A Motorcycle Safety Roundtable is being convened for April 29, after the number of motorcyclists dying on NSW roads has hit its highest mark in 10 years.

With the tragic passing of a 32-year motorcyclist in Forbes only this week, many say the roundtable could not come at a better time to help save lives needlessly lost.

Last year saw an increase of 16 people who were killed riding (63) or as a passenger on a motorcycle (5), and motorcycle riders made up almost 20 per cent of all deaths on NSW roads and 57 per cent of the deaths were in regional NSW.

The roundtable will see motorcycle rider groups, academics, motorcycling experts, government agencies and other key stakeholders gather to examine the challenge confronting the community and thrash out the viability of potential improvements in areas such as licensing, education and training, vehicle safety, infrastructure and use of protective gear requirements.

It will also allow an opportunity for input on potential reforms to improve training and licensing requirements through the Motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme.

“Roads can be a very dangerous place for motorcyclists if they do not concentrate,” said a western area bike rider.

“I’ve seen bikes speed past and it gives me the shivers. Like all people who use the roads we need to abide by the rules for everyone’s safety.

“Let’s face it, a bike makes you much more vulnerable, and an easier target, so you need to have your wits about you.

"Cars and trucks also need to play it safe and keep an eye out for bikes. We all need to play the safety card to save lives,” he said.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison - Image courtesy NSW Labor.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said she is deeply concerned about the alarming rise in the number of motorcyclists dying on our roads.

“Every death on our roads is one too many and we’re determined to do more to save lives of all road users, particularly those who are more vulnerable like motorcyclists.

“I want to take this opportunity to remind motorcyclists that if you’re riding, you should always stay within the speed limit, watch out for oncoming traffic, curves, and very importantly - make sure you’re wearing safe helmets and gear.  

“For other motorists, please be mindful, give motorcyclists space and check your blind spots when merging in traffic or crossing lanes,” said Ms Aitchison.

“Having survived a crash and spending time in rehabilitation I understand the impacts of serious injuries for our riders so having a roundtable dedicated to discussing what we can do to improve this is very positive,” said Road safety advocate, Heidi Haydon.