Police are disappointed with the levels of excess speed motorcycle riders have demonstrated during their month long safety campaign.

The ‘Month of Motorcycles' ran from November 14 until December 11.

In this time, police spoke with motorcyclists about vehicle condition, safety equipment, clothing, licences, rider behaviour and legal compliance.

During the campaign a total of 645 riders were spoken with.

Senior Sergeant Kris Burbery says the most concerning issue highlighted was excessive speed with nearly a quarter of riders pulled over for riding too fast.

As a positive, not a single rider was found to be drunk driving.

'We were pleased to find that on the whole riders are showing responsibility in regard to the condition of their vehicles, and most are driving with the appropriate class of licence.

'The percentage of those spoken to who were riding at excess speed is disappointing and shows more work is needed to educate riders.

'Riding at speed increases the risk of a crash and evidence is clear that in a high speed crash a motorcyclist has a far greater chance of being seriously injured or killed. 'Overall, however, we are encouraged by the results of the campaign.”

Kris says the majority of riders were quite appreciative of their focus on motorcycles and they had positive feedback from the interactions with riders around safety.

'It helps us as police officers to learn a bit more about the issues riders face and with an understanding of those issues we can work to identify ways to prevent tragedies involving motorcycles.”

Police safety tips

• Have the appropriate licence for the size of motorcycle.

• Ensure the vehicle is safe, registered and warranted.

• Wear appropriate safety clothing and footwear; no bare skin and jandals.

• Wear an approved safety helmet.

• Comply with all conditions of a learner or restricted driver licence.

• If a motorcycle was manufactured on or after 1 January, 1980, the headlight must be switched on at all times when on the road.