Bikers reminded to stay safe this summer

Motorcyclists are being reminded of simple ways to stay safe on the county’s roads.

The arrival of warmer weather always attracts more bikers onto the county’s roads and riders are being urged to take extra care and to check out the Biker Survival Guide on the County Council’s Max Rider website.

The guide includes everything from knowing the route that bikers are going to ride and whether it has a history of bike crashes, to riding in a group. There are also tips on cornering and overtaking techniques and information on courses to improve riding skills.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “The survival guide is essential reading for bikers. It offers straightforward but simple advice which motorcyclists can use to refresh themselves. We are committed to continuing our efforts to reduce the number of motorcycle casualties in Devon and we hope bikers take a bit of time to take the information on board in order to help them get the most out of their riding, to enjoy it and stay safe.”

Provisional figures for last year show that 34 people died on Devon’s roads and 8 of them were motorcycle riders. Although riders only make up around 1% of overall traffic, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable, accounting for around a quarter of deaths on Devon’s roads.

The Biker Survival Guide can be found at http://maxrider.co.uk/survivalskills.html