Motorcyclists Urged To Stay Safe

Police are sending a clear plea to motorcyclists ahead of the bank holiday weekends: don't head out on the roads without thoroughly checking your bike and your kit first.

Hundreds of motorcyclists are expected to head out in the sunshine, with many planning their first long rides since last autumn.

Chief Inspector John Holt from the police's Road Policing Unit said; "A lot of people may have barely used their bikes since the wet weather took hold last year and feel a false sense of security that if it still has a current MOT, it's ready to ride. We can't stress enough the importance of checking both the bike and your kit out thoroughly before heading out."

Motorcyclists are advised to:

1. Check brakes and fluid, tyre condition and pressures (checked when cold), fork seals, oil or any lubricant fluid, coolant, chain and sprockets, and lights.
2. Consider a professional service for peace of mind, even if the bike's current mileage doesn't mean it's technically due.
3. Always have any adjustments or replacements made by a proficient person in accordance with the manufacturer's advice.

Riders should pay equal attention to the condition of their kit:

1. Never be tempted to ride in soft footwear, shorts or lightweight tops no matter how short the trip you are making or how warm the weather
2. Check your safety equipment - pay particular attention to helmet webbing and straps and scratched visors. Any scratches on your visor seriously hamper your vision in bright sunlight as well as at night or in wet weather. If there is any damage, get it replaced.
3. If carrying a passenger or extra luggage, remember the handling characteristics of your bike will be affected and travel at a much lower speed. Tyre pressures and suspension will also need to be checked accordingly.

Ch Insp Holt added; "As well as spending time checking your bike and kit are good to go, it's vital riders that haven't used their bikes for a while spend some time getting to know their machine again. It's a good idea to set yourself an easy, short route for a ride alone initially, saving any group rides for when you feel more prepared. Don't make your first trip out a demanding route."

Avon and Somerset Police runs regular one-day and weekend events aimed at improving motorcyclists' safety. Both events are 'hands-on' and centred around rides out with police motorcyclists.

"I can't stress enough the value of attending a post-test assessment to identify any weaknesses putting you at risk on the roads. A lot of riders involved in serious collisions are technically skilled at handling their bikes, but don't have the road skills to match. Ultimately, motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable on the roads and the casualty figures speak for themselves," said Ch Insp Holt.

One-day BikeSafe events cost £20 and are being held on May 8 at Radstock, July 24 at Bristol, August 21 at Yeovil, September 25 at Weston-super-Mare and October 2 at Kingswood. A special Bike Safe Track Experience Day has been organised for June 4 at Castle Combe.

Weekend Ride to Arrive events, which cost £130 (or £170 if not resident in Avon and Somerset) include several long rides out and are being held on May 13 - 15 and September 16 - 18.

Call 0844 9800028 for more information on both courses.

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