When Joe Lowe took to two wheels again he was keen to hone his riding skills with the help of some expert training from police motorcyclists.
Joe is the latest member of the Orwell Motorcycles team to enjoy the rewards of the Safe Rider scheme. We’re proud to support this joint initiative between Suffolk and Norfolk police which aims to reduce motorcycle casualties.
Joe, a member of our workshop team, has been riding a Kawasaki Z900RS since April. He did his Safe Rider workshop last month and thoroughly enjoyed the advanced riding experience and safety tips.
He’s already an advanced car driver, and has been an observer for those working towards their advanced test, but felt it would be beneficial to do more motorbike training.
“It was a natural thing to do. I thought it was excellent, well-structured and done brilliantly.”
Before the practical riding test, Joe had some homework which involved studying some slides and riding advice videos.
“I particularly liked the idea of one police officer with two students for the riding. You have one student at the front, then the police officer in the middle and the other student behind.
“The officer can keep an eye on both student riders and can critique you about how you can ride better and to their roadcraft system.”
Having regained the bug for advanced motoring, Joe now plans to do his advanced test with our friends at Suffolk Advanced Motorcyclists (SAM).
“Safe Rider has made me think more about my riding. I always approach things in a safe manner but it’s still been a bit of a wake-up call.
“I’ve got used to my motorbike and all the power, and have been using it, but the course has made me think about using the power appropriately.”
The relaxed Safe Rider workshops, which are about education not enforcement, are aimed at all fully-qualified riders from post-test novices to experienced bikers who want to improve their skills to become better and safer riders.
The workshops cost £50 per person, with some free places and discounts for riders aged under 25.
There is one more workshop planned this year on 9 October.
To find out more, or register for a workshop, email saferider@suffolk.pnn.police.uk or call PC Simon Myall, in the Road Casualty Reduction Team, on 01473 613888 ext 3722.