[REPORT]

FEMA launches IRT Project

On May 28th in Brussels FEMA, the Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations, presented the Initial Rider Training Project to the European Commission. ACEM has participated to the project as partner.

The main goal of the Initial Rider Training project is to outline a comprehensive, cohesive and cost-effective European Initial Rider Training programme. The results of the projects have been summarized in a manual that was presented to the European Commission and will serve as basis for a European wide blueprint for new riders.

Chairing the conference and moderating the debate were Isabelle Kardacz, Head of the DG TREN’s Road Safety Unit and Joelle Valmain, Policy Officer in the same Unit. Hans-Petter Strifeldt, FEMA’s President welcomed the audience and introduced the IRT Project   Coordinator Bob Tomlins, who presented the project. Further contributions were made by Achilles Damen - FIM CMT and ACEM’s Secretary General Jacques Compagne. The structure of the IRT manual was explained by riding instructor and IRT project participant Mark O’Loideoin. Mr Pekka Ranta of the University of Tampere, Finland, presented the potential of the e-Coaching for the  training new riders.

Finally, Antonio Perlot, ACEM’s Public Affairs Manager speaking on behalf of the Motorcycle Community,  explained how progressive access to motorcycling would fit into the framework of the Third Driving Licence Directive.

The Initial Rider Training Project identifies the essential elements of a beginners programme required to qualify for a licence enabling to safely ride a motorcycle. It focuses on the human factor as a crucial element to improve motorcycle safety. The overall theme in the initial training programme is a combination of machine control and efficient traffic strategies. Together this shall provide the rider with an abundant base of accident prevention tools.

During its preliminary phase the IRT project found out that training in Europe does not meet riders' needs. Programmes differ widely among different EU member states highlighting considerable variations of the quality of training offered to beginner riders. Improving pre-licence training will reduce the number of accidents and injuries.

The Hypermedia Unit at the Tampere University of Technology evaluated the potential of digital e-coaching on rider attitude and behaviour. These technologies will assist in developing a rider's understanding of the importance of hazard awareness and avoidance techniques. The IRT e-coaching approach should be the basis for the European Commission for improving pre-licence rider training in the European Union.

 

 

Link

Initial Rider Training website