For decades, successive UK governments have ignored, overlooked, or worse, deliberately discriminated against motorcycling, dismissing it as dangerous and anti-social. In doing so, they have failed to recognise the many benefits it offers society: enhancing social mobility, reducing environmental impact, improving public health and wellbeing, and contributing significantly to local and national economies.
Now the Department for Transport has launched an Integrated Transport Consultation which risks motorcycling being ignored again.
The transport landscape is rapidly changing. There’s an increasing focus on active travel and public transport, with a shift away from cars towards more sustainable modes of transport. The vision is for cars to become the “last resort” for journeys, only used when no other option is viable. But motorcycling has a crucial role to play in the future of personal transport—if it is recognised, supported, and integrated into this evolving vision.
Sadly, the motorcycle industry has failed to respond in a timely fashion to the growing threats to its future. Too often focused on short-term sales and perpetuating outdated, negative perceptions, the industry has been slow to innovate with new technologies and sustainable solutions. The onus is now on motorcyclists to demand change—to make it clear to both the industry and government that motorcycling is ready to evolve for a greener, safer, and more sustainable future.
Right now, the government is conducting an Integrated Transport Consultation, seeking public input on the future of transport. This consultation is focused on how different modes of transport can be better connected you should respond to the online survey
Its critical motorcyclists make their voice heard by responding to the consultation, but this opportunity won’t last long with the consultation closing on 20 February 2025. Outcomes that support motorcycling can have a significantly positive impact on the future of trail riding so it is important not to overlook this opportunity.
As a founding member of the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC), the TRF works alongside with respected organisations such as the British Motorcycle Federation (BMF), Auto Cycle Union (ACU), Vintage Motor Cycle Club (VMCC), and the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM). Together, we are striving to ensure that motorcycling takes on a more prominent and integral role in shaping the future of transport in the UK.
The survey first asks a number of anonymised profiling questions before going on to ask questions on a number of different transport modes. Here are the questions posed in the survey to help you get a clearer picture.
UPDATE
We previously asked you to respond via email, however the DfT are now refusing to accept submissions this way, insisting you use either the online form or by post.
The structure of the questions are designed to suit a certain narrative so it is critical to get across is the importance of including all transport modes, including motorcycling, in national and local transport policies alongside a considered strategy for each in order that the benefits of a truly integrated transport can deliver. There are opportunities within the questions to explain what motorcycling means to you and what would improve your experience when riding.
As always respond as a member of the public and there is no need to mention your membership of any organisation, but do ensure you ask the government to work with motorcycling organisations to develop an integrated motorcycling strategy.
Should you wish to submit your response by post the address is:
Integrated National Transport Strategy, Great Minster House, 33 Horseferry Road, London, SW1P 4DR
Motorcycling has a future—but we need to take action now. Act today. Shape tomorrow.
Trail Riders Fellowship
Registered in England and
Wales No. 05848933
218 Strand London WC2R 1AT