|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Police are reminding motorcyclists to take extra care on the roads after four riders came off their bikes within two hours during an organised motorcycle run across the Waikato on Saturday, October 18.
The group had set out from Whatawhata, travelling through Pirongia, Te Awamutu, Arapuni, Putāruru and north to Huntly, when a series of crashes were reported, Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing said in a statement.
He said, at around 11am, a woman was thrown from her bike after hitting gravel on Te Pahu Road, fracturing her wrist. Ten minutes later on the same stretch, a man who hadn’t ridden in 30 years came off his bike, was knocked unconscious and suffered back pain.
About 12.20pm, another rider came off his motorcycle on Arapuni Road after being pushed onto gravel while riding in formation, sustaining a broken arm.
Fifteen minutes later, a fourth man, riding two abreast, also came off his bike on Arapuni Road, but declined ambulance treatment.
Greally said the incidents occurred as fine weather brings more riders back onto the roads.
“As the country steps out of winter into warmer and lighter months, we usually see an uptick in motorcycles on our roads and unfortunately, an increase in motorcycle injuries and crashes.”
He said spring riding can present unique hazards such as glare, patches of oil or loose grit, and changing road conditions after rain.
“We all want to be out on the roads when it’s good weather, but it’s important to get the basics right,” Greally said.
“Riding with friends can be a great experience, but it’s not great when the cost is a serious injury or worse. Take it slow, wear the right gear, and make good decisions.”
Police are encouraging new and returning riders to brush up their skills through programmes such as Ride Forever.
