France - Over the next couple of weekends, motorcycle organisations are calling for riders to take to the streets in towns and cities to protest - mainly over the French government’s announcement to reduce the overall speed limit by 10kph, from 90kph to 80kph. However, within this main protest, other ongoing issues such as the introduction of roadworthiness testing for motorcycles – congestion emission charging – road toll charging – revenue from “money making” speed cameras. The speed reduction has become a tipping point which seems to have arrived in time, so all are … [Read more...]
French Reflective Travels
Update: 2nd December 2017 - On advice from FFMC the French Riders group, FEMA Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations has updated its website advice on Foreigners not having to wear reflective stickers on their helmets to - “As a foreigner, you have to wear reflective stickers on your helmet, just like the French.” see more in the comments below. Europe – France – The Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations (FEMA) has highlighted its “Riding Abroad” website page which offers information on differing laws and regulation that differ from country to … [Read more...]
Does Size Matter?
France - Does Size Matter? Well in the world of French motorcycles and number plate size apparently size does matter. Even though our semi-permanent base is now in France, our interest in following motorcycle technical issues still abound, so we do pick up what must be the most continuous changes of rules and regulations, through legislative decrees, from the Ministry of the Interior, all which appear to be in constant flux. Our interest in this is also slightly self-centred as we start the process of permanently importing our UK registered bike to France, starting … [Read more...]
Emissions – Let – Hindrance or Charge
France - Overall there doesn’t seem to be much happening in our corner of the motorcycling world. That is apart from today’s national demonstration – 1st October 2016 – organised by the French riders group FFMC - Fédération des Motards en Colère (1) regarding emission free zones (circulation restreinte) and the “banning” and fining of motorcycles and other vehicles that do not meet emission standards. In Paris where this has already been introduced, these vehicles are banned between the hours of 8am and 8pm during weekdays – pre-1997 vehicles and motorbikes before 1st … [Read more...]
If The Gloves Fit!
France – The motorcycle press, rider organisations and some clothing suppliers here in France are reporting that from the 20th November 2016 it will be mandatory by law, to wear gloves for motorcycle drivers and passengers (rider or pillion), motor tricycle, quadricycle motor or moped. This follows a decree (No. 2016-1232) issued on the 19th September 2016 which aims to, “Limit serious injury to hands and forearms” the decree states that the gloves worn are marked according to glove regulations relating to personal protective equipment when traveling. These regulations … [Read more...]
Hi-Viz In France
France - Reposted from our previous publication on the subject on Right To Ride EU. Straight from the website of the French Riders Group – FFMC – regarding the end of their government plans for riders to wear hi-viz sees the proposal watered down and transposed into law for riders to carry a hi-viz vest on/in their motorcycle and other vehicles – three-wheeled motorized or non bodywork motor quadricycle. The hi-viz should have a CE mark certifying it meets regulations – however we assume that if as a visiting rider to France you will be required to carry hi-viz equipment … [Read more...]
