Insurance: mid-life crisis makes men get on their bikes
Large numbers of men are buying motorbikes to stay young - and beat congestion charges. Teresa Hunter looks at their insurance problems
Riding a motor cycle has long been associated with youth and rebellion, summed up by Billy in the 1969 cult film Easy Rider, when he said: "What the hell is wrong with freedom?"
Today, whether it's middle-aged men trying to recapture their youth, or desperate motorists driven to despair by rising petrol, tax and congestion charges, increasing numbers are swapping four wheels for two. Motorcycle ownership is on the up, but finding adequate insurance can be problematic because of high accident rates.
Insurers and police are becoming concerned as more inexperienced riders reach for helmets and leathers. According to the Association of British Insurers, companies paid out £22m to meet claims from motorcyclists last year, compared with £19m in 2006.
