Media Release
13 January 2011

Maintenance and pre-ride checks can help reduce quad bike accidents says MTA

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) says quad bike accidents resulting in more than 45 deaths and 17,000 injuries in the past decade – is far too many.

MTA spokesperson Ana Zandi says one of the major issues surrounding quad bike accidents is that there is no requirement for a formal warrant of fitness (WoF) check; so a good way to reduce the likelihood of an accident is to ensure that bike owners undertake regular maintenance checks.

In a study involving the inspection of quad bikes it was found that 60 percent failed at least one aspect of a basic bike condition check, and that the failure rate was as high as 73 percent for quad bikes over three years old. Tyres, wheels and steering were the most commonly noted faults.

“Ultimately, the care and maintenance of a quad bike should be treated no differently than a motor vehicle. Motor equipment that hasn’t been properly maintained has a tendency to breakdown or be subject to wear and tear, and quad bikes are no exception,” she says.

“Because quad bikes aren’t subject to a mandatory WoF, riders need to ensure that their bike is periodically inspected by a qualified repairer, such as an MTA approved member, and as prescribed in the owner’s handbook.”

“While MTA is not advocating mandatory WoFs for quad bikes, riders should do a pre-ride check to test the operating condition of the bike.”

“Our dealer members can give people information relating to quad bike safety and maintenance. They can also provide details about rider training available in their area and where to get safety equipment, such as helmets, if they don’t already supply these.”

Ms Zandi adds that wearing a safety helmet is an effective low cost safety precaution and could mean the difference between life or death.

“It’s difficult to understand why it’s mandatory to wear a safety helmet while riding a bicycle or motorbike on the road, yet off-road, no head protection is required.”

To find an MTA approved repairer member in your area visit www.mta.org.nz/members.

ENDS

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