Is the EU planning to have all motorcycles painted green? No worries, it's not.The European Parliament last week agreed with the European Council on new rules for safer and greener motorbikes. While the responsibility of safe driving is up to consumers using motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, etc., the European institutions make sure that at least technical issues are regulated at a safe, European level. After all, ca 16% of accident deaths on Europe's roads occurs with involvement of motorbikes. Some of the new rules toughen the market surveillance, while others are more specific: e.g., all bigger motorbikes (over 125cc) will need to have an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Additionally, the level of emissions has been adjusted to make motorcycles more green.The vote on the proposal is scheduled for November in the plenary. (MEPs close deal with Council on safer, greener motorbikes)