West Midlands Casualty Reduction Scheme will adopt a fresh approach to influencing motorcycle riders this summer, by organising a free, one-day bike show in Birmingham. The new ON TWO WHEELS urban bike show will offer a wide range of entertainment, demonstrations, retailers and activities, with an underlying theme of improving rider safety on the regions roads.
Casualty statistics for the West Midlands are broadly similar to those across the UK, in that motorcycle riders represent less than 1% of all road traffic and yet make up 16% of all fatal and serious injury casualties in road traffic collisions.
The aim of the event will be to encourage safer riding, encourage all motorcyclists to participate in the day’s free activities, take expert advice, book post-show training courses and improve their own riding skills for their own benefit.
West Midlands Casualty Reduction Scheme (WMCRS) Support Manager, Lisa Newmarsh explains, “We know that motorcyclists are a vulnerable group of road users. In our region, nearly two thirds of collisions in which they are involved are due to other road users failing to look properly, or performing a poor turn or other manoeuvre. No ‘shock tactics’ or ‘finger-wagging’ will be used at this event. Motorcycling enthusiasts will be able to enjoy a great day of dedicated entertainment as well as having easy access to riding instructors, BikeSafe assessors, dealers, manufacturers and other experts in a friendly atmosphere “.
The event will incorporate stunt shows by Kawasaki-sponsored Craig Jones and the Zero Gravity Freestyle Trials team as well as riding demonstrations, a free Try-Before-You-Buy moped zone and free BikeSafe guided ride-outs on a variety of 2010 demo bikes. Exhibitors and retailers will offer everything from accessories and clothing to back protectors and security devices.
Lexham Insurance are supporting the event as specialist moped and scooter insurers and this will be a first show appearance in the UK for Italian clothing manufacturer Tucano Urbano.
The new ON TWO WHEELS urban bike show will be held at St Andrew’s Stadium, Birmingham City Football Club, between 10am and 5pm on Sunday 18th July.
Entry, parking and many of the activities will be free.
Activities, exhibitors and appearances will be added to the website as they are confirmed. For more information, go to www.ontwowheelsbikeshow.co.uk
This event is supported by the Highways Agency.