Motorbike rules!

Just because you've never heard of them, doesn't mean they don't exist.

The actual law is;
Article 36. Casques de protection - Vêtements de protection
you can find the text here;
http://www.code-de-la-route.be/textes-legaux/sections/ar/code-de-la-rout...

The relevant passage is:
"Les conducteurs et les passagers des motocyclettes portent des gants, une veste à manches longues et un pantalon ou une combinaison ainsi que des bottes ou des bottillons qui protègent les chevilles."

yes, this is a new rule I think since 2011. Gloves, jacket, and over ankle shoes. The policeman that stopped me last year wanted to give me a 300 euro fine for riding without the proper protection.

Read more here:
http://www.nyscooterclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=16262

You can actually watch a news report from last friday on this topic:
http://www.telebruxelles.net/portail/emissions/les-journaux/le-journal/2...

skip to the 4th minute of the video.

The rule only applies to motorbikes and scooters above 125cc. Only the helmet is compulsory for scooters up to 125cc.

Personally, I tend to use all the gear regardless of whether I am on my motorbike or on my Vespa, and at the very least I always wear gloves and closed shoes.

Remember it's for safety too. The warm weather has lead to lots of people driving bikes and scooters in shorts and t-shirts, but bear in mind that if you come off the bike dressed like that it will be your skin that hits the tarmac!