Get ready to sharpen your skills and get your motorcycle and gear ready for the months ahead with free local events this September.

September is Motorcycle Awareness Month, raising awareness of the importance of motorcycle safety. To support this, Travel Safe is teaming up with local motorcycle retailers to host three free events during the month to celebrate riding and encourage riders to improve their skills by attending a Ride Forever course.

Te Awanui Ward Councillor Hēmi Rolleston, who himself rides a motor scooter, says with over half of New Zealand’s riders taking to the roads in September, it’s an opportune time to raise awareness of the importance of staying safe.

"Riding a scooter gives me a real appreciation for how crucial it is to be seen and stay sharp on the road. It’s a timely reminder for all road users to be mindful, share the road responsibly, and help keep each other safe,” says Hēmi.

Motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to attend these free local events:

• 6 September – United We Ride | East Coast Harley Davidson, Mount Maunganui | Ride and sausage sizzle | 10am – 12.30pm ride start
• 13 September – Bayride Community Day | Bayride Motorcycles, Tauriko | Gymkhana, giveaways, sausage sizzle | 10am – 1pm
• 18 September – Helmet Info Evening | Bayride Motorcycles, Tauriko | Safety tips and giveaways | 6pm – 8pm

Motorcycle Awareness Month was launched after riders at Ride Forever noticed a worrying trend in the 2017 crash stats. Each year, September marks the seasonal return of over half of New Zealand’s riders to the roads after winter. The month is a nationwide initiative supported by ACC, NZ Police, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, the Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council, and local councils, along with dealerships, gear retailers, and bike clubs across the country.

Travel Safe delivers road safety education across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

Find out more about the events at whatsontauranga.co.nz/motorcycle

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