Motorcycle Skills Day /Kelowna RCMP

By Vernon Matters Staff

Safer roads

Motorcycle Skills Day promotes safety and confidence among Okanagan riders

Aug 6, 2025 | 9:37 AM

Dozens of riders gathered over the weekend at UBC Okanagan for the first-ever Motorcycle Skills Day — an event organizers say is just the beginning of more hands-on safety initiatives for motorcyclists across British Columbia.

Roughly 40 riders took part in the Aug. 2 event, hosted by the B.C. Highway Patrol (BCHP) in partnership with ICBC and the Kelowna RCMP’s Municipal Traffic Unit. The full-day session featured a series of skill-building exercises on a closed course, designed to simulate real-world road scenarios in a safe, controlled environment.

Participants navigated cone patterns, emergency braking zones and obstacle avoidance drills — all under the guidance of trained motorcycle officers.

“The goal of the Skills Day is to promote motorcycle safety while encouraging riders to practise techniques they can apply during everyday riding,” said Sgt. Kyle Ushock of the Kelowna Municipal Traffic Unit. “It was encouraging to see participants of all skill levels, from seasoned veterans to those who had recently passed their ICBC road tests.”

Organizers said the event helped foster stronger ties between law enforcement and the riding community, creating opportunities for open conversation about road safety and rider awareness.

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Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, and planning is already underway for a follow-up event expected in the spring of 2026.

ICBC and BCHP continue to encourage all riders to pursue skill development and ongoing education. More information on motorcycle safety is available through ICBC Road Safety.