Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists – Weekly Newsletter 31 October 2025
Table of Contents
Editorial
It’s coming up fast! We are referring to the SAM Christmas Party on the 1st December 2025. The booking form is now available on the SAM website and in the newsletters. Our ‘volunteer’ shopper is working hard to ensure that SAM Club members and patrons get some amazing raffle prizes to take home. We had a couple of queries on social media this week about the design of the, very popular, FREE Biker I.C.E. Card. We’ve updated the post and the newsletter item. We urge every biker to carry one and keep it up to date. We also encourage riders to complete a Biker Down course. Even if you have completed one some time ago – we suggest every two years – you can update your knowledge and skills. Just as important is to take a mate along and spread the word. You may save a life one day and won’t that feel really good.
There is good news about road casualties in our region. They are down. Whilst not at zero yet, they are travelling in the right direction. The SAM Charity is here for the long haul in developing bikers into advanced riders. It’s a safer way to travel by bike.
In other news, there has seen a mix of dramatic industry developments, political and transport announcements. There are lots of fresh opportunities for young riders. The UK motorcycle scene is in transition, balancing tough economic realities with some exciting innovation from manufacturers.
Domestic Market and Political Shifts
Motorcycling remains trapped in the lethargy of wider government transport policy reforms to training, test and licensing. The DfT seems to be sitting on its hands, or is it paralysed with indecision? The current lack of clarity keeps would-be riders uncertain about future routes into two-wheeled transport. This week, IAM RoadSmart reported concerns about the risks posed by unlicensed, untrained, fast food delivery riders. Some are riding illegally modified eBikes. Desperate young workers trying to get a start in life. Their working lives are highly competitive, often controlled by responding to the work available on mobile apps.
Other developments include the updated MOT rules came into effect this month. The tightening of inspection standards and adding photo verification aim to improve safety and prevent fraud. There is also a review of classic vehicle exemptions. At the same time, local congestion and clean air measures are advancing. Oxford introduced a new £5 daily fee for cars without permits to pass six new charge zones. This was justified as a congestion reduction pilot. Together with Transport for London’s continued ULEZ enforcement, these policies add complexity to commuting and leisure travel for bikers.
Industry and Manufacturer News
Globally, the motorcycle industry is in flux. On the positive side, Triumph’s continued growth story dominates headlines. Following record sales exceeding 141,000 bikes in its last financial year, the Hinckley firm announced plans to release 33 new models within six months — from the new Trident 800 to its TXP electric off-road bikes aimed at younger riders. Triumph’s TF450-X enduro machine, already in dealerships, strengthens its competitive off-road ambitions.
Norton also confirmed a £200m investment from the TVS Motor Company. This will fund a new, UK-built, flagship line, set for global debut at November’s EICMA show in Milan. In contrast, there is still turmoil at Harley-Davidson. The financial crisis has deepened. The US brand reported 23% sales losses and £140m (US$175m) first-half losses. Polaris exited the segment entirely, selling Indian Motorcycles to private equity . President Trump’s tariffs, driving up the cost of exports, a Harley that sells for $28,000 in the US now exceeds $100,000 in parts of Europe. Even the most well-healed bikers will readily look for alternative rides.
Market and Cultural Trends
In the UK, Bennetts’ BikeSocial reported that while the 2025 registration figures appear weak, this masks a surge in discounted 74-plate bikes — many pre-registered late last year to avoid Euro 5+ restrictions. Bargains abound for learners and A2 riders, with bikes like Honda’s GB350S emerging as popular entry-level choices. However, independent dealers continue to struggle on thin profit margins.
Globally, heritage and modern classic styling maintains a strong appeal among young riders seeking affordable individuality. At the same time, electric adoption remains subdued amid policy uncertainty and a very patchy charging infrastructure.
Events and Youth Focus
At home, Cadwell Park hosted the British Supermoto season finale on 18–19 October, drawing strong youth participation. TMX coverage of late-October trials events shows similar enthusiasm in grassroots off-road riding. Collectively, these point to a new generation of riders more interested in skill development and lightweight performance than high-cost machines.
Overall, this week has underscored both resilience and reinvention in motorcycling—a community balancing changing laws, economic headwinds and paralysed road safety policy hurdles. Still, we have an ongoing love for freedom on two wheels! The SAM Charity volunteers will go on, helping riders take care of the best part of a bike – the rider’s brain! Ride safe and happy reading.
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
3rd November 2025
7.30pm start for meeting at 8pm. Gives you time to catch up on what you’ve missed!
Three Merry Lads
610 Redmires Road
Sheffield
S10 4LJ
Next SAM Committee Meeting
30th October 2025
Details to be arranged
Online Motorcycling News
General
The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland have launched a new campaign, encouraging drivers aged 60 years and over to reflect on their driving skills and take steps to stay safe and confident behind the wheel.
The Fitness to Drive campaign was launched by Fiona Hyslop, Scotland’s cabinet secretary for transport, and Michael McDonnell, director of Road Safety Scotland, as the driver MOT workshop begins its tour around Scotland to bring the campaign to drivers across the nation.
In 2024, 29% of car drivers killed or seriously injured on Scotland’s roads were aged 60 years and over. With more than 850,000 drivers in this age group in Scotland, the campaign highlights the importance of recognising changes that can come with age and taking simple, practical steps to address them.
These include booking regular eye examinations, reducing night-time driving, avoiding busy junctions at peak hours, and refreshing driving skills with a mature driving review.
The driver MOT roadshow will raise awareness of these measures throughout autumn and winter with a series of events taking place at shopping centres, garden centres and community hubs across Scotland. Drivers can drop by for information and reassurance, as well as advice on how to adapt driving habits to continue driving safely for longer. Read more
Motorists are being urged to look out for ‘mass cycle rides’ taking place across Britain as part of a campaign calling for improved safety standards for a specific group of riders.
More than 40 ‘glow rides’ are scheduled for the evening of Wednesday 22 October to highlight the need for safer routes for female cyclists riding after dark.
Cycling UK, the charity co-ordinating the events, said women are ‘fed up’ with poor cycling provision and are skying away from riding over major concerns about motorists passing too close.
Riders taking part in the awareness campaign are being urged to ‘light up the night’ by adding additional lights to their bicycles.
As such, drivers need to be prepared to see large gatherings of cyclists on the roads as they head home from work that evening and ensure they’re up to date on rules regarding how they overtake riders, especially those in large groups. Read more
Official details remain scarce, but the plucky funster is making its public debut alongside a range of two- and four-wheeled designs at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, which runs from October 30 until November 9.Although wearing 1970s-inspired styling and large balloon tyres like the combustion single-cylinder VanVan 125 that first arrived in the UK in 2003, the battery alternative features a flatter bench seat and thin neck bodywork leading up to the headstock – not dissimilar to Honda’s £3899 Dax 125. Read more…
Earlier this month, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) completed the Mig La Pass, as the new highest motorable road in the world. Previously, the Umling La used to hold this title. Days past its inauguration, we now have the first two-wheeler rider at Mig La. Interestingly, he wasn’t riding a fancy adventure tourer or an expensive dual-sport, but a rather humble Yamaha RX 135. Naveed Alam, a rider from Karnataka, has shared several videos on his Instagram handle, giving details of the achievement. 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. To get your FREE Biker I.C.E. Card simply click on the button in the drop-down form. This will open the it in the browser pdf reader, on a new tab. You can either download it for printing or print it directly from your browser. Entering you information into the FREE Biker I.C.E. Card is simple – just fill in the boxes before you print it out. You control who will see the information. We have used it to help a wide range of health care staff. They are very grateful that they do not have to make a phone call to some paid service, go online, or wait for your health information to be sent. It’s as fast as possible and you are not waiting whilst the information is retrieved from somewhere else. You get treated FASTER! Help the health care staff to help you and you’ll both be happier.
Why was the SAM Biker I.C.E. developed?
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 in getting you the help you need. 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...
According to a statement released by the body, over 5000 counterfeit products have already been removed from the market – with a growing number of unauthorised stickers prompting action, supported by both legal partners and Trading Standards.“This is a serious issue for rider safety,” CEO of the ACU, Matthew Edwards-Wear said. “Anyone using a helmet with a fake or tampered sticker is putting themselves in serious danger. We’re committed to stamping this fraudulent activity out and protecting our competitors.” Read more…
Adventure & Touring
The fog swirled in, swiftly covering any recollection of a beacon. No matter which way I tu rned my head, I couldn’t shake the thick invasion. Direction became murky as I tried to rely on intuition as my inner GPS.
I heard the voices of my loved ones calling to me from different locations, but the sounds of home faded into the distance. I was lost… and, I hadn’t even left my head.
As I slipped further into the automation of daily routine, the idea that it had been three years since my last solo weighed heavily. There was just one prescription to lift that “fog.” And, that could only be made by the road doctor—Jack B. Nimble, my DRZ.
His prescription was: “Three weeks on the road, solo, where I am the needle, and you are the thread, as we stitch together the most beautiful tapestry of connection with nature, with friends, with ourselves.”
“As usual Jack, you’re a wise little bike. Think I’ll take heed.” Read more…
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…
Forty riders rolled out from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, for the inaugural ADV Cannonball Rally on October 6th, 2025, the first-ever coast-to-coast challenge of its kind. Eight days, ten states, and over 3,500 miles later, the group crossed the finish line at the Portofino Hotel in Redondo Beach, California. Out of forty starters, only two riders chose to DNF, an impressive testament to the grit and determination that define the ADV spirit.
Riders ranged from their 30s to their 70s and came aboard an eclectic mix of machines: a sea of GSAs, a couple of RTs, a pair of Pan Americas, a Can-Am, a DR650, even a classic CBX, and one brave soul piloting a 900-pound Indian bagger.
The ADV Cannonball Rally is a competitive cross-country checkpoint rally built for those who crave adventure with a dash of friendly competition. Points are tracked and calculated automatically via the custom-built Rally App; which the organizers have now made available for other events. Riders navigate over 100 checkpoints on both paved and optional off-pavement routes, earning bonus points in true Cannonball fashion for those chasing the overall winner’s trophy. While there are only “steak knives” for second place, many participants proudly chased the Checkpoint Crusher or Rough Rider awards. Every finisher, however, earned the coveted ADV Cannonball medal and the right to brag. Read more…
All those leaves turning color are gorgeous, aren’t they? If you live somewhere that has seasons and you know what it’s like when the cold weather is actually painful, then you probably also have a nice fall season in there somewhere. It might only last a couple of weeks, just to spite you and those photos you want to take, but it’s there.
And if you’ve spent a good amount of time already riding your motorcycle in it, then chances are good that you may already know some of what Dave from Canyon Chasers has to say in this video. He’s a motorcycle instructor with a lot of years under his belt, so it’s almost like a really good public service announcement when he puts out a video like this, running down a ton of useful information about keeping safe while riding during one of the most beautiful times of the year. Read more…
History & Custom
There are a few details that make or break a custom motorcycle build, but none are as critical to the final stance as the choice of tires. The right rubber provides the perfect profile and period-correct aesthetic that ties an entire project together. And as builders continue to create stunning restomods and restorations, the demand for vintage-style tires has never been higher. However, this creates a dilemma: how do you achieve that classic look without compromising modern safety and performance?
For years, the only option was to hunt down New Old Stock (NOS) tires or run modern rubber that looked out of place. That’s no longer the case. Riding on actual vintage tires is a terrible idea; decades-old rubber compounds become hard and brittle, offering little to no grip. Thankfully, manufacturers have stepped up, creating a whole new category of tires that blend iconic tread patterns with contemporary construction and compounds. This is the best of both worlds: classic style with the grip, longevity, and peace of mind you expect from a modern tire. Read more…
Kevin Williams
In Elevenses on Sunday’s, I usually round off the show with an ‘in-depth’ look at a particular topic. On Sunday’s it’s something to do with the motorcycle industry or road safety, and the feature I had lined up for this time last week was to tackle an important question; “as Honda’s Vietnam sales slump, where are their electric bikes?”
If you’ve been following Elevenses, you’ll know that back in the summer, Hanoi announced city centre bans on ICE motorcycles as soon as July next year. Ho Chi Minh City soon announced a similar plan.
Why? The answer is simple. Air quality. Both Vietnamese cities have some of the most polluted air in the world, and the upcoming ban on ICE engines aims to clean that air up. Read more…
“The track is for leaning, not the street”
I’m often baffled by some of the items that pop up purporting to be ‘good advice’ online. Take this particular Facebook Reel video, that’s been shared by MotoShelby, a female rider with more than 200k followers.
The short video shows a rider – seemingly in the US – over-cooking a left-hand bend. Read more…
Fight the Fear: “I can’t lean”
This is the third in a new series aimed at fixing problems that arise when riding. But before going any further, I’ll just remind everyone reading this that these articles are designed to help a very specific group – those riders who are having some very specific problems.
Yes, these may be skills covered on basic training courses, and as someone rather tartly told me “every rider should know how”, and someone else explained to me that “they shouldn’t have passed the bike test if they didn’t know how”, the fact is that sometimes surprisingly basic riding issues DO slip through the net. The same problems occasionally affect the more experienced riders too as they develop issues later in their riding career, frequently after a near-miss or even a crash, or occasionally as the result of a change from one style of bike to another. Read more…
In today’s show…. £20,000 reward offered to identify third shooter who escaped on motorcycle… Louvre jewel thieves escape on motorcycles… one dead as three bikes & car crash near Brize Norton… Morrisons filling station dispenses wrong fuel from pumps… 13,000 drivers get fines from average speed cams… Google Maps routes Thai driver onto unfinished motorway… new tool offers promise of better-designed anti-skid treatments… Yamaha dirt bikes get password-protected engine start feature… Tracer 7 gets Yamaha’s auto-shift system… TVS likely to launch 450 adventure bike… in-depth today – ‘Too Fast, Too Soon’; sound advice or meaningless mantra? Read more…
You know the saying — one’s an accident, two’s a coincidence… but three?
If one event is random, and the second is just a coincidence, a third indicates a deeper underlying issue – a pattern. Here we’ve got three riders, one after another, having identical crashes in exactly the same spot.
Now, look closely — the van’s signalling before the first rider even starts the overtake. That’s the first red flag. But once committed, they see the van slowing then grab a handful of brake, on a wet surface while crossing a speed bump.
This isn’t bad luck — it’s poor risk perception. The riders aren’t reading the clues. The junction, the indicator, the start of the turn — all say “back off.” But with three riders focused on getting past, those warnings just don’t register. Read more…
“Fear is not the enemy”
I was watching a YouTube video the other day and came across an interesting quote:
“Fear is not your enemy; it’s your brain doing its job.”
At first glance, that sounds like the sort of thing you might find printed on a yoga mat or painted in swirly font above a coffee shop counter. It reminded me of the mantra about fear in Frank Herbert’s book ‘Dune’ which heads off into overly-dense philosophical debates (in my opinion, anyway). But back to the ‘Fear is not your enemy’ expression; strip away the soundbite wisdom, and there turn out to be some solid truths lurking just out of sight.
Fear is a natural and necessary survival mechanism. It is an ancient, hardwired response that evolved to protect us from danger. When we perceive a threat – whether that’s our distant ancestor realising the sabre-toothed tiger is eyeing them up as a tasty morsal for lunch or whether it’s the modern rider spotting the vehicle is beginning to turn across our path – our brain triggers an ancient and automatic physiological response. Read more…
Top Tips for riding in Strong Winds Part 1
Most years, Britain is battered by the decayed remains of Atlantic hurricanes that can produce strong gales and winter storms are common. Even in mid-summer, a thunderstorm can generate surprisingly strong, if localised winds. And the rise in unpredictable weather patterns due to climate change makes it even more likely that the country will experience more frequent high-wind events. Other countries have their own unique weather systems – I’ve ridden in gale-force winds in New Zealand, and one of the most exhausting rides I’ve ever had was 200 miles due south across the Mohave Desert in the US with a steady 50 mph side wind – more on that in a moment. And of course it’s always windier on the coast or high in the hills. 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
An annual report published by the Department for Transport today (Thursday 25 September) shows a reduction in the number of people seriously injured in road traffic collisions in our county.
The figures, which cover January to December 2024, show just under a six per cent reduction in serious injuries and a three per cent reduction in all injuries.
Tragically, however, 43 people lost their lives on South Yorkshire roads – an increase from 39 people in the previous year.
Kilvinder Vigurs Deputy Mayor and Chair of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership (SYSRP) said we must think about the victims.
“It is incredibly painful to receive a knock on your door from someone telling you that your loved one won’t be coming home or has been seriously injured,” she said.
“I can’t begin to think about how distressing it must be for all those involved in the collision scene response, and I thank those emergency and support services. Read more
Superheroes with a difference are being called upon this winter to help keep South Yorkshire citizens safe on our roads.
As we prepare for the clock change, members of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership (SYSRP), are summonsing those with the most responsibility on our roads to act as guardians and protect lives during the dark nights.
A spokeswoman for SYSRP said: “The return of the darker nights leads to increasingly challenging travelling conditions, with fewer daylight hours, wet and wintery weather and reduced visibility.
“These external factors put vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders at increased risk, so we all need to play a part in keeping them safe.
“In particular, we are calling on those who can cause the greatest harm due to the size of their vehicle – drivers of cars, vans, lorries and HGVs – to acknowledge the extra responsibility.
“We are asking drivers to give themselves additional time to react as well as ensuring that they leave the minimum distance required by law when overtaking cyclists and horse riders. Read more
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
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
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
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
The Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) has today (26th August) issued new guidance to some of its vehicle registration policies, making the rules around the notification of modifications to already registered motorcycles old and new more straightforward.
These changes follow a call for evidence which NMC member, the Vintage Motor Cycle Club (VMCC) responded to with the support of the NMC. Organisations in the four-wheeled historic vehicle sector also responded. As a result, the DVLA is replacing its existing policies on rebuilt and radically altered vehicles with three new sets of guidance that will apply to all vehicles, regardless of age. Read more
FEMA
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
𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗨𝘀 𝗜𝗻- 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝘀 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗼𝗻
Join Colin in video format as he meets with Dave Pearson, Wirral MAG Representative, to discuss the exciting progress made at Wallasey Town Hall toward securing motorcycle access to bus lanes across the Liverpool City Region. Learn about the campaign’s latest milestones and the potential timeline for implementation.
Want to stay updated and support the cause? Join the Wirral MAG Facebook group today!
Want to access more video content? Subscribe to the MAG YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MotorcycleActionGroupMAG
#Riders4BusLanes #MotorcycleAccess #WirralMAG #LetUsIn
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.
It can be hard when you are buying your first bike to make sure you get it right. This page gives you lots of advice so your first bike can be a great one.
Here are some top tips when buying a bike:
Make sure you are the correct legal age to ride the type of motorcycle you want to ride
Make sure all the documents are in order. Ask to see the V5C vehicle registration document (logbook), any service records, repair bills, inspection reports and handbooks
Remember that a V5C vehicle registration document is not proof of ownership; it records who the registered keeper is for legal purposes
An MOT certificate simply confirms that the motorcycle passed the test on the day it was submitted. It only covers the specific tests required and does not provide an absolute guarantee of the general quality of the motorcycle. If you have a problem with an MOT contact the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), which enforces the law relating to these tests
You can check the MOT history of a vehicle on GOV.UK website; it holds the test date, expiry date, test result, the mileage recorded when it was tested, the reason for an MOT failure and any advisory notice items
An older motorcycle with high mileage may not be as good as a newer motorcycle with low mileage. It should still be fit for use on the road and in condition that reflects its age and price. Fair wear and tear are not considered to be a fault Read more
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…