With the announcements this week of the modest easing of lockdown restrictions across Britain (devolved administrations still have their own lockdown restrictions in place), there has been a considerable shift from people in certain sectors seeking ways to return to work.

For many people, especially those who need to use public transport to travel to & from work, this poses a real dilemma & one of the main concerns for the transitional lifting of lockdown measures, are the fears for public safety on public transport.

A survey of 3000 participants by Auto Trader found that nearly half of UK public transport users (48%) said they would be less likely to use it once lockdown restrictions have been lifted (2) & of those surveyed some 56% who do not currently own a car, would consider their personal transport options & personal space considerations, by purchasing a car. (1)

Cars are the most common mode of transport regardless of the journey type. 94% of British car journeys are under 25 miles, with 58% under five miles in 2018. 87% of car users in England are of the view that their current lifestyle means they need to own a car. (2)

However, for many thousands of commuters & workers across Britain who do not have access to a car & are very mindful or concerned about using public transport; one other option is using a motorcycle as a form of commuter or work transport.

Many bikers across Britain already use their motorcycles for work transport. However, with Theory Test centres still closed (at the time of writing), gaining a full licence for a motorcycle over 125cc has it’s challenges.

However, for those considering motorcycling as alternative to using a car or public transport; there are some options which can safely & securely get a worker from A to B with only the need of a CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) & with some motorcycle training establishments safely providing CBT training; this could be the time to consider access to motorcycle commuting.

We approached Andy Sills of Andy Sills Motorcycles who specialises in 50cc & 125cc motorcycles, for some motorcycle recommendations which only require a CBT to get on the road & are perfect for urban commuters.

The AJS Digita 50cc

The AJS Digita 50cc is a no frills scooter & is only £1199 on the road with warranty & free AA cover for 1 year. This is a superb option if you are 16 or have passed a test before Feb 2001 as there is no CBT required.

 

The Sym Scooter range are great.

The Sym Scooter range are great. The Mask 125cc is the budget version at £1999 on the road, with a 5 year warranty.

 

The AJS range of bikes are fantastic.

The AJS range of bikes are fantastic & give you the classic bike look too. The range comes in 125cc & start around £2399 with 2 years warranty now & AA cover.

 

The Sinnis Terrain is another great 125cc.

The Sinnis Terrain is another great 125cc & a good around town commuter bike.  The Terrain looks like a Mini Bmw GS with full luggage & it’s only £2699 with 2 year warranty & 2 years AA cover.

 

The surge in electric motorcycle manufacture means there are more & more options available. For the 125cc electric range, Andy recommends the NIU & Super Soco range.

The NIU NQiTS Pro is like a 125cc & does 45mph a & has range of up to 100 miles & costs from £3196

Max speed: 45mph

Range: Up to 100 miles

Charge time: Fast charge 3.5 hours (standard charge 4.7 hours)

 

The Super Soco TS 1200r is an Electric bike & is £2399

Max speed: 45mph

Range: 30-40 miles

Charge time: 6-8 hours

Optional battery can be fitted to double range.

 

For all your motorcycling needs, contact Daniel or Katy on T: 07899 654446 / 01243 576212 or contact us through our contact page.

 

1. https://www.am-online.com/news/latest-news/2020/04/22/consumers-to-opt-for-car-ownership-rather-than-public-transport-due-to-covid-19
2. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/878642/decarbonising-transport-setting-the-challenge.pdf