They should always, even now, be stringent. But what might make more sense for all, is insurance. One covering all third party risks and injuries, plus "Fire and theft".....as a minimum.
Andy
I am sure none of us want to be riding our bikes in company with unlicensed car drivers, without insurance cover, with cars in dire need of an MOT and the good braking and handling that brings with it, as we could become a victim of such thoughtless drivers, as could our families.
We do anyway in the UK, if I believe police statistics, who are always working to reduce the incidence of such vehicles and their drivers. But it's certainly nothing we want to see as bike owners I feel.
As I said before, in my own personal thoughts, insurance is my most important point. The damage that bikes do to the road surface is tiny, in comparison to cars and lorries, so I personally feel that road tax should NOT be applied to bikes of any kind, which may encourage more road users to get on their bikes, rather than to sit in a car!
MOT for bikes sounds to me a bit stupid and overdone, as anyone riding a bike with less than good brakes or steering, is basically on a suicide mission anyway, with less brains than an earthworm! But I bet there are such people on the roads everywhere, sadly!
Poor or non existent lighting and missing warning bells, on bikes owned by people missing the brain to know how and when to use them, is another matter that I feel should be covered by on the spot fines, hard enough to promote bike users into having them.
Bikes on the road even in daytime, particularly people under 18, could be stopped by the police and have their bikes checked for good lighting, brakes and warning bells.
I myself would have no problems with that, except sadly, the police usually have enough to do already.....
Wishing everyone here a safe day, with no COVID or bike accidents.
Andy
