NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Heavy motorcycle enthusiasts rallied on Sunday (Sept. 8) at seven National Highway Service Areas to advocate for highway access. The group proposed a pilot program starting with highways running from east to west.
The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC, 交通部) stated it would consider opening highways to heavy motorcycles if public opinion favors it, performance indicators improve, and local governments support the move.
At the Shiding Service Area (石碇服務區) in New Taipei City, over 100 riders gathered, some raising their arms in mock handcuffs to protest the existing restrictions despite legal amendments.
Hong Wei-chieh (洪葦緁), secretary-general of the "National Motorcycle Industry Association" (大型重型機車經營同業全國促進會), led a group of riders wearing T-shirts emblazoned with various slogans, including "Give back my right of way" (還我路權). The group sought to highlight the disparity in road rights.
In 2011, the Legislative Yuan passed amendments to the "Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act" (道路交通管理處罰條例) conditionally allowing heavy motorcycles on highways.
The MOTC was advised to prioritize national freeways No. 3, 3, 6, and 8 for trial runs. However, heavy motorcycles still face restrictions despite paying the same license tax as cars since Taiwan joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2002.
The Freeway Bureau (高公局) explained that while the law allows for conditional highway access, safety and risk management remain concerns. Public opinion remains divided, with 60% opposing highway access for heavy motorcycles in recent polls. Local governments have also expressed reservations.
The Freeway Bureau plans to conduct another poll next year and reassess performance indicators. Future decisions will depend on public support, improved performance metrics, and local government backing. The bureau will continue to monitor this issue closely.