READERS DISCUSS: Motorbike laws a tough crackdown

DAILY readers have called for equality as Queensland motorcyclists are dealt with some of the toughest rules in Australia. 

Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey announced this week proposed rules would make licensing tests tougher in Queensland than in any other state, as the government tries to stem a recent spate of motorbike deaths.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: ZERO ALCOHOL AND TOUGHER LICENSING LIKELY FOR QLD MOTORCYCLISTS

The new laws include a new minimum learner licence period for new riders and an extension of the restricted licence period.

Extending the restricted licence period would mean lengthening the amount of time riders must remain on zero alcohol.

Here's a snapshot of your conversation. 

Marc Beardmore: How about some tougher licensing and training for car drivers? They are the ones causing half the issues by not looking out for bike riders. I believe that anyone who wants a car licence should have to spend a year on a motorcycle first, and then awareness of bikes would be better, resulting in less accidents.

Matty Chlonta: Maybe motorists need to be more aware of motorbikes put that in the driving test

Brad Harrison: I did my qride in 2008 on the Sunshine Coast. Very good training but only teaching you what you need to know the basics in manoeuvring. I think if you're going for your open you would need to do an advance riding course so learning a bit more in riding. But I have been riding in Indonesia for about eight years starting on a 125 scooter then a 150cc motors then 250cc motors then 650cc and now ride any size engine . Driving in Indonesia is very risky at any time. But it has been the best training and learning experience ever. The main difference between Australia and indo is that car drivers are used to bikes everywhere on the roads as bikes are roughly five to one. So there are less accidents from not seeing a bike.In Australia bikes a few and car drivers are not use to seeing a bike. So really more driver need to be educated in bike awareness.

Dave Maxwell: A few years ago me and a couple of mates paid qride in Maroochydore $200 took a couple of hours went for a 1/2 ride and walked away with open motorbike licence. When I only got my learners a couple of days before that.

Ray Schriever: Just another stupid unconsidered move. I've been licensed and road riding since 1967. The learner period means nothing. You learn by doing. In my 48 years of riding more car drivers have tried to kill me than I have tried to kill myself. Total nonsense.