Once you have successfully passed your test with Stella Motorcycle Training you are ready for the open road.

However, there are some basic safety tips that will be of help to you:

• Always wear a helmet – I know it’s obvious, but it still needs saying. It should be equipped with a face shield or you should have protective eyewear. It really is necessary to protect against serious head injuries. A rider not wearing a helmet is five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury.
• Wear appropriate gear – make sure you are wearing protective clothing to minimise injuries from accidents and skids. Leather clothing, boots with non-skid soles and gloves will all help. You may want to consider attaching reflective tape to your clothing to make yourself more visible to other road users.
• Follow the traffic rules – always obey the speed limit and remember that the faster you go the longer it will take you to stop.
• Ride defensively – nearly two-thirds of accidents are caused by driver’s violating a rider’s right of way so do not assume that a driver can see you. Always ride with your headlights on, stay clear of a driver’s blind spot, signal any change of direction well in advance and keep an eye out for turning vehicles.
• Be awake and be sober – only an idiot would drink and ride. Also be aware that tiredness and fatigue can affect your ability to react so if you feel drowsy, don’t ride.
• Consider further courses to keep your riding skills honed – taking further courses from time to time can help you develop your riding techniques and sharpen your street riding awareness. Call me on 07753 238073 if you would like to discuss further courses.