Motorbike Insurance

The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has strongly condemned all forms of technology that enable motorbikes to automatically lower their own speed.

There has been much press coverage of the possibilities offered by bikes fitted with intelligent speed adaptation (ISA) systems, but the MAG is sceptical, believing such devices to effectively limit the freedom of the rider.

MAG director of public affairs Trevor Baird recently tested out a trial model of this type and was distinctly unimpressed with both its warning systems and with its capacity to reduce its own speed if the rider continues to go too fast.

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He said that such technology was "dangerous as it overloads the rider with information thus distracting concentration".

He added: "Furthermore the apparatus as it is at present will close the throttle mid-corner where consistency of power is critical to stability. However we must be aware of future developments that may overcome these shortcomings as the technology evolves."

The MAG is now re-launching its campaign to ensure it does not become compulsory for all bikes to be fitted with technology that takes control away from the rider.

The British Motorcyclists Federation also recently reiterated its stance that, while voluntary speed advisory systems could prove useful, interventionist technology is "unacceptable".

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