Yorkshire police crackdown on anti-social motorcyclists

Humberside Police are targeting illegal bikers with an unmarked ZZR1400.

Humberside Police Force are using an unmarked Kawasaki ZZR1400 fitted with a speed detection device to specifically target motorcyclists in a new campaign.

‘Operation Achillies’ has been out in the East of Riding every weekend since last month with a view to reduce motorcycling casualties and deter the ‘anti-social use of performance motorcycles on the rural roads of East Yorkshire’ according to their press release.

Casualty Reduction Officer Simon Carlisle said, “We are concerned about the number of motorcyclists speeding on our rural roads, many travelling well over 100mph.  Already this year two motorcyclists have lost their lives, we just want to try and prevent further deaths and serious injury collisions.

“Since the start of April we have been out with the unmarked bike each weekend.  Over the Easter weekend a number of motorcycle riders and car drivers were reported for speeding offences.  Most of which were on the B1248 across the Wolds, around Wetwang and Tibthorpe.  One motorbike was clocked at 118 miles per hour, two others at 100mph and several over 90mph.”

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The unmarked ZZR is also using video facilities to record and prosecute motorcyclists who are riding dangerously, with Humberside coming down hard on those they catch.

Carlisle added, “Diversionary courses are not an option for offenders at higher speeds, who will face court with a view to disqualification.

“Our message is to both drivers and riders – please slow down on our rural roads and give consideration to other road users.”

The campaign also runs on the back of the introduction in the way that speeding fines are handed out, meaning that offenders who are taken to court could also be fined up to 150% of their weekly income.

Motorbike training on offer

It seems the Humberside unit are taking an aggressive stance towards motorcyclists, catching them unaware.

Other forces are using more visual deterrents in a bid to curb speeding and some are offering training to give riders skills that will help better their understanding of the roads.

Norfolk Police are another county offering such training.

Chief Inspector Kris Barnard, head of the Norfolk and Suffolk Roads Policing Unit commented, “The underlying message of the workshops is that education is key, not enforcement.

“The workshops give motorcyclists greater awareness of the hazards they may face when out and about to help them become better and safer riders.”

The unmarked ZZR and Operation Achilles will continue throughout the summer.

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