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Older But No Wiser!

A S.M.A.R.T. Training media release

By GippsTAFE - 21st March 2002 - Back to News

S.M.A.R.T. (Safe Motorcycle and Road Transport) Training in Newborough is expecting many older motorcycle riders to participate in motorcycle training courses this year.

Recent VicRoads statistics show the number of over-35’s riding motorcycles is growing faster than any other age group, both as a percentage of motorcycle licences, and as a percentage of road fatalities.

In 2001, there was a 35% increase in motorcycle deaths, with one third of all riders killed over the age of 35.

This is partly due to individuals taking up riding later in life, or taking up motorcycling again after many years of not riding at all.

Inexperience among motorcyclists has been found to be a contributing factor in many motorcycle crashes, and whilst inexperienced drivers normally fall within the age group of 18-25, the latest road statistics show that inexperienced riders can be of any age.

S.M.A.R.T. Training is now offering a wide range of courses to suit everyone from pre-learner and learner riders of motorcycles to experienced riders requiring advanced or refresher courses.

S.M.A.R.T. Training along with the Gippsland Road Safety Council is running a Motor Skills Training Day at the Phillip Island racetrack on the 8th April.

"This day is a chance for riders of all ages to brush up on their skills," said Vito Guzzardi, Program Coordinator at S.M.A.R.T. Training.

"There are applications still available for the course and participants must have a learner permit of motorcycle licence and a registered roadworthy motorcycle."

Applications for the day can be obtained by phoning 5662 3354 with applications closing on the 24th March. The cost of the day is $75 and this includes lunch.

Courses offered through S.M.A.R.T. Training include Introduction to Motorcycles, Learner Permit Training, License Training and Advanced Skills Training, with VicRoads accredited Licence training and testing for motorcycles conducted throughout the year.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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