Scottish bikers 'need to take care'

Date: 23/7/2010

Motorcyclists in Scotland are being urged to take care on the roads over the summer months.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) stated bikers may be tempted to ride beyond their abilities when the weather is dry and sunny.

However, individuals are being encouraged to have extra training and join the organisation's Advanced Drivers and Riders group.

The sessions provide advice on safety procedures, along with tips on routes for scenic ride-outs.

RoSPA's Road Safety Officer for Scotland Kathleen Braidwood praised the advanced bikers who give up their spare time to help others hone their skills.

"Motorcyclists are over represented in accident statistics and reducing […] figures is a key priority," she added.

According to RoSPA, common accidents among motorcyclists include loss of control, collisions at junctions and failure to negotiate a left-hand bend on rural roads, among others.

Earlier this week, Gary Hartshorne from TyreSafe claimed bikers could be putting their road safety at risk if they ride on continuous straight routes like motorways.

He suggested motorcyclists use winding roads as much as they can to avoid square-off within the tyres, which cause a loss of grip.

Posted by Sarah Bailey