With more motorbikes taking to the road, riders are being reminded to make sure their two-wheeled vehicle is in good shape.
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The number of motorbikes registered in Albury since 2006 has increased by 55 per cent.
To ensure riders’ safety, Albury Council developed a safety brochure specific to the area to coincide with a state-wide Motorcycle Awareness Week which wraps up this weekend.
Whitehouse Motorcycles owner Steve Whitehouse said there were several things riders and drivers could do to ensure safety as they brought their bikes out during the warmer weather.
“Tyres and batteries are the top things people overlook,” he said.
“Coming out of winter, people should do a walk around to make sure nothing has fallen off and check engine oil, coolant and brake fluid.”
When bikes are in a condition to be ridden, Mr Whitehouse said the appropriate safety gear should be first and foremost.
He said people should also ride defensively.
“Be aware of your surroundings and always concentrate on road conditions and traffic hazards,” Mr Whitehouse said.
“Drivers should look out for motorcycles, they have every right to be out there.
“Motorcycles are a much smaller object, so other vehicles need to be motorcycle aware especially at intersections because people will look straight through you sometimes.
“Everyone has close calls, regardless of whether in car or bike or pedestrian - it's a fact of life.”
There have been six motorbike fatalities and 54 injuries in the Albury area over the past five years.
With just two months left in 2015, there have been no recorded motorcycle deaths so far.
Local Traffic Committee chairman Graham Docksey is urging all riders to get a copy of council's brochure from motorbike retailers or online to keep the fatality number at zero.
"Riding a motorcycle can be an enjoyable experience, but unlike a vehicle there are additional measures that riders can take so that they can keep enjoying the ride throughout our surrounds for many years to come," he said.
The brochure highlights changing weather conditions, winding roads and wildlife as things to consider when riding in the region.
Riding in cold weather can be tiresome and a drop in body temperature can effect your brains reaction and decision making abilities.
As the weather warms up, motorcyclists are being reminded not to strip down but to still wear adequate protection with ventilation.
For a copy of the brochure visit www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au.
