MCI call for feedback on DSA plans
Added on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008 by Carole Nash Editor | No Comments
Learner riders face a new modular test should the proposals win approval.
The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI) and the RMI Motorcycle Retailers’ Association (MRA) have joined forces to urge motorcycle manufacturers, retailers and trainers to respond to the consultation on proposals for the new motorcycle test outlined by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).
As revealed on Insidebikes last week, the DSA is proposing a new modular testing regime which will see the off-road and on-road elements of the test taken separately. Compared with previous proposals for a single test, this allows greater flexibility for locations at which to deliver the on-road element of the test and has been welcomed by sections of the motorcycle community as a means of ensuring that motorcycling remains accessible to as many potential riders as possible.
The industry has broadly welcomed the DSA’s proposals but the MCI has urged motorcycle groups to demonstrate their support for the new scheme in light of recent problems and confusion over the motorcycle testing system.
Earlier this year, the DSA was forced to postpone plans to adopt a new testing system due to delays in the preparation of new “advanced” testing centres which offered facilities for off-road assessments.
“The issue of motorcycle testing has been fraught, culminating in the recent deferral of the new test for six months,” said MCI chief executive Steve Kenward. “But we have to get this right to ensure the sector is properly protected. There are enough business pressures as it is, so we will be encouraging all our members from manufacturers through to accessory suppliers to respond positively both individually and collectively via their representative bodies.”
Martin Marshall, MRA chairman, said: “Modular testing appears to present the best way forward for the motorcycle market as government seeks to meet the requirements of the Second EC Driving Licence Directive. We are encouraging every organisation in the industry to respond to the consultation to ensure the right outcome is delivered. The options for the industry should modular testing not be adopted, are extremely limited and are almost certain to have a very negative impact on the market.”
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