Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists – Weekly Newsletter 07 November 2025
Table of Contents
Editorial
The first item this week is a BIG thank you to all the social media group admins and their followers for sharing this newsletter and offering comments. Engaging with the motorcycling community, in whatever biking interests a group may follow, is a real privilege and always interesting. Whatever your views we want to hear them.
For SAM members, you can help by spreading the word about the great time we are going have at the CHRISTMAS PARTY! Book Your Place(choose ‘Christmas Party’ in the Events form drop down box). This will help us to know how many of you we have to feed!
The picture of the motorcycling environment is sometimes painted rosier than the reality of today’s market. However, as bikers we have a real tendency to be optimistic. Pessimism doesn’t serve a biker very well! Innovation, adaptation and bending the world to meet our riding needs keeps us moving forward. The ‘doom and gloom’ merchants are not welcome in our arena. We already have to deal with far too much ignorance, stigmatising and prejudice.
As we’ve written before, the most important part of a motorcycle is the rider’s brain! All ‘Thinking Riders’ (every rider should be one!) will know that there is a whole landscape of different opinions on how to ride safely and confidently. One exercise that doesn’t take much time is reading the advice given in this week’s articles, then making two mental comparisons. First, how does the advice differ from what I’ve been taught by qualified and experienced instructors? Second, how does this advice differ from the way that you ride now? It is only when we use these comparisons that we can judge whether the advice is sound enough to try it out. We may need further guidance BEFORE using ANY riding advice, but that is one way in which a rider can learn from their riding experience. Asking yourself: ‘Is this going to help me ride safer when I’m out on the road?’, may help you to becoming a more confident rider. It makes the comparison with YOUR real life riding experience. After all, YOU are the rider on the bike!
This week in motorcycling: electric breakthroughs, MotoGP drama, and fresh gear for winter riders. It’s been packed with exciting developments, especially for young motorcyclists, from cutting-edge electric tech to major racing shake-ups and smart safety innovations. Older riders will be able to share their views on the direction that motorcycling is heading too.
🏍️ Electric bikes charge ahead
LiveWire, Harley-Davidson’s electric offshoot, unveiled a new model boasting rapid charging—20% to 80% in just 10 minutes. This is a big leap for urban riders who want speed and sustainability. Last week we highlighted problems in fast food delivery services. Meanwhile, a German start-up previewed affordable electric bikes ahead of EICMA, Europe’s biggest motorcycle expo. They are much cheaper than the 4-wheel tanks currently cluttering up our roads. These launches show how electric motorcycle mobility is becoming much more accessible. This is really good for younger riders looking for eco-friendly, lower cost options for travelling.
🏁 MotoGP: Malaysian mayhem and injury updates
The Malaysian Grand Prix delivered high drama. Marc Márquez claimed a textbook victory, while Francesco Bagnaia suffered a late retirement that cost him a podium. Moto3 rider Noah Dettwiler was hospitalised after a serious crash and remains in critical but stable condition. These events sparked renewed calls for improved safety protocols, especially in junior categories.
Jorge Martin was also ruled out of the upcoming Portuguese GP due to injury, shaking up the championship standings. For young fans and aspiring racers, these developments highlight both the thrill and risks of top-tier competition.
🧠 Smart tech for rider safety
A new smartphone app has gained attention for offering instant crash alerts for just £1 a week. It’s designed to notify emergency services and contacts if a rider goes down—potentially life-saving tech for solo riders or those commuting in remote areas. When they arrive, you can hand over your FREE Biker I.C.E. Card. It puts your health information in the hands of those you want to have it, at the time that it is needed, thus speeding up treatment, care and support. No waiting, no phone calls, no internet! Just make sure that if you health or social circumstances change, so does your Biker I.C.E. Card.
🧥 Winter gear and budget buys
We are having some great days for riding this Autumn – we hope the bike is not winterised in the shed! There are some great off-season deals on gear, including heated gloves, waterproof jackets, and budget helmets. Always check the labels and online reviews from other buyers. For youngsters just starting out, this is a great time to grab quality kit without breaking the bank. They also spotlighted used litre-class superbikes starting at £7,500—ideal for those moving up from 125cc machines.
Sadly, the New Rider Hub and Phoenix Training have suspended the ‘Try Ride Scheme’ until Spring 2026. Look around for a local training school, or see the SAM website page. Whilst the SAM charity provides post-test rider development, we support Local Trainers. In a very difficult economic climate, they work very hard to develop safer bikers. We all started out with them!
🛠️ In the rest of the biking world…
Poulson Creative in Maldon was featured for its blend of custom bikes, great gear, and coffee culture. It’s part of a growing trend where bike shops double as hangouts, offering young riders a place to connect, learn, and get inspired.
📣 Political and advocacy notes
While no major legislation dropped this week, the push for better urban infrastructure for motorcyclists continues. Advocacy groups are urging councils to include motorcycles in bus lanes and secure parking in city planning. With electric bikes gaining traction, young riders are encouraged to join local campaigns for safer, greener roads. On road safety campaigns it’s the same regurgitation of reminders of the rules of road use and publicising out of context statistics that do nothing to reduce the problems. Whilst those publishing this material must never have heard the concept of ‘ad blindness’. This is where viewers ignore, skip over or block out the safety messages. It needs a different approach by highlighting that most road users obey the rules and don’t break the law, but that message seems to be completely absent.
Whilst we’ve had storms, wind and wet weather this week, there have been more good days than bad for riding. Your newsletter is packed with great content, from advice about safer riding, myth busting and brilliant adventures on two wheels. Ride safe and happy reading.
The IAM RoadSmart AGM will take place on the 19th November 2025 where there will be voting on changes to membership fees, the Articles of Association, membership rights, appointment and removal of both members and Trustees. These are important matters that have mainly been discussed in meetings. There are documents in your online membership account that have some information. You can join the AGM meeting, online, by logging in to your membership account and navigating to the AGM page. Thank you.
IMPORTANT: The SAM Christmas Party will be at 7.30pm on 1st December 2025 at Treeton Miners Welfare Club, Arundel St, Treeton, Rotherham S60 5PW
Your success is our success!
Advanced riders are safer road users, ride longer, rider further, meet more people and enjoy a healthier, happier life!
For Your Diary
Meetings
Next SAM Club Night
1st December 2025
7.30pm start for meeting at 8pm. Gives you time to catch up on what you’ve missed!
Treeton Miners Welfare Club
Arundel Street
Treeton
Rotherham S60 5PW
Next SAM Committee Meeting
27th November 2025
Details to be arranged
Online Motorcycling News
General
The much-anticipated event is back for another nine days of all things two wheels and we can’t wait for you to join in the fun.
As long-standing sponsors of Motorcycle Live, we’re proud to announce that we’ve planned plenty of entertainment for you to enjoy from 15th-23rd November. Find out what we have organised and where you can buy your tickets here. Read more
LiveWire have lifted the lid on their ‘most comprehensive’ new model display to date, introducing a series of new additions at this year’s EICMA trade show.Among them is a tricked-up concept of the Milwaukee firm’s long-standing S2 model – a bike which formerly nabbed MCN’s Electric Bike of the Year – dubbed the Alpinista Corsa.Aside from a smattering of trick parts, the most attention-grabbing feature of the new model is a claimed ability to boost its 10.5kWh lithium battery pack from 20 to 80% in under 10 minutes, thanks to the addition of DC fast charging. Read more
EICMA, the world’s top motorcycle show, is just around the corner, but there was at time when the Milan show shared some of the spotlight with Intermot in Cologne, Germany.In recent years, however, EICMA has pulled more and more focus, leaving Intermot to make adjustments. The first thing organizers tried was to switch to a yearly format from its traditional biennial schedule. Last year, Intermot introduced a new campaign to partner with social media content creators with the goal of attracting younger audiences to motorcycle culture. Read more
A modified BMW R 18 Transcontinental was presented to the pope in front of a general audience.
Many riders cherish their motorcycles, but not many of us have asked the pope himself to bless our bikes. That’s just what BMW did when Pope Leo XIV was asked to bless and sign a modified BMW R 18 Transcontinental at an event at the Vatican on Sept. 3, 2025. The signed motorcycle will be auctioned by Missio Austria by Sotheby’s in October to help fund children’s aid projects in Madagascar. Read more
Rider Health & Safety
Do you ride a motorcycle or know someone who does? If so, you’ll know that riding a motorcycle has some risks. In fact, statistics show that motorcyclists are much more likely to be involved in a serious or fatal accident than car drivers. This is why it’s important to take steps to reduce the risks and the Biker I.C.E. Card is one of the most effective solutions available.
The Biker I.C.E. Card is a simple, yet vital tool. It contains your contact details and essential medical information. In the event of an accident, emergency services staff can quickly access this information to help them decide on the right treatment for you. By carrying a Biker I.C.E. Card, you can ensure that emergency services staff have the information they need to take account of any ongoing health problems you have and any current treatments that you are receiving. This can make their job easier and your emergency care safer. Read more...
We don’t tend to do product news here at Bennetts BikeSocial as we devote all our resource to thoroughly testing kit. But this is one of those rare products that makes you say “bloody hell, this is BIG!”.
The news that intercom manufacturer Cardo is releasing its own helmet isn’t that exciting, but the fact that the new Beyond GTS and GT will include what’s promised to be effective Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), most certainly is. Read more
When I’m out with my mates I struggle to pick up on what they’re saying as well as I used to, and as I write this article I have a gentle hissing in my ears; it’s there all the time, and it’s because I haven’t always worn earplugs since I bought my first motorcycle in 1996 (I do now).
We’re going to look at the science to make sure you don’t end up permanently damaging YOUR hearing and ask what are the best earplugs? Read more
Whether you’ve been riding for two weeks or 52 years, there’s always room for improvement. That’s the ethos behind this Bennetts BikeSocial Better Riding series. In this episode we, in conjunction with professional motorbike coach, Mark McVeigh, explore the critical difference between proactive and reactive riding where motorcycle technology is involved. Do the plethora of recent rider aids make us better riders?
Read on for an overview of the accompanying video or watch it in detail here: Read more
Motorbike riding is more than just a skill—it’s an art, a science, and for many, a lifelong pursuit of mastery. In the latest episode our Better Riding series, MotorbikeCoach.com’s Mark McVeigh joins me to dive deep into the concept of ‘flow’ – a psychological state that can transform your riding experience from functional to phenomenal.
Whether you’re a beginner with just 20 hours under your belt or a seasoned rider with decades of experience, understanding and applying the principles of flow can elevate your confidence, safety, and enjoyment on two wheels. Read more
Crashing is one of the few unpleasantries of motorcycling. There’s only so much you can do to mitigate it, and ultimately, no amount of advanced training, high-tech rider aids, or plain old good luck can save you from all eventualities.Sometimes, as the viral social media clip goes, ‘one minute you’re on the road looking at the bushes, then the next minute you’re in the bushes looking at the road’. So, what happens when you’ve really come a cropper and end up so badly injured that you can’t call for help?That’s where RealRider comes in – the British-developed smartphone app promises to speed up response times by automatically alerting the emergency services within seconds of an impact, calling in the blue-light cavalry without delay thanks to a clever algorithm that knows exactly when your ride has gone pear-shaped. Read more
Right at the beginning of the 2025 riding season in North America, rider and YouTuber Caroline of ‘Doodle on a Motorcycle’ had a bad crash, and one that kept her off her bike for months. Ever since that time, she’s been doing what most of us who’ve ever crashed can probably relate to pretty hard: Analyzing and re-analyzing what went wrong, and ways she can be better prepared for the slide that could come with future rides.
My first crash with injury made me put on proper motorcycle pants, which I’d previously not considered as important as I should have done. I had a proper helmet, jacket, gloves, and boots, after all; wouldn’t regular pants be just fine? I mean, my legs were covered right? I hadn’t been riding for very long, so I didn’t know any better (and also, I was trying to not spend more money than I had to). But that turned out to be a big mistake, one I learned from, and I’ve always worn proper, armored motorcycle pants ever since. Read more
Adventure & Touring
Someone enlightened to adventure motorcycling advised that before setting off on a journey with your significant other, the practicalities of riding as a couple should be considered, not to mention both the pros AND the cons. To my mind, when you both love to travel, it goes hand in hand that two wheels—as do four, perhaps—facilitate that shared agenda. Whether you’re “two up” or astride your own motorcycles, you’re both enjoying the same open-air experience in a manner four wheels can’t quite deliver. Through an unobscured view, you’re living out an adventure next to one another. Enraptured by two-wheeled transport you may already be. How you’ll fare with your partner on a prolonged motorcycle journey is another matter entirely.
Planning a motorcycle adventure with your partner isn’t always a cushy ride. What if it’s the instant gratification of rural rideouts over long weekends you love? A sustained two-wheeled stretch is a complete lifestyle change and a reality one of you may not relish. Your lady might not be a pampered princess but what if she’s unable to find certain items some gals need in remote places? Enthusiasm could outweigh skill at some point and one of you could lose control down a steep hill. Or, you may be riding alongside a partner whose off-road prowess leaves you lost in their dust—you could become as crestfallen about holding them back as you are about your inability to keep up. So many whats, scary ifs and buts. At some point, a conscious decision must be made to shelve the excuses and ruminate on those reservations no longer. How hard can it be? Read more
When you tell your friends the upcoming ride will have a few sand crossings, you will surely hear the usual complaints of “I hate sand” or “Sand is my nemesis.” Here are a couple of tips you and your riding buddies can use to get through these tricky and often fear-generating sections as smoothly as possible.
But first, remember not all sand is created equal. Depending on where you ride, you may encounter anything from hard-packed beach sand to soft, powdery talcum. Every type of terrain requires a slightly different approach. Here, we look at crossing a short patch of the softer stuff built up across a trail.
Tip 1: Standing Riding Posture
Standing riding posture is my preferred technique when approaching a soft sand crossing. Standing on the pegs gives you several advantages:
A better view of the crossing, allowing you to see the best line through
Allows for more dynamic counterbalance inputs, as compared to sitting
The lower leg grip used during standing allows for a more relaxed grip on the handlebars
When riding in soft sand, the bike tends to move unexpectedly beneath you. That’s just the nature of sand riding. Your job is to flow with it, not fight against it. Think of it like surfing. Standing lets you use your body weight to steer the bike and maintain balance. And standing lets us weight the foot pegs to steer the bike, instead of gripping tightly onto the handlebars. This allows the front tire to wander around in search of traction and stability. Read more
There’s a funny thing about visiting somewhere new on two wheels — you wish you could see more. Such was the case when Ryan and I visited Ontario, Canada last year for a piece we called Destination Ontario. As much as we enjoyed our time touring the roads available to us in The North, and experiencing the lovely Fall colors, we knew all along that we were only scratching the surface. Ryan, for his part, couldn’t help but wonder where all the dirt trails led off to anytime we came past one. Clearly, trying to explore off piste on a Honda Gold Wing or Harley Street Glide isn’t recommended, so we kept our route to the pavement. Read more
History & Custom
Started by a couple of friends who felt that South Wales was in desperate need of a good chopper show, The Hook Up will celebrate its 10th, and final, edition next year. But although its decade-long run is drawing to a close, it’ll always have a special place in Hannah Meakin’s heart.
The inaugural Hook Up show also happened to be the first chopper show that Hannah had ever attended. “I knew, when I saw the bikes there, it was something I had to get involved in,” she says. “Against the advice of basically everyone, I chopped my first bike—a Suzuki Marauder 125—in my friend’s garage, and never looked back.” Read more
There are a lot of skills I wish I had, and the ability to tear about and diagnose old bikes that probably no one but me cares about is definitely one of them. Granted, I know it’s a skill that has to be earned, and that you don’t just wake up one day with all the knowledge in your head. It’s one of those things from the Wachowskis’ Matrix universe that honestly would be kind of nice; the ability to simply download whole manuals and reference texts directly into your brain. But I digress.
Lucky for me (and probably also you), Craig, AKA the Bearded Mechanic, is a guy who has those skills. And he shares them regularly with any who care to watch his YouTube channel, so we can live vicariously through him as he systematically takes apart and goes through random vintage motorbikes, mostly from Japan. Read more
Kevin Williams
Elevenses 572 Mon 26 Oct – motorcycle news, tips & views
✅ Subscribe to my channel: @survivalskillsuk
🥇 Join the community at www.ko-fi.com/survivalskills
in today’s show… at least 20 dead in fire after motorcycle collides with coach… MCIA submits position paper to Transport Subcommittee… Hants & IoW police take 400 illegal e-scoots & e-bikes off streets… Staffs police seize over 400 and donate one to technical college… dispute ends with biker hit in head with bucket… what’s the point of an ‘online speedometer’… Pyramid introduce five part-add on kit for CB1000 Hornet… crated 80s XT500 sells for crazy auction price… Triumph delivers electric bikes but only for kids… Belgian e-moto start-up Trevor looks to expand into commuter segment… race to the bottom continues as Hero launch £3.5k 440 in UK… in-depth today – European Heart Journal article makes bizarre claim that “motorcycles are extremely polluting, but are not regulated”; what’s the truth? Read more
‘Motorcycling is booming’ says Sunderland Magazine
I maintain a news feed that aggregates motorcycle related news stories, which I then scan for items for Elevenses, and every now and again, a headline pops up that grabs my attention but possibly not in the way that was intended. For example, published on Friday October 24 by the ‘Sunderland Magazine’ I spotted this story:
“The two-wheeled revival: How cost, culture, and freedom are driving Britain’s motorcycle boom.”
Of course, if you have been following the numbers, you’ll know that motorcycle sales have fallen fairly significantly this year alone, and there’s no sign of any kind of ‘boom’. Dealers have been shutting left, right and centre…Read more
Fight the Fear: “I can’t speed up” Part 1
This is the first of two articles, which together make the fourth in a series aimed at fixing problems that arise when riding, and I’ll just remind readers these articles are designed to help riders who are having some very specific problems. Whilst issues like these should be covered on basic training, sometimes surprisingly basic riding issues DO slip through the net. And occasionally similar problems can affect even very experienced riders if they’ve experienced a near-miss or a crash.
So these articles are both in-depth and carefully-structured to be step-by-step ‘fix-it’ guides for those who need the help. If these articles don’t apply to you, that’s great – scroll on by, or read one of my other articles more to your taste. Please remember these points when you critique the article. If you have any tips of your own, or experiences you would like to share, please do but make sure they are relevant – then I won’t have to spend QUITE so much time responding to comments that confuse rather than help. Read more
Elevenses 573 Wed 29 Oct – motorcycle news, tips & views
✅ Subscribe to my channel: @survivalskillsuk
🥇 Join the community at www.ko-fi.com/survivalskills
In today’s show…. European Parliament votes for new driving licence rules, drops differential speed limits for motorcycles… Shadow Minister gets behind motorcycles in bus lanes (after Tories dodged the issue for 14 years)…
new ‘cash for crash’ scam aims to harvest licence & insurance info… Phoenix Motorcycle training say lack of instructors is holding back new riders… crumbling roads in Karachi cause riders back pain… TufLuck combines ground anchor wheel chock to top protection… the BBM Hiro – another electric unicorn… KLE500 revealed for 2026… Triumph reveal Trident 800… in-depth today – why ‘commonsense’ and ‘experience’ don’t help a new rider…Read more
60 Second Science – Fix fear of riding in small manageable steps!
What if confronting your fear by cranking the intensity was exactly the wrong move? Would you consider buying a faster bike to cure your fear of speed?
That’s exactly what was suggested after I wrote a carefully-crafted article to help riders get over exactly that problem. Get a faster bike? That’s like getting a pet tarantula if you’re afraid of spiders. Or walking a tightrope over the Grand Canyon to beat your fear of heights.
We can’t overpower fear. When we fear something, dialing up the perceived risk – whether that risk is real or not – doesn’t help. It reinforces panic, no matter how we try to rationalise the fear. Read more
No Fear – overconfidence in disguise?
It’s not entirely a coincidence that several posts and even one of my 60 Second Science videos have converged on a specific topic over the last few days, although it is simply coincidence that today happens to be Hallowe’en. Anyway, last time out in this FOCUS on FRIDAY series (where I take an in-depth look at a particular topic associated with riding) I was looking at the line: “Fear is not the enemy”.
I came across this as I was watching a YouTube video the other day, when I heard this: “Fear is not your enemy; it’s your brain doing its job.” As I pointed out last week, that does sound rather like the the sort of thing you might find printed on a yoga mat or painted in swirly font above a coffee shop counter, but it did provoke me to write about fear and how it can hold us back when we’re riding. So today, let’s talk about the opposite trap; fearlessness.
Thanks to the popularity of ‘extreme sports’, there’s an entire ‘No Fear’ lifestyle grown up around the clothing brand, which was originally founded in 1989 started by a couple of motocross racers. Thanks to bold graphics and slogans, ‘No Fear’ had a significant presence in the 1990s extreme sports culture and the world of action sports. Read more
Top Tips for riding in Strong Winds Part 2
As I write this, the forecast is for the remains of Hurricane Melissa to pass close to Scotland. Melissa caused devastation across Jamaica and Haiti, and matches the intensity of the biggest storms ever recorded. And some of that wind energy could still affect us here in the UK, so keep an eye on the forecast. So it’s very topical that I cover my top tips for riding in strong winds. Last week was all about preparation – some surprisingly simple steps we can take before we try to ride, and one tip was ‘don’t’ – plan your journey so you miss the worst. But sometimes we simply have to ride anyway. So let’s see what else we can do to cope. Read more
Whiteknights Blood Bikes
Whiteknights have participated in another donated breast milk relay. Mike from the North Team transported three cool boxes of milk handed over to Ian Shearer of MCBB. Well done gents!
#bloodbikes
South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership
Highway Code refresh (214 – 215) – safely passing animals:
Is your vision road worthy?
Did you know that all motorists have a legal responsibility to ensure they meet minimum eyesight standards every time they get behind the wheel?
Research has found that between 5% to 10% of all drivers on the road at any time would not pass the 20m number plate test.
David Cartwight, Chair of the charity Eye Health UK, said: “Road safety starts with clear vision.
“Ninety percent of the information a driver uses is visual, yet many motorists are unaware of their legal responsibility to meet eyesight standards for driving.
“Worryingly, when we last surveyed motorists’ vision, 4 in 10 drivers had not had a sight test in the last two years, as recommended.”
With the reduction in daylight hours, ensuring your vision is road worthy is vital.
For more information visit: https://www.visionanddriving.info
#barnsley #rotherham #doncaster #Sheffield
Every death and serious injury on the road is a preventable tragedy. Yet, on average, five people die every day on the road in the UK and 82 are seriously injured (10-year average from 2013-2022). This has to change. Help us by sticking to the rules of the road. Brake, the road safety charity
Motorcycling Organisations
IAM RoadSmart
Has it been a while since you passed your Advanced test? 
With the clocks going back this Sunday, evenings will get darker even earlier, making driving conditions more challenging. Here are some simple, practical tips to help older drivers stay safe and confident on the roads this autumn and winter.
✅ 1. Give yourself a “Driver MOT”
Just like your car needs regular checks, so do you: Eyesight check – make sure your glasses prescription is up to date. You should be able to read a number plate from 20 metres. It’s a good idea to have your eyes tested every two years, and if you are over 60, it’s free. Hearing check – being aware of sirens, horns or engine sounds is vital. Reaction time – if you notice slower responses, consider adjusting your driving habits (e.g. avoid busy times or tricky junctions). Medication review – some medications affect alertness. Ask your GP or pharmacist if you’re unsure. Read more
Orders through third party app-based delivery account for nearly 40 percent of deliveries
One in five (22%) restaurants don’t offer training with half (51%) saying they’re not direct employees or not responsible for training
E-bikes and e-scooters now being used by almost half and a third of workers
Hot food deliveries are now more popular than dining in or takeaway, prompting calls for the apps to take road safety more seriously.
For restaurants offering the option of ordering via a food app, takeaway, or dining in, nearly half of all orders (45%) were made on the apps, indicating that Brits would rather have a night in the comfort of their own home. Read more
Are you aware of the OAP framework when out riding? 
ACEM
The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) welcomes the publication in the Official Journal of the European Union of the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1455, amending Delegated Regulation (EU) No 44/2014, and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1535, supplementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 (Cyber Resilience Act).
With these two delegated acts now published:
L-category vehicles* shall comply with the UNECE R155 on cybersecurity requirements. These requirements will apply from 11 December 2027 for new vehicle types, and from 11 June 2029 for existing vehicle types.
Consequently, L-category vehicles* will be excluded from the scope of Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 (Cyber Resilience Act)
Both delegated acts will enter into force on the twentieth day following their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, i.e. on 18 November 2025
*This applies to L-category vehicles as defined in Regulation (EU) No 168/2013, except for L1e vehicles designed to pedal. Read more
New motorcycle registrations in five of the largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK) reached 823.786 units during the first nine months of 2025. This represents a variation of approximately -7,2% compared to the same period in 2024 (887.451 units). Motorcycle registration volumes increase in Spain (183.014 units, +11,1% year-on-year) while in other markets, results remain negative for the current year with for Italy (282.407 units, -1.1%), for UK (73.343 units, -4%), for France (144.888 units, -12.4%) and for Germany (140.134 units, -24.4%).
Moped registrations reached a total volume of 110.641 units in the six European moped markets monitored by ACEM (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain). This registration volume represents a reduction of 16.4% in comparison to last year at the same period (132.303 units). Germany remains the only market showing a slight growth (12.772 units, 1,3%), while the decline is widespread in all other monitored countries: Spain (9.494 units, -3.4%), Belgium (20.123 units, -10,1%), the Netherlands (19.386 units, -19,1%), France (37.874 units -21,8%), and Italy (10.992 units, -27,3%). Read more
Motorcycle Industries Association
MCIA Urges Government to Integrate L-Category Vehicles into Integrated National Transport Strategy
The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) has submitted evidence to the Transport Select Committee’s inquiry on Joined-up journeys: achieving and measuring transport integration, calling for the full inclusion of L-Category vehicles in the UK’s upcoming Integrated National Transport Strategy.
L-Category vehicles – including mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles (micro cars) – offer compact, low and zero emission, and space-efficient transport solutions that complement walking, cycling, and public transport. When fully integrated into the transport system, they can reduce congestion, improve air quality, support last-mile logistics, and accelerate progress towards net zero. Read more
National Motorcycle Dealers Association
“September is a vital month for the new motorcycle market, which has shown some signs of recovery. However, with the overall market still affected by negative registrations, Q3 has continued to struggle with restoring consumer confidence,” commented Symon Cook, Head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), in response to the latest figures published by the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA).
New registrations in September showed a slight improvement in the scooter segment, which was up by 1.5%. Motorcycle registrations declined by -3% for the month however, interestingly this marked an improvement compared to the year-to-date figure, with September 2024 down 14.8%. Read more
National Motorcyclists Council
EMA, FIM and NMC are discussing the End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation and the periodic technical inspections of motorcycles today, before another series of meetings with Members of the European Parliament FIM and FEMA will be having in the coming days and weeks.
FEMA > Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations
FIM > FIM – Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme
NMC > National Motorcyclists Council
MANUFACTURERS’ RECALLS & ASBESTOS WARNINGS
The negative cable on the battery of your Kawasaki Meguro S1, W230 may cause the earthing connection to become unstable. The chassis engine mountings which create the earthing connection to the vehicle are coated with chassis paint and may have an insulating effect. This may cause the engine to cut out whilst it is running, on account of a loss of power to certain electrical components such as the engine-control unit. Engine-failure may result in an accident caused by loss of control.
Screws may not attach securely the front mudguard on your Yamaha XTZ690 (Ténéré 700 Rally) and can unscrew while the motorcycle is being driven, causing the mudguard to loosen. The loose screws may fall off, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries for following traffic.
Check our website for the production dates.
FEMA, Europe’s leading motorcyclists’ organisation, shows you all recalls: www.femamotorcycling.eu/recalls
ASBESTOS WARNINGS!
Tanaki brake pads. Pair of rear brake pads, intended for the following Piaggio motorcycles: X8 (125 and 200), model years: 2004 – 2005; X9 Evolution, model years: 2005 – 2007; 500cc, model years: 2003 – 2006; 500 ie, model year: 2007. The product contains asbestos fibres. Asbestos causes cancer. Product sold online, in particular via AliExpress.
Zhangxingyue brake shoe. Scooter brake shoe set intended for the following Piaggio motorcycles: Fly, Liberty S 50, Free 100, Hexagon LX4, Skipper LX, Typhoon, X8 Street 125cc and 150cc. Product sold online, in particular via AliExpress (unique product identifiers: 1005005351305154 and 12000032712646357). The brake shoe contains asbestos fibres. Asbestos causes cancer.
XHMT brake shoe. Motorcycle front brake shoe. Product sold online, in particular via AliExpress. The brake shoe contains asbestos fibres. Asbestos causes cancer.
FEMA
We are pleased to invite you to an open, online meeting with Mips, a global leader in helmet-based safety technology. This event is open to all motorcycle enthusiasts across Europe, and we encourage you to share the invitation with your members via your website and social media. Information about the meeting is posted on our website > www.femamotorcycling.eu
Date & Time: 10 November at 19:00h CET (7pm)
Open to: All motorcycle enthusiasts
REGISTER HERE!
Mips specializes in helmet-based safety and is a market leader in this field. Based on an ingredient brand business model, the Mips® safety system is sold to the global helmet industry. The technology is built on more than 25 years of research, testing, and development in collaboration with KTH Royal Institute of Technology and the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden. Mips’ headquarters, including its product and test facility, are located in Stockholm, where 87 employees work across research and development, sales, marketing, and administration. To date, Mips has partnered with over 150 helmet manufacturers, and the Mips® safety system has been included in more than 1,000 helmet models worldwide.
Learn more at www.mipsprotection.com Read more
On Tuesday 21 October 2025, the European Parliament confirmed an update of EU driving licence rules that aim to contribute to road safety and reduce collisions with almost 20,000 lives lost on EU roads annually.
MEPs backed a review of EU driving licence rules introducing provisions on novice drivers, a digital licence, and driving disqualification.
New training requirements – To qualify for a licence a driver’s test will now have to include knowledge on blind spot risks, driver-assistance systems, the safe opening of doors, and phone usage distraction risks. As a result of demands by MEPs, new training and testing requirements will place a greater emphasis on risk awareness of pedestrians, children, cyclists and other vulnerable road users. Read more
British Motorcyclists Federation
The Auto Cycle Union (ACU) is working to prevent a rash of fake helmet approval stickers, which were being offered for sale online. The ‘ACU Approved’ gold stickers, which are required on helmets for racing and track days in the UK, are usually applied to approved helmets when they are new – riders don’t need to add them later.
Supported by Trading Standards and legal partners, the ACU has had over 5000 fake stickers removed from the market. “This is a serious issue for rider safety,” said Matthew Edwards-Wear, CEO of the ACU. “Anyone using a helmet with a fake or tampered sticker is putting themselves in serious danger.” The genuine stickers bear the words ‘British Motorcycle Sport’ and the ‘ACU Approved’ logo – all helmets carrying these stickers have undergone independent analysis by the ACU. Edwards-Wear added: “Our work will continue to make sure we eradicate any illegal activity that threatens the safety of competitors and fundamentally goes against what we stand for as a members’ organisation.” Read more
As part of Tyre Safety Month, the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) is joining forces with TyreSafe to help remind riders that a few simple tyre checks can make a huge difference to safety, performance and enjoyment out on the road. Throughout October we’re encouraging all motorcyclists to take a moment to inspect their tyres, because the right pressure, tread and condition could be what keeps you upright this season.
Why Motorcycle Tyres Matter
Your tyres are the only part of your motorcycle that actually touch the road. Every aspect of riding, acceleration, braking, steering and cornering depends on this small contact patch. Keeping tyres in top condition isn’t just about performance, it’s about safety. Read more
Motorcycle Action Group
*** Action Required ****
And all is required is a few taps on your phone!
Firstly like this post because it makes Facebook share this post to more followers.
Secondly, share this post to your local MAG pages too. (Don’t forget to check that this introduction goes with your post).
And finally, you’ll need to click on the Liberal Democrats Facebook page. Find the original post and like my comment. It asks for the Liberal Democrats to support MAG’s Fight Motorcycle Theft campaign. (I will put a direct link in a comment below)
Thanks in advance,
Michael Armstrong
MAG Vice Chair. Read more
New Rider Hub
What is Ridefree?
Ridefree is an award-winning enhancement to compulsory basic training (CBT), consisting of pre-course eLearning modules. Its aim is to help you prepare for your CBT and riding on the road.
How can it help me?
CBT should be an enjoyable experience. But there’s a lot to learn, and it’s normal to feel anxious about your first bike ride. The good news is that Ridefree will help you become a better and more confident rider…Read more.
Aged 16-24 years? Get ready to fuel your passion for two wheels!
The National Young Rider Forum is giving away five pairs of day tickets to this year’s Motorcycle Live, which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, between 15-23 November.
From the latest bikes and cutting-edge technology to thrilling live displays and unforgettable experiences, Motorcycle Live brings together riders. Whether you’re a seasoned biker, an aspiring rider, or simply curious about the world of biking, It’s YOUR show!
To be in with a chance of winning one of the pairs of tickets, all you have to do is be aged between 16-24 years & answer one question: Read more
Which of these seasonal hazards should young motorcyclists be mindful of this Autumn?
The National Young Rider Forum has paused its Try Ride project as the clocks fall back this Sunday (26 October).
Working with Phoenix Motorcycling Training and Esitu hazard perception specialists, the NYRF has incentivised more than 100 potential young riders to complete on-line learning and a practical riding experience, to offer them enhanced knowledge and skills before they take their CBT course.
With the increased hours of darkness and inclement weather conditions that late Autumn and Winter can bring, NYRF will use this time to analyse the results from this first part of the Try Ride project with a view to launching it again in Spring 2026.
Look after your bike/moped and it will look after you. Carrying out a few simple checks before each ride could save your life. Use POWDERS
Petrol
- Do you have enough for your journey?
- Is the reserve tap off?
- Check there are no leaks Read more…