Training for motorcyclists
There are various courses available for bikers looking to improve their skills:
- Biker Down! A free nationwide scheme devised to provide the tools to help bikers if they're involved in a crash.
- DVSA enhanced rider scheme: Checks your motorcycle riding skills and provides training to help you improve.
- Advanced rider courses: Training designed to make you one of the most skilled riders on the road with this on-road course delivered by qualified experts.
- Advanced Motorcycle Training: RoSPA's advanced motorcycle training instructs riders in the theory and practice of safe systems of deliberate and responsible riding.
Join us on a free Biker Down! course
We run life-saving sessions in West Norwood, Dagenham and Heston.
Advice for motorcyclists
Wear protective clothing and equipment
- Bikers must wear a helmet when riding on the road
- Make sure your helmet fits right, and has a high SHARP safety rating
- Use a helmet visor or goggles
- Wear gloves, boots, full trousers and a leather or reinforced jacket, even if it’s warm
Be seen
- Wear bright colours and reflective clothing or accessories
- Use dipped headlights, even in daylight
Ride for the conditions
- Pay attention to the conditions and ride at a speed that allows you to slow down or stop in good time, especially if it’s wet, foggy or icy.
- A motorcycle has less contact with the pavement than a car, making it more likely to skid or slide. If you can’t avoid the following hazards, slow down as much as possible before you get to them:
- Poor or worsening weather
- Diesel spills
- Mud, wet leaves and stones
- Manhole covers or potholes
- Painted road markings
Awareness
- Stay alert and observant at junctions or roundabouts: try to anticipate the actions of others
- Drivers struggle to judge the speed of a bike, so take extra care when approaching, or pulling out of a junction.
- Take a ‘lifesaver’ glance over your shoulder before carrying out any manoeuvres.
Overtaking and positioning
- Position yourself in the best place, usually the middle of the lane. Always indicate and take up your road position in good time before turning.
- Assume drivers haven’t spotted you
- When overtaking, judge speed and distance carefully, and know your bike’s acceleration
- Don’t overtake where there are:
- Double white lines
- Signs prohibiting overtaking
- Bends
- Junctions
- Lay-bys
- Pedestrian crossings
- Hills or dips in the road
- Filtering – if filtering through a traffic jam or slow moving traffic, be careful:
- Your visibility, manoeuvrability and reaction times will be reduced to a minimum
- Drivers may suddenly change lanes or open a door
Maintenance
- Keep tyres in good condition and at the correct pressure