Speaking entirely as a lay person, I think the activities of BEBA are not only a good thing, but fundamental to the ongoing success of the industry as a whole.
In an industry like E-bikes, the co-operation of the legislators and town planners has to be positive to provide the long term cycling infrastructure that we all want. Mass markets, especially for the elder incumbents, will not flock to their local E-bike dealer if they perceive the activity is dangerous.
We live in a society where those who make decisions regarding law and planning are rarely qualified or experienced in the subject matter. They are placed in such positions by way of political influences, and rarely are they able to bring any degree of expertise or enlightenment to the matters at hand.
Accordingly, they are obliged to take advice from "interested parties" in order to reach a supportable policy. BEBA, or some such similar entity is essential if that advice process is to take place, and be coordinated enough to be meaningful. Without this joint effort we will have no influence on the decisions that affect us, and our industry will remain alone in the doldrums of bureaucracy for eternity.
My other hobby of flying homebuilt aeroplanes would not exist were it not for the stalwart efforts of the Light Aircraft Association. By way of constant lobbying and intimate knowledge of the subject matter, they have secured a workable legislative framework that maintains high safety standards, yet provides sufficient flexibility to enable nutters like me to build an aeroplane in my shed and enjoy the pleasures that flight provides.
BEBA, in my opinion, is fundamental to obtaining the cycling environment we all want. Of course there will be differences of opinion from time to time, concerns over vested interests and the like, but if we want to grow into the mass market, we really don't have an option. Accordingly, I support the motion to join and lobby together.
