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As a motorcyclist you are one of the most vulnerable road users there are no seatbelts, airbags or side impact bars to protect you.

What will you do to make your ride safer?

The key thing that will help keep you safe is your attitude. If your safety is the most important thing to you it will influence your attitude on every ride and the way you perceive and deal with any hazards on the road.

  • Expect the unexpected.
  • Be seen, ride with your headlight on dipped beam.
  • Adjust your speed. Give yourself time to react.
  • Take extra care when filtering through traffic as drivers may not always be aware of you.
  • Remember that drivers have difficulty judging the speed of your bike.
  • Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front.
  • Plan ahead when approaching junctions.
    • Be aware of vehicles approaching from a side road.
    • A driver emerging from a junction cannot give way to you if you cannot be seen, remember you can easily be hidden from their view by a tree, telegraph pole, lamp post etc.
    • Be prepared to stop and take evasive action.
    • In urban areas look out for vehicles emerging from driveways.
  • Ensure your speed is appropriate to negotiate a bend without losing control.
  • Anticipate hazards which may be concealed by a bend. Make sure your speed enables you to be able to stop in time to avoid them.
  • Ride for the road conditions. Adjust your speed
  • Hydrate, dehydration is a hidden danger it affects your concentration and your reaction times.
  • Don’t just be a good rider be the best - advanced motorcycle training courses in Oxfordshire.

Group riding

Group riding can be an easy way improve your riding experience, however this increases your chance of having a crash.

Tips and advice if you are planning on going on a group ride.

  • Limit the group to two or three riders.
  • Plan you route.
  • Make sure everyone knows the route and is not under pressure to keep up with the group.
  • Schedule in safe stopping places so that if anyone gets lost they know where to meet up.
  • Make sure everyone has each other’s mobile numbers.
  • Have a lead biker ride in front.
  • Have a sweeper to ride at the back. To keep a look out for breakdowns or people who have lost the group.
  • All agree on the rules of the ride:
    • No overtaking each other
    • No speeding.
  • Agree to a maximum speed. This can be lower than the national speed limit
  • Keep a safe distance from other riders.
  • If anyone breaks the rules:
    • Drop back
    • Do not feel pressured into keeping up with them.