[REPORT]

Arge 2Rad joins ACEM

ACEM's participation has grown, as Arge 2Rad became its 26th member. Christian Arnezeder, introduces Arge 2Rad, the Austrian Motorcycle Association he chairs. "The Austrian association representing the importers, he says, is looking forward to join the European platform of ACEM in order to intensify and focus the national alignment with upcoming European legislation regarding motorcycling in all aspects of life".

Freedom and individuality are two terms that are often associated with riding motorcycles, and rightfully so. A motorcycle brings each curve and the great outdoors to life. Riders feel the sun’s warmth on their skin even through their leathers, and crisp forest air becomes a first-hand sensation. Amazing experiences aside, motorcycles and mopeds also offer a more practical advantage – private transportation without traffic congestion and parking woes. 

The Austrian motorcycle market has experienced consistently strong growth since 2003 – a trend that continued into last year. New vehicle registrations in 2007 included more than 50,500 powered two-wheelers. Scooters, bikes, cruisers, and motorcycles are definitely “in”, but existing frameworks must be brought in line. This is the focus of activities by organisations including the association of the Austrian PTW industry and importers, known as Arge 2Rad. The umbrella organization uses its expertise to lobby for legislation that promotes safety, enjoyable riding, easier access to motorcycles and encourages responsible use. Arge 2Rad chairman Christian Arnezeder is pleased with the current trends. “In 2007 the total motorcycle market, including light motorcycles (max. 25kw), grew by an impressive 10.3 percent compared to 2006. Taking the 8.8 percent rise in the moped segment into account, the entire two-wheel market grew by 9.4 percent,” Arnezeder explains. 

Sport bike riders continue to lead the way for new registrations. It is clear that motorcyclists are interested in ABS and other state-of-the-art technologies that also take environment concerns into account. Analysis of sales revenue by model shows some interesting trends. Namely, that motorcycles are used both in the city and on the meandering curves of the Alpine republic. This is reflected in the fact that the most popular motorcycle in the country in 2008 was BMW’s dynamic all-rounder, the R 1200 GS. 

Arge 2Rad attributes the increased interest to two recent changes in driving laws. The minimum age for a Class A (motorcycle) learner’s permit was lowered to 17 on 1 March 2006. And on 1 April 2006 obtaining a motorcycle licence was made easier for holders of a car driver licence. These welcome developments naturally involved a lot of work behind the scenes. The general secretary and publicist for Arge 2Rad, Karin Munk, worked with cycling industry representatives Hans Zimmermann (Yamaha Motor Austria) and Wolfgang Brunner (Suzuki Austria) to make it easier for prospective bikers to obtain licences. Their lobbying activities were supported by a wide range of partners, including the Austrian Automobile Association (ÖAMTC), the Austrian Automobile, Motorbike and Cycling Club (ARBÖ), the Austrian driving schools association, the Chamber Of Commerce, online motorcycle magazine 1000PS, and the Vienna Police Department.

Links:

ARGE 2RAD website