Following analysis of 267 motorcycle fatalities between January 2020 and June 2025, police reported that one in five motorcyclist deaths occurred while the rider was travelling with one or more other motorcyclist/s.
Three quarters of these fatalities occurred on regional Victorian roads.
Nine group rider fatalities were recorded across Greater Shepparton, Benalla and the Mitchell Shire within the five-and-a-half-year period, followed by six recorded in Gippsland, and five recorded in both the Wangaratta and Wodonga, and Bendigo regions.
Over 70 per cent of the total incidents occurred from Friday to Sunday, which, police said, indicated that weekend recreational group riding could be a factor in motorcycle fatalities.
Police also suggested that many of these fatalities did not involve significant risk-taking or illegal behaviour, with more than 80 per cent of riders licensed and wearing an approved helmet.
Victoria Police road policing acting assistant commissioner David Byrt cautioned motorcyclists about adhering to group riding dynamics.
“While motorcyclists are considered to be individual road users, what we often don’t consider is the dynamics of multiple riders travelling together and the potential risks that come from this,” Mr Byrt said.
“Recreational group riding is a really popular and fantastic way to explore our great state, but we just ask that riders put the proper planning and safety mechanisms in place to ensure every rider reaches their destination safely.
“Riders should remember — falling behind won’t kill you, but trying to keep up might.”
With October to December considered the highest-risk period for motorcycle trauma, police urge riders to prioritise their safety, particularly when participating in group rides.
Appointing a ride leader and tail end, planning the route, communicating with hand signals, wearing safety gear and always riding at one’s own pace are among the tips for group riders.
Throughout October, which is Motorcyclist Awareness Month, police will be conducting enforcement operations in high-risk areas across the state and will be on the lookout for driving behaviour that puts motorcyclists at risk, as well as risk-taking behaviour performed by any motorcyclists.
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