There's no question that it's often far more thrilling (and freeing) driving a motorcycle instead of a car. For new riders, in particular, the excitement of undertaking this venture can be extraordinary. But with the fun comes a great level of risk to your safety, so it's important you understand crucial safety measures to ensure you can ride confidently, with peace of mind.

1. 9 motorcycle
safety tips for
new riders.

2. 1
Any accident that can unseat a rider can also cause serious
abrasions, bruising, lacerations, and broken bones. While a helmet
can protect you from suffering brain damage, it’s also important to
wear proper eye protection, and durable, protective clothing that
covers any exposed skin.
Wear appropriate safety gear

3. To stay safe, a motorcyclist needs to ride very defensively,
developing good awareness of what’s around them, and adapting
quickly to changing conditions. Sometimes that means simply
paying attention to your surroundings, and other times it might
mean surrendering the right of way to an aggressive driver.
Ride more defensively
2

4. Driving and riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal
and dangerous under any circumstances. On a motorcycle, that
danger is even more serious. Many drivers get behind the wheel or
on their bike thinking that a little buzz won’t impair them too much.
That’s untrue even in a car, but it’s especially wrong on a motorcycle.
Always ride sober
3

5. Motorcycles have a lot of moving parts, and require quite a bit of
maintenance to keep them in top shape. Travelling at 100 km/h
down the highway is the wrong place and time to discover that your
brakes are dodgy. Motorcycles can get damaged through normal
use, but also while parked, particularly during cold weather.
Maintain awareness
4

6. The winter months are tough on motorcycles that are exposed to
the elements. Direct sun exposure and temperature changes can
damage seats, and salts from de-icing can cause and accelerate rust.
If parked near the road, dust and grit can work their way into the
bike, and accelerate wear if it isn’t cleaned properly first.
Keep your bike covered
5

7. Motorcyclists often aren’t noticed by drivers on the road, despite
reflective strips and lights. To increase visibility, it’s important to
emphasise your presence and draw attention as much as possible. A
good way to do that is to choose bright colours when it comes to
helmets, your motorcycle, and riding leathers.
Stand out as much as possible
6

8. The 2 second rule we all learned when driving a car also applies
between motorcycles. This allows everyone the room they need to
manoeuvre and respond to traffic safely. Most importantly, it means
that if one rider is involved in an accident, the others will have time
to respond.
Maintain plenty of space
between riders
7

9. Even when they’re doing everything they can to be noticed,
motorcyclists will still seem invisible to some drivers who can’t see
them, or simply aren’t paying attention. Motorcyclists need to be
prepared for this at all times, and identify possible escape routes for
any given situations.
Always have an escape route
8

10. Riding at night greatly increases your risk of getting into an accident
because of several compounding factors. People who ride at night
often do so when travelling long-distance, leading them to ride tired
at a time when they would typically be in bed anyway.
Avoid riding at night
9

11. Ultimate protection.
Wheel to wheel.
Helmet to boots.