The European Commission wants European motorbikes to have ABS, cleaner engines and daytime headlights starting in 2013, according to a Reuters report. The proposed regulations include details of future emissions regulations and changes to the detailed technical specifications of all bikes. The most significant element is, that EU wants to make ABS a legal requirement on all new models. Even bikes under 125cc will have to be fitted either with ABS or with combined brakes, while everything over that size will be forced to have anti-lock as standard.
The proposal must be debated and approved by EU member countries before becoming law
“We will considerably increase the safety of these vehicles and reduce their harmful emissions,” said EU Industry Commissioner Antonio Tajani, who introduced the plan. Toxic emissions of motorcycles, such as hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide, are to be tackled from 2014 onwards.Tajani wants manufacturers to start reporting CO2 output and fuel efficiency from 2013. Other changes include new emissions regulations including Euro 4 and Euro 5 limits due in 2013 and 2017. Medium- and high-performance bikes will have to be equipped with anti-lock braking systems to minimize skidding during emergency braking. Over 5,500 motorcyclists died in 2008, at a rate 18 times greater than for car passengers. Every year in the EU between 30,000 and 72,000 motorcycle riders suffer a serious injury.
