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Not so easy riders

From the archive, first published Wednesday 11th Feb 2004.

Motorcyclists in Devon are being offered the chance to boost their riding abilities and improve their safety.

Devon Advanced Motorcyclists (DAM) is are starting advanced motorcycle courses specifically designed for riders who wish to improve their road skills, confidence and safety.

In 2002, motorcyclists made up only 2 per cent of all traffic, yet they accounted for a quarter of all fatal accidents in Devon. In total, 100 motorcyclists were either killed or seriously injured in Devon during that year. Advanced training is seen as an excellent method of helping to reduce these figures.

The courses feature classroom-based training as well as sessions out on the road taken by trained observers. All riders who hold a full licence and own a motorcycle that will comfortably hold the maximum motorway speed of 70 mph are being encouraged to take part.

As well as improving their own skills, the course will also look at advanced techniques such as spotting hazards which will help riders compensate for a lack of skills of other road users.

Devon County Council is keen to help support these groups as part of the ongoing safety campaign, 'Bringing Bikers Out Of The Blindspot', and will be providing resources such as safety equipment for the courses.

Paul Neate, the club's Chief Senior observer said: 'We have been successfully involved in advanced motorcycling guidance for about ten years. We have gained enormous experience and have a good record of bringing motorcyclists to national levels of skill.'

Executive Member for the Environment, Councillor David Morrish, said: 'We're incredibly fortunate in Devon to have high standard riding groups like this and we will look to support them where possible'.

Dates for the Spring Seminars are: - Tuesday 17th February 7:30 at Westpoint Tuesday 16th March 7:30 at Westpoint Tuesday 18th May 7:30 at Westpoint Tuesday 15th June 7:30 at Westpoint Tuesday 20th July 7:30 at Westpoint

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