EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED ON TWO WHEELS!
TOP VALUE SAFETY KIT p14
THE OPEN ROAD IS WAITING! p8
MOPED VS SCOOTER
WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU? p30
BIKE CHOOSER
COOL BIKES FOR ALL BUDGETS p18
MORE FUN FOR LESS CASH p12
We’re going to help you get started on two wheels. From the CBT all the way to your A licence, FirstBike is here to guide you. Whether you are looking for affordable insurance, want to master maintenance basics, or need some help choosing your first moped, there’s lots of advice packed into these 52 pages.
Mopeds and motorbikes are more than just transport. Choosing two wheels rather than four is a one-way ticket to adventure. Enjoy it!
Editor: David Motton
Contributor: Al Suttie
Art director: Caroline Creighton-Metcalf
Commercial director: Richard Storrs
Publisher: James Evans
Cover photographer: Matt Howell
COVER MODEL RIDES:
info@firstcar.co.uk 08451 308853
CBT TEST... THE START OF LIFE ON TWO WHEELS PAGE 8
The contents of this magazine are copyright © First Car Ltd and may not be reproduced or transmitted, in any form in whole or in part, without written consent from the editor. Neither FirstCar Ltd nor its staff can be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it. (03/23)
New or young riders can quickly see the price of their premiums accelerate when searching for insurance. But at Bikesure, we have an adaptable approach that can put the brakes on spiralling costs.
Whether you’ve just passed your CBT test, or hold a category A, A2 or A1 licence, we can help find great cover at a lower price than you might think.
Policy benefits can include:
• Cover for imported Chinese scooters and bikes
• Premiums available for novice and experienced young bikers
• Insurance for all kinds of bike from mopeds to sports bikes
• Direct debit available for 16 year olds (subject to guarantor)
CALL US ON 0800 032 5350
bikesure.co.uk
Authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Trustpilot rating checked on 28th Feb 23, *Using Bikesure’s suggested repairs facility
REPAIRS GUARANTEED FOR THREE YEARS*
SCOOTER VS MOPED WE’LL HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPE OF BIKE! PAGE 30
BUYING LOOKING FOR THE IDEAL FIRST BIKE? LET US HELP! PAGE 18
8 GET STARTED
From the CBT to earning your A licence, here’s what to expect, what you can ride and how much you’ll need to pay.
14 SAFETY KIT
Check out our rundown of all the essential kit you need to stay fully protected, from helmets to jackets to boots.
18 BUYING ADVICE
Scooter or bike? Second-hand or new? Getting it right is crucial. Our advice will help you find the perfect first bike.
32 STAYING SAFE
Top riding tips to keep you safe in the saddle and avoid becoming a statistic. Learn without the pain!
34 HIGHWAY CODE
Do you understand the hierarchy of road users? It’s all explained in the latest edition of the Highway Code.
36 MAKING MONEY
Working as a delivery rider could turn your moped into a way to earn cash. Here’s what you need to know.
42 INSURANCE
To get on the road, you’ve got to be insured. Here’s how to find top quality cover at an affordable price.
46 FIRST AID
Would you know how to help if you came across an injured rider? You can learn what to do on a Biker Down course.
STAYING SAFE... WATCH OUT FOR EVERY RISK PAGE 32
48 MAINTENANCE
Simple everyday checks can keep your bike in top condition and keep you safe.
There’s a lot to take in during the CBT but you’ll enjoy the experience!
Compulsory Basic Training is exactly that and is the bare minimum you need to get on the road to stay legal and safe
CBT and any further training costs are dependent on the approved training body you use: budget £130-£150 for your CBT and around £100 per half day for any further training you require to pass the Module One and Module Two sections of your full licence test.
EXTRA COSTS:
■ THEORY TEST - £23.00
■ MODULE ONE - £15.50
■ MODULE TWO - £75.00
WEEKDAYS OR £88.50 AT WEEKENDS/EVENINGS
COMPULSORY BASIC training, or CBT, was introduced to help reduce the high accident rate among inexperienced motorcyclists. It’s required training for all would-be bikers before they’re allowed on UK roads. Qualified trainers take you through every aspect of riding, so as well as being a legal requirement, CBT ensures you have the skills and knowledge to stay safe. Expect to pay around £130-£150 depending on where you’re based and whether you bring your own bike.
Before you can even think about taking any form of motorcycle training, you need to ensure you have a provisional licence with ‘Category A’ provisional motorcycle entitlement. You’re able to apply for this online at
gov.uk/apply-firstprovisional-drivinglicence, where there’s further information on how to apply: the licence will cost you £34. Anyone who passed their car test before 1 February 2001 will automatically have ‘Category A’ entitlement, which means they’re already eligible to undertake the CBT.
Wear clothes suitable for riding. Don’t turn up in shorts and a T-shirt even if it’s hot. Also, avoid wearing trainers or soft shoes. A decent jacket, boots, gloves and jeans are the minimum, along with a helmet,
Before the CBT course can start you’ll be given an eyesight test. You must be able to read a number plate at a distance of around 20 metres. You’re allowed to wear glasses or
which is in good condition and meets BSI 6658 and ECE 2205 standards (there should be a sticker indicating this) although many training schools can hire you helmets, gloves and a highvis bib.
contact lenses if you normally wear them, but if you fail the eyesight test the course will not continue.
Currently, there are five key sections. There’s no time limit; 6-8 hours is normal, but it can be spread over two days. A classroom-based introduction spells out the legal aspects of riding (see tinyurl.com/ qcf3tjk), checks you have a licence and roadworthy bike with tax, insurance and MOT (if applicable) plus L-plates front and rear. Most centres will rent you a bike with insurance. After the briefing, the practical on-site training begins where you’ll learn:
■ Basic controls & checks
■ Starting/stopping the engine
■ Using the stands
■ Wheeling the bike
■ Using the brakes
You’ll then move onto an off-road area to start riding. Here you’ll learn:
■ Using the clutch & gears
■ Riding in a straight line, circles and figures of eight
■ Slow, controlled riding
■ Emergency stops and how to deal with skids
■ Dealing with turns and junctions
A classroom-based briefing follows on the Highway Code, staying visible, road signs and riding defensively.
You’ll next ride for at least two hours on various roads that take in traffic lights, junctions and roundabouts. When your instructor feels you’re safe to ride solo, you’ll be issued with the DL196 (CBT) Certificate. This is valid for two years and entitles you to ride on the road with L-plates but not carry a pillion or ride on motorways. You’ll need to re-take the CBT if you don’t pass both the theory and practical tests before the CBT Certificate expires.
Taking a motorbike off road is great fun, provided you are on a bike designed for the job and you stay the right side of the law. But riding on footpaths, bridleways or in public parks is a big no-no. There are a range of measures the police could take if you ignore the rules. Under the Police Reform Act 2002, they could even seize your bike!
This is where you can ride off road, so long as you give space to others.
■ Byways open to all traffic (check the key on an OS map).
■ Private land, with the owner’s permission (check insurance still covers you).
The Trail Riders Fellowship
www.trf.org.uk is a great resource for responsible trail riding.
Mopeds
AGE: 16
You can now ride any 50cc moped restricted to 28mph and fitted with L-plates. You can’t carry passengers and you’re also not allowed on motorways.
TEST TAKES JUST30 MINS
AGE: 17+
You can now ride any machine up to 125cc as long as it is fitted with L-plates. No passengers are allowed and you’re also not allowed to ride on motorways.
You must hold a valid motorcycle theory test certificate before you take your practical tests.
CBT ONLY VALID FOR 2 YEARS
AGE 16
AM - MOPED LICENCE
You can now ride a 50cc moped restricted to 28mph. No need for L-plates and passengers are allowed, but you can’t use the motorway.
AGE 17-18
A1 LICENCE
You can now ride an 11kw (14.8bhp) 125cc bike. There’s no need to have L-plates and passengers are allowed. You can now use the motorway.
AGE 19
A2 LICENCE
You can now ride any bike up to 35kW (46.6 bhp). No L-plates need to be fitted, and passengers are allowed. You can use the motorway.
YOUR OPTIONS NOW. . .
■ Keep riding a moped (limited to 50cc).
■ At 17 years or over, take a motorcycle test so you can graduate to a larger, more powerful machine.
YOUR OPTIONS NOW. . .
■ Keep riding a 125cc motorcycle.
■ At 19 years or over, you can now take your category A2 test and ride a bike of up to 35kW (46.6bhp).
YOUR OPTIONS NOW. . .
■ Keep riding a motorcycle of up to 35kw (46.6bhp).
■ After 2 years, or on reaching 24 years of age, you can take a Category A motorcycle test to ride any machine you like.
Two-part test MODULE 1 - off road MODULE 2 - on roadA helmet is your most important line of defence when riding. It will keep you warm and dry, and potentially save your life. Wearing a helmet is a legal requirement in the UK, so buy the best you can afford.
Look for helmets tested by SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme) – sharp.dft. gov.uk. There are several good-value helmets with five-star ratings. Check any helmet you buy meets British Standard 6658:1985 or UNECE Regulation 22.05. This will be on a label inside the helmet. Buy a helmet from a
reputable retailer and never buy used as you don’t know if it’s been in a crash.
The Nolan N87 is a full-face helmet with a removable and washable interior. It comes in a broad range of sizes, so you should be able to find a comfy fit, and the helmet is both ECE and DOT certified. It’s available at a big discount if you make the effort to shop around.
A helmet is made of several protective layers: a thin hard, outer shell typically made from plastic or a composite material, then an impactabsorbing inner, followed by a soft, inner liner for cushioning, often removable for cleaning.
Try before you buy – wear the helmet for several minutes in the shop to make sure it’s comfy and there are no tight spots.
Snug fit – make sure the helmet is not loose or moves when you turn your head. Check the securing strap fits
neatly under your chin. Noise – earplugs help protect your ears from excessive noise while riding. Go to UltimateEar.com for a range of custom-made earplugs and earphones.
A full-face helmet – gives better protection. Be sure the
Choose bright colours as these help other road users to see you coming.
Wear a visor or goggles with an ECE, CE or BSI approval mark. In daylight a tint of up to 50% is okay; a clear visor must be used after dark.
visor is ECE or BSI approved. Only use a dark-tinted visor in daylight.
Tough stuff – helmets soften impacts using multiple layers of composite material, foam and padding. A removable inner liner makes cleaning easier.
Wearing the right kit while riding keeps you comfortable and safe. Here’s what you need...
There’s a huge choice of motorcycle jackets and trousers, and that’s before you decide whether you prefer leather or textile for the material.
Leather has been the traditional choice thanks to its abrasion-resistance, but modern textiles are now every bit as good while offering better protection from the wind, rain and cold. Textile clothing can also be cooler in warm weather. Look for textile clothing made from Cordura and Gore-Tex.
Whichever material you opt for, make sure the jacket and trousers come with CEapproved armour. This should be a comfortable fit in all of the most vulnerable spots, including shoulders, elbows, back, hips and knees. Also allow for some space under the motorcycle clothing so you can wear extra layers in colder weather – adjustable straps on the jacket and trousers help keep them
snugly fitted.
For outstanding value, the Oxford Montreal 4.0 MS Dry2Dry is hard to beat. With a high-density polyester outer shell and a breathable
Fit – before buying a jacket or trousers, try sitting on a motorcycle with the kit so you know it’s comfortable.
Armour – only buy clothing with CE-approved armour, and make sure the armour doesn’t move around as you wear the kit.
Stitch up – only buy clothing that is double- or triplestitched on the seams so it
resists splitting if you fall off. Zip it – always zip up your jacket when riding to give maximum protection. Check the zip is not directly touching skin in case it transmits friction heat if you fall off.
Leather – leather clothing should be at least 1.2mm thick, but make sure you are happy with comfort
Jackets can be made of leather or a textile such as Cordura; all should be at least double-stitched and have integral CE-approved armour in the most ‘at-risk’ areas, such as elbows and shoulders. Often, back protection costs extra.
Dry2Dry membrane, this jacket is works well across a wide range of temperatures and weather. Pair it with the matching Montreal trouser for similar leg protection.
and weight. Textile – look for layers that can be added or removed to make the clothing more waterproof or warmer depending on riding conditions.
Jeans – armoured jeans reinforced with Kevlar are another option, but offer less protection from the elements.
As a motorcyclist, your hands and feet are among the most exposed parts of your body. Leather is the most common material for gloves. Extra protection on the knuckles and wrist from plastic or carbon-fibre inserts is desirable. Lighter weight gloves for summer will keep your hands cool,
while insulated or electrically heated gloves are ideal for winter temperatures.
These Richa Artic gloves are a safe and comfortable choice across a wide range of temperatures. They feature an abrasion-resistant textile construction, a fully waterproof internal membrane, TPU knuckle armour, and reflective panels for nightime visibility.
PRICE £139.99
Shoes must be comfortable as you could be wearing them for hours at a time. Don’t wear regular shoes, however comfy, as they won’t offer enough protection.
Fit like a… gloves should feel tailored to your hands, but not tight. Make sure you can curl your fingers, while a wrist strap helps secure the glove.
Protection – look for gloves and boots with extra protection around knuckles and ankles to take care of these vulnerable areas.
Type of use – choose the right boots and gloves for the riding you do. Racing kit is great on track, but can be uncomfortable on a long trip. Sew good – check any gloves or boots for good quality double or triple stitching as it makes the kit strong in a crash.
There are 26 bones in each foot, so protecting them is vitally important. Forget trainers or work shoes and invest in good quality motorcycle boots. Most are made from leather or Lorica synthetic leather for excellent abrasion-resistance. Make sure they cover and support your ankles.
The RST Tracetech Evo 3 is a microfibre boot with TPU external protection and a breathable membrane so your feet shouldn’t overheat.
Your hands are vulnerable in a crash and you can easily lose a finger, so always wear specialist motorcycling gloves –a strong protective layer is essential.
PRICE£99.99
Filming your ride can be fun, and it can also be crucial if you’re involved in a collision. There’s a wide range of helmet cams available, differing in size, quality and price, so look for one that’s suited to your
needs as well as your budget. As the camera is going to be used outside, it has to be waterproof. Make sure you can operate it while wearing gloves – this is where voice activation or using the camera via Bluetooth on your phone helps a lot.
Look for 1080p cameras, which means they have 1080 lines of vertical resolution to give a clear image. For the same reason, a 60 frames per second (FPS) camera gives much sharper pictures, and check the battery life will last long enough to capture your usual rides.
A memory card is essential to record what you film, so count this into your budget. Check out the editing options, too, as some systems are easier to use than others.
The Innovv H5 helmet cam is good value compared with the latest models from some better-known names like GoPro. It can record for up to five hours using the internal battery, or if your bike has a USB port it need never run out of power. Despite the sensible price tag, this camera records in 4k and has image stabilisation.
SAFETY
When they first became popular, there was a question mark over the safety of cameras in a crash. But so long as the camera is correctly mounted that shouldn’t be a problem.
Weight – choose a helmet camera that’s not too heavy so it doesn’t cause any strain as you ride.
Safety – a study by the UK’s Transport Research Laboratory shows helmet cams pose no additional risk
to rider safety in a crash. Resolution – pick a helmet cam with a high-resolution lens to capture clear, sharp images.
Long life – battery life should match your typical ride. Up to three hours of charge
time is usual.
Hands-free – operating the camera with voice commands or through your smartphone makes life simpler, but always make sure you concentrate fully on your riding.
1 CAN I AFFORD IT?
Saving money is one of the big advantages of travelling on two wheels rather than four, but don’t throw away the saving by spending more than you can really afford. It’s more important to budget for a high-quality helmet, shoes, jacket, gloves and trousers to keep you safe.
2
TO INSURE?
Get some quotes before you commit to buying a particular bike, as insurance for young and inexperienced riders can be pricey.
The cost of petrol is sky-high at the moment. The better the bike’s fuel economy, the more money you’ll keep in your pocket.
On-bike storage can be really handy if you need to take a change of clothes or a laptop with you, so that’s something
to consider. If you’re going to use the bike for long journeys, a bigger fuel tank means you’ll go further between fillups, and a bike with a fairing will protect you from the wind when riding at speed.
Petrol bikes are usually a lot cheaper to buy than the electric equivalent, although the cost of charging a battery is a lot less than the price of a tank of unleaded. One thing to remember is that while the petrol bikes are rated by ‘peak’ power, the regulations around electric models use ‘continuous’ power (measured over a set period). The upshot is electric bikes can be quicker than you’d expect.
There is no better feeling than buying your first bike. But if you want that silly grin to last for mile after mile, you need to choose carefully
When choosing between new bikes, don’t just look at the price. Check what warranty is offered, if breakdown cover is included, and if there’s any accident aftercare.
FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO BUY WISELY…
● Take a friend. A second pair of eyes is always useful.
● Check the paperwork. Make sure the seller is the owner of the bike, and check it has been serviced properly.
● Test everything. Make sure the engine starts
up cleanly and without odd noises or smoking. Make sure the lights, gauges, horn, brakes and suspension are all working as they should.
● Check the history. Use a service like HPIcheck.com to find out if the bike has been stolen or written-off after a crash.
Remember to budget for insurance cover. Third party is the minimum, with fully comprehensive the best but most expensive option. New riders will usually face high premiums, but this will drop as your experience and no-claims bonus increases. Sporty bikes will also attract higher premiums, whereas
cover for scooters and commuter bikes is usually more affordable. Be sure to declare everything when applying so you’re definitely covered in the event of a claim.
To get the best insurance ring around or check online to find the most competitive deal. Search for bike insurance specialists to be sure of covering all the bases.
£2049
FROM £1749.99
WK SCRAMBLER 50
Retro has never looked so cool. The WK Scrambler 50 is a great budget buy, with a choice of stealthy black and classy grey finishes. A two-year warranty is standard.
APRILIA SXR 50
This stylish Italian moped comes in four colours and looks great in all of them. The low seat height makes it ideal for shorter riders, and the auto transmission means it’s easy to ride.
Your life on two wheels starts here! From mopeds to supermoto bikes, there’s something for everyone
PEUGEOT KISBEE 50
The stylish Kisbee is ideal around town and has plenty of comfort for you and a pillion when you pass your test. Nimble handling is ideal for commuting.
FROM£2259
LEXMOTO ECHO 50
New bikes don’t come much cheaper than the Echo 50. It’s a nippy ride, with sporty looks, nimble handling, and low running costs. There’s plenty of under-seat storage too.
FROM £3550
RIEJU MRT 50 SM
A supermoto bike with a six-speed gearbox, the MRT 50 SM looks cool and is great fun to ride. It’s not the cheapest first bike, though.
FROM£3199
VESPA PRIMAVERA 50
Timeless good looks and a choice of five colours make the Vespa a stylish way to nip around town. The four-stroke engine sips fuel, but the Primavera costs a little more than some mopeds.
PIAGGIO ZIP 50
Small in size but big on under-seat storage, the Piaggio Zip makes Italian style affordable. Thanks to the twist-and-go transmission, the Zip is really easy to ride.
FROM£2250
FROM£1999
YAMASAKI F50
You get the looks of a motorbike for moped money with the Yamasaki F50. Would you guess it’s priced at less than £2k? Almost certainly not. The F50 has a four-speed ’box and a 31mph top speed.
YAMAHA XSR125
The retroscrambler styling of the XSR125 is guaranteed to turn heads – it looks like a bigger, more expensive bike.
FROM£4800
The next step on the motorbike ladder, the 125cc class includes sports bikes, commuters, retro and naked machines. Find your passport to freedom here!
FROM£3295
HERALD BRAT 125
One of the coolest ways to get around town without breaking the bank. This city slicker features a digital dash, a six-speed manual gearbox, and monoshock rear suspension.
APRILIA RS125
If you want an exciting bike that doesn’t sacrifice comfort, this is it. A true race-replica for the road, the RS 125 is an addictive machine that will soon have you hooked.
FROM £4950
FROM £3599
SINNIS T125
Whether beating the traffic in town or leaving everyone else behind on an off-road adventure, the Sinnis T125 is a do-it-all motorbike. It’s also one of the most affordable adventure bikes on sale.
HONDA CB125F
Starter bikes don’t get much better. Light, nimble, and very fuelefficient, the CB125F is great around town and not out of its depth on faster roads.
KAWASAKI NINJA 125
Ninja is one of the most famous names in the world of sports bikes, and the Ninja 125 is the junior member of this celebrated family. It’s a proper thrill-machine that happens to be A1-licence friendly!
FROM£4199
SUZUKI AVENSIS 125
Blending the practicality of a moped with the dynamic styling of a sports bike, the Avensis 125 is a brilliant city machine. Thanks to the Suzuki Eco Performance engine, the Avensis is capable of 148mpg.
FROM £2699
FROM£3049
LEXMOTO LXR125
It looks like a bigger bike and, with its six-speed gearbox, combined braking, and liquid-cooled engine, it rides like one. What’s not big is the price – the Lexmoto is a bargain compared with machines from better known brands.
FROM£3099.99
FROM £5499
This stunning street machine is a great introduction to the world of big bikes. Light but powerful, the 390 Duke is one of the most exciting bikes you can ride on an A2 licence.
FROM£3899
When you move up to bigger bikes, there are plenty of stylish and affordable machines to take your riding to the next level
You get a lot of bike for your money with the Zontes ZT310-T. Built around a punchy single-cylinder engine, A2 licence holders can enjoy this stylish adventure bike and commuter.
FROM£4299
The fun doesn’t stop when the road does with the Mash Two Fifty thanks to its scrambler style and chunky tyres. It’s also good around town.
With the sporty character of a threecyinder engine, this punchy and practical bike is ready for whatever two-wheeled adventure you can dream up.
FROM £8945
Triple-powered 660cc performance. Class-leading technology. An agile and precise chassis. Experience the Triumph Trident 660, with its confident, sporty poise and low seat height for an unforgettable ride. For A2 licence holders, a dealer fitted restrictor kit is available which is de-restrictable back to full power. 4 colour options and 45 dedicated Trident accessories to choose from.
FROM £6300
VESPA ELETTRICA
Pricier than some, but the Elettrica comes with all of the Vespa looks, heritage and quality along with quicker recharging than most electric scooters.
If you are 17 or over, you can ride an electric bike with up to 11kW of continuous power after taking your CBT. You’ve then got two years to pass your theory and practical, or you’ll need to go through CBT again.
FROM£3325
Electric scooters and motorcycles are now more affordable than ever, and they offer no-hassle, low-emissions riding
HORWIN EK-3
The EK-3 looks great and has a range of up to 60 miles. You can charge your phone using the USB in the storage cubby.
FROM£4099
SILENCE SO2 URBAN
Proof that not all electric bikes are expensive, the SO2 Urban is a funky-looking town runabout. It has a 35-mile range and a top speed of 30mph.
E-scooters have made a lot of headlines recently, both good and bad. They offer an environmentally sound way to get around towns and cities, helped by a number of official trials. However, you can only legally use one on public streets if you live, work or visit an area where these trials are being conducted. In almost every way, a petrol or electric moped is a much better choice. Here’s why!
✓ Low cost to buy
✓ Quick to re-charge
✓ Easy to carry and store
✗ You can only legally ride one in public if it’s part of an official trial
✗ Ride your own e-scooter in public and you face a £300 fixed penalty and six points on your licence
✗ Almost impossible to insure
✗ Restricted to 15.5mph maximum
✗ No lights or indicators
✗ Smaller wheels mean they are more at risk from potholes and road debris
✗ Less powerful brakes and smaller tyre contact patch on the road, so don’t stop as well as a moped, especially in the wet
✗ No legal requirement for safety gear
VERDICT: Bad idea, unless you live where there’s an official trial
✓ More comfortable to ride, thanks to suspension and bigger tyres
✓ 28mph top speed means a moped is quicker than an e-scooter
✓ If storage and practicality are important to you, a moped is streets ahead
✓ More secure, particularly when you tether it with a good quality
lock or store it in a garage or shed
✓ Cheap insurance
✓ Legal lights make a moped much safer at night
✓ Low running costs
✓ Mus t wear a helmet, which is vital for safety
✓ Elec tric mopeds qualify for plug-in vehicle grant up to £150
✗ C an’t carry a pillion passenger before A1 pass
VERDICT: Legal, better to ride –we’d choose a moped every time
We’ve teamed up with some of our partners to offer a wide range or goodies in our free-to-enter prize draw. One lucky winner will scoop ALL these great prizes!
BIKETRAC LITE
An affordable tracking solution for scoooters and small-capacity motorcycles, BikeTrac Lite alerts owners to unauthorised movements. Worth £259. biketrac.co.uk
Save £150 on your next bike insurance policy with Bikesure. bikesure.co.uk
MOTORCYCLE LIVE TICKETS
Courtesy of MCIA, win a family ticket to Motorcycle Live 2024 at the NEC, Birmingham. Valued around £65. motorcyclelive.co.uk
Bike Stop is one of the UK’s leading retailers for motorcycle clothing and accessories, offering 100s of brands in store and online. Win a £50 voucher. bikestop.co.uk
HERALD
ROAD ANGEL HALO PRO DUAL DASH CAM
The professional’s choice of dash cam, front and rear with free SD card and hardwiring kit worth £250. roadangelgroup.com
HOTGRIPS® PRO HOTGRIPS® PRO are the latest evolution of Oxford’s vast range of world-leading heated grips. They offer fully integrated temperature control, simply press the button to set your temperature. Worth £199.99. oxfordhotgrips.com
CO & HERALD
AP PAREL GOODIE BAG
The perfect gift for the motorbike-loving coffee addict! The package contains one bag of Herald ground/bean coffee and two mugs, along with a Herald striped neck tube and Herald Motor Co apparel beanie worth £70. heraldmotorcompany.com
Terms and conditions: This prize draw is run by Firstcar Limited, for full terms and conditions please visit www.firstcar.co.uk/bike
IT’S A SOBERING statistic, but motorcyclists make up just 0.8% of the total traffic on the UK’s roads, but account for around 20% of the total numbers killed or seriously injured each year.
Despite the millions of pounds spent developing safer systems on motorcycles such as anti-lock brakes and traction control, motorcycle riders do not have the luxury of side impact bars or crumple zones and only one motorcycle – Honda’s Gold Wing – has ever
been fitted with an airbag system. That’s why the best way to stay intact on a motorcycle or scooter is not get into a dangerous situation in the first place.
This is why motorcyclists need even greater awareness on the road of their own actions, their surroundings, the road surface and the behaviour of others around them.
But don’t worry – you can cope with it all. Here are some golden rules to help you stay safe.
Visibility isn’t just about how well you can see the road ahead, but it’s also how easily other road users can see you. The Police Rider’s Handbook (Roadcraft) says that a third of drivers involved in a daylight collision with a motorcyclist claim to have not seen the
bike or scooter before the crash. At night that figure rises to half. Part of the reason is that bikes can be hard to see from head-on as they are relatively small compared to most other road traffic, making it difficult for the driver to assess their speed and distance.
Also, if the road is very busy, then motorbike and rider can all too easily get lost against a cluttered background, often with disastrous results. This is why you need to make yourself as conspicuous as possible when you are out on the open road.
Statistically, junctions can be a big hazard. Make eye contact with the driver and watch their wheels as they creep out from the junction
Defensive riding is all about staying one step ahead of the game, riding in a style and with a mindset that puts you in the safest position to deal with anything that the road – or other road users –can throw at you.
1 LOOK UP
The further you look up the road ahead, the more you’ll see. Move around in your lane if you need a better view and scan the upcoming road conditions a few car lengths ahead, to the road’s ‘vanishing point’. ‘Situational Awareness’ or knowing everything that’s going on around you is key to avoiding dangerous situations.
2 3
2 ANTICIPATE PROBLEMS
The more time you have to react to a hazard the more likely you are to deal with it safely. Police riders recommend commenting aloud on an upcoming hazard, detailing what you intend to do as it gets closer. Try it.
3 PREDICT HAZARDS
A bus stop or parked cars can mean pedestrians; a bouncing ball in the road means children at play; a bare, open road means crosswinds. Experience can help you predict hazards before they appear. Search for the clues and plan accordingly.
According to an in-depth study of motorcycle crashes, the most common accidents involve failing to negotiate bends on a country A-road, collisions at junctions, collisions while overtaking and loss of control!
4 CHECK YOUR BLIND SPOTS
Your rearward safety check can save your skin – hence why it’s known as the ‘lifesaver’.
5 GIVE YOURSELF SPACE
Staying a safe distance behind the vehicle in front gives you a better view ahead and room to stop in an emergency.
For each corner you take on two wheels, keep these five tips in mind!
you go through the bend.
3 YOUR SPEED
Losing control while going round a bend is one the biggest causes of accidents involving motorcycles. Left-hand bends present a bigger danger, because if you lose control here, you generally end up sliding into oncoming traffic.
1 INFORMATION Consider all the information available in front and behind you, turn your head and use those mirrors! Allow for changes in the road surface and the impact that weather conditions have on the road.
2 YOUR POSITION
Your position on the road needs to keep your risk to a minimum and your vision of the bend ahead to the maximum. Be ready to change position in your lane if the situation changes as
Are you going too fast for the corner or your skill level? Ensure you adjust your speed for the bend ahead before you enter it.
4 CHOOSE YOUR GEAR
On a bike the correct gear ratio gives you better control and allows the use of the throttle to react to any situation that may occur.
5 STOPPING DISTANCE
Can you stop in the distance you can see ahead? What if anything is in the road? Plan ahead and have an escape route if possible.
YOU CAN DO A LOT MORE HARM WITH AN HGV THAN A 50CC MOPED. And a moped can do a lot more damage than a child on foot. That’s now reflected in the Highway Code. Loads of changes were made in a big update in January 2022. Some existing rules were tidied up or clarified, but the guiding principle is the ‘hierarchy of road users’ – those who can do the greatest harm must take the
greatest responsibility. The likes of HGV and coach drivers have the greatest duty to look out for other road users, because they’re driving the biggest, heaviest vehicles with the most potential to do damage. Pedestrians are at the opposite end of the hierarchy, as they’re likely to come off worst in any collision. Moped and motorbike riders sit near the middle, as they’re vulnerable to larger and heavier vehicles, but need to take extra care around horse riders, cyclists, and people on foot.
Do give way to cyclists who are riding straight on when you are turning into or out of junctions.
Do give way to pedestrians who are crossing (or waiting to cross) the road at junctions.
Don’t make a close pass on a cyclist. Leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and leave more space when overtaking above 30mph.
Don’t pass close to a horse or a horse-drawn vehicle. Give at least two metres of space and pass at no more than 10mph.
Do remember that cyclists are allowed to ride in the centre of the lane, or two abreast, while allowing you to overtake when it’s safe to do so.
It’s important to understand that this doesn’t mean we can ride our motorbikes however we please, or that if we’re in a collision with a car it’s always going to be the driver’s fault. As riders, we still need to stick to the rules, and ride safely.
Just as drivers must remember that a moped
rider is more vulnerable than they are in a collision, so we riders should keep in mind that a horse rider, cyclist, or pedestrian is likely to come off worse if we hit them. We all need to take care of each other, and especially the most vulnerable people on the road.
Those who can do the greatest harm must take extra care of others
LIKE THE DREAM JOB. Choose a gig with a food delivery company and this could become reality, and you get to pick the working hours that suit you.
With the huge increase in the home food and takeaway delivery market since Covid, there’s been an increasing need for delivery riders. In the UK, this market grew by a quarter in 2021, and it’s estimated an extra 10,000 delivery riders are needed to
keep pace with demand. For anyone with a moped or scooter, and their CBT completed, it can be a way to make your machine pay for itself. Some riders can earn up to £1000 per week, though £40 per daily shift is more common.
The big players in the home food delivery market are Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats. Each works in a similar way where you sign up and agree to their terms, download the work app to your phone, and start delivering food orders. Then the money starts rolling in!
The phone app will send through delivery orders, and you decide whether to take the job or not. If you do, the companies expect you to collect the food from the restaurant and deliver it promptly and safely. The more orders you deliver, the more you earn. To help with this, the app will always try to bundle together orders from the same restaurant that are being delivered to homes near each other. This saves you making multiple journeys back and forth to collect food and deliver it.
Making your scooter pay for itself is possible if you take on a delivery job. Here’s what you need to know.
Dom Junec is a 19-yearold student living in London. He’s been riding a scooter for two years and has worked as a food delivery rider since he turned 18. He says: “There are good and bad sides. The best bit is that I can fit delivering around my university work and social life. If I’m busy with one or the other, I don’t sign on to the app.
“Another upside is if I need a quick boost to my bank account, I can put in a long weekend of delivering and use the instant pay option to have the money straight away. This is really useful if my rent is due or a big bill crops up.
However, you should remember that there will be slow periods, with Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday reckoned to be the quietest days. Weekends are always busiest, especially around lunchtime and the evenings. Many riders choose to work only at busy times, though it also means there’s more competition for work.
You have to bear in mind that big cities are where most of the work for food delivery riders will be. If you live in a small rural town, it could be
difficult to earn enough to justify the effort. You should also think about how long it will take to deliver an order. A scooter is ideal for short and medium distance orders, but anything over five miles can make it uneconomic to accept the job through the app. Many delivery riders sign up to more than one company, maximising the number of orders they can choose to accept. However, you cannot deliver orders from different apps at the same time. Doing this can have you banned from the companies and leave you out of work.
“I love riding my scooter around London, so this is a great job. It takes me to loads of places I would never know about, though I sometimes have to keep an eye on the scooter when I’m delivering, especially at night.
“As a part-time job, delivering food by scooter is good for a student, but it would be hard to earn a proper living. Even working seven days a week, there are slow times, and you have to factor in scooter running costs.”
If you don’t want to use your own scooter or moped to deliver food, there is still the more traditional option of working for a single restaurant. Many large pizza chains, such as Dominos, employ moped riders to deliver food in an area surrounding each restaurant.
The main advantages of working for this sort of company is they provide the moped, insurance and fuel, and you get a guaranteed wage per shift. For some, the downside is you have less flexibility about when you work and for how long.
It’s easy to be lured in by offers of earning up to £1000 per week as a food delivery rider. However, most riders will earn around £40 for a five-hour shift on a weekend evening. The more you work, the more you earn, so it is your decision how many hours to put in. Most food delivery apps pay per delivery, so it can be hard to earn much in quiet periods. Deliveroo, for example, pays between £2.90 and £6 per delivery, and this is worked out on the distance you travel to deliver the food and if you can deliver multiple orders in a single journey. As we’ve mentioned, some riders sign up to several apps to keep themselves busy.
You must remember that you are self-employed, so you
will have to take care of paying any National Insurance. This is on top of paying for courier insurance for your moped or scooter, as well as maintenance and safety kit.
The good news is the delivery apps pay on a weekly basis, so you are not waiting for a long period for your money. You can also use an instant pay feature on most of the apps, where any money you have earned is paid immediately into your bank account. However, there is usually a fee for this and you can only do it a maximum of five times in a single week.
As a self-employed courier rider, you will have to inform your insurer that you are using your scooter or moped for delivery work. They may offer
an additional insurance for this, though it will be expensive. Or you can take out third-party cover with companies such as Zego, which works out at a around £5 per working day. However, not all insurance companies recognise Zego’s cover, which could leave you liable to paying the costs of another driver if you cause a crash.
To work as a delivery rider, you must be at least 18 years old and have a provisional licence and a CBT certificate, or a full UK licence. Companies will also ask to see valid insurance.
In return, the delivery companies provide liability insurance. They also provide a high-vis vest, an insulated backpack for the food, and a phone mount for your scooter’s handlebars.
Everyone remembers the day they could finally start riding on their own two wheels. Specialist motorcycle insurer Bikesure answers common questions new riders ask when taking out their first policy.
We find appropriate policies on your behalf. We have access to a wide variety of specialist moped and scooter insurance providers with extra special rates for new riders like you. And the cover can be tailored to your exact needs.
You can save money by following a few simple steps. The first, and most important tip, is to remember that our cheapest rates are only available over the phone on 0800 032 5350.
You can secure further discounts by joining an owners’ club, agreeing a limited mileage policy, having extra security measures fitted and garaging your bike when it’s not in use.
All Bikesure policies come with £100,000 legal expenses cover free of charge. You will also have access to a 24-hour claims hotline, a suitable replacement vehicle (where eligible) in the event of a non-fault claim, and access to a panel of legal experts to help you through any litigation. Other brokers and insurers charge up to £32 or more for similar cover.
Although they are too young to take out a loan agreement 16-year-olds do not need to pay the premium in full. We can arrange for the premium to be paid by way of a loan agreement by a parent or guardian.
There are lots of great value optional extras. These include: helmet and leathers cover from £29.99 a year, breakdown cover from £62 a year, excess protection from £34.99 a year, keycare for £19 a year and personal accident cover for £17 a year.
Bikesure can offer young rider cover tailored to your exact needs, call for a quote on 0800 032 5350
HONDA CBR400 NC25
Louis, 19, lives near Worcester and is a bank clerk. He has just got his Category A2 licence and is thrilled to be hitting the road on his £750 1995 Honda.
He’s an experienced rider, having acquired his licence via staged access, and he has a one year No Claims Discount.
Louis’ rate is just £447.85 for comprehensive protection, or £392.43 for third party only cover.*
*Quote taken from February 2022 for postcode WR9 8AE.
KAWASAKI EL250
Mo, 19, is an engineer and lives near Banbury in Oxfordshire. He has taken his Category A2 test. He has a 2005 Kawasaki, which he has just bought for £2,500 and will be using it as a general runaround. He doesn’t have any No Claims Bonus.
Mo’s rate is £861.18 for fully comprehensive or £501.26 third party fire and theft.
*Quote taken from February 2022 for postcode OX15 0YY.
If you’re riding a moped or motorbike, it needs to be insured. It’s not just the smart thing to do – it’s a legal requirement. Get caught without insurance and you could be landed with six penalty points and a fine. You could even end up in court. The good news is cover for a moped or small-capacity motorbike is usually cheaper than car insurance. According to Comparethemarket. com, the average price of motorbike insurance is £481 per year, compared with £629 for a car. It’s one of the many ways that choosing two wheels rather than four can save you money.
Third party. The most basic kind of cover, and the minimum legal requirement. Third party covers the cost of damage or injury to another person and their property. It
doesn’t cover any damage to your bike and won’t pay out if your bike is stolen. Third party, fire and theft. If your bike is nicked, or gets damaged by fire, this type of insurance should pay out. Otherwise it offers the same cover as a basic third-party policy. Fully comprehensive. Unless you are on the tightest of tight budgets, this is the type of insurance you want. Not only does it pay out if your bike is stolen or burnt in a fire, it also covers you and your bike if you have a crash or collision, even if it turns out to have been your fault.
If you are going to work on your bike, make sure the policy covers ‘social, domestic, pleasure and commuting’ rather than ‘social, domestic and pleasure’.
Never choose a bike insurance:beforecheckingthecostof itisabigchunkof whatyouspendtogetonthe insurersroad.Donot‘forget’totell aboutanychanges or modifications to the machine either.
It gets a bit more complicated if you are at college or uni. Does heading onto campus for a lecture count as commuting? Different insurers treat this differently, so your best bet is to give them a call.
Paying for insurance is one of the least fun things about riding a bike. But you’ll be glad you sorted cover if you need to make a claim
● Limit your annual mileage. If you’re not going to ride far each year, think about a limited mileage policy.
● Increase the voluntary excess. You should also consider increasing the voluntary excess (the amount you pay out yourself if you make a claim), but only if you can afford it.
● Add security kit. Fitting security devices to your bike, keeping it in a garage rather than on the road, and avoiding any
modifications will also help keep the cost down.
● Use specialist insurers. Comparison sites are timesavers, but for the best deal, we’d recommended going direct to specialists too. Try Bikesure (Bikesure.co.uk), Lexham Insurance (Lexhaminsurance. co.uk) and Motorcycle Direct (motorcycledirect. co.uk).
Nobody likes paying for insurance, so clearly when comparing quotes the lowest price is going to be appealing. But price isn’t everything.
When looking at different quotes, don’t just focus on the premium. Think about what you are getting for your money. Are legal services included in the price? Are there other extras, such as membership of motorcycle groups, that might be worth paying a little more for?And if you plan to carry a pillion passenger on the back (and have a licence that allows this), make sure pillion cover is included.
Most big insurers will have ratings from real customers on their websites. What do other riders make of them? How helpful are they when a rider needs to make a claim?
Safe riding, great kit and a well-maintained motorcycle are great ways to avoid collisions. However, mistakes do happen, so you need to know what to do when the worst occurs.
The most vital check is to make sure you’re not injured. Immediately after a collision, adrenaline can mask serious wounds, so take the time to assess how you feel. If there’s any pain, call an ambulance as it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Then check anyone else involved.
Even if you’re at fault, it’s best not to admit liability. Stay calm and gather the details. Use your phone to photograph any damage, the surrounding road and area, and video it too. It’s all very helpful when making an insurance claim and if the police become involved.
If you don’t swap details with the other party at the scene, you must give your details to the police within 24 hours. You should contact your insurer as quickly as possible too.
Afterwards, take the time to talk with family and friends. Being in a collision is stressful, so don’t let anxiety build up.
ARE YOU INJURED? IS ANYONE ELSE? IF SO, CALL AN AMBULANCE
SWITCH OFF ENGINE & TURN ON HAZARD LIGHTS
STAY CALM AND MOVE SOMEWHERE SAFE
DON’T ADMIT LIABILITY
RECORD ANY INJURIES
STORE ANY HELMET-CAM FOOTAGE
TAKE LOTS OF PHOTOS & VIDEO
IF AN ANIMAL IS INVOLVED, CALL THE POLICE
GET THE OTHER PARTY’S INSURANCE AND VEHICLE DETAILS
CONTACT YOUR INSURER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
If the worst happens, be prepared. Here’s our guide to making the right decisions after a collision
Would you know what to do if you came around a corner and found another biker lying in the road? That’s the question posed by Biker Down, a first aid course for motorcyclists. Actually, Biker Down covers more than first aid. Over three hours or so you learn how to keep yourself and others safe at the scene of a crash, as well as tips on being seen by other road users.
So, back to scene of the collision. There’s not just another biker, but a car as well, with an injured driver and passenger. Whose safety do you need to attend to first? Yours.
Jim Sanderson, the course’s founder and a crew manager with the Kent Fire and Rescue service, explains. “If a fire fighter attends a road traffic collision, their first job is to make sure the scene is safe for the crew to work. It’s the same for a biker. You might have to walk past people who are lying on the ground screaming to go up to the first
bend and stop the next car from coming around the corner.
“If you get caught up helping people and a car comes around the bend and hits everyone, you’ve failed.”
Likewise think carefully before using your own bike with hazard lights on as a warning to other road users. If it is too close to the scene it could be hit by another vehicle causing further injuries – or worse.
The first of Biker Down’s three modules tells you all about incident scene management. This includes deciding who needs your help first.
It’s probably not the person making the most noise. Check anyone who is quiet and not moving first for breathing and a pulse.
In Module 2, Biker Down moves on to casualty care. You’ll learn all sorts of techniques, including CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).
The best way to learn CPR is on a course where you can practise hands on. But here are the basics:
● Kneel next to the person and place the heel of your hand on the breastbone at the centre of their chest. Place the palm of your other hand on top of the hand on the chest. Interlock your fingers.
● Position your shoulders directly above your hands.
● Use your bodyweight (not just your arms) to press down straight by 5-6cm.
● Keeping your hands on their chest, allow the chest to return to its original position.
● Repeat these compressions 100 to 120 times a minute.
If you haven’t been on a first aid course recently, you may not be confident in the technique. But it’s better to try to save a life than to always wonder if you could have made a difference.
Wrong. If a biker’s airway is obstructed or they’re not breathing, you will need to remove their helmet to clear the airway or perform CPR with rescue breaths. Biker Down teaches how to do it.
There are first aid kits designed specifically for motorcycle use, such as those from Held and Qbag. They can be stowed under the seat, so they’re always there when you need them. They come with all the basics to deal with cuts
and burns. Look for a kit that meets the DIN 131672014 standard, which is specific to motorcycles. A good quality, compact first aid kit for your bike costs from less than £10, so there’s no excuse for not carrying one.
To find out more, email bikerdown@kent.fire-uk.org
“I should never take off another biker’s helmet after a crash.”
Check for damage when cleaning your bike, such as loose wires and bolts and cracked light lenses.
Check the pressures when the tyres are cold because the pressure will read higher when they’re hot. See that the tread depth of both tyres is greater than 1.0mm, as this is the minimum for motorcycle tyres in the UK. Clear out any small stones from within the tread and ensure there’s nothing penetrating the tyre.
It’s important to have enough fuel. Also, if you decide to lay your bike up for a long time, either brim your tank with fuel or drain it completely, or risk engine damage.
Check the lights before each ride, including indicators. Remember to check that both the rear brake pedal and front brake lever operate the brake lights and give the horn a quick toot.
Check the tension of the chain – it should have around an inch of slack. Clean and lubricate the chain regularly.
If the coolant level is low don’t use tap water! Always top-up with a mix of distilled water and anti-freeze (50% of each). Anti-freeze not only keeps the coolant from freezing in the winter, but also helps to stop your bike from overheating in the summer.
Check the oil level by using the dipstick or ‘spyglass’ in the side of the engine. Get the bike on its centre-stand or get someone to sit on the bike to keep it vertical. Never overfill your oil tank!
Wheel the bike along and feel for resistance or pulsing at the lever, indicating binding calipers or warped discs. Check the brakes bite when you squeeze the lever and that the pads have plenty of wear left. Make sure the level of the fluid in the brake reservoir is within the marked area.
Do these simple checks before each ride to keep your bike working safely and reliably
BIKE THEFT IS A BIG PROBLEM.
If you’ve ever known the gut-wrenching feeling of finding an empty space where your bike should be, you’ll know how awful it is. But what can you do about it?
Quite a lot, it turns out.
FirstBike has teamed up with the experts at BikeTrac to put together this guide on beating the bike thieves.
There’s no such thing as too much security. The better protected your bike, the less likely it is to become a statistic.
“A large, quality chain attached to a ground anchor gives good protection at home,” says BikeTrac’s Sales and Marketing Director, Bill Taylor. If the bike is also out of
sight in a securely locked garage, so much the better.
A bulky chain may not be easy to carry around with you, but you should still lock your bike whenever you leave it unattended away from home. Chain locks, disc locks, and even a cover to make your bike less conspicuous can all play a part. Look for security devices that have been approved by Sold Secure (soldsecure.com).
At home or away, a tracking device can mean the difference between never seeing your bike again or having it returned, sometimes within hours.
“The whole idea of tracking is that if your bike is stolen, you have a greater chance of getting it back,” says Bill.
Some bikers don’t want their bike returned after it’s been pinched. Even if you feel that way, keep in mind that your insurance premium could go through the roof if the bike is taken and never recovered. You’d be better off getting the bike back thanks to a tracking system so any claim isn’t a total loss.
BikeTrac has a range of hard security products as well as its tracking system. For portable security, the BikeTrac Grab Bag & Chain includes a disc lock, a bolt-cutter resistant chain and more.
Most tracking devices work along similar lines, but they’re not all the same. BikeTrac has some important advantages over the competition.
“All tracking products generally use GPS,” Bill explains, “so they will be able to give a location to within three to five metres. A motorbike is small enough to be easily hidden, so we use RF (Radio Frequency) as well as GPS. That allows us to locate the bike down to a metre. So, if it is out of sight, we can locate it precisely enough for the police to get a search warrant.”
The police sometimes get a hard time from bikers for not doing enough to recover stolen bikes, not always fairly. But BikeTrac customers have the reassurance of being able to call upon an independent security company.
“There are occasions when the police can’t attend, so we have a partnership with Securitas. They have 400 staff nationwide who can be at a location within an hour. The police don’t necessarily have the resources they once had, so we have gone to extra lengths to support them.”
With a 94% recovery rate, you can rely on BikeTrac.
Thatcham is the insurance industry’s research body, so they know a thing or two about bike security.
It’s easy to be confused by Thatcham security ratings. Category 1 must be better than Category 2, right? Wrong. The various categories are for different types of security product, so one isn’t better than the other – just different.
CAT 1: Alarm and immobiliser
CAT 2: Immobiliser only
CAT 2.1: A retrofit alarm upgrade meeting the requirements of Cat 1
CAT 3: No longer available
CAT 4: Locking wheelnuts
S5: Stolen vehicle recovery products with a ‘Driver ID’ fob
S7: Stolen vehicle recovery products
Kawasaki has partnered with authorised training service providers throughout the UK to offer professional rider training.
We partner with the best trainers in the area to ensure the highest standards of training and service. You can get free advice and guidance from the KRTS Contact Centre. You’ll train on well maintained, quality Kawasaki machines. Schools are equipped with clean and proper fitting protective clothing. All instructors are DVSA qualified, experienced and enthusiastic.
FIND OUT MORE AT: WWW.LEARNTORIDEWITHKAWASAKI.CO.UK