Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) Review
Tender ID: 477050
Tender Details
Tender Description
The purpose of this project is to review the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) to ensure it provides optimal safety outcomes for novice motorcycle riders, and to examine the safety risks associated with electric motorcycles.
A review of LAMS (and subsequent possible changes) will also increase the likelihood of implementation harmonisation by all Australian Transport Authorities and improve vehicle accessibility options for minority groups (such as people with a physical disability).
Background information
The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) prohibits learner permit holders and provisional and restricted motorcycle licence holders from riding high-powered motorcycles capable of unnecessarily high performance. LAMS was introduced in 2005 to reduce the incidence of serious casualty road crashes involving motorcycles.
At present, to meet the definition of a learner approved motorcycle in most Australian jurisdictions, the motorcycle must meet all of the following criteria:
• have a power-to-weight ratio of 150 kilowatts per tonne or less
• have an engine capacity of 660cc or less
• be the standard model and variant as specified on the approved list
• not been modified in any way that increases its power-to-weight ratio
• be a motorcycle on the approved list of motorcycles (for example as per notice in the SA Government Gazette https://mylicence.sa.gov.au/my-motorcycle-licence?a=523221 ).
Additional background information
• No formal review of LAMS has been conducted since 2005 when it was introduced to replace the 250cc engine capacity limit for novice riders (as race replica 250cc motorcycles were overrepresented in serious casualty crashes).
• Current LAMS criteria does not consider the numerous different types of motorcycle types, such as Naked, Cruiser, Sport Bike, Touring, Scooter etc. A 2018 research study conducted by MUARC found an association between types of motorcycle and crash risk and risk of serious injury outcomes.
• LAMS covers a wide range of makes, models and styles of motorcycles to cater for riders of all sizes (over 600 different motorcycles, including a few electric powered motorcycles and a few motor trikes).
• Transport for NSW maintains the LAMS list.
• All Australian Jurisdictions have adopted LAMS criteria except ACT where some motorcycles with an engine capacity over 660cc are allowed provided the power to weight ratio is under 150 kW/tonne.
• Formal verification of the 25kw electric powered motor limit is needed to cater for the new wave of electric motorcycles entering the market.
• Motor trikes are becoming more popular and are more stable than two wheelers so more trikes may be considered suitable for inclusion in the LAMS list (trikes also cater for individuals with limited physical mobility).
• Motorcycle modification is not permitted under the current LAMS criteria, preventing access for people with disability who seek to ride modified motorcycles or motor trikes.
• An investigation conducted by Transport for NSW (who maintain the LAMS list) on a LAMS approved motor trike concluded that it is not suitable for novice riders as it requires high level of riding skill to operate.
• There is a very limited range of motor trikes that meet the LAMS criteria (on the LAMS list), creating difficulties for people wishing to get a learner’s permit to ride a motor trike. New advanced vehicle safety technologies that are available on some larger engine capacity motorcycles are also not currently considered for LAMS.
SCOPE:
This project seeks to research and investigate if the LAMS criteria can be enhanced to improve road safety for motorcyclists and accommodates adjustments needed for people with limited mobility.
The scope of this project is to conduct a review of LAMS criteria to identify possible changes in terms of what is recommended as most effective in reducing the likelihood of novice motorcycle rider crashes; including the expected benefits and costs.
With regard to electric motorcycles becoming more prevalent in future, the scope will also explore what advanced safety technologies are available on electric motorcycles and the safety risks associated with the instant torque and power provided by an electric motor, the lack of engine and exhaust noise and other electric vehicle features such as regenerative braking.
The project will involve stakeholder consultation and provide a report and recommendations about any potential LAMS criteria changes, including a comprehensive data analysis for further assessment.
The outputs of this project will include:
• A Research Report for publication that :
o reviews current research on LAMS related information with regard to improving the safety of novice motorcycle riders and safety risks associated with electric motorcycles.
o verifies MUARC research finding of a relationship between some types of motorcycles and higher crash risk and risk of injury outcomes. https:/ https://protect-au.mimecast.com/s/pEU0COMxxlhpMjpEUYvNVP?domain=aus01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/1572918/VSRG-Motorcycle-Crash-Risk-and-Injury-Outcome-Factors-Report-336.pdf
o summarises the outcomes of consultation with key stakeholders including road safety research organisations, riding groups and motorcycling industry representatives.
• An Internal Report that includes:
o an options analysis, including key findings and a prioritised list of options to enhance LAMS criteria.
o d
Location
New South Wales : Central West : Far North Coast : Far West : Hunter : Illawarra : Mid North Coast : Murray : New England : Orana : Riverina : Southern Highlands : Sydney
Queensland : Cairns & Far North Queensland : Gladstone : Mackay Whitsunday Region : Mount Isa & North West Region : Rockhampton : South East Queensland : South West & Darling Downs : The Central West : Townsville : Wide Bay Burnett
Victoria : Barwon South West : Gippsland : Grampians : Hume : Loddon Mallee : Melbourne
South Australia : Adelaide : Eyre & Western : Far North : Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island : Limestone Coast : Murray & Mallee : York & Mid North
Northern Territory : Big Rivers : Central Australia : East Arnhem : Greater Darwin
Australian Capital Territory
Tasmania
