Firstly, Melbourne traffic gets worse every year and we should be encouraging the safe use of motorcycles to reduce congestion in peak periods. A recent study from Europe shows that if 10% of all private cars were replaced by motorcycles, total time losses for all vehicles was decreased by 40% and emissions reduced by 6%. Furthermore, a 25% shift from cars to motorcycles eliminated congestion entirely.

Secondly, rising running costs on vehicles make all kinds of motorcycles a very viable option for transport.

Thirdly, the CityLink service we pay for today is average at best. Failure to clear accidents quickly results in huge delays for commuters and motorcycles only help in moving traffic through troublesome areas quicker.

As a motorcycle user, I also recognise that stronger measures around licensing and rider training are critical in ensuring the roads are safe for all. We should be taking a longer term view in light of increasing populations and therefore road users by investing in appropriate infrastructure and training to encourage the use of motorcyles, not discouraging their use by tolling!