THE UK is tantalising close to reaching the point where we can once again get back to some sort of normal life, post-COVID-19. As motorcyclists, we are all waiting for that day when we can once again take a group ride-out, head to a track to ride or spectate or tour the UK once again.
The thing is, reaching such a point to allow this to happen requires us all to still take care, listen to advice from the government and healthcare professionals and all help prevent any further spread of the COVID-19 virus.
To help us all do this, the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) has released updated guidelines for all motorcyclists at this time. It gives help and advice to us all, whether we are planning a ride-out with friends (once we are allowed), first responders, and those looking to stay overnight away from home.
Sensibly, the key message is still to maintain social distancing and to remember the ‘Hands, Face, Space’ message. But the charts included in the document do make it easy to recognise when and where we should be able to undertake various two-wheeled activities.
Below are the guidelines the NMC published earlier this month. They are under constant review though, so it is important to check the government’s website for up-to-date advice. For guidance relating to the other countries in the UK, check with the administration or the NMC website.
COVID-19 proposed roadmap for motorcyclists – under constant review - England
(dates subject to change)
Dates – from | 29th March 2021 | 12th April 2021 | 17th May 2021 | 21st June 2021 |
Motorcycle Activity | Rule of 6 applies – stay local avoid excessive journeys | Rule of 6 applies – stay local avoid excessive journeys | Rule of 6 indoors Groups of upto 30 outdoors – excessive travel removed | Any |
Travel | Exercise and recreation – on top of essential journeys | DVSA testing restarts | Excessive travel removed (domestic travel only - no international travel) | Restrictions |
Rules on mixing | Up to 6 adults from 2 households to meet socially and for exercise outside | Rule of 6 or 2 households in outdoor settings only – no indoor mixing of households | Rule of 6 or 2 households indoors – under review. 30 person limits outdoors | Restrictions |
Overnight stays and retail | Non-essential closed | All retail open – hotels closed – overnight stays in domestic premises (household only) | Hotels and retail now open | All retail open |
