Shot in the stunning Ardnamuchan Loop, running from Glenuig to Lochailort, the video is helping reduce fatalities on Scotland’s roads.
A series of short films showcasing Scotland’s breathtaking motorcycle routes, has been unveiled as part of a new campaign encouraging Scottish bikers to share best practice riding tips.
Motorcyclists make up less than one per cent of Scotland’s road traffic, but account for 20 per cent of fatalities. Forty per cent of fatalities take place on left-hand bends and a fifth occur during an overtake.
Latest figures show that over a three-year period 2,271 motorcycle casualties were recorded. Of these 851 were seriously injured and 87 killed. Over half of these fatalities happened at the weekend.
Backed by Police Scotland and a number of Scottish biking groups, the Breathtaking Roads campaign from The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland, encourages bikers to follow best practice when enjoying Scotland’s roads.
The incredible films capture the thrill of riding in Scotland and showcase breathtaking coastal rides, scenic forest roads and epic mountain journeys and carry the poignant message – “Be aware on breathtaking roads. Don’t let them take your breath away for good.”
Minister for Transport Humza Yousaf said: “As a biker myself, I love the thrill of riding on Scotland’s breathtaking roads but, as Transport Minister, I am also acutely aware that motorcyclists make up less than one per cent of Scotland’s traffic, but account for 20 per cent of fatalities.”
“No matter what your level of experience is, this campaign will remind us as bikers of the importance of staying safe and riding appropriately. We hope the biking community from across our country and beyond will enjoy and engage with the helpful tips to ride these roads safely.”
A dedicated microsite and engaging Facebook page (Live Fast, Die Old) will highlight the greatest biking experiences, along with hints and tips from carefully selected local biking experts, who have first-hand experience of Scotland’s roads.
Inspector Ian Paul said: “At this time of year many bikers are planning weekend ride outs and trips with their friends, to enjoy the magnificent scenery Scotland has to offer.
“We understand the thrill of motorcycling and why people want to do it, but we also want bikers to keep themselves safe especially when overtaking, approaching junctions and negotiating bends.
“This campaign encourages the biking community to enjoy Scotland’s roads, while following best practice too.”
Outdoor posters highlighting top risk areas for bikers – bends, junctions and overtaking will be displayed at key locations on Scotland’s most popular motorcycle routes, to encourage bikers to consider their actions before riding.
Jayne Tollan, representative from the Clyde Valley Curvy Riders said: “Safety and best practice are at the heart of the Curvy Riders philosophy and our members are always looking for fresh guidance and advice for getting the most out of Scotland’s roads.
“We’re delighted to back the Breathtaking Roads campaign and we’re looking forward to offering some top tips and advice from our community.”
