MOTORCYCLISTS in Dorset are being urged to ride safely and always wear appropriate kit after police released a graphic image of an injured biker.

At least six bikers have lost their lives on Dorset roads this year out of a total of 11 fatal crashes.

A police officer riding a marked motorbike was also seriously injured in a crash on July 27 whilst travelling on the A337 between Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst.

Dorset police have released a picture of a motorcyclist who came off his bike travelling at a low speed to encourage fellow riders to wear protective leathers.

PC Chris Smith, Dorset Police Bikesafe Co-ordinator said: “I cannot stress enough that you should always wear protective clothing – even if you are travelling at low speeds and short distances.

“The lad pictured fell off his bike at a relatively low speed in an urban area. I can’t imagine what might have happened on a fast road at a higher speed, the damage would have been life changing.”

The police biker regularly attends the Poole Quay Bike Night which is held every Tuesday between April and September.

PC Smith said: “The bike night events are a great opportunity to meet other bikers and it’s a great chance for us to share tips and advice about safer riding.”

The Dorset Police BikeSafe course also helps riders improve their hazard awareness and defensive driving skills. Blandford football player Daniel Jones, 23, was killed in a crash on May 26 when his Suzuki motorcycle was involved in a collision with a car on the A356 Maiden Newton.

Just days before, 59-year-old Ivan Tomlinson was killed following a collision at the Horton Inn crossroads in East Dorset.

Derek Collings from Bournemouth was killed on February 22 on the A350 near Blandford St Mary after a crash involving his Kawasaki motorbike.