Police are warning bikers not to strip off during the hot weather and to continue wearing their protective clothing.
A recent collision in which a teenage moped rider escaped serious injury has highlighted the need for riders to ensure they are fully protected.
The collision occurred on Friday 26 June, on the Malton to Butterwick road. The moped and a Land Rover collided on a bend, with the rider becoming trapped underneath the car as his helmet jammed between the road and the vehicle. While the rider was able to walk away after releasing his helmet, the car had to be jacked up to remove the helmet.
The rider escaped serious injury and sustained minor scratches to his hands and forearms as they were the only part of his body not covered by protective clothing.
PC Andrew Pomfret who attended the collision, said: "Despite the hot weather and predicted heat-wave, I cannot stress how important it is for bikers to wear protective clothing and equipment.
"I've seen many bike and moped riders wearing only shorts and t-shirts during the recent spell of hot weather. With more warm weather on the way, we want to warn bikers of the possible consequences of not wearing their protective gear. Please ensure you are fully protected before venturing out on the roads, the consequences could be fatal.
"It is also illegal not to wear a crash helmet, not to mention incredibly foolish."
I sometimes just wear a long sleeved shirt or a hoodie but both have Kevlar lined sleeves and VISCOTEC armour on the elbows and forearms. Can really recommend them (for low speed work - obviously assess the risks of your journey). Check out BulletProof clothing.
I do get some disapproving looks from some bikers and members of the public though.....
Aaaah... ok ta Ian... off to Bristol tomorrow for the "all my mates have gone to Bulldog so we are going to get pissed on our own meeting"... sorry I won't see ya there mate...but don't worry, I WILL find you one day!
tc risk assesment i think is the key if i go out on a short run not wearing full kit the speed drops and the radar works overtime, but i personaly would never wear shorts i have seen someone sit on a bike that was hot just to check it out and they ended up having hospital treatment for a burn. going to check out the bullet proof hoodies they sound like a good bit of kit.
when i had my harley, i did used to go out, just jeans t shirt gloves, bad i now....even at 20 mph your gonna lose more the one layer of your epidermis......but i agree my radar was more active.....but still not setting a good example
My canvas Icon jeans have full Kevlar lining (but no hard armour) but ALWAYS wear proper gloves and boots.
Must admit it is a bit kinky riding into the sunset on a deserted road with casual LOOKING gear on, shirt flapping around your waist... feels so wrong but at the same time sooooooooo right
TeeCee in SA 99% of bikers are guilty of under dressing for short bike rides because of the sometimes unbearable heat , i've lost a few mates because of that , i for one never again did the t-shirt , shorts and sandal biking scene after i burnt my calf on the exhaust (only once) and never again it took months to heal , but yes t-shirt with denims and leather vest often , and i ALWAYS use gloves because i work with my hands....helmet obviously.
large white shirt over a leather jkt helps reflect the heat! i wear a levi denim jkt sometimes but with back protector and elbow guards,jeans have knee and shin guards underneath! i am guilty of never ever owning a full face helmet!!cant stand the things!! i know jaw gone in a smash but hey ho some risks are acceptable!!i dont get many snogs now anyhow!!
Aaaaw TM... I almost felt sorry for ya then.
I have both an open face and full face...but I prefer the open one....cos then I can glare at car drivers so much easier....