I refer my learned friend to posts 34/36/37 to start.
FAQ's In the registration world.....?
I have just built an MTB using a Commencal frame with Kona forks and Mavic rims, what do I register this bike as.
I would like to convert my Corratec hybrid to electric,what is the procedure for re registration.
My Sunn bike has been registered, but there is no identification on the bike as to it's manufacturer, how do I prove the identification of the bike in the event of being checked by the Police.
Hmm. Vehicles have number plate recognition to assist with finding stolen, untaxed or uninsured vehicles. There are additional checks carried out at parking bays, every time you pass a tunnel or bridge pay barrier etc so there any number of ways to find errant vehicles.
Bikes? Would they carry recogniseable plates or ID in a way that can be checked. What about the scenario whereby the rider recognises a check up ahead. With a bike you can just turn around, join a footpath or any number of options. With a vehicle it's much more difficult. There is also an assumption being made that we have enough people on the beat to spend some time checking bikes....not a chance.
Finally, there is the matter of what level of payment might be made. I've found, over many many years of experience, that you should assume that anything a politician says is a lie until he or she proves otherwise. It follows that any tax proposed could end up anywhere.
As for the second world war there was an issue with bike registration because they were both a major source of transport for key workers and they could be used for transport by foreign agents working in the UK.
If we wanted to kill the cycle industry stone dead then registration may well be the way to go. It's a non-starter but when did any politician miss a trick that might enhance his career?
Regards
vectra