The legislation to increase the maximum legal cubic centimetres (CC) allowed for motorcycle engines in the territory from 125cc is still before the Ministry of Transportation and Works and the Attorney General Chambers after more than three years since being approved by the Cabinet of the Virgin Islands.
This was confirmed by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Transportation and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer who made the disclosure during a recent interview on 284Media’s Just for the Record election series.
Rymer said that works are still occurring behind the scenes to have the necessary amendments made to the legislation which governs the territory roadways.
He promised that while no date has been set to have the amended bill brought to the House of Assembly, it will reach the House once all the processes have been completed.
The deputy premier also highlighted the importance of allowing motorcycles with engine sizes over 125ccs to legally enter the territory.
He said the typography of the territory permits for larger motorcycles, to make commuting for motorcyclists much easier while traversing the hilly areas.
Rymer said his government has been putting the necessary measures in place to ensure that once the amendments are passed, motorcyclists can commute across the BVI in a safe manner.
A Cabinet report from November 29, 2019 stated that motorcycles over 125ccs would be permitted into the territory, but only through dealers who are authorised by the government.
The statement outlined conditions which must be imposed to facilitate the larger engine motorcycles into the territory, which included a revamp of the old licensing mechanism for motorcycles by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
The new process once approved will have a three-prong licensing regime which include compulsory basic training for every motorcycle rider, theoretical testing and full rider testing.
In addition, a minimum age limit and minimum riding experience requirements for the large-sized engines will be established.