Inter-files: New Regulations for Motorcycles and Scooters starting January 11, 2025

The landscape of motorized two-wheelers in France is on the verge of experiencing a significant transformation with the implementation of new regulations. Lane splitting for motorcycles and scooters, long considered an experimental practice, will become official on January 11, 2025. This advancement marks a major step for motorcyclists while raising questions about safety and environmental impact. In this article, we will examine the new rules that will govern this practice, the implications for riders, and the issues related to road safety.

New motorcycle and scooter regulations: What changes in 2025

Since January 11, 2025, the Highway Code integrates lane splitting for motorized two-wheelers, resulting from several years of experimentation. These rules aim to improve traffic flow while providing more safety for motorcyclists. The new provisions apply to all types of motorcycles and scooters, whether from well-known brands like Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, or newer models from Ducati or BMW Motorrad.

The legal framework for lane splitting

The framework governing lane splitting has been established by decree No. 2025-33 of January 9, 2025. This text specifies that lane-splitting is permitted when vehicles are stopped or in slow-moving traffic. This new rule only concerns two or three-wheeled vehicles whose width is less than or equal to one meter.

• Traffic conditions: Lane splitting must be performed between the two lanes of vehicles situated on the leftmost lanes.
• Speed limit: Motorcyclists must respect a maximum speed of 50 km/h when lane splitting.
• Distance maintenance: Motorcyclists must maintain a sufficient safety distance from other vehicles.

Impact on motorcycle brands

This regulatory evolution will have significant consequences for motorcycle manufacturers. For instance, brands like and Vespa will need to adapt their models to meet the new traffic regulations. Manufacturers will also have to enhance the safety features of their vehicles to ensure compliance with the requirements for protecting motorcyclists and other road users.

This table illustrates the widths of some popular models, a determining factor for lane splitting. Motorcyclists must therefore choose compliant motorcycles to benefit from this regulation.

Lane splitting: New safety rules

With the widespread implementation of lane splitting, the safety of motorcyclists becomes paramount. The government has established specific guidelines to ensure that this practice does not compromise road safety. Indeed, motorized two-wheelers, due to their size, have often been perceived as vulnerable targets on the road.

Quieter motorcycles and scooters

An important aspect of these new regulations concerns the noise generated by motorcycles. Since January 1, 2025, newly registered motorcycles must comply with the EU-UN regulation R41.05, imposing strict noise limits. This measure aims to reduce noise pollution and improve the quality of life in urban areas where traffic is dense.

• Noise standards: New motorcycles must emit less than 80 decibels.
• Noise reduction techniques: Encouragement to use mufflers and optimized exhaust systems.

Training and awareness for motorcyclists

Another area for improvement focuses on the training of two-wheeler drivers. New awareness campaigns will be launched to inform motorcyclists about the rules of lane splitting and the behaviors to adopt for safe riding.

These initiatives are essential to ensure that the implementation of this new regulation proceeds smoothly and effectively.

Lane splitting: challenges and safety in 2025

The practice of lane splitting is intended to reduce traffic jams, especially in large cities where traffic is dense. The benefits of this regulation affect both motorcyclists and other road users. However, safety issues persist, particularly regarding accidents involving motorcycles.

Analysis of road accidents

To better understand the safety issues, it is imperative to analyze statistics related to accidents involving motorized two-wheelers. According to collected data, motorcycle accidents represent a significant share of road accidents. Many of these accidents occur during lane change maneuvers, a particularly critical moment when motorcyclists are vulnerable.

• Increase in accidents: +12% motorcycle accidents in urban areas in 2024.
• Excessive speed: Often an aggravating factor in nearly 30% of cases.
• Lack of visibility: Motorcycles are less visible than cars, increasing accidents.

Recommended safety practices

To curb this situation, it is essential to promote safety practices suited to motorcyclists. Awareness of the use of personal protective equipment and safe driving techniques is crucial in this context.

Adhering to safety recommendations is essential to limit injuries and accidents. Motorcyclists must adopt cautious driving, especially when practicing lane splitting.

Shifting mindsets in the two-wheeler sector

The widespread adoption of lane splitting in France is indicative of a shift in mindset regarding motorized two-wheelers. Historically marked by tensions between motorists and motorcyclists, this new regulation could foster a positive change. Motorcyclists can enjoy the advantages of mobility without being seen as a nuisance.

Contributions from sector stakeholders

Sector stakeholders, including manufacturers like Aprilia and Kymco, as well as motorcyclist associations, play a crucial role in this evolution. These groups are committed to promoting rigorous safety standards while providing training tailored to new generations of drivers.

• Collaboration: Partnerships between manufacturers and institutions to promote safety.
• Technical innovations: Development of safer vehicles with driver assistance systems.
• Awareness events: Organization of events to educate the public about two-wheeler issues.

The future of motorized two-wheelers in France

In a context where environmental issues are becoming more prominent, it is essential to revisit the image of motorized two-wheelers. The emergence of electric and hybrid models from brands like Piaggio and Ducati presents a green alternative to urban mobility. These vehicles contribute to reducing pollution and encourage a more responsible mode of transportation.

These innovations reflect a joint commitment to a more sustainable future. The two-wheel sector thus aligns itself with a positive dynamic, conveying values of safety, responsibility, and environmental respect, which should appeal to an increasingly eco-conscious clientele.

Lane splitting for motorcycles and scooters represents a major advance for the two-wheeler sector in France. By offering greater flexibility in traffic, this practice should contribute to better traffic flow and a reduction in noise pollution, while making roads safer for everyone. Industry players and users will both have a role to play in making this new regulation a collective success.