West Midlands Police

West Midlands BikeSafe

BikeSafe is a countrywide initiative run by the majority of police forces which aims to reduce motorcycling casualties. Our Chief Constable is firmly behind this initiative and applauds both the efforts of the officers who make it possible and the riders with the foresight to take these previously unavailable courses. 

You will need a full motorcycle licence, be in possession of your insurance and MOT test certificate (if applicable). You will obviously need a road legal bike and must wear suitable clothing. You should leave the workshop with a greater understanding of the risks involved in riding motorcycles on today’s roads and be better equipped to combat them. You will have a lot of fun with other motorcyclists and should get more enjoyment from your machine more safely.

Workshop content

West Midlands Bikesafe Workshops are an intensive but thoroughly enjoyable one-day format. Workshops are limited to 12 riders per session. Our workshops are open to all types of rider with a full bike licence. The doors open at 8.00am for free tea/coffee and biscuits and the classroom element starts at 8.30am prompt. The day finishes around 3.30pm. We ride in almost any weather except thick fog, ice or snow. Please ensure you have a full tank of fuel and either bring your own packed lunch or funds to buy your own food later in the day.

The workshop then starts with a relaxed classroom session, delivered by one of our professional police trained facilitators. You are positively encouraged to take part and share your experiences and knowledge. With the help of an interactive DVD we will discuss advanced riding skills and techniques based on the police manual of riding (Roadcraft), motorcycle control and some of the common causes of collisions. Tea/Coffee/Biscuits and comfort breaks are provided!!

Lunch (not provided) follows the classroom session and you are then off on your observed ride out with either an Advanced Police Motorcyclist or one of our colleagues from IAM who are kindly assisting us again this year. During the ride out, you will have breaks from riding and your observer will give you advice on how to improve your skills. The ride outs usually last for approximately 3 hours (this includes breaks for debriefs). The day concludes with a full debrief from your observer.

Rider requirements

On the day, please bring your UK driving licence, a valid MOT certificate (if required) and insurance certificate. Please wear appropriate motorcycle clothing. Glasses/spectacles/contact lenses if you need them for riding. Riders’ machines must be in a roadworthy condition (check your tyres and number plates!). No refund will be given should the rider’s machine be deemed unroadworthy. Breakdown recovery is the riders’ responsibility. No refund will be given should the riders machine breakdown.