WeBeMAG are a group of people, from differing backgrounds and a variety of occupations, but all with a common interest: motor bikes and all things biking! We are NOT a motorcycle gang or 'club', with its rules, constraints and its rigid command structure.  We just seek out opportunities to meet up and socialise, sharing and revelling in the world of motorcycles:  true, it's often over a drink or two - but it is as likely to be tea or coffee as it is alcohol. Becoming a member is easy!  Come along to one or two of our gatherings, and see how you like us.  Confess your interest in bikes (even if you do not own one!)  If you find the experience enjoyable and would like even more, then mention to a few around that you'd like to come along regularly, and you're in!  That simple.  Sure, we'll announce your 'membership' at our next business meeting, (primarily as an official welcome,) but that is all it takes.  In an ideal world, as we are a MAG group, you'll be encouraged to join MAG (if not already a member), but even that is not compulsory.  It is worth pointing out though, that to be appointed to a committee post, MAG membership is a must. It's not onerous, is it? It truly is FUN!  Don't take my word for it, come along and find out for yourself. About MAG The Motorcycle Action Group Exists to promote motorcycling and fight unnecessary legislation from national and European governments. It is a lobbying organisation that exists to protect motorcycling from negative legislation that threatens the pleasure of riders. Established in 1973 specifically to campaign for the repeal of the mandatory helmet law MAG has dramatically broadened the scope of its activity and has now established itself as the legitimate voice of the road-riding motorcyclist in the UK. Beyond that we have taken responsibility for promoting a better motorcycling environment through local lobbying on convenience issues such as bus lane use, advanced stop lines, congestion charging and parking facilities. MAG is more interested than most in promoting the interests of road safety but not at the expense of our right to ride, enjoy fundamental freedoms and control our machines. Why join MAG Here’s a few reasons External Vehicle Speed Control (EVSC) - The remote control of vehicle speed so that no private vehicle ever exceeds a speed limit by any margin is the goal of many road safety zealots. MAG opposes this zero tolerance attitude which it sees as challenging the fundamental concept of private transport. Speed control technology is now a reality. The challenge for MAG is to prevent what is technically feasible becoming politically acceptable. We are defending your right to control your motorcycle. Irresponsible Road Users - MAG has long resisted efforts to apportion all blame for motorcycle accidents to riders. Many accidents are caused by unobservant motorists who claim “sorry mate I didn’t see you” (the SMIDSY accident). MAG is campaigning for motorcycle awareness elements in the driving test and for stronger measures to prevent diesel spillages. Road Design - Wire rope barriers with their exposed posts are seen as the most dangerous form of crash barriers for motorcyclists. MAG is campaigning for the removal of these barriers and the installation of motorcycle friendly barriers on UK roads. Road Tolls - Congestion Charging - Tolls for bikes were dropped on the Dartford Crossing, Severn Bridges and the Mersey Tunnels. Bikes are exempt from congestion charging in London and the West Midlands. We are campaigning for charges to be dropped on the Humber Bridge, the M6 toll roads and other motorway charging schemes. We are campaigning for the ongoing London Bikes in Bus Lanes trials to be made permanent. Anti-theft Reward Scheme - MAG members’ bikes are protected by a reward of up to £1,000 in the event of them being stolen. Power Limits - MAG successfully helped beat the 100bhp limit and modified the EU anti-tampering directive in a way that preserved significant rights for owners to modify their machines. Driving Licenses - The EU want to harmonise motorcycle training and testing protocols in a way that could make it far harder for UK riders to get their licenses. MAG has been heavily involved in the discussions with our government and the EU via FEMA. MAG has resisted all efforts to use the licensing regime to discourage motorcycling as a means of reducing motorcycle accidents. Clothing - Efforts to require riders to wear only such clothing as meets minimum standards of protection have already been made. While MAG recognises the value of having clothing standards for consumer information, we fiercely challenge the right of Government to tell us what we must wear. All of the political work MAG does on behalf of riders’ rights has to be paid for somehow. Sadly, there is no multi-million pound pot to call upon. The best possible way of raising the money and the profile of MAG is by being part of the massive motorcycling social scene – by holding major rallies and shows, or arranging entertainment with the cooperation of other events, such as the Pro Custom Bike Show.