Motorcyclists

Training for motorcyclists

There are various courses available for bikers looking to improve their skills:

• Biker Down! A free nationwide scheme devised to provide the tools to help bikers if they're involved in a crash.
• DVSA enhanced rider scheme: Checks your motorcycle riding skills and provides training to help you improve.
• Advanced rider courses: Training designed to make you one of the most skilled riders on the road with this on-road course delivered by qualified experts.
• Advanced Motorcycle Training: RoSPA's advanced motorcycle training instructs riders in the theory and practice of safe systems of deliberate and responsible riding.

Advice for motorcyclists

Wear protective clothing and equipment

• Bikers must wear a helmet when riding on the road
• Make sure your helmet fits right, and has a high SHARP safety rating
• Use a helmet visor or goggles
• Wear gloves, boots, full trousers and a leather or reinforced jacket, even if it’s warm

Be seen

• Wear bright colours and reflective clothing or accessories
• Use dipped headlights, even in daylight

Ride for the conditions

• Pay attention to the conditions and ride at a speed that allows you to slow down or stop in good time, especially if it’s wet, foggy or icy.
• A motorcycle has less contact with the pavement than a car, making it more likely to skid or slide. If you can’t avoid the following hazards, slow down as much as possible before you get to them:
  
  • Poor or worsening weather
  • Diesel spills
  • Mud, wet leaves and stones
  • Manhole covers or potholes
  • Painted road markings

Awareness

• Stay alert and observant at junctions or roundabouts: try to anticipate the actions of others
• Drivers struggle to judge the speed of a bike, so take extra care when approaching, or pulling out of a junction.
• Take a ‘lifesaver’ glance over your shoulder before carrying out any manoeuvres.

Overtaking and positioning

• Position yourself in the best place, usually the middle of the lane. Always indicate and take up your road position in good time before turning.
• Assume drivers haven’t spotted you
• When overtaking, judge speed and distance carefully, and know your bike’s acceleration
• Don’t overtake where there are:
  • Double white lines
  • Signs prohibiting overtaking
  • Bends
  • Junctions
  • Lay-bys
  • Pedestrian crossings
  • Hills or dips in the road
• Filtering – if filtering through a traffic jam or slow moving traffic, be careful:
  • Your visibility, manoeuvrability and reaction times will be reduced to a minimum
  • Drivers may suddenly change lanes or open a door

Maintenance

• Keep tyres in good condition and at the correct pressure