In 2022, Devon and Cornwall experienced a tragic spate of fatal collisions involving motorcyclists. 16 people were killed and 187 were seriously injured - the highest number in five years – with many of the collisions involving no other vehicles and with excess speed and rider error given as major contributory factors.

Motorcyclists are already one of the most vulnerable road user groups. Locally to Devon and Cornwall and nationally, despite making up just 1% of total traffic, motorcyclists account for almost 20% of road deaths. Vision Zero South West partnership formed a motorcycle task and finish group to attack this issue from several angles.

The motorcycle simulator was the brainchild of MPC Ian Harvey who submitted the proposal to the National Highways Project Apex to trial an innovative approach to training young and inexperienced riders. It has proven to be a beneficial tool that has no time or weather constraints with a high level of positive engagement.

Using a real motorbike – a Honda CB500X – the simulator uses authentic controls including brakes, clutch, throttle and indicators to replicate real-life riding conditions. The rider is surrounded by integrated video screens to provide a truly immersive experience. All manner of road layouts, weather conditions and driving environments can be replicated in an instant – enhanced by realistic vibration, surround sound and working wing mirrors. The custom software is designed to improve riders riding ability and test hazard awareness skills and can recreate any number of scenarios with absolutely no risk. To date the evaluation period has been carried out by a police motorcycle instructor providing one to one advice on how to improve riding, anticipation of hazards and how to deal with any given scenario.

As part of the 12-month pilot, the simulator has been visiting a number of venues and events both nationally and across Devon & Cornwall throughout 2024. Feedback has been obtained from college students who have used the simulator around engagement, practicalities of using the simulator and the potential value they would find from using it as a learning tool - with a high level of positive feedback.

The project will undergo thorough evaluation which will look at the effectiveness of simulated hazard awareness and the potential to use it as a training tool for young and inexperienced riders.

MPC Ian Harvey, Devon and Cornwall Police