Motorbike Safety: A guide

If you've been motorcycling for a while, you'll be familiar with that certain look you get from many people when you first reveal that you're a biker. It's a combination of surprise and concern, a look that wonders if you have some kind of death-wish - albeit an impressively rock 'n roll one. The dangers of motor biking are well documented and in many cases somewhat overstated. Nevertheless, it is vital to take them into account. By following a few simple guidelines it's easy to enjoy the incomparable experience of biking without putting yourself at unnecessary risk.

It sounds obvious, but one of the fundamental ways you can protect yourself on the road is by ensuring that you're fully aware of the road safety laws of the country you're riding in. If you're travelling, remember that these laws can vary from country to country. Always obey the speed limits, follow traffic lights and driving signals, and never swerve suddenly.

It is also important to invest in a good-quality motorcycle helmet. These can be found at specialist retailers. Make sure yours is a proper fit to allow protection, comfort and sufficient visibility and wear it whenever you're on the road. They really are frequently the difference between relatively minor injuries and fatalities. You should also wear protective clothing such as gloves and a leather cycle jacket. Avoid wearing anything that might start to flap in the wind, such as a scarf or tie, and also anything that could potentially be caught up in the motorcycle such as wide-flared trousers.

A key rule of thumb for any biker should be this - if you take care of your bike, your bike will take care of you. Check it regularly, and ensure that it's fully serviced at least once a year to prevent unpleasant surprises. Learn the fundamentals of how your bike works so you know what to look out for, and make sure your bike is fully ensured to help you to pay for professional, comprehensive repair work.

Of course you can be the most careful driver with the healthiest bike on the road, but you still can't take into account the behaviour of other motorists. Make sure your clothing is highly visible, and always slow down when approaching a junction. Many drivers find it helpful to invest in earplugs to help concentration by blocking out engine noise. Stay alert, take regular breaks on longer journeys and never drive when tired.

Motorcycling can be one of the most exciting and invigorating activities for any driver, so it's worthwhile to obey these few simple rules to avoid marring the experience with potentially serious injuries or costly vehicle damage. If you are new to biking, consider speaking to an experienced rider to find out more.