'Most motorbikes are there to ensure rider safety' says De Panne organiser

Johan Van Hecke of the Three Days of De Panne says the majority of motorbikes in the race are there to keep the riders safe on the road

Following calls to reduce the number of motorbikes on the race route after the death of Antoine Demoitié, the organiser of the Three Days of De Panne insists that the majority of crews are there to increase rider safety.

Demoitié passed away on Sunday night after being struck by a support motorbike at Ghent-Wevelgem and riders like Marcel Kittel have since called for increased safety precautions at races.

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Stuart Clarke is a News Associates trained journalist who has worked for the likes of the British Olympic Associate, British Rowing and the England and Wales Cricket Board, and of course Cycling Weekly. His work at Cycling Weekly has focused upon professional racing, following the World Tour races and its characters.