Motorcycle Safety Tips

Safety first – tips for safe motorcycling

As the number of motorbikes on the UK’s roads have increased so have the number of accidents. Powerful sports bikes are becoming more popular and some riders exceed speed limits or risking their lives by dangerous riding.

As well as staying with the legal speed limits and driving responsibly, there are other measures motorbike riders can take to reduce the chances of having an accident and protecting themselves if they do. Read the following tips and advice and stay safe.

• Riding a motorbike is physically demanding and involves a high level of concentration. Ensure you are fit and healthy and that you are strong and confident enough to manage your bike. Do not ride if you feel tired and have been drinking alcohol.



• Learn how to handle the power of your motorbike. Take an advance riding course as this will not only improve your safety but can result in a discount on your insurance premiums.



• Be aware of road signs and be careful on bends. Don't overtake if you can't see the road ahead. Don't succumb to peer pressure when riding in groups and don't do anything outside your riding capabilities or take unnecessary risks.



• Get to know your braking and the best combination of front and back brakes to stop in an emergency without skidding or going over the handlebars.



• Do not carry passengers if you’re not an experienced rider and if your bike isn’t fitted with a suitable seat and foot pegs.



• Regularly check the condition of your bike’s frame, forks and shocks, and check the chain tension, lubrication and wear.



• Check that your tyres are properly inflated to the correct pressure and regularly check for wear and any objects embedded in the tread.



• Regularly check oil and fluids levels for brakes, coolant and clutch levels, and check hoses and reservoirs for leaks.



• Check all levers, cables and hoses to make sure they are in good working order and will not interfere when riding the bike. In addition, make sure that your throttle moves freely.



• Check lights and electrics and make sure the battery terminals are clean, electrolyte fluid is sufficient and the battery is properly secured. Check that all the lights work properly and look out for frayed or cracked wires.



• Ensure you wear the correct protective clothing. A helmet is a legal requirement and crucial protection against head injury. The Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP) is an initiative from the Department for Transport to reduce the number of deaths through head injuries so check out the safety rating for your helmet.



• The right type of boots can help avoid foot and ankle injuries. Boots should be made of tough but flexible material and have rigid soles with good grip.



• Motorbike jackets and trousers should be made of nylon, leather or Kevlar and include heavy padding. Additional spine protectors can also be worn.

By adopting responsible riding behaviour, carrying out regular bike maintenance and wearing protective clothing you will help reduce your chances of having an accident and reduce injuries in the event of an accident.