Russia’s ‘Suicide Bikers’ Charge Ukrainian Lines in Desperate Assaults

Russian forces are increasingly deploying motorcycle squads on the Ukrainian front lines, executing high-speed assaults that often end in heavy casualties.

Dubbed “suicide bikers,” these units aim to disrupt Ukrainian defenses by racing across open terrain on lightweight motorcycles, targeting drone operators and mortar teams before being neutralized.

A Tactic with High Costs

The strategy involves groups of 10 to 20 soldiers riding cheap, off-road motorcycles at speeds up to 80 km/h.

Their objective is to breach Ukrainian lines, sow chaos, and inflict damage on key targets.

But the vast majority are intercepted by Ukrainian drones, artillery, or landmines before reaching their goals. Survivors often find themselves stranded and surrounded, with little chance of retreat.

Despite the high fatality rate, Russian commanders continue to employ this tactic, believing that repeated assaults can strain Ukrainian resources and eventually create openings in their defenses.

As Yevhen, a lieutenant in Ukraine’s 28th Brigade, noted to The Times, “If they repeat this process over and over again, they’ll eventually overwhelm our capabilities.”

Evolution of the Battlefield

The rise of drone warfare has transformed the conflict, making traditional armored assaults increasingly perilous.

In response, Russia has adapted by integrating motorcycles and other light vehicles into their operations.

These “iron horses” offer speed and maneuverability, allowing troops to navigate the “grey zones”—areas of contested territory filled with craters and debris.

Ukraine has also begun to utilize motorcycles, primarily for transportation and logistical support. Ukrainian forces favor electric models for their stealth capabilities, enabling soldiers to move quietly and detect approaching drones more easily.