Young and inexperienced motorcyclists in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being offered a new free course to help them ride more safely.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has launched SmartRide, a course designed to give younger riders extra skills and confidence on the road.
The course has been funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones.
SmartRide combines classroom learning with observed rides alongside police Roads Policing motorcyclists.
Police say the course is aimed at young motorcyclists who may not yet have built up the experience and decision-making skills of older road users.
The first SmartRide course took place on Sunday 28 June 2026.
Police say all students who gave feedback after the first course said they felt safer on the roads as a result.
One attendee said the instructors made riders feel at ease and that the feedback was positive, while others said they had learned things not covered during compulsory basic training.
Acting Inspector Tom Waller, from the Roads Policing Unit, said inexperience and compromised decision making are common causes of collisions involving young motorcyclists. He said:
“Our goal here is to save as many lives as possible.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones said SmartRide gives young riders “an extra layer of knowledge and protection” beyond a typical CBT course.
She encouraged parents whose teenagers ride a scooter or motorbike to sign up.
The next SmartRide course will be held on Saturday 18 July 2026 and anyone interested can book a place through Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary at the following link: https://forms.office.com/e/DbG1ettbnu?origin=lprLink