Improved Road Conditions Would Enhance Motorcyclists Safety Says Ride to Work Day Survey

Motorcycle riders think that the most important thing the new Government should do for motorcyclists is improve road conditions according to a Motor Cycle News survey, responded to by over 6,500 people, carried out for Ride to Work Day 21st July 2010.

Almost half ( 43%) of the motorcyclists interviewed believe improving road conditions is the priority.  This was closely followed by improving car drivers awareness of motorcyclists (36%) .

One in ten riders think the Government should reduce the road tax In line with the journey efficiency of motorcycles and 11% would like to see the use of bikes in bus lanes expanded.

Just under a quarter  (24%) of the riders surveyed use their motorcycle to commute daily and a further 22% of riders are using their bikes a few times a week, demonstrating that almost half of the UK’s riders regular commute to work. With this extensive experience of the UK road network the Government needs to recognise the demands from the riding public.

Improving road conditions as well as the road furniture such as crash barriers and signage can all help to improve road safety . The survey also reveals that over half of the riders (58%) think that improved road conditions and safety features will encourage more new people to get involved in riding bikes or scooters.

Steve Kenward, CEO for the MCI commented, “ Riders views are important and we are all aware that better roads and an improved road infrastructure will improve road-safety and encourage more riders onto the roads.

“As bikes can help to reduce congestion, reduce pollution and reduce journey times for all road users improving road conditions can only be a positive step. It would also demonstrate a commitment to fully integrating powered two –wheelers into transport policy and planning.”

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Editor’s Notes

Survey Method

A link to an electronic self completion questionnaire was sent to 65,000 people on the Motor Cycle News (MCN) database of which there were 6,766 responses at the time of this analysis (just over 10% response rate)

The MCN database is made up of people registered for the MCN website newsletter, subscriber to the main MCN publication and competition entrants/event attendees

All have been active via email in the last 12 months

The survey was carried out in June / July 2010

For more information contact the MCI Press Office by emailing press@mcia.co.uk or Tel: 07932 011 455