The use of motorcycles over recent years has changed considerably. What was a relatively inexpensive mode of transport is now a recreational pursuit enjoyed by people who are from the professional classes. The age of riders has changed from a profile which included those in their late teens and early twenties to one which reflects an older following increasingly over thirty years of age.

This new phenomenon of motorcycle ownership has resulted in the media labelling riders in this category as 'born again bikers'.

The sales of motorcycles has increased dramatically over the past five years.

Whilst motorcycle casualties have on the whole been on the decrease and are already within the governments target 2000 in that they are 64% lower than the 1981-85 baseline this achievement must be viewed against declining use of motorcycles which has seen the road mileage covered dropped by 50% since the baseline figure was set. (Source DETR Road Accidents GB, The Casualty Reports).

The recently released Road Accidents Great Britain: 1997, The Casualty Report shows that motorcycle fatalities rose by 16% and all motorcycle injuries rose by 6% from 1996 to 1997.

BIKESAFE IN ACTION

The campaign focuses on taking the Bike Safe display units, to the venues popular with motorcyclists. The display units is set up and staffed by police motorcyclists who mix with the motorcyclists offering advice on machine maintenance and roadcraft. Riders are able to have their riding assessed by police and other advanced motorcyclists who observe their riding over road routes.

Every rider receives positive feedback and encouragement to take up advanced training with either the Institute of Advanced Motorists or professional trainers in the private sector or to visit a 'rider skill shop' coordinated by the police.

Since the project started in April 1997 thousands have taken part in Assessment Rides.

Complementing the education element of the project is the firm enforcement of speed limits and dangerous and careless riding which feature in many of the accidents. This is achieved by the use of marked and unmarked cars and motorcycles equipped with speed detection technology and video cameras.