Since January 1st, motorcycles of more than 106 hp can finally circulate freely in France … provided to count among the rare models to Euro4 norms, while waiting for the official text ruling on the retrofit! As if this maddening indecision was not enough, 2016 also marks the obligation to hold a yellow vest on motorbikes and scooters and to begin motorcycle training with the A2 license, regardless of age.
No, retrofit … but still more restrictions!
Since the beginning of the year, French bikers can ride on motorcycles whose power exceeds 106 hp – after some three decades unjustly restrained! – Provided that they are equipped with ABS (mandatory in 2016 on all new two-wheelers over 125 cc) and that they meet the Euro4 standard, now imposed on all new models.
High visibility vest mandatory for 2 and 3-wheelers
If the government voluntarily stagnates when it comes to giving motorcyclists the freedom to which they have legitimate access (remember that no power constraint is exerted in automobile, whatever the age of the driver or the car), its repressive methods, they do not take any delay!
Since January 1, 2016, all bikers and scooters must be in possession of a retro-reflective vest and wear it in case of breakdown or accident.
This obligation does not imply (still?) The wearing of the vest while driving, but to hold a “in a storage of their vehicle (net, trunk)”, specifies the official text. In case of control, the fine for lack of vest on board the motorcycle or the scooter is 11 Euros. In addition, if you do not wear it in case of emergency stop, the plum reaches 135 Euros!
Two other important details to take into account: From the moment, it is CE approved, this vest “high visibility” may be of a different color than yellow (orange, for example, as those used in public works), even if a large majority of vests sold in the trade adopt the fluorescent yellow. Moreover, a simple armband such as those worn by cyclists is not enough: the decree fixing the terms of this obligation makes explicit mention to a “garment worn on the upper body” type “chasuble, jacket, or safety vest.”