15 October 2009 Media Statement

Government moves will prejudice motorcyclists

Most bikers will see the Government’s plans to hike up motorcycle levies as irrefutable proof of the prejudice in the system against motorcyclists, says Labour MP Rick Barker.

“The decision, announced by ACC Minister Nick Smith yesterday, is arbitrary on a number of fronts.

“The cut-off points in terms of cc ratings don’t take into account the relative power of motorcycles,” says Rick Barker.

“It is incompetent to treat a vintage 650cc motorcycle, which wheezes and gasps down the road as more dangerous than a 250cc modern bike capable of doing more than 200kph.

“The proposed changes also ignore the fact that many motorcyclists own multiple bikes. I have friends who own up to seven bikes, each for different purposes: off-road, trail, touring and collectables – and they could end up paying about $5000 just to ride their bikes. They can only ride one at a time.

“They will probably have to go the bank manager to ride their bikes, if Nick Smith has his way, to try to afford to pay the levies,” Rick Barker says.

“The decision undermines the no-fault aspect of the ACC Scheme, particularly when most motorcycle accidents are caused by cars.

“How is it fair that a motorcyclist is knocked off their bike by a car and then charged much higher levies for the experience? This means the victim pays.

“Motorcyclists are of the view that there should be no distinction between them and car users,” Rick Barker says.

“This plan is to simply drive bikes off the road, despite the fact they are more environmentally friendly than cars and help to reduce carbon emissions.

“Surely the solution is not encouraging the use of three-tonne four wheel drive planet-thrashers?”

Rick Barker (Triumph Rocket III rider)

ENDS

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