Pedelec retailers were dealt another blow with the news that car drivers no longer need a licence to drive motorcycles up to 125cc, according to the Bicycling Advocacy Group.

The group was reacting to Budget proposals that also include slashing to €10 the licence for small bikes, or motorini, to make them a more attractive option on traffic-choked roads.

The group is “deeply concerned” by the unintended effect this measure is having on pedelec retail.

Spokesman Jim Wightman noted that, hobbled by a restrictive policy aimed at outlawing petrol-powered conversions, the industry had seen sales fall, as riders now risk having an unregisteredmachine confiscated.

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