Making safer choices, staying visible, and understanding the consequences of risky riding are all intended outcomes of the campaign.
The launch coincides with the National Police Chiefs Council’s (NPCC) ‘Two Wheels’ operation, which takes place between June 2 and June 15, and is supported by Cheshire’s Road Safety Group.
The campaign follows local data which, according to a Cheshire Police spokesman, shows ‘a disproportionate number of serious motorcycle collisions’ involving riders aged 16 to 30 – of which ‘almost half’ involve riders aged 16 to 20.
Some collisions were said to occur on lower-powered bikes of 50cc to 125cc, ‘often’, according to the spokesman, ‘used on a provisional licence’.
Chief Inspector Cameron Taylor, from Cheshire Police’s Roads and Crime Unit, said: “This campaign is about helping young riders think about what’s really at stake and supporting the safe use of our roads – not just for their safety, but the impacts it has upon their independence, their finances, and the people who care about them.
“We want this to start positive conversations at home, in colleges, and within local communities.
“The aim is to highlight the dangers and consequences of how you choose to ride, and ultimately prevent avoidable tragedies.”
Short videos and stories will be shared over the summer, and a series of face-to-face engagement events across the county have been organised.
These include community meet-ups at McDonald’s drive-thrus (said to be a popular gathering point for young riders); fire station open days featuring safety demonstrations and talks; college and training provider visits; and Biker Down workshops and partnerships with IAM RoadSmart and local instructors to deliver safety sessions and peer advice.
Outreach through local forums, instructors, and motorcycling groups is also planned.
Chief Inspector Taylor added: “These activities aim to create trusted spaces where young people can talk openly about riding challenges, share experiences, and gain practical advice, whether they ride for leisure, study, or work.
“We know young riders value their freedom and independence, but that freedom comes with responsibility.
“Our officers and our road safety colleagues from across Cheshire’s Road Safety Group will be supporting young riders in making smarter choices.”
Cheshire Police, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Cheshire East, Warrington, Halton, and Cheshire West and Chester Councils road safety teams are supporting the campaign through funding, community outreach, and education efforts.
For more information, visit cheshire.police.uk/police-forces/cheshire-constabulary/areas/cheshire/campaigns/motorcycling-safety/
