Motorbike age laws under review

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Motorcycle insurance companies are monitoring a consultation on plans to raise the minimum age that motorcyclists can ride the most powerful bikes.

The minimum age could be raised from 21 to 24, while a new test or training programme for younger riders who wished to move to more powerful machines gradually could also be made available, according to junior transport minister Paul Clark.

The plans, which are part of the EU's Third Directive on Driving Licences, were hailed as an "opportunity not to be missed" by motorbike campaign groups.

In a written Commons statement, Mr Clark said other changes included a new category for car and light van drivers wishing to tow a medium-sized trailer, with qualification via a test or training programme. Drivers of buses and lorries must also renew their licences and demonstrate medical fitness every five years - as opposed to the present requirement of five-yearly renewal only after the age of 45.

These changes would only apply to people first acquiring driving licences on or after January 19 2013. Mr Clark also warned of further changes in the future, such as the withdrawal of all paper licences by 2033.

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