I was out with my mates doing a bit of green lane riding. I’ve had my Husqvarna 701 for a couple of years and set it up so I can take a tumble (as I am not that good it’s at least once a month!).
Amongst other things, I’ve taken the mirrors off to stop them snapping the brackets on the handlebars. Anyway, long story short, the Old Bill came sniffing around whilst were parked up at the pub.
Whilst he didn’t nick me ‘this time’, he said if he saw me with no mirrors again, he would. I didn’t want to argue with him, but I thought bikes didn’t need mirrors?
Answer
An ill-informed copper. Not cool. He is wrong. You are right. The answer lies in The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986.
If you are struggling to sleep, have a gander at these. However, before you fall asleep, s.33 paragraph 5 states there is ‘No requirement’ for ‘A two-wheeled motor cycle with or without a sidecar attached’ to have mirrors.
Therefore, if you do ever get nicked for this, defend it. I will happily represent you. The only thing I would add is that where a motorcycle does have mirrors they need to be attached and in good order, etc.
Lastly, you’re not the only one who falls off whilst riding the muddy stuff…
Andrew ‘Chef’ Prendergast
Motorcycle Monthly January 2020
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The MCM legal column is compiled by managing partner Andrew 'Chef' Prendergast and his bike-riding barristers and solicitors at White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors.
The firm deals with personal injury claims and its sister company, Motor Defence Solicitors, deals with all the motoring offences.
White Dalton lawyers have a vast knowledge of bike law, and they have full bike licences, too. They don’t act for insurance companies or the prosecution.
White Dalton is Britain’s premier specialist motorcycle law practice, and if its professionals don’t know the answer to your question, there probably isn’t one. Don’t rely on the advice from your insurance appointed solicitor, get proper independent advice.
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Can I just clarify what you mean by "I would add is that where a motorcycle does have mirrors they need to be attached and in good order, etc."? Do you mean if there's a screw thread for them to exist, or do you mean if a mirror is attached it has to be in good order?