Paris Motorcyclists Prepare Massive Protest against Old Bikes Ban

Frankly, the title of this piece should be “some French never learn”. It’s been on more than one or two occasions when legislative initiatives involving or targeting motorcycle riders in France or Paris have led to a huge sentiment of frustration and discontent which was quickly transformed in huge protests. And since we’re talking motorcycles here, what better way to make yourself observed than actually riding the bike?

A rich history of protests

This is exactly what will happen on February 8 as large numbers of motorcycle riders are expected to parade through Paris in response to the recent ban the city management imposed to bikes older than 2000. If you’re hearing about such a law for the first time, please have a glass of scotch at hand, or better replace it with some pills to keep you calm and read our (not that) old article on the Paris motorcycle ban.

It looks like the local bill passed, so the FFMC (Federation Francaise des Motards en Colere or French Federation of Pissed-off Bikers in English) is preparing to strike back, as motorbiker reports. When it comes to such things, I could almost say that French riders are enjoying these protest rides as much as they like any type of activity involving casually riding motorcycles.

However, February 8 will see the traffic situation quickly deteriorating in the French capital, as the massive ride starts at 14:00 local time and thousands of bikes are expected to attend. Ready there, Paris City Hall? Click the header photo to see what's cooking.