There was some recent discussion about bikes not being permitted to use the priority lanes on the new controlled on ramps.
Here is what appears to be a favourable response from the LTSA :
" Dear xx
Priority lanes
Thank you for your email of 5 December regarding the use of priority lanes by motorcycles. I am sorry about the delay in this reply to you.
Land Transport New Zealand has been actively engaged with Transit New Zealand as they develop the “priority lane” concept at a number of proposed ramp signalling sites on the Auckland Motorway. An aspect of many of the priority lanes is the link they have to similar lanes on the approaches to the ramp. Thus a ‘Transit Lane’ on the approach is likely to be given a priority bypass for the ramp signals. All vehicles entitled to be on any special approach lane leading directly to a priority lane will also be permitted to use the priority lane at the signals. Motorcycles are permitted to use Transit Lanes and where such a lane becomes a priority lane motorcycles will be able to continue using the lane.
However, one site is currently planned with a Truck Lane. In this case it is unlikely motorcycles would be permitted or motorcyclists would wish to use the truck lane. Truck lanes are often climbing lanes for heavy motor vehicles which will, in most cases, be travelling much slower than most motorcyclists would wish or be capable of. If motorcyclists were to use the lane it is likely they would pass and, to do so, would be required to enter the adjacent lane with likely impacts on the flow in that lane and with potential risk to themselves or others.
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable – whether stationery or moving – than most other motor vehicles. However, motorcyclists are less vulnerable if they operate in ways similar to other motor vehicles particularly in relation to positioning in vehicle lanes. The road rules support that view.
Yours sincerely
Wayne Donnelly
Chief Executive"
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Originally Posted by shaneh
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