The most comprehensive research project into young motorcyclists to date has been launched by the National Young Rider Forum to better understand the attitudes, behaviours and safety needs of riders aged 16 to 24.
The Young Riders Matter project, funded by The Road Safety Trust with support from Agilysis, combines casualty analysis with a survey of 250 young riders and follow up interviews.
The casualty analysis found that 22,161 young motorcyclists were injured between 2019 and 2023.
Of those casualties, 29 percent resulted in the rider being killed or seriously injured.
The largest number of casualties involved motorcycles between 51 and 125cc.
Severity increases as engine size rises, with 27 percent of casualties on 51 to 125cc machines resulting in KSIs, compared with 35 percent on bikes between 126 and 500cc, and 50 percent on bikes over 500cc.
The research also found that rider casualties are disproportionately from deprived areas, live and crash in urban locations, and are frequently involved in T junction conflicts with cars.
Many collisions occur on weekdays and in the afternoon.
Survey findings showed there is no single definition of a young rider, with participants using motorcycles for commuting, independence or work rather than identity.
Some respondents did not identify as motorcyclists at all.
Most demonstrated awareness of their vulnerability and strong knowledge of helmet choice and maintenance.
The majority reported wearing gloves, jackets and boots, though some admitted to riding in hoodies, jeans or trainers.
Interviews revealed concern that buying PPE online can be a “minefield” and that trusted in person advice is valued.
Many participants suggested improvements to CBT including hazard perception training, theory elements or post CBT support.
The survey found Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat and Facebook were the most used platforms for communication.
Search engines, online forums, friends, social media and retailers were the most common information sources.
Most participants said they would use a dedicated Young Riders app featuring route planning, safety tips and further training.
Ruth Purdie said:
“It’s so important that we carefully look at the experiences of young motorcyclists.
“By understanding factors such as their motivation for riding, the choices they make or where they get their information from, we can work to find effective solutions to prevent further tragedies.
“The Government has made it clear through the proposals set out in the National Road Safety Strategy that the level of riders killed or seriously injured on our roads remains unacceptably high.
“I was pleased that the Trust could support such a comprehensive research project looking into this issue and I look forward to seeing how it can inform road safety policy and campaigns in the future.”
The research was launched on 10 February at a webinar attended by more than 75 stakeholders and follows the Government’s new Road Safety Strategy, which aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by 65 percent by 2035.
Heidi Duffy said:
“This is the most comprehensive research project into young motorcyclists to date, and is desperately needed across the UK.
“It can help road safety organisations to reduce motorcycle KSIs, in line with the new targets set out in the National Road Safety Strategy.
“The research uses a co-creation collaborative methodology where the voices and views of the young riders themselves are placed at the centre, something which is very important to the NYRF.
“The aim is for this project to be the focal point for the NYRF and other stakeholders supporting young riders going forwards.”
