The government’s new Road Safety Strategy, published in January 2026, is the most significant shift in motorcycle policy we’ve seen in decades. With motorcycles representing just 1% of traffic but 21% of road deaths, the aim is to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 65% by 2035. Canada achieved an 83% reduction with similar reforms, so the potential is real.
For once, motorcycling is not an afterthought. The strategy places riders at the heart of the plan. CBT is set for a major overhaul, with a stronger focus on real‑world riding skills. The long‑standing cycle of renewing CBT every two years is being challenged, with a push for riders to progress to a full licence. The introduction of “lifelong learning” aligns well with what many of us already believe: skills need refreshing as bikes, roads and laws change.
Infrastructure improvements are also on the way. A £24 billion investment will target road surfaces — welcome news for anyone who has danced around potholes recently. Project PRIME markings, already successful in Scotland, will be expanded to help guide riders through high‑risk bends.
Technology and law are tightening too. Car safety systems will be required to detect motorcycles reliably, and drivers may face a minimum learning period. Consultations are underway on lowering the drink‑drive limit and introducing alcolocks.
But as always, the biggest impact comes from rider behaviour. The safest riders tend to be those with decades of experience — not because they never make mistakes, but because they make fewer of them. As a club, we can lead by example: promoting sober riding, sensible speeds and ongoing training. This strategy gives us an opportunity to make riding safer without losing the freedom and camaraderie that define our community.