Moto GP fans in line for legendary encounters and trackside road safety tips

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17 Oct 2016

Moto GP fans heading to Phillip Island this weekend have been given a safety reminder as the Transport Accident Commission launches a revamped website promoting rider safety.

Thousands of race fans are expected to make their annual pilgrimage to the Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix from this Friday.

With motorcycle road trauma significantly up on last year, TAC senior road safety manager Samantha Cockfield said the TAC had boosted its presence at this year’s event.

“There’s a lot happening in the rider safety space and a lot of that will be on show at Phillip Island this weekend,” Ms Cockfield said.

“But for now we’re asking everyone heading to the island, regardless of whether you’re on two wheels or four, to be mindful of each other and plan your trips to get to and from the event safely.”

The TAC’s focus at the Moto GP will be on promoting the potentially life-saving benefits of motorcycle Antilock Braking System (ABS) technology and the importance of wearing protective gear.

“Motorcycle safety technologies like ABS can drastically improve a rider’s chances of avoiding death or serious injury when something unexpected happens, yet only one in three road bikes purchased in Victoria have it,” Ms Cockfield said.

“We’d like riders to demand ABS when shopping for their next bike because our research shows us it can reduce the rate of rider deaths and serious injuries by around 30per cent.”

Riders visiting the TAC’s Spokes expo stand can check how their bike stacks up in the safety stakes and can enter a competition to win a new Honda CBR300R with ABS.

At the Spokes Trackside Lounge, fans will be able to rub shoulders with some legends of the sport, with daily appearances by Moto GP big names Chris Vermeulen, Jeremy Burgess and Kevin Schwantz. Free barista coffees and the chance to win protective gear and a jacket signed by the legends will also be on offer.

Meanwhile, the TAC has revamped its popular Spokes.com.au website, with new interactive content to help riders stay safe on Victorian roads.

“Spokes is made by riders for riders and it’s about starting conversations about how they can get the most enjoyment out of their riding and, importantly, stay safe,” Ms Cockfield said.

Visit www.spokes.com.au to find out more.

For more information contact Eliza Houghton on 0466 362 416.

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