This thesis examines the contribution motorcycles can make to sustainable transport in London. Following a literature review, and some definitions of the subject matter, there is an analysis of transport data, including the historic use of motorcycles, and policy documents at a national, regional and local level informs a discussion on the utility of motorcycles within a sustainable transport strategy, and its implementation by London Boroughs. As well as examining travel patterns in London, the thesis details the characteristics of London motorcyclists and what differentiates them from riders elsewhere in the UK. The thesis considers some issues associated with the use of motorcycles that help inform policy and strategy at both the national and the local level. These include safety, emissions, noise, congestion and use of the road space. These issues are then tested through case studies of policies and strategies produced by two the City of Westminster and the London Borough of Harrow. The final section compares the characteristics of motorcycles against the requirements of a sustainable transport system and summarises the positive and negative contributions that motorcycles can make. This thesis attempts to answer the questions: Do motorcycles represent a more sustainable transport mode than the private car in Greater London Could an increase in motorcycle use, at the expense of either car or public transport use, have a significant impact on the sustainability of transport in London Would encouraging motorcycle use present a more sustainable approach to London overall, in terms of secondary environmental measures What role can land-use planning have in assisting motorcycle use The thesis concludes that motorcycles do have a role to play in helping to achieve a more sustainable transport system in London, but this is to some extent, dependent on the type and location of journey the vehicle is used for. The thesis also concludes that increasing motorcycle use would be beneficial to motorcyclists' road safety, and how motorcycling would be a beneficiary of policies intended to reduce car use
