Improving motorcycle safety: Behavioural insights, intervention design and evaluation

Motorcyclists remain a disproportionately high-risk road user group, with the most severe collisions involving larger motorcycles typically occurring on higher-speed rural roads, including sections of the Strategic Road Network. This presentation shares findings from a programme of research commissioned by National Highways to review, refine and evaluate post-licence motorcycle safety interventions in Great Britain.

The project examined existing interventions using behavioural science frameworks, including COM-B and Behaviour Change Technique (BCT) analysis. Stakeholder workshops and adapted evaluations were also conducted to explore two national initiatives: the National Highways BikerTek campaign and RoSPA post-licence rider training. In addition, a stakeholder assessment explored the potential for a future digital learning resource for motorcyclists.

Findings highlight that many motorcycle safety initiatives focus primarily on technical riding skills, with less consistent emphasis on higher-order behavioural factors such as hazard perception, decision-making and self-evaluation. The research also identified challenges in reaching higher-risk riders, as voluntary training and event-based initiatives often attract riders who are already safety-motivated. The presentation will share practical lessons for road safety professionals on strengthening intervention design using behavioural science, improving engagement with higher-risk riders, and embedding proportionate evaluation within real-world motorcycle safety programmes.


Tanya FosdickTanya Fosdick, Chief Operating Officer, Agilysis

Tanya Fosdick continues to excel as a seasoned researcher, adept at translating intricate evidence into actionable practices. With over two decades of experience in the road safety sector, she remains committed to enhancing the efficacy of road safety interventions. 

In addition to being Chief Operating Officer at Agilysis, Tanya has expanded her portfolio by assuming additional roles as a Trustee of the Road Safety Trust, Patron of the Road Victims Trust and an Honorary Advisory Panel Member of the Road Ethics Project in South Africa.

Her recent research endeavours have focused on a diverse range of topics, including young motorcyclists, rural young drivers, adult pedestrians, older drivers and the implementation of Safe System principles. Tanya also leads strategic reviews for various road safety partnerships in the UK, guiding local practitioners in adopting best practices.