ISTANBUL — The number of registered motorcycles in Istanbul reached 829,314 between Jan. 1 and Aug. 31, police said.
During the same period, 14,000 motorcycle and motorbike crashes were recorded in police jurisdictions. The accidents injured 16,000 people and killed 30, either at the scene or in hospitals.
Advanced riding instructor Aydın Korkmaz said new riders should receive formal training and start with low engine-capacity bikes. He said riders should gain experience before carrying passengers and recommended at least 10,000 kilometers of road time.
Korkmaz also called for stricter traffic oversight and periodic evaluations for drivers, similar to simulator checks for airline pilots.
Motorcycle user Batuhan Fırat said all drivers should undergo training before entering traffic.