26 Sep 2017

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Hundreds of motorcyclists will descend on Canterbury Agricultural Park this Sunday for the annual Kickstart motorcycle event.

Kickstart pulls together experts in safety, riding skills and techniques, gear and user groups for a four hour event aimed at up-skilling motorcycle riders.

Christchurch City Council Transport Operations Manager Aaron Haymes said educating and training motorcyclists was a key focus of Kickstart 2017, to build skills and safety awareness so riders voluntarily take up training that could potentially save their lives. 

A poster for the motorcyle event Kickstart.

“We know that two of the main causes of crashes in Canterbury are bikers losing control, and simply not being seen by other motorists. We’ve got around 12,000 motorcycles registered in the Canterbury region, so this event is an excellent opportunity to refresh skills ahead of spring and summer riding.”

The event will go ahead – rain or shine – and includes safety demonstrations by professional ‘ride forever’ trainers and bike safety checks.

“This is the sixth year we have offered this free event and it’s a great opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to check their gear and refresh their skills as they get back on the road this spring and summer.

Senior Sergeant Kelly Larsen of the Canterbury Road Policing team said the warmer spring weather often brought out more riders.

“We see a big increase in the number of motorcycles on the roads at this time of year. Often riders haven’t ridden over the winter months and they haven’t checked their bikes before heading out."

“Motorcyclists are 21 times more likely to be killed or injured in a crash than car drivers. Kick Start provides an opportunity for riders to improve their knowledge, their skills, check their bikes and their protective gear.. Police want to see riders out enjoying the fantastic roads Canterbury offers - we want to ensure everyone gets home safely as well".

Kickstart is supported by Ride Forever, Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council, Scooter Survival (ACC initiative), NZ Police, Waimakariri District Council, Selwyn District Council, Christchurch City Council.

The event runs from 10am – 2pm, Sunday October 1 at Canterbury Agricultural Park.