COMMUTERS could shave up to three hours off their weekly commutes by switching from four wheels to two, according to the RAC Foundation, which is backing the Motorcycle Industry Association’s Now’s The Time campaign.
The Foundation’s analysis of government statistics shows that in almost every region of the UK, motorcycle and scooter commuters are spending less time travelling to and from work than workers travelling by car, bus or coach, with the biggest savings available in central London and the east of England.
Here in the north west, motorcyclists save an average of three minutes on the equivalent journey in a car. UK workers have the longest commutes in Europe, with one quarter of us commuting for over two hours each day, and the problem is growing.
City congestion
The RAC Foundation/Trafficmaster Congestion Index found the UK has already seen a 0.8 per cent increase in congestion in the first quarter of 2007, costing the economy around £74,000 every hour.
Switching to motorcycle or scooter commuting could be the solution for the one third of drivers who say they would like to spend less time travelling for work. While 64 per cent of motorcycle and scooter trips are for work, education or training, just one per cent of commuters are travelling on two wheels, so a small increase could make a big difference to city congestion.
However, time is running out for those thinking of making the switch to two wheels.
In October next year, the motorcycle test is changing to meet new EU requirements.
Training will take longer and cost more – and experts predict long queues at the limited number of ‘super-centres’ able to host the new off-road test manoeuvres.
L-plates
While it will remain possible to take the Compulsory Basic Training certificate and ride a machine of less than 125cc on L-plates, it is always better to get proper training and a full licence - recent research has shown that riders of bikes over 125cc are 15 per cent less likely to be involved in an accident.
A new website has been set up to give commuters wanting to know more about how to get their license all the information they need.
RAC Foundation Head of Campaigns Sheila Rainger says: "Commuting by motorcycle or scooter is a great way to beat the rush hour queues - but anyone thinking of changing to a motorcycle or scooter for their daily commute should take action now. It will soon become more difficult and more expensive to qualify for a full motorcycle licence - so beat the queues and take advantage of the summer months to get trained and qualified now before the new rules come into effect."
Motor Cycle Industry Association’s Craig Carey-Clinch adds: “ As part of our campaign ‘we wanted to look into the cost of commuting and highlight the benefits of getting on two wheels as a really good way to avoid traffic, saving time, money and unnecessary stress.
“Our survey found only one in ten of the respondents had a motorcycle license, but more than a fifth said they were jealous of motorcycles and scooters because they get through traffic quicker.
“Sitting in traffic on your daily commute is not only a waste of time and money, but our research shows that is also causes a great deal of stress.”
What do you think? Have your say.
View comments (1 comment 25/06/2007 at 15:34)
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