North Wales Police have launched a major road safety campaign aimed at reducing the number of motorcyclists being killed or seriously injured on the region’s roads.

Operation Apex, which runs from now through to autumn, will see high-visibility patrols targeting key routes identified as motorcycle collision hotspots as officers seek to improve rider safety and encourage responsible behaviour among all road users.

The campaign comes after a worrying increase in motorcycle casualties across North Wales. Figures show that 12 motorcyclists and one pillion passenger lost their lives on the region’s roads during 2025, compared with six motorcyclist deaths in 2024. Serious motorcycle casualties also increased by almost 39 per cent last year.

Operation Apex coincides with the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s annual 2-Wheel Operation, running from June 1 to June 14, which promotes safer riding and driving practices nationwide.

Throughout the summer, officers from North Wales Police’s Roads Crime Unit will patrol popular biking routes and engage directly with riders at well-known meeting points across the region.

Chief Inspector Rob Rands, of Operational Support Services, said motorcyclists remain among the most vulnerable road users.

“Sadly, motorcyclists are amongst the most vulnerable groups of road users, and they are at a higher risk of injury and collision than other road users,” he said.

“Although a motorcyclist may not be at fault, their vulnerability invariably means that they suffer more serious injuries in a collision.”

He said the force would adopt a zero-tolerance approach to dangerous driving and riding behaviour in a bid to prevent further tragedies.

“We want to prevent harm and injury and allow everyone to enjoy the roads as they become busier and shared between all different types of road users,” he said.

The campaign will focus on both enforcement and education, with officers urging motorists to look out for motorcycles, particularly at junctions, roundabouts and when turning right – situations that have featured in a number of serious collisions.

Riders are also being encouraged to travel at appropriate speeds, wear high-visibility clothing, ride within their capabilities and ensure they always wear suitable protective equipment.

Chief Inspector Rands added: “Behind every casualty will be a family who are expecting them to come home. This campaign isn’t about spoiling people’s fun but encourages riders and drivers to be safe and competent with the aim of reducing the number of collisions.”

As part of the operation, North Wales Police will once again work alongside the National Police Air Service (NPAS), using helicopter patrols to identify areas where motorcyclists are gathering and detect instances of dangerous or anti-social riding.

Sergeant Leigh McCann, of the Roads Crime Unit, said the force remains committed to tackling dangerous behaviour on the roads.

“Whilst the vast majority of motorists ride or drive appropriately, we will continue to target – with a view to prosecution – all those that ride or drive dangerously, at excess speed, overtake on solid white lines or commit any other road traffic offences,” he said.

“As a keen motorcyclist myself, I know that I and my fellow motorcyclist colleagues not only understand the risks, but we are passionate about how we can work together to reduce collisions.”

Statistics from 2025 show that more than 73 per cent of serious motorcycle casualties involved riders who were local to North Wales, underlining the importance of promoting safer riding habits among residents as well as visitors.

Early figures for 2026 also suggest rider behaviour remains a significant factor in collisions, with nearly three-quarters of riders involved in serious crashes between January and April considered to have caused or contributed to the incident.

North Wales Police are also encouraging riders to take part in BikeSafe workshops, which offer practical advice and training designed to improve riding skills and road awareness.

With thousands of bikers expected to take to North Wales’ scenic roads during the warmer months, officers say the message is simple: enjoy the ride, but make sure everyone gets home safely.