This trial launched on Friday 29 July 2022 and having been in place for 12 months, the data gathered is now being evaluated.
The initial indications are very promising, therefore the trial will remain in operation whilst we finish carrying out our evaluation.
Our aim is to promote motorcycling as an alternative to car travel and improve safety for motorcyclists.
About the trial
The trial includes the A65 bus lanes running from the city centre by the TGI Fridays junction, through Kirkstall, to the junction with Butlers Wharf (Kirkstall Forge entrance). These bus lanes are operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The trial applies for both inbound and outbound bus lanes.
Warning
No other bus lanes across Leeds and the city centre are not open to motorcycles.
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Motorcycles eligible in the trial
All types of solo motorcycles are allowed to use the A65 bus lanes. This includes scooters, motorcycles and mopeds of 50cc or less.
The types of motorcycles not allowed in the A65 bus lane are:
- tricycles
- motorcycles with side cars
- quad bikes and quadricycles
Evaluation of the trial
Now the 12-month trial period has finished, we are evaluating your feedback and the data that we have collected. This will allow us to formally decide on the future of the scheme.
The main areas of focus will be on the impact of the trial on motorcyclist's safety and on other road users. Particularly other vulnerable road users, for example pedestrians, cyclists and bus passengers.
Data has been collected and is now being analysed to inform a decision on making the change permanent. This includes:
- how many motorcyclists use the A65 and how many were using the bus lanes before and during the trial period
- the average speed of motorcyclists and the proportion that exceeded the speed limit before and during the trial period
- any change in casualty rates amongst motorcyclists or any other road users in collisions with motorcyclists
- journey times for buses before and during the trial period
- the experiences of other vulnerable road users
Top tips for riding in the A65 bus lane
- Don't forget to do your shoulder checks. Keep yourself safe.
- To identify you are legally allowed to use a bus lane, the sign below with a motorcycle will be present.
- Advanced stop lines at junctions are for cyclists only. Stay behind the solid white line across the bus lane when waiting for signals.
- Avoid overtaking other motorcycles in the bus lane, they may need the entire width to avoid hazards from both sides.
- Watch your speed in the bus lane. Keep within the speed limit and account for the road and weather conditions.
- Watch out for pedestrians. Reduce speed if pedestrians are present. They may only be looking for buses before stepping out.
- Look out for cyclists. Always pass on the outside and be aware they may not have heard or seen you. Give a safe passing distance of at least 1.5 metres as per the Highway Code at up to 30mph and allow more room at higher speeds.
- Look out for cars crossing the bus lanes from the general traffic lanes at junctions and when merging back into general traffic lanes, as most collisions occur at junctions. Keep focused as you approach a junction and try to anticipate other road users' actions.
