The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has instructed the operator of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) that Class 1 vehicles that are transporting recreational equipment on their roof--even if these exceed 7ft in height--should continue to be classified under their original classification.

Following a meeting last July 24 between the TRB and tollway concessionaires and operators, it was agreed upon that Class 1 vehicles exceeding 7ft in height due to the loading of recreational equipment on their roof--"such as bikes and surfboards, which are safely attached to the vehicles and not intended for commercial purposes"--shall continue to be classified as Class 1.

This latest decision comes after NLEX operator Manila North Tollways Corporation rolled out a directive last July 8 that sought to classify Class 1 vehicles exceeding 7ft in height due to a high load on their roof as Class 2 vehicles.

Good news for bikers, then.