Quebec’s Auto Insurance Board (SAAQ) has implemented a series of new measures to crack down on the number of motorcycle-related injuries and deaths on the roads. There is now zero tolerance for alcohol for new riders during their first two years, and a three-year prohibition from driving motorcycles that have certain features that are deemed risky, such as some sports bikes. “We’re confident that this will lower the death toll on Quebec roads,” said SAAQ spokesperson Simon-Pierre Poulin. “The end game is just to save lives.” Despite gaining ground in reducing motorcycle deaths over the last 50 years, Poulin said the number of deaths was still too high. In 2025, he said there were roughly 62 fatalities. SAAQ data also showed motorcyclists with less than three years of experience were overrepresented in the number of accidents leading to personal injuries, and certain features and models, such as aerodynamic fairings, low handlebars, forward-leaning seating and high power to weight ratios, put inexperienced drivers at risk. The new rules drew mixed reception at Morty’s Driving School in Vaudreuil, which held a session for beginner motorcyclists this weekend. “I think they should have done this a long time ago,” said senior instructor Phil Maatouk. He said that it takes a lot of practice for a rider to get used to the weight and power of a bike. “We always tell them take something, with a smaller CC, a smaller engine that you can get the feel of it. After a few years of experience, you can upgrade.” Some of his students disagree with the new law prohibiting certain sports bikes. “I don’t like necessarily restrictions,” said learner Mackenzie Steel. “If you’re willing to pay for it, I don’t see why not.” “A sports bike doesn’t necessarily equal like breaking the law or going at like insane speeds,” said Carol Youssef. “You know, you gain experience by actually driving the bike.”
