Police said the 55-year-old Victorian man was travelling eastbound on the highway about 8am when he went off the road and hit a pole.

Tasmanian Police Sergeant Fergus Cameron said early investigations indicated road conditions were a factor in the incident.

“The road was wet and we think his unfamiliarity with the area may have also played a part,” he said.

Another motorcycle was following the victim and witnessed the crash.

Sergeant Cameron urged riders to take care on the road.

“You are more exposed on a bike, so I urge people to ride to the conditions and ride safely,” he said.