PARENTS in Devon and Cornwall can help keep their young motorcycle riders safe on the road, thanks to a new Novice Rider Hub and series of videos launched by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

Data shows that 715 16-24-year-olds were killed or injured on the region’s roads while on their motorcycle between 2018-2021, with 88% of those male.

Nationally, 16-24-year-old motorcyclists are twice as likely to be killed or injured than their 40-49-year-old counterparts per capita, with 4,657 motorcyclists aged 16-24 injured or killed on Britain’s roads in 2021, compared to 1,931 40-49 year olds. The number of motorcycle riders is also rising, with CBT completions 22% higher than they were in 2019.

Across the country, between 34% and 42% of young motorcyclists harmed between 2014 and 2018 were involved in collisions at T-junctions, with eight to 10% being at crossroads. Around 80% of youngsters harmed were involved with collisions where there were two vehicles, the majority of those with a car.

RoSPA’s Novice Rider Hub features a wealth of information to help young people skill up and become a safer motorcycle rider, including:

  • The latest safety and style advice on motorcycle clothing and protective gear like helmets
  • A breakdown of all the different types of motorcycles, including engine sizes and the appropriate licences.
  • Essential riding tips and tricks on how to be safe on the road
  • Advice on how to keep your bike in good condition and roadworthy
  • Engaging driver-safety videos and infographics
  • The motorcycle safety advice everyone needs to know.

The launch of RoSPA’s Novice Rider Hub coincided with The National Fire Chiefs Council’s National Safety Motorcycle Week, running from April 3-9.

David Walker, Head of Road Safety at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, said: “When you’re a young adult and keen to get out and about, having your own transport is exciting and liberating. But we know that youngsters are at the most risk of injury or death on the road, with 16-24-year-olds twice as likely to be killed or seriously injured when riding their motorcycle.

“Our Novice Rider Hub is a one-stop-shop for everything a young rider needs to know if they own a motorcycle and equips them with the tools ready to ride safely and confidently. We would encourage all parents of young adults who ride a motorcycle, to check it out and encourage their child to do the same – knowledge saves lives.”