Buckinghamshire launches Be a Better Biker

Buckinghamshire County Council’s new Be a Better Biker campaign promotes post test training and encourages those who have just got into riding, or who have come back to it after a lengthy break, to take a course to improve their skills. Bikers who live or ride through Buckinghamshire have actively helped to develop the campaign and have been consulted on all aspects of it.

The number of bikers killed in Buckinghamshire has risen from six in 2002 to 12 in 2003 and two have already died on the county’s roads this year.

The launch event took place at Kawasaki Motors in South Buckinghamshire and was hosted by the Fifth Gear presenter, and keen biker, Vicki Butler Henderson. "I was shocked to learn about the increase in fatalities on Buckinghamshire's roads and know this can be reduced by increasing rider awareness with post test training," she said. "As a racing instructor I know the importance of matching the capabilities of a driver with the capabilities of their car and it's exactly the same with bikes. In fact the need for good anticipation and observation is even greater with bikes because the consequences can be so much graver."

As part of the campaign, 50 free places on four riding assessment days are being offered to bikers who ride bikes of 500cc or higher - and demand has already been high. It is hoped that this initiative will be expanded to allow more bikers to benefit, and that bikers will take the opportunity to refine their riding skills and get even more enjoyment out of their bikes.

"This campaign is innovative but to the point in its approach to helping bikers stay safe," said Rodney Royston, portfolio holder for transportation. "The inclusion of bikers in the development of the campaign has been extremely beneficial and has allowed us to target more directly those who are most vulnerable."

For more information about Be a Better Biker contact Buckinghamshire’s road safety team on 01296 382450, or motorbikes@buckscc.gov.uk or go to http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/beabetterbiker.