Police are prioritising motorcycle safety during February following a concerning number of rider deaths so far in 2025.
Motorcyclists make up more than a quarter of this year's fatalities, with 12 riders killed on Victorian roads to date, slightly above 11 recorded at the same time last year.
Nine rider deaths occurred during January, with a further three this month.
It comes as last February was the deadliest month for rider deaths, with nine of the total 66 motorcyclist fatalities occurring during the second month of 2024.
Concerningly, three quarters of this year's rider deaths have occurred on regional roads, an 80 per cent increase on the five recorded on regional roads the same time last year.
Four have occurred in the state's east, including two in north-east Victoria (Clobinane and Bethanga), and two in the Gippsland region (Ripplebrook and Jacob Creek).
Five have occurred in the state's west, including Gisborne, Heathcote, Wendouree, Girgarre and Warmur.
All deceased riders were male with varying ages between 23 and 82.
Provisional police analysis indicates that both excessive and inappropriate speed, unauthorised riding (unlicenced/suspended/disqualified), and failing to give way (by both riders and other motorists) are the most common factors in fatal motorcycle collisions this year.
In an effort to reduce the rising number of rider deaths, police will ramp up enforcement and continue to prioritise motorcycle safety this month.
The State Highway Patrol Solo Unit is conducting several motorcycle safety operations in high-risk areas across the state, both on and off-road, and will also support local highway patrols with enforcement operations throughout the month.
There will be a major focus this weekend on the state's regional arterials and highways heading to Phillip Island ahead of the World Superbike Championship, which takes place from 21 - 23 February.
Police will be on the lookout for motorcyclists who are riding dangerously and speeding, as well as drivers who engage in any driving behaviour that puts motorcyclists at risk.
Motorists are being encouraged to be extra vigilant and on the lookout for motorcyclists, particularly when changing lanes or when required to give way.
Police are urging motorcyclists to slow down, ride to the conditions and always wear appropriate protective riding gear.
Quotes attributable to State Highway Patrol Solo Unit Senior Sergeant, John Papas:
"Last year we saw a significant amount of road trauma involving motorcyclists, and in 2025 this has showed no sign of slowing down.
"In response to the concerning number of motorcycle fatalities already this year, we will be having an increased focused on motorcycle safety throughout February.
"There will be a particular focus on anyone travelling to Phillip Island this weekend for the World Superbikes and I encourage everyone to plan ahead and allow extra travel time to ensure you reach your destination safely.
"Motorcyclists are one of our most vulnerable road users and have little to protect them if they're involved in a collision. We must all do everything we can to protect riders.
"For motorists, that means watching out for motorcyclists, being present behind the wheel and aware of your surroundings.
"For motorcyclists, it means keeping yourself safe with the right protective gear and avoiding risky riding behaviour like excessive speeding.
"Now is not the time to be complacent - it's up to all of us to do everything we can to prevent further motorcyclist deaths. Every rider death is one too many."
