North Yorkshire Police officers will be out in force across this weekend as part of a targeted operation to tackle dangerous motorcycle riding.
North Yorkshire remains a top destination for motorcyclists, with thousands of riders visiting each year to enjoy its scenic roads.
While the vast majority ride responsibly, the popularity of these routes has also contributed to a concerning number of serious and fatal collisions.
With warm, dry weather forecast for the long bank holiday weekend, an increase in visitors is expected – and with it, increased policing activity.
Over recent weeks, a dedicated operation has been in place across key routes in the county, focusing on both education and enforcement.
Roads Policing officers and local neighbourhood teams have been engaging with motorcyclists, offering safety advice, and taking action against those riding dangerously.
This work will continue across the Bank Holiday weekend, with officers deployed in marked and unmarked vehicles, alongside motorcycle officers, speed enforcement vans, and the use of specialist drones to monitor riding behaviour and gather evidence of offences.
Key statistics:
•Motorcyclists are disproportionately represented in KSI incidents (killed and seriously injured) and in 2024, 340 motorcyclists were killed in Great Britain, whilst 5,468 were reported to be seriously injured and 10,152 slightly injured.
•Between 2020 and 2024, 92% of motorcycle casualties were male and 8% female. There are 12 times more male than female motorcycle casualties overall.
•Between 2020 and 2024, 69% of motorcycle fatalities occurred on roads in rural areas.
Chief Inspector Tom Ibbetson, from North Yorkshire Police’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “We continue to see riders putting themselves and others at serious risk through dangerous or irresponsible riding, and too often this has devastating consequences.
“We will be taking a proactive approach this Bank Holiday weekend – engaging with riders, offering advice, but also taking firm enforcement action where necessary.
“Those who ride responsibly and respect the rules of the road are very welcome.
“But those who choose to ignore them should expect to face significant consequences, including fines, penalty points, or even prosecution through the courts.
“Our message is simple – ride within your limits, follow the rules of the road, and help ensure everyone gets home safely.”
