With the May Day Bank Holiday upon us, we would like share a few tips to help you get ready for a safe season of riding.
It is still a sad reality that 30 motorcyclists are killed or injured every day at junctions. The best ride is a controlled ride, where you enjoy a smooth and safe journey. Follow these simple steps to make sure that you and your bike are always ready for the unexpected.
Does your bike need a service?
If your bike has been stored away for months or has not had a service recently, now is a good time to get it done. This is not just to protect your bike, but also for safety reasons to prevent you from breaking down.
Check your tyres and tyre pressures
Have a good look for any signs of damage or wear and tear that may cause problems. If your bike has been stored away for a while your tyre pressures may have dropped, so take some time to ensure they are inflated correctly.
Recharge you battery
If your battery has not been on a maintenance charge over the winter months it may need replacing, or at least recharging.
Check your brake pads and chain
Worn chains and brake pads can be easily checked prior to use. Checking you chain and brake pads is easy, just refer to your machine’s manual for guidance.
Clean and lube
Give you bike a really good clean, paying special attention to your lights and mirrors. At the same time, make sure that your chain and cables are lubricated.
Check your gear
Make sure your helmet, leathers and gloves are fit for the job, looking out for any signs of damage or general wear and tear that may cause your protective clothing to fail. Remember to pay special attention to your zips and seams too.
Is your insurance still valid?
Check that your insurance and MOT are valid and that you have notified your insurance company of any relevant modifications.
BikeSafe
BikeSafe is a nationally run scheme for bikers run by the police. The idea is to help bikers explore their current ability level and discover ways to improve their skills, be safer and get more out of biking.
Workshops are run in a fun, relaxed and interesting style. There is no pressure or expectations and all riders with a full/restricted power bike licence are greeted with a warm welcome.
Whether you are new to biking or have been riding for years, BikeSafe can help riders to find ways of getting more from their riding. BikeSafe work with the IAM, ROSPA and the Enhanced Rider Scheme and hope to inspire all riders to take up training to be better bikers.
As an active member of Safer Roads Humber, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service support the Humberside BikeSafe initiative. There are still a few places available on the one-day workshop on Saturday 6 August and the two–day workshop on 3-4 September.
For further details on BikeSafe and to book online to attend a workshop, please click here.
Best wishes for a safe and happy riding season from Humberside Fire and Rescue Service.