Forget the bikes vs cars debate, another age-old problem for riders seems to be with the law. The often hateful relationship between cops and riders seems to be based on the feeling that motorcyclists are unfairly targeted, which is sometimes the case. Although we all know of some idiot who wheelies at high speeds and deserves to be booked - some motorcylists, like many drivers, unfortunately do sometimes ride like they’re above the law.

Punitive or not, here are a couple of measures in the world to help out in rider safety and enforce the law. The Brits are using what MCN calls a “stealth video bike”: a 140-hp, black Yamaha FJR1300 motorcycle with an in-built video system. The system records to DVD and allows police officers to add a running commentary on any observed offences.

The bike is being used to target motorcyclists, but could also be employed in detecting traffic offences by other motorists. The interesting thing is that the video recordings are reportedly going to be used more as an education device for riders. The police say:

“Officers on the unmarked motorcycle will be using their judgement and experience when stopping riders, engaging with and educating bikers as appropriate. For example, if someone has made minor judgement errors, then they’ll be stopped, shown a video recording of their riding and given suitable advice.”

More serious offenders, however, will be served penality notices or even court summons. In Australia, the system of serving notices after being caught on radar or similar, is also widely used. Just like a little surprise that comes through the post, police officers in Victoria are taking things one step further and are actually dressing in camouflage when using mobile radar units.

The practice in Australia of lying in wait in the bushes on the sides of the roads is not new, but this is the first I’ve heard of police officers actually donning commando-style outfits. The new covert operation is also specifically targeting motorcyclists along stretches of roads famous for speeding riders. The riders, if caught, are intercepted further down the road by uniformed officers, although again other driving offences will not be ignored.

The new covert move is justified by reported statistics that have 24 percent of accidents in the area involving motorcylists. Police say: “Riders know where they can ride and get away with speeding. We want the message to get across, particularly to riders that come out on weekends… we encourage them to ride in the Gippsland area, there’s a lot to offer for weekend rides but, if you do it, stick within the law so that you remain safe.”

Whether riders will listen or not to calls of riding thoughtfully with their safety in mind remains to be seen, but the fact that police are taking things seriously mean riders should, too. It’s a labour intensive operation with some significant investment. Here’s hoping riders are not cynical enough to ignore it…

Source | MCN and Latrobe Valley Express

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