Motorcyclists’ Perceptions and Experiences of Riding and Risk, and Their Advice For Safety

Their observations on the threats and barriers to safety focused on three components: the rider, the motorcycle and the environment. Risks included inexperience, not riding to the conditions, choice of motorcycle, protective clothing and conspicuity, and speed. The underlying risk of being on two wheels was accentuated by the availability of highly powered motorcycles.

The threats perceived in the environment included the behaviour of other road users, especially car drivers, and the poor roading conditions and surrounds encountered. Conclusions: Riders identified risks that have been recognised in the road safety literature, and also risks for which there are no engineering or scientific solutions. To effectively increase motorcyclist safety, recognition of the commonalities and the differences between motorcyclists’ perspectives and proposed strategies is needed.

This approach is more likely to engage riders, and thus support positive behaviour change among riders and drivers.