Dacorum bikers can take part in BikeSafe workshops to help keep them safe on the roads

Motorcycle riders are being encouraged to join officers from the Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit for BikeSafe events this year, aimed at helping keep them safe on the roads of Hertfordshire.

BikeSafe is a national police-led motorcycle initiative, aimed at working with motorcycle riders in a relaxed environment to raise awareness of the importance and value of progressing on to accredited post-test training.

The workshops involve an observed ride with a police graded motorcyclist or approved BikeSafe observer. With some local variation, BikeSafe workshops aim to cover:

- Rider attitude to risk

- Systematic methods

- Collision causation

- Cornering

- Road positioning

- Overtaking

- Observation

- Braking

- Hazard perception and management

- Use of gears.

Sergeant Russell Jones, of the BCH Road Policing Unit, said: “Every day in the UK there are 60 serious motorcycle related road traffic accidents - 16 of which involve life-changing injuries, with at least one daily fatality.

"Motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable road users which is why workshops like these are so important.

“With restrictions easing, and as we approach the spring and summer months, I’m sure that many bikers will be ready to hit the tarmac once again.

"The BikeSafe workshops aim to help riders recognise the benefits of investing in ongoing post-test rider training.

"I highly recommend the workshops to riders of all ages – it’s a great way to refresh your skills and raise awareness of the dangers on the roads and how to avoid them.

“Motorcyclists will gain increased skills and awareness which can have a really positive impact on reducing the number of bikers being hurt on our roads.”

The workshops take place over two days, with delivery of a theory input from an experienced police motorcyclist taking place on the first day, and an observed ride with an advanced motorcyclist on the second day.

Availability is limited. You can book a course or check availability online.