Greater motorcycle use could slash traffic by 40 percent and cut emissions

In a survey of over 2,000 motorists, just over one in five (22 percent) stated that motorcycles improve air quality and had concerns over whether they could be used to cut emissions in the sector.

However, according to motoring charity IAM RoadSmart, motorcycles actually produce less than half the emissions of cars, or even less in some cases.

There was stronger driver support for the use of motorcycles with the aim of cutting traffic and congestion in towns and cities and on motorways.

It is estimated that if there was a 10 percent shift to motorcycles, congestion would drop by 40 percent and heightened emissions from stop-start traffic would also be cut.

There have been calls in recent years for the Government to acknowledge motorcycles in the quest to decarbonise transport and reduce congestion.

The Government has instead prioritised “active travel” including walking and cycling, as well as investing in public transport and introducing Clean Air Zones.

Neil Greig, director of policy and research at IAM RoadSmart, commented: “Frustratingly, motorcycles have quite simply been ignored in the Government’s plans to alleviate the impacts of increased traffic congestion.

“IAM RoadSmart strongly believes that motorcycles represent a huge opportunity in combatting poor air quality and congested roads. 

“Indeed, their smaller size means that motorcyclists can safely filter through traffic, while smaller engines mean they produce less harmful emissions.”

Last year, the Department for Transport stated that electric motorbikes would soon become the norm on UK roads.

Alongside this, a consultation was launched to determine whether to end the sale of new fossil-fuelled two-wheelers by 2035.

New funding was also announced to develop the zero-emission motorcycle supply chain in the UK, with successful applicants for the £350,000 fund undertaking research to support the production and distribution of new, green vehicles within the sector.

Craig Carey-Clinch, executive director at the National Motorcycle Council, attended the event and joined the charity’s calls for change, saying there was “untapped potential” to help achieve decarbonisation targets.

He added: “It was great to see that the DfT were very much in listening mode at the recent motorcycling forum, and despite a range of issues being discussed at the meeting, the speakers were largely in agreement on one thing.

“The need for recognition of riders’ concerns and focus around a technology-neutral approach. 

“With IAM RoadSmart’s support, I am hopeful that we will make progress and achieve a decarbonisation policy that does not damage motorcycling in the UK.”