In adopting the report by Mr Roger BARTON (PSE, UK), the European Parliament ratified the
'satisfactory compromise' on the features and characteristics of two- and three-wheeled motor
vehicles reached in the European Parliament/ Council Conciliation Committee, co-chaired by Mr
Renzo IMBENI (PSE, I) for Parliament and Mr Michiel PATIJN for the Council. With this
agreement, a major step has been taken in establishing a genuine single market for this type of
vehicle. One of the main requirements of the rapporteur, Mr Roger BARTON, was to ensure that
we did not add to the number of useless rules, limiting ourselves instead to those measures which
were genuinely necessary to achieve the real objectives, particularly that of increasing safety.
The European Parliament delegation pronounced itself satisfied with the compromise reached,
particularly with regard to tyres, the measures against tampering with the most powerful machines
and the method of measuring noise levels during tests. The common position required users of
powerful machines to fit them only with the brands of tyres recommended by the manufacturers.
This requirement was unacceptable to the rapporteur. Not only was it contrary to the spirit of the
single market, it also restricted consumers' choice.
This exclusivity might, in addition, lead to arrangements between tyre and motor cycle
manufacturers, to the disadvantage of consumers.
The compromise allows any replacement tyre to be fitted, provided it complies with the requirements
of the directive.�