“80% of motorcyclists support the boycott”: The Angry Motorcyclists of Manche persist in their fight against the technical inspection

With the introduction of technical control for motorized two-wheelers in April 2024, a large majority of motorcyclists in France, representing nearly 80% of them, have decided to participate in a massive boycott of this measure. The movement of Angry Bikers is strengthening, especially in Manche, where gatherings and general assemblies are regularly organized to express their disapproval. The question that arises is: why this marked resistance to a regulation that, in the eyes of the authorities, aims primarily to improve road safety?

The origins of the Angry Bikers movement

The group of Angry Bikers is an association that was born in the early 2000s in response to several regulations deemed unsuitable for the realities on the ground. In the face of rising risks associated with traffic and the need to secure road users, motorcyclists have seen their riding freedoms threatened, leading to the creation of a real advocacy movement.

The actions taken by motorcycle associations like the French Federation of Angry Bikers (FFMC) are diverse. Among them are:

• Urban demonstrations to raise public awareness.
• Meetings with authorities to discuss regulations.
• Awareness campaigns on road safety and the rights of motorcyclists.

In April 2024, the establishment of technical control triggered a new wave of mobilizations. Indeed, motorcyclists see this measure as an administrative burden and an additional cost, where the priority should be on improving road infrastructures.

Technical control and its implications

The implementation of technical control for motorcycles has been justified by the government as a means to ensure the safety of users, reducing accidents caused by poor vehicle condition. However, motorcyclists strongly contest this view. Marielle Audoire, spokesperson for the FFMC of Manche, emphasizes that the majority of accidents on the roads are caused by degraded infrastructure and poor driving from other users rather than by the condition of the motorcycles themselves.

The technical control, which mainly involves visual checks, focuses on:

• Tires
• Brakes
• Headlights
• Chassis
• Steering
• Visibility

“We already check these elements ourselves on a daily basis,” Audoire points out. Thus, instead of bearing additional costs of around 70 euros for a technical control, motorcyclists prefer to demand more appropriate training for young drivers and greater efforts to improve the roads. This choice becomes a symbol of their fight for the freedom of motorcyclists.

The boycott in action: unwavering biker solidarity

Since the beginning of the boycott, the Angry Bikers have demonstrated impressive commitment, showing a participation rate of over 80% in the protest movement. They feel solidarity within the biker community and are organizing to get their messages across. The boycott has also been supported by striking initiatives, such as organized rides that combine passion and advocacy.

This biker solidarity is expressed through several concrete actions:

1. Organization of collective rides on iconic routes in the region for awareness purposes.
2. Creation of pages and groups on social networks to coordinate actions and mobilize bikers.
3. Participation in charity events, such as the women's motorcycle ride to support an association dedicated to women's rights.

Several demonstrations have already taken place in the Manche department, gathering hundreds of motorcyclists united around a common goal: the defense of their rights and independence on the road. The FFMC continues to advocate for the respect of this community, having demonstrated in the past its ability to organize in the face of challenges.

The impacts of the boycott on motorcyclists and authorities

The boycott has considerable repercussions for both motorcyclists and authorities. For motorcyclists, it means living under constant pressure, knowing they could incur a fine for not undergoing technical control. Nonetheless, they display unwavering determination, standing by their choice and continuing their fight.

The authorities, faced with such mobilization and observing a very low number of motorcyclists presenting for control, have been forced to reconsider their approach. Discussions regarding the possible cancellation of the measure or a revision of its implementation modalities are ongoing. This demonstrates that the power of popular mobilizations should not be underestimated.

The current situation of the boycott leaves uncertainty for 2025. Authorities have already confirmed that they are monitoring the situation and would be open to discussions. Motorcyclists, for their part, continue to organize actions to ensure their voices are heard.

A struggle for more than just safety

The struggle of the Angry Bikers is not limited solely to contesting technical control. The movement also addresses other issues affecting the mobility of motorcyclists in France, such as Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and the stickers required to circulate in urban areas. Motorcyclists seek a real reflection on how to approach road safety and urban planning to ensure their freedom of movement.

Recently, exemptions have been obtained in certain municipalities, such as in Caen, where motorcyclists were able to assert their rights in the face of imposed restrictions. This will remain an example of biker solidarity and perseverance worthy of mention.

The demands of bikers in the face of an uncertain future

The motorcycle associations continue to carry the perspectives of motorcyclists in discussions with parliamentarians and decision-makers. This fight is strengthened every day by feedback from users on the ground. Among the main demands are:

• Immediate and total repeal of technical control.
• Improvement of road infrastructures to guarantee safety.
• Creation of specific training for young motorcycle drivers.
• Combination of practical solutions such as exemptions for LEZ.

These challenges remain crucial for the future of motorcycle mobility in France and the future of the Angry Bikers who are fighting for change. The struggle for their freedom is more than a simple opposition to regulation: it reflects their desire for protection and respect on the roads.

Mobilization and future: perspectives for bikers

As the current struggle continues to evolve, the future of the Angry Bikers seems to be determined by their capacity to maintain their mobilization. The response from the Ministry of Transport, after appeals to the Council of State, is eagerly awaited by the biker community. The motorcyclists from Manche are also planning to intensify their actions throughout 2025, with upcoming demonstrations, gatherings, and rides that continue to attract many participants.

Future perspectives depend on several factors, including the government's willingness to listen to demands and act accordingly. Continued public support and solidarity within the biker community will also be essential for the sustainability of the movement.

Upcoming actions: a struggle calendar

The Angry Bikers have already planned several actions, including:

• A major demonstration scheduled in Cherbourg on March 16, 2025, following the Women in the City festival.
• Meetings with local elected officials to discuss the challenges faced by motorcyclists.
• Awareness campaigns on road safety in schools.

The action calendar put in place by the bikers should amplify their voice to responsible authorities and strengthen their ability to trigger changes. Transitioning to a more constructive dialogue with the authorities will depend on their ability to unite and convey a coherent message.

The Angry Bikers are fighting for the respect of their identity and the improvement of their circulation conditions in France. Currently, they are preparing to face new challenges and continue fighting for their rights in an ever-changing mobility landscape.