A MOTORCYCLIST who has lost friends in bike crashes every year since 2006 has urged all motorists to “Think Bike”.

Shane Poynter was one of dozens of Colchester riders shocked and saddened by news of the death of biker Stephen Pitcher, known as Steve Field, ten days ago.

As tributes poured in for the 21-year-old rider, his mum begged other road users to consider motorcyclists, adding: “Their riders have families who love them dearly.”

Her message was echoed by Shane, also 21, whose Facebook status message after the tragedy read: “Shane Poynter has lost a friend on a bike every April since 2006 now and you were the best of ’em, Fieldy.

“I don’t know what to do anymore; I can’t defend the safety of bikes any longer, perhaps just give them up. Wish all me mates would and keep safe.”

Shane, who founded the South East Brothers Colchester Motorcycle Group in 2007, revealed despite a lifelong love of bikes, the frequent tragedies had now made him think twice.

He said: “It’s slowed me down and made me cautious. I check and check again at every junction I get to, running all different scenarios through my head in a matter of seconds.

“Once or twice it has caused me to panic, when other vehicles get a little too close but aren’t a risk to me. Even though I have doubts every now and then, I would never give up bikes totally.”

Despite his determination to keep riding, Shane has now made a huge concession.

He said: “I have decided to get a car licence this year and become a bit of a fair-weather rider.

“Since 2004, I have ridden all year round – even in the snow and ice.

“As for my friends on bikes I have always tried to pound the idea into their heads they should get a bike and come riding with us.

“Since Fieldy’s accident, I would tell them, if they were thinking about a bike, to think long and hard first and not rush into it.”

Shane is currently organising a memorial for his friend. He is raising money to buy a white motorbike helmet which would be signed by Steve’s friends, put in a display case with a plaque and photographs, and presented to Steve’s girlfriend, Louise. Any spare money would be donated to Essex Air Ambulance.