0

'Check before you travel' plea as sunny weather beckons


March 17, 2022 - 931 views

With the weekend expected to be dry and bright across the North Wales coast and down the Conwy Valley, North Wales Police expect an influx of motorists and riders to take advantage of the good weather.

As part of a drive to promote road safety, traffic officers are reminding many motorbike enthusiasts who may be taking to the North Wales roads for the first time in a while to check before they ride.

Sergeant Leigh Evans of the Roads Policing Unit said: “Motorcycles may not be roadworthy after being locked up over winter, even if they were in good condition on the day they went into storage.

“Tyres can deflate over time and parts can seize so it is very important that riders check their vehicles carefully before riding them. It’s far better to fix an issue before setting off on a journey than discover a problem whilst out riding and potentially being involved in a collision.

“There's a new and exciting feeling when you first get back on your bike after winter, to ride again and enjoy the sense of freedom. However, can you honestly say that your skills are as polished as when you last rode several months ago?

"No matter how good you are, you can always improve. So once again we are urging bikers to consider further skills training to improve your riding via schemes such as BikeSafe.

Sergeant Evans added: “If you are planning on going out on your bike this weekend please  travel at an appropriate speed for the road, check the weather forecast and traffic conditions – which can be unpredictable at this time of the year and always wear high-visibility clothing and other appropriate attire.

“Drivers are also being urged to ‘Think Bike’ and be extra vigilant for motorcycles during their journeys and ensure they give sufficient room when following bikers. It’s also important to continually check for motorcycles when moving off, or emerging from junctions.”

Bikers are advised to think POWDER – Petrol, Oil, Water, Damage, Electrics and Rubber. Further tips and useful information is available via BikeSafe - BikeSafe.