SAFETY FIRSTIncreasingly motorcycles are becoming the transport of choice for time scarce commuters, but a powerful machine can also be a lethal weapon under the posterior of an inexperienced rider.
To help alleviate the dangerous problem of riders getting on to motorcycles without the valuable basic training needed, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has launched a consultation process for the introduction of Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) for bikers. CBT will require all learner motorcyclists to undergo initial basic training before being issued a licence.
"The objective of the consultation process is to engage those involved in motorcycle instruction and other interested parties in discussion as to how Compulsory Basic Training for learner motorcycle riders might be shaped in Ireland," says RSA chief executive Noel Brett.
Biking can be a perilous pursuit. "Unfortunately motorcyclists are over-represented when it comes to death or injury on Irish roads. Motorcycles represent fewer than 2 per cent of the vehicle population - however, motorcycle riders account for 12 per cent of road deaths. That means they are six times more likely to be involved in a fatal collision than any other road user," he adds.
The majority of motorcyclists do not take rider training when they first become bikers, which can increase the incident of accidents.
According to Brett: "At the moment roughly seven out of 10 bikers have never received any formal rider training."
A document has been developed which sets out the proposals for CBT, taking account of experience and best practice in other countries. Copies of the consultation document can be found on the RSA's website www.rsa.ie or by contacting the RSA on lo-call 1890 50 60 80.
ALARMING TIMES
The most popular choice of motorcycle for bike thieves in Ireland is a fast sports performance bike. Suzuki has introduced new alarm systems for its new K7 GSX-R100 (pictured) and the Bandit 1250, which should go a long way in helping to deter the felons. According to Brendan Lennon, administrator of the Internet forum website biker.ie: "It tends to be mainly sports bikes like the Suzuki GSX-R 750 and Honda Fireblade that are stolen these days. There have been three CBR-900 Fireblades stolen in as many weeks from different members on the forum. Probably the least likely bike to have stolen would be a cruiser. They are not as desirable from a joy-rider's point of view with less power and sporty features, such as graphics and loud exhausts.
Suzuki's range of bespoke motorcycle alarm systems has features such as twin circuit immobilisation, passive arming, auto re-arm and remote control operation. Manufactured by established security specialists Meta, the new alarm systems offer the same high level of protection with Thatcham approval, for a recommended retail price of £299, (around €440) inc VAT and fitment," according to Suzuki's spokesman Luke Plummer.
For more information log on to www.suzuki.co.uk
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