You’ve finally got your motorcycle license! Congratulations!
After hours of training and road practice, you’re free to drive on your own. But don’t forget that your license doesn’t cover every situation you might encounter on a motorcycle.
As a result, it’s essential to build up experience over time to ensure you have the right reflexes on the road, and to be aware of the mistakes to avoid.
In this article, you’ll find our advice for young motorcycle license holders and some food for thought to help you hit the road with confidence.
The golden rules of motorcycling
1. Motorcycle maintenance
Safety also means maintaining your motorcycle to avoid mechanical problems. No matter how old your motorcycle is, you need to keep a close eye on it and maintain it regularly. Check the condition and pressure of tires, brakes and other safety components. If in doubt, take your bike to a mechanic.
2. Be careful with backpacks
Backpacks are very practical for carrying your daily belongings, but can be dangerous for your back if you fall. The objects you carry can damage your spine and cause problems. We advise you to replace its use with storage elements integrated into the motorcycle, and to take the bare minimum with you.
3. Detach the lock
To avoid the beginner’s mistake, don’t forget to unhook your anti-theft device or disc-lock before starting off. This action will quickly become a reflex, but for young bikers, it can sometimes lead to the first crash in a hurry.
4. Analyze road conditions
The road can be a real minefield for two-wheelers. Learn to analyze potential hazards that could cause you to lose control (manhole covers, gravel, puddles, potholes…) and anticipate your trajectories to avoid them. You need to keep a close eye on these factors and control your speed, especially on wet roads.
5. Brake proportioning
On a motorcycle, braking can be complicated to manage. It’s important to keep a safe distance, downshift and balance your braking between front and rear to avoid sliding or changing trajectory.
6. Do not overtake if visibility is poor
Blind overtaking on a motorcycle is responsible for a great deal of physical damage, especially when it’s carried out close to a truck due to air currents. Before overtaking, make sure you have sufficient visibility to check that there are no nearby intersections and that you have enough room to turn around.
7. Attention to priorities
On two-wheelers, priorities should not be taken for granted, especially at traffic circles and intersections. Anticipate your trajectories and distances to keep yourself safe if a driver cuts you off.
8. Make sure you’re seen
The most important thing when riding a motorcycle is to be seen by other motorists, by looking for them with your eyes, for example. In spite of the headlight indicating your presence, it is necessary to analyze other road users and the environment for your own safety: a parked car that may open its door, a vehicle that puts on its blinker just as you are about to overtake…
9. Don’t overestimate your abilities
Young motorcyclists are always very eager to make their first trips. But take the time to get to know your motorcycle and familiarize yourself with two-wheeled driving. Don’t imitate other drivers and don’t let yourself be influenced by the group effect, which could lead you to take unnecessary risks. Finally, beware of fatigue, which is often underestimated by young drivers, so take regular breaks.
10. Have the right equipment
The Highway Code requires certain equipment: approved helmets, gloves and reflective vests when stopping on the side of the road. The rest is not considered legally binding. Of course, we recommend that you equip yourself with a long-sleeved jacket, protective pants and boots, especially as a beginner. Protective clothing will prevent serious injury in the event of a fall, and layers of protection are necessary for your safety.
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