What does the 2021 COVID-19 lockdown mean for motorcyclists?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced in January that the UK will be forced into another full lockdown, with non-essential shops closing and people being told to stay indoors.

But what do the rules mean for motorcycle enthusiasts?

Related articles:

• John McGuinness awarded MBE for services to motorcycling
• Apex 66: The cheapest way to own a brand new motorcycle?
• Support Air Ambulance UK with the Moto Guzzi Club

The new lockdown, similar to the one we endured last March, will mean non-essential businesses closing alongside schools until at least February 19.

For some of us, getting about on our motorcycles seems a great escape, but doing so may go against COVID-19 guidelines and risks receiving a fine.

The government website says that you must not leave, or be outside of your home except where necessary. You may leave the home to:

• Shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person
• Go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot reasonably do so from home
• Exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.
• Meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one
• Seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse)
• Attend education or childcare – for those eligible
• Animal welfare reasons
• Worship events

Can I ride my motorcycle during lockdown?

The only time you could use your motorcycle within the rules, which state you cannot leave your house without a reasonable excuse, would be for one of the above reasons.

The government do not deem motorcycling to be exercise, but you could use your motorcycle to travel to an open-air place for a walk, as long as it is within your local area.

Your best bet is to commute to work if you cannot work from home. With quieter roads, you may get some enjoyment out of it, but ensure you wear all the correct gear and avoid taking risks, to burden the NHS further would be counter-productive.

As a reminder, you cannot leave your home to meet socially with anyone you do not live with or are not in a support bubble with (if you are legally permitted to form one).

You may exercise on your own, with one other person, or with your household or support bubble.

You should not meet other people you do not live with, or have formed a support bubble with, unless for a permitted reason.

Stay 2 metres apart from anyone not in your household.

For more information, visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus