't wear gear either which is just as alarming. For the life of me I can't understand people who don't wear it & the folks who are against helmets. Crazy!
ReplyDeleteI agree on the mandatory lessons, but they have to find a way to make it resonable priced so everyone can afford to do the courses. I think cost is what restricts a lot of scooter riders because a lot of them are students looking for cheaper transportation. I dont know how that can happen but there must be a way. As to the riding gear, it is personal choice, but some people have no clue at all what could possibly happen to them. I have to say that scooter riders scare me - and they scare me because they seem to have no fear. On bad weather days at the university, the scooters far out number the motorbikes in the parking lot. And while I very carefully ride my bike on rainy and icy days, I see the scooter riders just zipping around! Oh and I dont have anything against scooter riders because I used to be one too. haha I loved my scooter! My brothers trashed my mum's scooter by using it like a motoX bike and taking it over jumps!! lol
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