UK Government proposes new motorcycle

The UK Department for Transport (DfT) is proposing to bring motorcycles under existing emissions regulations, despite acknowledging it has limited evidence to show the change is needed. The proposed amendment to Regulation 61A would require bikes to maintain their original factory emissions standards throughout their lives.

This move could render many common modifications effectively illegal. Alterations like decat pipes, aftermarket exhausts, and engine remaps that increase emissions beyond a bike's original certified level would fall foul of the new rules. Older motorcycles could also become non-compliant as their emissions control systems naturally deteriorate over time.

The missing evidence

When asked by the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) for the evidence justifying motorcycles' inclusion, the DfT's response was unsatisfactory. MAG has established that the Department does not possess the specific analysis or evidence it was asked to provide. The DfT's position appears to be that, since no good reason to exclude motorcycles has been identified, they may as well be included. A MAG spokesperson summarized the situation, stating the Department "does not have the analysis or evidence it was asked to provide to justify including motorcycles."

Regulation 61A is a current UK law that prohibits tampering with or modifying a vehicle's emissions-control systems. It is the legal basis for exhaust emissions checks during MOT tests for cars and other vehicles. The regulation currently does not apply to Category L vehicles, which include motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds. The DfT's proposed change aims to close this gap.

The change would not force older bikes to meet modern standards. A motorcycle built to Euro 3 specifications would not suddenly need to comply with Euro 5 limits. Instead, each bike would be expected to continue meeting the emissions standard that was in force when it was first registered.

Potential impact on riders

The proposal could affect motorcycles already on UK roads, potentially reaching back through several generations of emissions standards. This has implications for owners of modified bikes, the used motorcycle market, and sellers. The DfT has not produced detailed evidence showing how many motorcycles might be impacted or what the wider consequences for riders and the industry would be.

There is a clear argument for preventing the deliberate removal of emissions equipment. The unresolved question is whether motorcycles need to be included under this specific law when the government cannot demonstrate the scale of the motorcycle-specific problem it aims to solve. The consultation on the proposed changes closed on 6 September. The DfT will now consider the responses before deciding how to proceed.