POLICE have urged fans attending the North West 200 circuit to "leave the racing to the professionals".
Practice sessions for the road racing event on the north coast, which attracts thousands of people every year, will begin on May 10 with further practice and racing on May 12.
The main race day is on May 14.
PSNI Superintendent John Magill said: "The scenic routes in and around this area always prove popular and are a firm favourite for motorcycling enthusiasts.
"While it is easy to get caught up in the excitement of race week, my message to those enthusiasts and supporters is to please leave the racing to the professionals.
"Sadly we have seen in recent years just how easily people can lose their lives on the roads as a result of excessive speed or dangerous riding.
"With more motorcyclists out and about in the lead up to and during race week, other road users need to be more alert to the presence of bikes on the roads, particularly at junctions.
"And the riders themselves need to make sure they stick to the rules of the road and give due consideration to others."
Police have also warned of road closures during motorcycle race and practice sessions.
Circuit roads in the Coleraine, Portrush and Portstewart areas will be closed on May 10 and 12 from 9.15am to 3pm.
There will be a further road closure on May 12 to facilitate racing from 5pm to 9pm and on May 14, road will close from 9.30am to 7pm.
