Romanian car drivers can now take to two-wheels, too, as the government legislates to allow them to ride lightweight motorcycles.
The change, which will come into force in a few weeks, will mean that any driver with a full B-class licence, which allows them to drive a vehicle that does not exceed a 3,500 kg authorised mass, has a maximum of 8 seats, will be granted access to a 125cc bike without further motorcycle training. The rules around which 125cc bike they can ride are basically the same as our own CBT rules, although it only applies to automatic bikes (also referred to as twist-and-go bikes). On top of that, the bike must have a maximum power of 11 kW (15bhp) and a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 0.1kW/kg (0.13bhp/kg). Sadly, both of those stipulations rule out an untrained rider slinging their leg over an unrestricted Aprilia RS125 two-stroke - which, to be honest, we’d pay to see!
FEMA also reports that A1 licence holders must be at least 24 years old, have a category B licence for at least 3 years and provide proof of having completed 10 hours of practical training at an authorised vehicle driver training facility. The new rules will come into force at the same time as a change to driving schools to reflect the new process.
While this change is being implemented a long way away in Romania, it’s interesting to see another EU nation taking a concept that we here in the UK used to allow. Drivers who passed their full car test before the end of February 2001 used to be able to ride a bike of up to 50cc, without L-plates and they could carry a passenger. After that date, the right was removed from UK licences, although those who had passed before February 2001 were allowed to continue enjoying CBT-free motorcycle access.
The move from the Romanian government seems like a positive one, not only boosting new rider numbers, some of which will surely be bitten by the bug and move on up through the ranks but also as it could help to reduce congestion and boost the nation’s motorcycle industry.
