The former double British Superbike champion is a keen road-rider, owning both a Harley-Davidson and a Ducati, he is one of the few bike racers who holds a motorcycle licence. He said: “The demands of the road are completely different to the track, and with many of us having an enforced riding ‘lay-off’ in the winter, it is good to try and sharpen up some of our skills during the summer so we can enjoy our riding more and with increased safety.” The latest figures from the Department of Transport show that despite an increasing number of motorcycle miles travelled, the number of casualties and fatalities has actually decreased – showing that more miles travelled doesn’t mean more accidents. This was the trend until 2002, but in 2009 – despite a two per cent increase in motorcycle traffic – the number of both motorcycle casualties and fatalities both fell compared to the previous year.

The numbers reported as seriously injured fell by four per cent to 5350 while the number of fatalities also fell by four per cent to 472. It has been proven that initiatives undertaken by local police forces and councils around the UK – such as the national BikeSafe scheme – can make a big difference in helping to sharpen up skills. Prices for such courses can be as low as £30-£50, depending on the area or length of the course. Advanced riding helps teach the basics of safe motorcycling, including: Good road positioning – so you can get a clear view of the road ahead Hazard perception / observation – so you use your vision efficiently to recognise and forewarn you of oncoming dangers Cornering confidence – gaining experience and machine control to corner safely And while track days and race schools help to give improved machine control in a safe environment, nothing can prepare you for the challenges faced out on the open road other than getting out there yourself and with courses lasting anything from a few hours to a few days and with costs ranging from £30 to £500 for a multi-day residential course, there’s something for every pocket.

Shakey said: “If funding is tight why not simply get a more experienced mate to follow you on your regular Sunday ride? You may find he or she can give you pointers or can spot something you’re doing wrong that you do out of habit, whether it’s road positioning, observation techniques or cornering confidence. Never be afraid or too proud to ask for advice. Even at my level out on track we have room to improve and we listen to people with more experience than ourselves.” Express Insurance, the official Insurance sponsor of Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne, says that discounts on premiums can be on offer to holders of recognised awards, from organisations such as the IAM and RoSPA. You can receive a competitive quote on your insurance visit www.expressinsurance.co.uk and to find your local BikeSafe course go to www.bikesafe.co.uk.