Title: Motorcyclists see themselves as bullet proof

Increased motorcycle traffic on Canterbury's State Highways recently has urged Police to issue yet another warning to riders. Several motorcycle related events around the South Island have meant large numbers of motor cycles travelling up and down State Highways 1 and 7.

Focused enforcement has resulted in a higher than usual number of infringement notices issued to motorcyclists for speeding, with speeds of 120km/h plus being the norm. Overtaking on bends and yellow lines are also far too common, as are riders who do not have the appropriate licence or who are breaching the conditions of their graduated licence.

Increased enforcement is also targeting the behaviour of motorcyclists on State Highway 75 between Christchurch and Akaroa, where 4 motorcyclists lost their lives in 2008.

"Unfortunately there is a section of the motor cycling fraternity who see themselves as bullet proof and are prepared to take unnecessary risks which all too often are claiming their lives, and putting other road users at risk," says Senior Sergeant Neville Hyland, Canterbury Highway Patrol. "The saddest part of this whole equation is that a large proportion of these riders are family men, who run the risk of depriving their own families of a husband and father."

It is timely, with Christmas approaching and the summer weather more conducive to dusting off the bike and taking it out for a ride, to urge all motorcyclists to act responsibly and within the law. "If you feel the need to ride at high speeds, take it to the race track," says Senior Sergeant Hyland.

A 41 year old male motorcyclist will appear in the Rangiora District Court charged with driving while suspended, after being stopped twice by Police in North Canterbury within half an hour this afternoon, Monday 30 November. He was initially stopped for speeding (141km/h) and his licence suspended for 28 days for travelling at more than 40 km/h over the limit. He was stopped a second time a short distance away and his motorcycle impounded.

Two motorcycle riders have lost their lives on Canterbury roads so far in 2009. Last year, seven riders and two pillion passengers were killed. The increased enforcement will continue.

ENDS