Why join The Motorcycle Action Group?
As a motorcyclist, you should really consider joining either MAG or the BMF or both. A cynic would say that the only real difference between the two groups is that MAG organise events that involve camping in muddy fields; there is, however much more to MAG than that. MAG has a strong network of active local groups, and spends all its funds on campaigning and although the two organisations have similar objectives MAG could be said to have a more direct approach to issues concerning Rider's Rights. But why join any riders rights organisation?
MAG was formed back in 1973 when motorcyclists were compelled to wear crash helmets. Many people think crash helmets are a good idea - fine, wear one if you like but MAG's stance is that you should have the choice. Since then MAG has had to leave the crash helmet issue and move onto other issues that could further restrict our freedom to choose. Do you want to be forced to wear day-glo clothing or a seat belt? How about an air bag on your bike? Sounds stupid? You should see the things the rule makers of both this fair country and the European Union have proposed... You can join MAG for a mere £20 a year: as well as receiving the informative magazine Streetbiker six times a year, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to maintain and extend the freedoms and joys of motorcycling. Past issues of Streetbiker are stored at the MAG UK web site.
Germany has a strong influence on
the future of the European community and to put it mildly, they are not
pro-biking. They are actively making it difficult to own a bike and to use it.
As Street Biker (was MAG News) Oct/Nov 1998 quoted:
"An urban ban on motorcycle parking, and the construction of cobbled roads
in housing areas are among German plans to deter motorcycle riders who have
been pronounced environmentally unacceptable in a new report ..."
"Disgusted at the blatant attack on motorcycling disguised as
environmental friendliness, German rider groups, industry, and the press,
resigned from the Ministry's consultation group earlier this year."
Mention is made of noise, power and speed restrictions. These are the kind of
things that the BMF and MAG are working against. Every new member brings a
little more to the funds and it is now possible to
download an application form
so join up now!
Motorcycles exempted from congestion charging plans as a result of MAG's lobbying!!
Motorcycles will be exempt from
congestion charging. That was the message telephoned by the 'Transport For
London' (TFL) Press Office to the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) political
lobbyist Phil Neale at 23.20 tonight Sunday October 29th 2000.
The fantastic news came as stunning vindication of the unassailable logic of
MAG's campaign to promote motorcycles as part of the solution to the capitol's
congestion and pollution problems. Riders have inundated the Corporation of
London and TFL on several occasions this year with letters of complaint at
various 'crackpot' measures, including reducing the number of motorcycle
parking bays, charging mopeds and motorcycles for access to Central London and
for charging these space efficient vehicles to park.
MAG Public Relations Director Ian Mutch: 'This is a major victory for MAG and
demonstrates the significance of working with all interested parties to ensure
that common sense prevails.
MAG now urge all bikers to support the organisation in its efforts
to build on this victory and reinforce the identity of motorcycling as not only
a valid but a preferred choice of personal transport.
Want other reasons why you should join MAG? Well, MAG has organised a whole host of discounts and special offers on products and services that you would use. Go to the members benefits page to see what's available.
