The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has published the results of its snapshot survey of motorcyclists’ attitudes to potential phasing out of petrol motorcycles.
MAG recently ran a survey to establish a snapshot of riders’ opinions about what remains technically a potential phase-out of petrol-powered motorcycles. Motorcycles are not currently included in the Government’s announcement of the 2030 end-to-sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans. It is widely accepted, however, that motorcycles are likely to be covered in future announcements as the country works to decarbonise transport.
The survey attracted a total of 4,805 responses. Of these, 1,575 responses were from MAG members. The remaining 3,230 were from non-members. It is assumed that all respondents would consider themselves to be motorcycle enthusiasts due to the channels used to promote the survey. This was not a randomised sample of all motorcycle riders.
The first question covered opinion on a potential phase-out of the sale of new petrol motorcycles. We refer to the phase-out as a ban for brevity. Just 8% of respondents accepted a potential ban, 36% would want to see a ban delayed and 55% were completely opposed. It is noted that complete opposition was higher amongst non-members than members (48% of members compared to 59% of non-members were completely opposed.)
Eighty-three percent of all respondents want to see MAG work with other groups opposed to the ban of petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles.
The third question probed attitudes to electric motorcycles. Asked whether they would stop riding altogether, keep existing petrol motorcycles running for as long as possible, or adopt electric before the end of any phase-out, 31% said they would hang up their crash helmets, 56% would resist the switch for as long as possible and just 13% would make the switch before it was unavoidable.
MAG Chair, Selina Lavender, commented:
“I was delighted by the level of response to the survey and I would like to thank all those that took the time to let us know their opinions. MAG always represents the views of all riders, regardless of their choice of motorcycle. We have worked hard to develop the channels that get riders opinions heard by Government. We will not misrepresent those opinions. If you care about motorcycling, you can rely on MAG to voice your opinions at the highest levels. Please do ensure you join or renew your membership of MAG. Your subscription will help support our work to ensure motorcycling has a bright future.”