During the pandemic lockdowns, and the limited freedoms when they were partially lifted, folks were casting around for a new way to get around without having to run the gauntlet of a crowded bus or train. Cars of course are one option, but have you seen the traffic out there lately - holy moly - it's being reported that it is well up on pre-pandemic levels as many more people are choosing to drive instead of using public transport.

Only not everyone is in a car, more and more people are thinking outside the box and making the move to two wheeled transport for a solution to traffic congestion, even if they have never ridden a motorcycle or scooter before. To help with this there is a calculator on the MCIA website to give you a hand with knowing what you can ride already and what you need to do in order to be able to ride if you are completely new to two wheeled transport. Although CBT motorcycle training schools are now open again they are quite booked up, but it is still possible to book one a couple of months ahead – check out our story 'Full Scoot Ahead' about a happy returning motorcyclist getting his CBT and a scooter in his 60s – it's easy!

Both really economical, great for bypassing traffic jams and very enjoyable to boot, motorcycling and scooting are a great way forward. In these troubled times they are also a great solution for social distancing, just you, inside your helmet on your own bike - simples.

Included in the MCIA campaign which started in June, were some ideas for employers on how to encourage staff onto motorcycles. They suggested that firms could offer dedicated motorcycle and scooter parking spaces at work and places staff could get changed and fix their helmet hair before hitting their desks! Nice to hear suggestions to help motorcyclists instead of the usual grumbling about them, let's hope they are implemented. There is also an initiative to push the government to automatically allow motorcyclists to use the bus lanes, something which is already allowed in some areas and has proved very successful. That would be a great idea. Easy Peasy.

Another bit of help - the DVLA online application process for provisional driving licences, which was paused during lockdown, is back open again as well, so it is easier than ever to renew your licence or apply for a completely new one now.

All in all there are far more motorcyclists out there now and lots of people who are completely new to riding or returning to two wheels after years of car driving. Great news, long may it continue, motorcycles just make sense, I guess we would say that :D