UK: motorcycles doing the commuter hard yards

Motorcycles are making a bigger contribution to getting commuters to work than any other mode of transport in the UK, according to Motorcycle Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) analysis of a recent national travel survey.

The survey shows that over half (52 percent) of all motorcycle trips in 2008 were made for the purpose of commuting, compared to just 34 percent of bicycle journeys and 22 percent of car journeys.

But the really damning statistics from the survey are that 60 percent of car journeys in the UK are still single occupancy, and that increases to 84 percent for business trips and commuting.

Commonsense would say that if these solo drivers switched to two wheels, congestion would fall and journey times drop dramatically.

According to the MCIA, these findings also challenge the myth that bikers are more interested in leisure pursuits than the daily convenience of a powered two-wheeler, and that it strengthens the case for motorcycling to take its place at the heart of mainstream transport policy as an everyday, practical mode of transport.

"Motorcycle and scooter riders are capitalising on the cost-effective, practical benefits of using a powered two-wheeler during some of the busiest times of the day," said MCAI spokesperson Sheila Rainger.

"It is important that the government and employers recognise the contribution riders are making to ensure workers are getting to the 'office' quicker and cheaper than some of their colleagues.

"Cheaper parking, secure and covered parking and access to bus lanes are just some of the small steps that will improve a biker's experience."