Update from Brussels on EU motorcycle inspections

On Thursday 21 May 2026 the European Parliament has voted to move forward with negotiations on revised EU rules for periodic roadworthiness tests and roadside inspections. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) approved the negotiating mandate with 369 votes in favour, 126 against and 84 abstentions. MEPs back the proposal to remove the current flexibility for the periodic testing of motorcycles over 125 cc, to make the Periodical Technical Inspection (PTI) obligatory for all motorcycles in the European Union. They also support the extension of roadworthiness checks to electrically powered heavy motorcycles. For the motorcycle community, another key point stands out: Parliament supports roadside emissions inspections for motorcycles, alongside cars, vans, trucks and buses. Motorcycles identified as potentially high-emitting could then be

BMF Supports Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

BMF Supports Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 – Wear It Green 💚🏍️💚 Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 (11th–17th May), members of the BMF team proudly got involved with the nationwide ‘Wear It Green’ campaign, helping raise awareness while showing that the motorcycle community is about far more than just bikes - it’s about people, friendship, support and looking out for one another. Throughout the week, some of our team members stepped forward to share their photographs across our social media platforms, reaching an audience of more than 25,000 people on Facebook alone, alongside thousands more across our other channels. Every post highlighted just how important motorcycling can be for mental wellbeing. Whether it’s the freedom of the open road, the social side

Mac Motorcycles: Keeping British Craftsmanship Alive

The British Motorcyclists Federation exists to protect riders’ interests, and that responsibility extends beyond roads, legislation and safety. By defending motorcycling freedoms, culture and future participation, the BMF also helps safeguard the environment in which British motorcycle heritage and industry can continue to thrive. A visit to Mac Motorcycles in South Yorkshire offered a timely reminder of why that support matters and why the journey behind it deserves to be told in full. Mac Motorcycles - At a Glance Location: Near Wentworth Castle Estate, South Yorkshire Models: Rex & Ruby Engine: 600cc single cylinder Build Style: Hand-built, small-batch British manufacturing Price: Circa £15,500 (incl. VAT) Visits: By appointment only Website: mac-motorcycles.com Social: @macmotorcycles Known For: Craftsmanship, Simplicity, Yorkshire Grit, Technical Tuesday videos A Workshop Rooted in History Set within a beautifully restored stone

The BMF has responded to the Government’s consultation on the Future of Motorcycling Training, Testing and Licensing

Industry, Riders and Retailers Call for Motorcycle Licensing Reform to Boost Safety Without Creating New Barrier The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC), and the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) have jointly submitted a comprehensive response to the Government’s consultation on improving moped and motorcycle training, testing and licensing. The submission backs meaningful reform of an overly complex licensing system that no longer supports rider progression, accessibility or modern mobility needs. While strongly supporting measures to improve rider safety, the organisations warn against reforms that simply make the system more restrictive or costly to navigate. They argue licensing reform must be holistic – improving training, progression and safety outcomes, while supporting easily accessible and affordable mobility, legal participation, decarbonisation and

A New Chapter for British Motorcycling Begins at Mac Motorcycles

The British Motorcyclists Federation would like to congratulate the team at Mac Motorcycles on officially opening their doors TODAY (May 8th 2026) and entering an exciting new chapter for the business and the wider UK motorcycle industry. In today’s economic climate, where both businesses and the motorcycle industry continue to face many challenges, it is fantastic to see passionate people continuing to invest in the future of motorcycling, creating opportunities and helping keep our community alive and thriving. This is something truly worth celebrating. Earlier this year, the BMF had the opportunity to visit Mac Motorcycles while the team were still hard at work behind the scenes preparing for this milestone. Seeing first-hand the dedication, determination and passion that went into reaching

EP Transport Committee: ‘No more flexibility for the periodic testing of motorcycles’

On Tuesday 5 May 2026, the European Parliament's Transport Committee (TRAN) adopted the draft position on the revision of the EU rules on periodic roadworthiness tests for vehicles and roadside inspections for commercial vehicles, by 30 votes to 11, and with two abstentions. The Transport Committee backed a proposal to remove the current flexibility for the periodic testing of motorcycles over 125 cc, to make it obligatory for all member states to implement periodical technical inspections without exemption. They also support the extension of roadworthiness checks to electrically powered heavy motorcycles. Current EU rules allow effective national alternatives to mandatory inspections, which several Member States have implemented successfully. A mandatory EU approach removes flexibility without evidence of added value to road safety. Next

BMF Supporting Mental Health Awareness Month and Wear It Green Day

May is recognised as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging open conversations around mental wellbeing. The British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) is proud to support the Mental Health Foundation’s Wear It Green Day, taking place on Thursday 14 May, as part of Mental Health Awareness Week (11–17 May 2026). Wear It Green Day encourages individuals, communities and organisations to come together to support mental health by wearing green, raising awareness and promoting meaningful conversations. Importantly, if individuals are unable to take part on 14 May, 'Wear It Green Day' can be held at any time of the year, making it accessible for everyone to get involved. As a community-led organisation, the BMF recognises the importance of connection, support, and

A Weekend to Remember for the British Motorcyclists Federation

What a way to kick-start the season. The British Motorcyclists Federation launched into the weekend in style, beginning with our first Friday night bike meet of the year at Mallory Park Race Circuit, and what a start it was. With around 500 - 600 bikers rolling in, clear blue skies overhead and an electric atmosphere throughout the evening, the event delivered everything that makes our community so special. From seasoned riders to those newer to the scene, the energy and shared passion for motorcycling were undeniable. But the momentum didn’t stop there. The weekend continued at the International Classic Motorcycle Show at Staffordshire County Showground, where we spent two fantastic days connecting with both familiar faces and new members of the biking community. With

New Dutch in-depth study into motorcycle accidents

In the Netherlands an in-depth study into motorcycle accidents shows that in more than half of the crashes, a collision with another road user resulted in the most serious injury. The crash opponent was most often a passenger car. The aim of this in-depth study by SWOV Institute for Road Safety Research was to contribute to promoting the road safety of motorcyclists by providing qualitative insight into the factors that play a role in the occurrence and outcome of motorcycle accidents. In this report, the following four research questions are answered: 1. Which crash patterns or sub-types of motorcycle crashes can be distinguished? 2. Which crash and injury factors contribute to the occurrence of these crashes? 3. Do these factors differ from those reported in

MCIA Calls for Coordinated National Action on Illegal E-Bikes Following Extensive Engagement with Police Leaders

The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) is calling for coordinated national action to tackle the rapid growth of illegal, high-powered and tampered e-bikes, following extensive engagement with police forces and Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) across the UK – and ahead of the Second Reading of the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPC) Bill. Illegal vehicles – including illegally modified e-bikes and non-compliant products marketed as “e-bikes” which are capable of moped and motorcycle performance – are increasingly being used on public roads without licensing, registration, insurance or safety oversight. MCIA warns that this is creating a parallel, unregulated mobility market with significant implications for road safety, policing resources and legitimate businesses. The impact on the legal sector is significant. Registrations of new L1

Survey: motorcyclists and protective clothing

FEMA, FIM Europe and NMC published an online survey about (mandatory) protective gear for motorcyclists, to gauge the European riders’ points of view. We receive information from a growing number of countries that governments are suggesting the mandatory use of (parts of) mandatory PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and we think it is important to have an understanding of today's riders’ opinions. We invite all riders to take part in the survey, and to share the survey with as many motorcycling friends and colleagues as possible. Please fill out the survey before Monday 11 May 2026. ----------------------------------------------------- CLICK HERE TO OPEN THE SURVEY. -----------------------------------------------------  

Better Connected: A Strategy for Integrated Transport

The Government’s long-awaited Transport Strategy Better Connected – A Strategy for Integrated Transport was published today. The strategy sets out the Government’s plans for future transport provision and connectivity for the next decade. Anna Zee, BMF's Political and Technical Services Director said: " The BMF welcomes the publication today by the Government of its new Integrated Transport Strategy. The BMF submitted detailed comments in response to the original consultation on the strategy launched in early 2025, when we called on the Government to recognise motorcycling as an integral part of the UK’s future transport model. We are pleased to see that motorcycling has been included in the strategy as a future sustainable transport option that can both cut congestion and reduce overall UK carbon

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