License changes bring about a small engine revolution
With the recent introduction of the EC 3rd Driving License Directive on the 19th January 2013 the motorcycle industry has had to shift its focus to smaller machines. Essentially capping the engine size that young riders can use, the license changes have opened up a new market for these smaller motorcycles.
Research conducted by MCE Insurance has shown that the 125cc and under sector has been on the up over the last few years with people switching to motorbikes to save on fuel, insurance and road tax in these tough economic times. This has created real demand for these smaller capacity motorbikes, new and used. Prices vary on quality with cheap Chinese options for under £1000 up to the Yamaha R125 which costs over £4000.
Once on the road young riders have a BIG decision to make:
A: Opt to take the A1 test, giving them an A1 license which means they can ride without 'L' plates.
B: Wait until they are 19 and take the A2 test.
Under the A2 License they can ride any bike up to 47bhp and again manufacturers have made steps towards this offering a range of bikes under that umbrella. Kawasaki have the Ninja 300, KTM the 390 Duke and Honda have brought out a range of 500cc machines in different styles to suit any rider. There are also a number of 250cc bikes that have reared their heads.
MCE Insurance, the UK's number one provider of motorcycle insurance, is dedicated to industry expansion and the general growth of the motorcycling community. Julian Edwards, MCE's Group Chief Executive said, "The EU Driving License Directive has changed the UK's motorcycling world forever but this doesn't have to be a bad thing. It's great to see that the big manufacturers are reacting swiftly to this and offering fantastic new ranges of bikes for the A1 and A2 license. Here at MCE we're ready to cover these new riders and bikes with our fantastic 'any bike, any age, any model policy'. We also offer a protected no claims bonus for anyone who's got at least one year's no claims bonus, whatever their age!"
To get a quote with 3 months free insurance give the MCE Team a call at their UK based call centre on 0844 338 68 88 or visit www.mcebikes.com.
02.04.13 - Big Ed
