Rider education projects

In addition to the treatment of motorcycle blackspots, numerous projects have been developed with the aim of reducing the crash risk of inexperienced riders through better initial preparation for riding and increasing driver awareness of motorcyclists.

Development of a new Motorcycle Knowledge Test consistent with the Victorian Rider Handbook

The Motorcycle Knowledge Test has been redeveloped to reflect the best practice information contained in the Victorian Rider Handbook, last updated in October 2004. The project has developed new test items which have been independently trialled and analysed to ensure that the test is fair and assesses all the important information for riding safely.

The new test was implemented in early 2008.

Rider hazard perception and response

Hazard perception and response is the ability to:

• identify risks or dangers on the road
• decide on the level of risk and predict what might happen
• take action to avoid or deal with the hazard.

This project aims to establish the components of hazard perception that need to be trained for and provide recommendations on the best methods to improve the skills of inexperienced riders. The Monash University Accident Research Centre has reviewed available information in this area in order to develop suitable training methods for improving the hazard perception and response skills of inexperienced riders. Research has also been conducted to determine the most critical hazards faced by motorcyclists and the differences between experienced and inexperienced riders in responding to them.

Further research will be required to determine experienced and inexperienced riders allocate their attention to riding tasks, before a training program can be developed and trialled.

Educating drivers

This project is investigating the reasons for crashes at intersections involving car drivers failing to give way to motorcyclists. Research has been completed confirming that computer-based training methods have the potential to improve driver awareness of motorcyclists in simulated conditions.

Further research will examine whether a perceptual learning approach to training drivers will be effective and transferable to a wide range of on-road conditions.

Awareness of hazards on the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the highest risk roads for motorcyclists in Australia. To increase riders’ awareness of the specific risks of the road, this project has developed a multimedia resource including a DVD. It follows the journey of two riders, one making the trip along the Great Ocean Road for the first time. The DVD is entertaining but also highlights many of the issues riders need to be aware of.

See The Great Ocean Ride DVD for more information on how to obtain your free copy of the DVD and brochure.

Research into protective clothing and development of a consumer guide (star rating)

Protective clothing has the potential to prevent many minor injuries and significantly reduce the severity of injury in more serious crashes. However, little advice is available to riders as to which gear offers the best protection for their purchasing dollar. A review of literature resulted in the development of two options for a motorcycle protective clothing ‘star rating’ system. Market testing has shown that 96% of riders would either ‘definitely’ or ‘possibly’ make use of a ‘star rating’ system for motorcycle protective clothing.

Work is currently underway to investigate the feasibility issues around the implementation of a star-rating system.

Development of a pilot training course for returning riders

With the recent growth in motorcycling, a large number of older riders are returning to riding after a significant break. Of particular concern is the crash risk of this group which has been estimated at approximately twice the crash risk of those who have continued to ride without a break.

The aim of this project is to develop a training course to provide those returning to motorcycling with the chance to update their skills before taking to the road.

Development of an assisted rides program

Inexperience has been identified as a key factor that contributes to motorcycle crashes. More effective types of rider instruction or training that will improve rider safety is the goal.

This project will develop an assisted ride program that will provide riders with professional feedback to improve their on-road skills and technique.