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.