Summer biking safety’s easy, riders told

Motorcyclists are being urged to check their gear and upgrade their skills as summer finally arrives and more head out on the road.

Sergeant Rob Keen, of New Plymouth, said motorcyclists were recognised as vulnerable.

‘‘Over the last few years motorcyclists have featured heavily in our crashes and fatal crash statistics throughout the Central District and New Zealand.

‘‘When you are riding a motorcycle you are never going to win the argument with any other vehicle. Drivers bend panels when they crash, motorcyclists lose limbs.’’

Keen said police had teamed up with partnership organisations including Roadsafe Taranaki and Ride Forever to promote training days and raise safety awareness.

‘‘It’s a great way to refresh skills that you’ve lost or have become foggy over time and to keep riders as safe as possible.

‘‘Motorcyclists are recognised as being vulnerable road users and police want to do everything that we can do, to keep people safe on our roads and that includes motorcyclists.’’

He said car drivers weren’t as aware of motorcyclists as they could be and encouraged them to be on the lookout for them.

Motorcyclists should check their safety gear before heading out on the road.

‘‘There’s still guys out there that aren’t getting the message and they’re putting themselves at risk of not being able to go home to see their families after they’ve been riding with their mates.’’

Motorcyclist Heather Patient said riders should always wear the right gear, including boots, helmets, bright colours and clothing which protected their elbows, hands and shoulders.

‘‘It will help to keep yourself safe and keep you alive.’’ ❚ Roadsafe Taranaki is holding a rider training day on March 5 at Waitara’s Todd Energy Raceway between 9am and 5pm.