Motorcyclists across North Wales are being encouraged to sharpen their riding skills and stay safe on the roads as a popular police-led safety programme returns for 2026.

North Wales Police’s Roads Crime Unit has announced the dates for this year’s BikeSafe workshops, which will run from April to September at locations across the region including Colwyn Bay, Bangor, Wrexham, Llangefni and Pwllheli.

The day-long sessions form part of the UK’s leading police-run motorcycle safety initiative and are designed to help riders improve their skills while reducing the number of serious crashes involving bikers.

Each workshop combines classroom sessions with an observed ride on local roads. Participants receive advice on areas such as cornering, road positioning, hazard perception and observation before heading out with experienced police motorcyclists who provide practical feedback.

The scheme is supported by North Wales Police and local road safety partnerships, allowing riders to take part for a subsidised fee of £78.

Inspector Leigh Evans, of the North Wales Police Roads Crime Unit, said the initiative plays a vital role in improving rider safety.

“Whether you’re a new rider or have years of experience, BikeSafe helps you sharpen your skills, boost your confidence and enjoy every ride that little bit more,” he said.

“Sadly, motorcyclists continue to feature disproportionately in road traffic collision figures. The aim of these workshops is to help reduce the number of bikers being hurt on our roads.

“By looking at the main hazards riders face and providing an observed ride with feedback, the sessions help people recognise both their strengths and areas where they can improve.”

This year’s programme has been expanded to include new venues in Pwllheli, Bangor and Llangefni, making it easier for riders across North Wales to attend a course closer to home.

Inspector Evans added that while riders are encouraged to improve their skills, drivers also have a role to play in keeping motorcyclists safe.

“We are asking motorists to take extra care and properly look out for bikers, particularly at T-junctions,” he said.

“Our team are bikers at heart and the workshops are designed to be enjoyable as well as informative, giving riders the chance to get the most out of their bikes while staying safe.”

Workshops begin in April at Police Headquarters in Colwyn Bay, with further sessions taking place throughout the summer at sites across the region.

Meanwhile, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service also runs the Biker Down course — a three-hour programme teaching riders what to do if they arrive first at the scene of a collision, including basic first-aid skills.

Spaces on the BikeSafe workshops are limited, and riders are encouraged to book early through the North Wales Police BikeSafe website.