Motorcycling safety

Tips for safer biking in the UK

• Make sure you (and your passenger) are properly kitted out with boots, gloves and a well-fitted helmet
• We recommend 'full face' helmets, rather than 'open face'
• Your helmet should have a British Standard kite-mark on it. Don't go for a second-hand helmet - even if it looks fine, the shock-absorbing padding inside might have been crushed, or the straps weakened
• If you fall off and bang your head, buy a new helmet - the padding will only act as a shock-absorber once
• If your helmet is plastic (polycarbonate) don't put stickers on it as they weaken the plastic
• Give your bike an autumn overhaul to be prepared for oncoming winter weather. Check lights and tyres and top up the battery, as low-speed running with the headlamp on, day after day, can drain the charge. Clean wiring connections are important, especially for smaller, older bikes
• If the weather forecast says it's unlikely to go above freezing, leave your bike at home. Nobody can ride on ice
• 'Born-again bikers' (those who haven't ridden for several years) tend to suffer higher accident rates. If this is you, it might be worth going on a Rider Training Course to polish up your skills