Tips and resources for safe riding

More people are choosing the freedom that comes with riding a motorcycle. So, it is important to:

• Invest in motorcycle training
• Reflect on your riding practises
• Develop your knowledge and on-road practical skills

Continuous development in rider training is an important investment. It can help you to remain focused, safe and skilled whilst riding. This is beneficial for all riders, new or experienced, whether you are travelling for leisure, commuting or riding for work.

New riders

Watch the Ready to ride video on YouTube, for new and young riders who are starting to explore their safe riding journey.

Resources for new riders

Advice, guidance and training:

• New Rider Hub website
• Novice Riders Hub on the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) website

Ridefree e-learning course to help prepare for your compulsory basic training (CBT)

Visit the GOV.UK website to find a motorcycle or moped CBT course near you.

Top tips for all riders

• Wear full protective gear: Helmets, gloves, jackets, trousers, and boots significantly enhance safety on the road. Visit the GOV.UK website for the law on motorcycle helmets.
• Prioritise visibility: Use high-visibility clothing and headlights during daytime rides to ensure you are easily seen by other road users
• Maintain 360-degree awareness: Regularly scan ahead, to the sides, and check your mirrors to identify hazards early
• Predict actions of others: Expect all possible actions. Such as people stepping onto the road or drivers changing lanes unexpectedly.
• Use appropriate signals: Inform others of your intentions using indicators, brake lights, or the horn
• Maintain safe following distances: Follow the two-second rule in dry conditions, extending it to four seconds in wet conditions
• Approach junctions with caution: Reduce speed and remain focused to expect the actions of others.
• Commit to continuous development: Work to improve riding techniques and being able to expect and respond to hazards.

Resources

Download our resources to improve your riding knowledge:

• Cornering (PDF, 3 MB)
• Filtering (PDF, 1 MB)
• Junctions (PDF, 4 MB)
• Observation (PDF, 2 MB)
• Overtaking (PDF, 5 MB)
• Police system (PDF, 1 MB)
• Wet weather riding (PDF, 2 MB)

Support

There are local and national groups and charities that riders can join for support, training and social events, such as:

• Norfolk Advanced Motorcyclists (NAM)
• Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) - Norfolk Riders
• Mental Health Motorbikes