New rider? Here’s what you need to know

If you’re new to riding a motorbike or scooter, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you feel confident and in control to Own Your Ride.

A few simple tips to get you going:

• Give your bike a quick once-over before heading out.
  It doesn’t take long and can make a big difference. Check things like your oil, tyres, lights, mirrors, and make sure you’re comfortable with all the controls.
• Stay switched on - even on familiar roads
  Knowing the route doesn’t remove the risks. Stay alert, keep looking ahead, and be ready for things to change.
• Ride like you haven’t been seen
  Never assume other road users have seen you, give yourself time and space to react if needed. Always riding defensively can help you stay one step ahead.
• Wear the right gear
  Good kit and a helmet aren’t just about comfort - they’re there to protect you if the worst should happen.
• Work with the conditions
  Weather can change how the road feels - think reduced visibility, slippery surfaces, or debris. Adjust your riding to suit what’s in front of you.

If you’re looking for more ideas and tips to build confidence and get the skills to go further, take a look here: Practical tips for better riding.

Keeping an eye on your tyres

Your tyres are what keeps you connected to the road, so checking them regularly is vital to keeping you safe and legal.

If you notice anything unusual or imperfections like a cut, bulge or damage, get them checked. A small issue can become major if left, so being alert to this is key.

Tread

Tread helps your tyres do their job properly, especially when the weather turns. It clears water away and helps maintain grip.

If the tread’s getting low, you’ve got less contact with the road - meaning less grip when you need it most. There are also legal limits, so keeping an eye on it just makes sense.

Got a puncture?

It happens - but it’s not something to ignore. A puncture can affect how your bike handles and, in some cases, could lead to a sudden loss of pressure – a blowout. This will destroy your tyre and ride plans until it’s fixed, so being responsive is key.

The good news is some punctures can be repaired. Either way, it’s always best to get it checked by a specialist before heading back out. 

Night time riding

Riding after dark can feel completely different, so it’s worth taking a bit of extra care.

A few simple things can make a big difference:

• Check your lights work properly
• Keep your mirrors and visor clean
• Use your high beam where it’s safe and appropriate
• If you’re feeling tired, it’s better to leave it for another day
• An empty road is tempting, but always stick below the speed limit and ride safely.

Additional training

No matter how long you’ve been riding, there’s always something new to pick up or a few habits worth refreshing.

From the DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme, to the IAM Advanced Rider course, there’s plenty of national products.

You can also find out more about the local courses available to bikers in Derbyshire here: Courses available to upskill your ride.

Our BikeSafe course is a low cost, relaxed option to finetune your biking skills: http://www.bikesafe.co.uk/Derbyshire