1

FireBike is a Road Traffic Collision (RTC) education and publicity initiative through which we engage positively with Essex’s motorcyclists on a range of safety and related issues. This helps us to promote safer riding and reduce the number of motorcycling casualties in Essex.

In 2012 according to Essex Police, there were 190 motorcyclists killed or seriously injured (KSI) on the roads of Essex. Although motorbikes account for less than 1% of all traffic, they make up nearly 26% of overall KSI figures.

The FireBike product seeks to reduce the number of motorcyclists and their pillions becoming KSI casualties on the roads of Essex.

FireBike is run by Essex County Fire and Rescue Service in partnership with Cannon BMW Motorcycles, based in Braintree and Parkinson Mortorcycles, based in Colchester who generously provide us with our FireBikes.

Our FireBike riders are operational firefighters and highly qualified motorcyclists. They use their experiences as firefighters attending RTC’s and as motorcycle enthusiasts themselves to engage with riders and their pillion passengers at motorcycle events and venues throughout Essex.

Our key FireBike messages are:

• Train as if your life depends on it• Protect yourself and your pillion• Learn to share the road

As well as these webpages, you can also find us at www.facebook.com/EssexFireBike where we will post regular updates on our FireBike activities and other useful information about motorcycling. Please visit our Facebook page, click ‘like’ and please recommend us to your friends.

We would welcome your feedback on the content of our FireBike pages and any suggestions you may have for improvements or additional features you would like to see.

Road Traffic Collision Reduction:FireBike 2013

Contents

The FireBikes 2The FireBike Team 3Facts and Figures 4Protection 5Training 9Maintenance 11P.O.W.D.E.R.S 13Scooters and Mopeds 14

2

FireBike 2013 has the use of three motorcycles to help team members visit different events around the County and engage with motorcyclists and their pillions.

The team uses a BMW S1000RR and a BMW R1200GS Adventure provided to us by Bill and Sue Cannon of Cannon BMW Motorcycles; in Braintree.FireBike 2013 has the use of three motorcycles to help team members visit different events around the County and engage with motorcyclists and their pillions.

The team uses a BMW S1000RR and a BMW R1200GS Adventure provided to us by Bill and Sue Cannon of Cannon BMW Motorcycles; in Braintree.

The team also has a third bike – Ducati’s superbike, the 10985 Tricolore, generously loaned to us by Nick Moore of Parkinson Mortorcycles in Colchester.

The three FireBikes are very distinctive being liveried in Essex County Fire and Rescue Service colours and are intended to attract the attention of motorbike enthusiasts in Essex.

When you see the FireBikes at events, gatherings and venues around Essex, please stop by and have a talk with our riders, who will be delighted to chat with you about all things biking.The team also has a third bike – Ducati’s superbike, the 10985 Tricolore, generously loaned to us by Nick Moore of Parkinson Mortorcycles in Colchester.

The three FireBikes are very distinctive being liveried in Essex County Fire and Rescue Service colours and are intended to attract the attention of motorbike enthusiasts in Essex.

When you see the FireBikes at events, gatherings and venues around Essex, please stop by and have a talk with our riders, who will be delighted to chat with you about all things biking.

The FireBikes

3

The FireBike Team

FireBike is part of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service’s Road Traffic Collision Reduction Team, which is based at Service Headquarters in Kelvedon.

Our FireBike riders are operational firefighters qualified to at least RoSPA Gold motorcyclist standard. A number of the team are further qualified to RoSPA’s National Diploma in Advanced Riding Instruction. They use their experiences as both firefighters attending RTC’s and as motorcycle enthusiasts themselves to engage with riders and their pillion passengers at motorcycle events and venues throughout Essex.

Our FireBike Team consists of:

• Andy Stroulger – FireBike Team Manager• Lee Hurst – FireBike Rider• Keith Dunn – FireBike Rider• Paul Baker – FireBike Rider• Andre Turner – FireBike Rider• John Lloyd – FireBike Rider• Andy Edwards – FireBike Rider• Leigh Corke – FireBike Rider• Gary Dyer – FireBike Rider

If you are holding an event and wish the FireBikes to attend, please contact our Motorcycle Safety Co-ordinator, Andy Stroulger at andrew.stroulger@essex-fire.gov.uk or telephone 01376 576204.

4

Facts and Figures

Essex is a great County for motorcycling and has a strong resident motorcycling population. There is a tremendous amount to enjoy whilst biking on the roads of Essex. Unfortunately however, the number of motorcyclists killed or seriously injured (KSI) on the roads of Essex is too high. Bikes account for just 1% of the traffic on Essex’s roads yet they are involved in around 26% of KSI’s.

Motorcycles are the largest KSI group and entirely disproportionate to any other road user.

This section aims to provide some key facts and figures concerning motorcycle KSIs in Essex.

According to the DFT and Essex Police the KSI statistics for powered two wheelers in Essex for the last 6 years are as follows:-

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012Killed 27 18 16 12 7 16Seriously Injured

268 205 218 192 201 174

Total KSI 295 223 204 208 208 190

It can be seen that motorcycle fatalities have reduced by 41% between 2007 and 2012, and serious injuries have fallen by 35%. These are significant reductions, which have also been achieved against the backdrop of increasing motorcycle ownership.

Not with standing those positive statistics, the number of motorcyclists killed or seriously injured on the roads of Essex are still too high. Between 2011 and 2012 the number of motorcycle fatalities increased from 7 to 16.

Essex County Fire & Rescue Service monitors a wealth of KSI statistical data to inform motorcycle safety activities. The data shows the following high risk groups:-

(i) Young, predominatly male riders between the age of 16 and 25, riding machines of 125cc and below.(ii) Riders of larger motorcycles of 500cc and above, between the ages 25 and 35.(iii) Riders of larger motorcycles above 500cc between the ages of 40 and 55 years.

Motorcycle KSI collisions occur most frequently on roads with 30mph, 40mph and 60mph limits, and in predominantly dry conditions.

In terms of the causes of motorcycle KSIs Police analysis shows that the motorcycle is at fault in nearly two-thirds of collisions.

5

Protection

Our firefighters are highly trained people who approach their duties professionally and with appropriate personal protective equipment. They would never be able to do their firefighting job without proper training, protective equipment or full risk awareness.

It is absolutely NO DIFFERENT for them as FireBike riders and motorcycle enthusiasts. In both roles they are well trained and prepared for what may lay ahead. It should be the same for you as a rider.

Wearing the right protective equipment can help any motorcycle, scooter or moped rider significantly reduce the consequences of a collision or “unscheduled dismount”. Nonetheless the benefits offered by protective garments are still widely underestimated, especially by scooter and moped riders and commuters. Attitudes and perceptions regarding protective kit still need to change if improvements in road safety are to be achieved.

This section aims to provide some simple guidelines to help increase the number of motorcyclists using appropriate protective clothing and equipment.

Why You Should Always Wear Personal Protective EquipmentFashion and “look” are important factors influencing the purchase of motorcycling apparel. However, there are important safety aspects to consider.

Unlike car drivers who are surrounded by a protective steel cage with seatbelts and airbags, motorcycle riders enjoy the feeling of riding in the open air. Unfortunately this sense of freedom has its drawbacks especially in terms of protection in the event of any kind of accident but also when riding in extremely hot or cold weather, when it’s raining, when hit by insects or by debris flung up by other vehicles. It’s for these types of situations, and possible encounters between the rider and the road surface, that protective equipment should be used.

Comfortable clothing suited for each individual riding style is essential, and should:

• Offer protection in the event of an accident• Keep riders comfortable in hot or cold or wet weather• Help to make riders visible to other road users

Many scooter riders do not realise that travelling at lower speeds does not mean they are not at risk of serious injury. There is no difference in coming off a scooter at 25mph or a larger motorcycle at the same speed. Scooter riders have exactly the same chances of suffering injuries such as broken limbs and extensive skin abrasions requiring skin grafts – or worse. It is easy to find suitable protective clothing matching personal style and tastes.

What follows is some general information and guidance on the protective equipment that is available.

6

HelmetsA crash helmet is the single most important piece of protective kit. According to the World Health Organisation, helmets reduce the incidence of fatal head injuries by 50%.

Helmets help protect the head in many ways. The outer shell resists penetration and abrasion. The equally important liner inside the shell absorbs the shock by slowly collapsing and spreading the load under impact. The soft cloth liner next to the head keeps riders comfortable and the helmet fitting snugly.

Always secure the helmet using the chin strap – this is essential to ensure the helmet does not come off in a crash. Fastening the chin strap is a legal requirement.

It is ESSENTIAL that you choose a helmet that fits correctly. It must fit snugly and securely. If it moves around on the head it won’t offer the best protection. Your helmet dealer will assist you in selecting the best size helmet for you. Never buy a helmet just because of the brand or reputation, fit must come first.

Helmets sold in the UK must satisfy testing standards and comply with either British Standard 6658:1985 or ECE Regulation 22.05. Look for a label inside the helmet or on the shell. In addition look out for the independent SHARP rating assessment for your helmet. This gives a 1-5 star safety rating to help inform your purchasing.

NEVER buy or use a second hand helmet. The external appearance of the shell can disguise damage to the internal protective material, in which case it will not offer sufficient protection in a crash.

Also ensure that the helmet’s visor is clean and free of marks and smudges which could affect your vision, especially in strong sunlight. Misting can be reduced or eliminated through venting and anti-misting inserts/treatments. Never use a dark visor at night or in poor weather conditions.

Helmet Checklist:

• It bears a clearly visible label indicating BS or ECE type approval• It covers rider’s forehead and brow• It doesn’t move, slip over rider’s eyes or put pressure on the forehead• Peripheral vision should not be obstructed• The helmet mustn’t cause pressure or impede vision to riders wearing glasses• Most importantly, it must be comfortable and be correctly fastened

GlovesNever ride without specialist motorcycling gloves. The first thing you do in a crash is to instinctively put out your hands for protection. Skin can be removed from the hands in less than a second, so protection is essential.

Motorcycle gloves are available in many styles, weights and thicknesses. Lightweight gloves with no padding and possibly some ventilation are more comfortable during the summer while heavier, lined and/or insulated gloves are available for additional protection from winter cold.

Motorcycle gloves need to protect riders’ hands and wrists without reducing their ability to operate the machine. Full-fingered gloves protect hands from blisters, wind, sun and cold and will help prevent cuts, bruises and abrasions in a crash.

7

Make sure the gloves have good straps/fixings around the wrist. If the gloves can be easily pulled off without undoing a fixing, they will come off just as easily in a crash.

Gloves Checklist:

• Hands and wrists are covered entirely• The gloves fit snugly• The gloves are waterproof to ensure hands don’t get dangerously cold• Gloves specifically designed for motorcycling ensure full control over the machine

BootsMotorcycle boots protect feet, toes and ankles without affecting the rider’s maneuvering ability. ‘Trainers’ may be quick and easy but even a minor fall has the potential for serious injury to feet, toes and ankles. Riders should consider whether they need to spend more on waterproof boots or to look for additional features such as toe and ankle protectors (replaceable when worn out).

Boots Checklist:

• Entire foot, ankle and lower shin are covered• The boots are waterproof to ensure rider’s feet don’t get uncomfortably – and dangerously

– cold• Boots with plastic or metal guards offer more protection in case of accidents.

LeathersRiders should always wear appropriate clothing to protect them from impact and abrasion injuries in the unfortunate event of an accident.

Leather jackets and trousers (or suits) offer excellent protection to riders in the event of a crash. Good quality leather garments are available nowadays in very fashionable looks and colours, with excellent safety and protective features (often with in-built body armour providing additional protection for the shoulders, elbows and knees).

Leather garments should fit well and feel comfortable without being tight/restricting movement and should ideally be at least 1.2mm thick.

It should be loose enough to allow comfort, but tight enough to hold body armour/other protective equipment in place.

Leathers Checklist:

• Bright colours to aid visibility to other road users• Loose enough for comfort, tight enough to hold armour/protection in place• Keeps rider comfortable in prevailing conditions• Wrist fastenings to stop sleeves riding up• CE approved protection

8

TextilesIf you prefer not to wear leathers, there is a range of textile/synthetic garments available, which can be extremely water resistant and provide warmth through thermal linings. Like leathers they may have built in body armour, which substantially improves their impact and abrasion protection.

Wearing regular denim jeans whilst riding a motorcycle or scooter is never a good idea. However, there are specialist denim jeans available on the market which are reinforced in key areas with Kevlar (the same material used in bullet proof vests), which provides far more abrasion resistance than regular denim.

Body ArmourBody armour or impact protectors are designed for use in clothing to provide protection against injuries caused by impacts with the ground or road surface in motorcycle accidents. The armour helps prevent and reduce in the severity of contusions, fractures, muscle stripping and joint damage.

Such armour may be purchased separately or can be included as original equipment forming part of a garment. The best armour will be CE marked as a proof of compliance with EU standards.

9

Training

Rider training is something that most people think about when they are wanting to first take up motorcycling and obtain their motorcycle licence. Beyond that relatively few riders undertake further or advanced rider training.

Riders may spend considerable sums of money on bolt-on performance parts for their bikes or on protective clothing, but very few opt to spend money on improving their skills through advanced training.

Advanced rider training is something every rider should consider and it is positively encouraged by the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. Indeed, all our FireBike riders are qualified to a minimum of RoSPA Gold Standard, which is recognised as the highest riding award available to the public. Even at such a high standard however our FireBike riders are constantly learning on the roads.

Whenever we ride our bikes, we give little consideration to the fact that it may be the single most dangerous thing we do on that particular day.

Undertaking an advanced riding course will help you be a better rider. It will improve the skill and safety of your riding so that you can make the best use of road and traffic conditions. Advanced training will help you ride defensively and avoid preventable accidents. As a result you will be better able to anticipate dangers, control situations and reduce your risk exposure.

It will help you further improve your skills by increasing the awareness of the range of factors that affect your riding – your own capabilities, the characteristics of your machine, and the road and traffic conditions.

In short, it will help you be a better rider, no matter what kind of bike you ride. As a consequence you will get far more out of your riding experience and, above all, be safer on the road.

There is also a financial benefit as many insurance companies will offer discounts for motorcyclists with advanced rider qualifications.

We would ask you to consider the benefits of undertaking some advanced rider training. In doing so, ask yourself the following:

When riding, do you ever find yourself:• Having to brake sharply?• Misjudging bends/corners?• Riding too close to the vehicle ahead?• Having near misses?• Feeling anxious, tense or intimidated?• Regretting what you’ve just done? (e.g. accelerated through an amber light)

If so, maybe you could benefit from advanced training. It is not just for people who travel

10

particularly high mileages or who ride large, powerful sports bikes. It is also relevant to people buying their first big bike or those returning to riding after a prolonged gap. It will be of considerable benefit to any rider of a reasonable capacity machine who is motivated to improve their riding and safety on the road.

Advanced rider training can take many forms, from single day ride assessments by advanced instructors to formal courses of study and instruction leading to a formally recognised advanced riding qualification.

Bikesafe EssexThis is scheme run by the Police and set up for the sole objective of reducing motorcycle casualties in Essex. Bikesafe and offers each rider an insight to riding skills aimed at making their riding more enjoyable as well as safer. It is an excellent opportunity to sample some advanced riding before moving on to advanced training.

The Bikesafe workshops are designed to enhance the skills of all riders who have already passed their tests, and are particularly suitable for those that may be returning to biking after a period of absence and in particular, sportsbike riders.

The workshops are very much practical and hands on. In addition to a classroom based theory session there will be two observed rides, one rural, one non-rural, in company with experienced advanced riders. Each workshop is of one day’s duration and operate between 9am and 5pm. There is space for 16 people on each workshop. The cost will be £60 per person. This will include a lunch and some pre course literature as well as the classroom input and two observed rides.

Our FireBike team are members of the Essex Bikesafe scheme and in signing up for a Bikesafe course you can opt to ride with a FireBike rider rather than a Police officer, if you prefer.

Bikesafe is highly recommened by the FireBike team.

You can find further information and register for a workshop at the following link:www.bikesafe-essex.co.uk

We hope that, having undertaken a Bikesafe course, riders will be encouraged to further enhance their riding skills by progressing to a formal advanced rider qualification.

Further information on advanced rider training can be found at the following links:

RoSPA Advanced Riders www.roada.org.ukEssex RoSPA Advanced Motorcyclists www.rospariders.co.ukChelmsford & District Advanced Motorcyclists www.cadam.orgEssex Advanced Motorcyclists Group www.eamg.org.ukInstitute of Advanced Motorists www.iam.org

11

Maintenance

Maintaining your motorcycle or scooter to ensure that it is safe and in good working order is essential. Today’s modern machines require a lot less maintenance than the machines of the past, but there are still things for today’s riders to check. Some of these will of course be model specific, but there are a range of common issues that should be regularly checked, and some before each and every ride.

Many general checks can be carried out by the owner but there may be safety and implications. For guidance, a skilled technician should be referred to for help in accordance with the manufacturer’s service schedule and the owner’s manual or whenever you are unsure about what to do.

TyresThe most important thing to check on a regular basis are your bike’s tyre pressures, which should always be maintained at the bike or tyre manufacturer’s recommended pressures. Keeping your tyres at the correct pressures will ensure your bike handles as it was designed to and will avoid unnecessary wear and tear.

Always use an accurate tyre pressure gauge and avoid relying on the gauges on garage forecourt airpumps as they can be unreliable. Always check pressures when the tyres are cold.

As well as checking pressures, you should regularly check the condition of the tyres, including tread depth. A quick visual check of the overall condition of your tyres is important, check the side walls for any bubbles, or cracking, and the treaded area for stones, cuts, nails or other foreign objects. Most motorcycle related breakdown call-outs are tyre related.

The law requires the grooves of the tread pattern to have a depth of a least 1mm throughout a continuous band measuring at least three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and round the entire outer circumference of the tyre.

Check the wear indicators built into the tyre for a visual indication of when the tyres should be changed, but don’t rely solely on this check.

1mm is the absolute minimum and 2mm is a good time to change the tyres as their profile will have altered by then, which will affect the way your bike handles. Remember that tyre wear is gradual and you adjust to the changing handling characteristics of your bike as the tyre wears. Changing your tyres can be a revelation in terms of the handling, response and feel of your bike.

12

Drive ChainIt is important to check is your drive chain. Check the slack first - your chain should have between 5-6 cm of travel in an upwards and downwards motion and this should be measured at the chain’s tightest point.

If it’s slack, adjust according to your bike’s manual. Remember to lubricate your chain on a regular basis. Once a week or every 100 miles is a good rule of thumb, and its easy to do, especially now with the range of products widely available.

Also check the condition of the chain sprockets to ensure they don’t became ‘hooked’ or broken.

BrakesThe brakes on your motorcycle are the single most important safety feature on your machine and it is essential that they are maintained in excellent working order.

You should check your brake fluid – front and rear – and top it up if necessary using fluid recommended for your particular bike. Its a good idea to change brake fluid once every two years, as it can absorb moisture and become less effective. Keeping fresh fluid in your bike will help ensure your brakes work to their full ability. Check the condition of brake hoses and ensure there are no brake fluid leaks.

Do a visual check of the brake pads every once in a while. Today’s bikes have brake pad wear indicators, which give a visual indication of pad wear and clearly show when pads need to be replaced.

OilRegular oil and filter changes will keep your motorbike engine healthy and in tip top condition. Oil is an engine’s lifeblood.

The oil level is checked most commonly through a sight glass on the side of the engine casing, or via a dipstick attached to the oil filler cap (refer to your bikes manual for the specifics for your particular bike). Make sure you regularly check your oil level and keep it at its HIGH or MAX level.

It is best to check your oil level on the bike’s centre stand (if it has one) or when it is in a level position (on a paddock stand or held upright by a friend).

To check the oil level, start the engine and let it idle for 2 – 3 minutes. Stop the engine and wait 3 minutes. If your bike has a dipstick, remove it and wipe the oil from the dipstick with a clean cloth. With the motorcycle upright and level, insert the dipstick. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. Add the recommended level of oil, if required. Reinstall the oil level dipstick. If your bike has a sight glass, check that the oil level is between the Min and Max marks. If the level is too low, add oil via the filling point on top of the engine case.

Always use a good quality oil suitable for your machine.

DisclaimerMotorcycles should be serviced by an authorised dealer or qualified motorcycle mechanic, unless the owner has proper tools and service data and is mechanically qualified. The information supplied on these webpages is for advisory purposes only. In no way is it meant to replace the professional service and care offered by manufacturer authorised dealerships, qualified independent mechanics or emergency breakdown companies. Please seek professional advice should you need further help and assistance.

13

P.O.W.D.E.R.S

POWDERS is an acronym to assist bikers in undertaking the basic routine checks which should be carried out before each ride.

P Petrol Ensure you have sufficient petrol for your journey, of the correct grade. Fill up if necessary.

O Oil

Engine oil should be checked either at the oil window or with the dip stick. The level of brake and clutch fluid reservoirs should be checked, and on two stroke machines don’t forget the two stroke tank. Never rely on the warning light, you don’t want a seized engine.

W Water Check your coolant level when the bike is cold and make sure you have anti freeze over the winter. Check coolant hoses for leaks.

D Damage & Drive

Relates to any danger that may be present due to general damage on the bike and the condition of drive chains, sprockets, shafts, etc. Chain adjustment should be checked and be adjusted if required to your handbook specification, and sprocket teeth should not show signs of hooking. An over tight chain will cause damage to your final drive bearing which will be a costly job and a loose chain will cause excessive wear and increase the danger of the chain coming off.

E Electrics

Check that the headlight, tail/brake light, indicators and horn are functioning correctly. Check that the engine stop switch and stand ignition cut off (if applicable) are working. Consider carrying spare bulbs and fuses. (This is a legal requirement in many European countries).

R RubberCheck your bike’s tyre pressures and ensure they are at the recommended pressures. Also check the condition of tyres - not just the tread as side walls are just as important, and also examine the tyre wear indicators.

S Stopping & Suspension

Check that the front and rear brake systems are operating. A moving brake test should be carried out at low speed. Check there are no brake fluid leaks. Suspension (check the bike’s handbook) should be checked to ensure that it is suitably set for the journey e.g. lone rider, with pillion, or with luggage. Check for leaks from the suspension.

14

Scooters and Mopeds

Mopeds and Scooters are popular means of transport in Essex. They are often used as a first means of independent transport for young 16 to 21 year olds and as an economical means of travelling to work, college or university.

A moped up to 50cc can be ridden on L-plates by a person of 16 years and older, who holds a UK driving licence and who has passed a CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) test. A scooter of up to 125cc can be ridden by anyone of 17 years of age, again after passing a CBT test.

Passing a CBT test and getting onto the road is however only the first stage of becoming a safe and competent rider - this only comes with time and experience.

Moped and scooter riders are extremely vulnerable on the roads, and unfortunately they feature all too frequently in killed or seriously injured casualties on our roads. Riders need to be extra cautious ad learn to share the road.

Safety is the single most important thing to consider when riding a moped or scooter. Set out below is a series of key pointers to help keep you safe whilst out and about on your scooter or moped.

• Safety is paramount – always be responsible for your own safety and that of others• Ride safely and responsibly – ALWAYS be alert and observant• Remember that mopeds and scooters are vulnerable – they don’t have the protection

offered by a car• You are vulnerable to car drivers’ blind spots – position yourself to be seen; avoid riding

close to the kerb• NEVER be complacent on the road - anticipate what other road users are about to do and

know what to do when they do something unexpected. Take particular care in bad weather and at junctions and roundabouts

• Check over your shoulder before making a manoeuvre – this is often called a ‘life saver’• Ride at a speed appropriate for the conditions and which allows you to slow down before

trouble• Watch for hazards and changing road conditions• Be especially careful in bad weather conditions e.g. when it is raining, foggy or icy and

reduce your speed accordingly. Bad weather often means reduced visibility• Do not tailgate other road users – you will be difficult to see and you will be in danger in the

event of a sudden stop• Take extra care when riding in a group – crashes often occur when riding in a group, taking

extra risks in trying to ‘keep up’ and pressure to race or show off. • ALWAYS wear a helmet and have it securely fastened; take care when choosing a helmet –

make sure it fits securely. NEVER use a second hand helmet• ALWAYS wear suitable protective clothing, no matter how short the trip. What you wear

when riding is the ONLY thing protecting you from impacts and the surface of the road• Riding without protective gear is a risk NEVER worth taking. Many riders resist wearing

motorcycle clothing because of cost, inconvenience, comfort and lack of knowledge

15

• There is no difference in coming off a scooter at 25mph or a motorcycle at the same speed. Scooter riders have exactly the same chances of suffering serious injuries such as broken limbs and extensive skin abrasions requiring skin grafts – or worse. It is easy to find good protective clothing suited to personal style and tastes.

• Always wear a motorcycle specific leather or textile jacket, preferably with built-in body armour, to protect against impact and abrasion injuries in the unfortunate event of an accident.

• Never ride without specialist motorcycling gloves. The first thing you do in a crash is to instinctively put out your hands for protection. Skin can be removed from the hands in less than a second, so protection is essential.

• Motorcycle boots protect feet, toes and ankles without affecting the rider’s manoeuvring ability. ‘Trainers’ may be quick and easy but even a minor fall has the potential for serious injury.

• Protective clothing suited for each individual riding style is essential, it should:- Offer a degree of protection in the event of an accident- Keep you comfortable in hot or cold or wet weather- Help make you visible to other road users

• Maintain your machine to ensure it is safe, legal and roadworthy; regularly inspect your tyres for wear and damage. Make sure they are inflated to the correct pressure.

• Riding on estate pathways or playgrounds, riding bikes late in the evening and racing bikes is antisocial behaviour. If you are caught riding in an antisocial way there are a number of actions the Police and Councils can take, including prosecution, vehicle confiscation and a criminal record.