Cycling in London is fraught with danger, with packed roads and everybody in a mad rush to get about; the cyclist is one of the most vulnerable road users. Until now, a haven of motor vehicle absence has been red route bus lanes, to which previously only buses, taxis and cyclists were allowed access.

That’s all set to change. As of Monday 5 January, Transport for London is beginning an 18-month trial to allow motorcycles, mopeds, scooters and tricycles – but not those with sidecars – to travel in most red route bus lanes.

Red route bus lanes make up 5% of roads in London, but they carry approximately 33% of the city’s traffic, and are key roads in London. Red routes are easily identifiable because they are flanked by red, instead of yellow, lines.

In his transport manifesto, Major Boris Johnson said: “I believe we should embrace any measure that has the potential to relieve congestion, especially if new evidence shows it to be safe and effective. Therefore, I will allow motorcycles in bus lanes. I believe that motorcycles will help combat congestion, and we should encourage greater use of them.”

Monitoring of the trial will be undertaken to determine whether this becomes a permanent change. TfL is welcoming your feedback, and has setup a feedback form here asking for your thoughts on the trial.

If you’re not sure if this trial affects you, this TfL document (PDF 143KB) outlines all the red route bus lanes that motorcyclists will be allowed in.

So, what do you think? Let’s here from all the London based readers of RCUK on your thoughts on the trial. Will it really result in carnage in the bus lanes, or will cyclists and motorcyclists be able to get along harmoniously?