Motorcycling News
On June 28th 2010 the European Commission launched its new "Motorcycle Platform" to engage with motorcyclists across the 27 member states of the EU. This decision is strongly welcomed by the FIM, Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme, the governing body of motorcycling.
Through its European national federations, the FIM represents millions of riders in their involvement in all forms of motorcycling in Europe.
According to FIM, this European Motorcycling Platform will give riders the opportunity to put their views directly to decision makers, including in the European Commission that is responsible among others for initiating legislation on road safety, cleaner and more efficient mobility.
The Commission will propose soon new regulations on technical standards – including anti-lock braking systems (ABS) – riding tests, technical inspections etc.
Together with its friends of the Motorcycling Community, FIM has represented the views of riders to the European Union for the last 22 years. Isabelle Kardacz, Head of the Road Safety Unit at the European Commission, spoke with the FIM before the launch. She is keen to see this new cooperation develop.
FIM’s CEO Guy Maitre comments: "We have much to offer the new platform. For example, expertise in rider training developed through our international network since 1996. Also the technology transfer between sport and street riding in protective clothing and helmets as well as technical aspects of motorcycle design. Infrastructure is another area where the knowledge gained in sport can give positive benefits to highway engineers. As a worldwide body we can also bring to the EU expertise from riders outside Europe."
This season FIM is hosting the EU funded ROSA project at rounds of MotoGP in Europe. This project uses the experience and visibility of these popular racing events to foster the development of best practice in motorcycle safety for highway engineers.