Road safety is a real issue in Algeria. In 2023, authorities have recorded 3628 deaths on the roads, representing a 15% increase compared to the year 2022. The motorcycle club Live to ride DZ is one of the associations that are committed, in an inclusive approach, to raise awareness among motorcycle drivers.
In Algeria, a saying in colloquial Arabic says that "he who buys a motorcycle buys his death." It is partly against this kind of preconceived ideas surrounding this means of transport that Live to ride DZ (Live to Ride Algeria), a biker club created in 2010 in the capital, fights. "No matter how many times they tell me that the motorcycle is a dangerous vehicle, it won't change my passion," notes Mohamed Karim Chérif, the communication manager, met at the club's headquarters located in a neighborhood in the near suburbs of Algiers.
However, the history of Live to ride DZ is marked by a tragic event. Yazid Semari, one of its four founding members, passed away in a motorcycle accident. "Semari's death caused a total change in the group's objectives. The initial goal was to organize rides and raids across Algeria, but we became aware that it was essential to focus our actions on road safety," explains Mohamed Karim Chérif. Now, for the members of Live to ride DZ, respecting the traffic laws and wearing protective gear are the safest ways to travel safely.
From Biker to Biker
The first major awareness campaign was therefore dedicated to wearing helmets. In Algerian cities, it is not uncommon to see motorcyclists riding without a helmet. "It is the basic protective element, but too many young people show laxity. Truly, who better than a motorcyclist to convey a message to another motorcyclist? The best communication plan will not yield anything if in the end the channel and the message are not reliable," explains the spokesperson of Live to ride DZ. Mohamed Karim Chérif classifies Algerian motorcyclists into three main categories: those who have chosen motorcycles to move quickly in the city and avoid parking inconveniences; the delivery drivers who have become very numerous since the Covid-19 pandemic; and finally, the enthusiasts who use their motorcycles during weekends or holidays. It seems that the most dangerous behaviors are found in the first two profiles of drivers. "These are generally young people who have acquired a scooter or a moped as their first means of personal transport in urban areas. Again, the main problem is wearing a helmet."
Inclusivity
What sets Live to Ride apart from other biker clubs is its inclusive nature. "Any motorcycle owner can become a member, regardless of the brand and engine size of their bike. Our goal is to promote values of brotherhood and mutual assistance. Currently, Live to Ride DZ has about a hundred members. However, before formalizing their membership, it is necessary to go through the 'prospect' phase: for one year, the candidate must prove they have a motorcycle driver's license, insurance, and a compliant motorcycle. The bike can be customized, but in strict compliance with regulations. They must then confirm that they always wear an approved helmet and all mandatory safety gear for protection. It is the adherence to all these requirements that validates membership in our club," emphasizes Mohamed. For its road safety program, the association collaborates with the National Road Safety Directorate (DNSR), the police, the national gendarmerie, the Algerian Federation of Motorsports, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Since 2022, the club has been organizing the Algeria Bike Week, a major international event. Among the activities are initiatives dedicated to road safety, as well as an exchange and sale market for equipment. The gathering of the biker community concludes with a raid through the regions of Algeria. "In the end, what brings us together in Live to Ride DZ is the passion for motorcycles and strong human values," says Mohamed Karim Chérif. An attitude that cannot be separated from safety principles...
Cover Photo: The gathering of the biker community ends with a raid through the regions of Algeria @Live to ride DZ