Ride safe in the colder months
The excitement of getting your first motorbike is unmatched. However, as winter sets in, new riders face unique challenges that require extra caution on the roads. Whether you are a beginner getting ready for your first couple of rides or a seasoned biker looking to brush up on your knowledge, our tips will help you stay safe and enjoying the roads this winter.
1. Invest in proper winter gear
Riding in the winter requires more than just a standard helmet and jacket. Making sure you are warm, dry, able to see, and are protected is essential in case you come off your bike. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that is great for the winter months includes:
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a thermal base layer
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waterproof gear
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reflective gear so you are visible to others on the road
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neck and face protection from wind
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gloves
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boots
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a helmet, making sure the visor isn't scratched, as this can affect visibility.
PPE is so important; it protects you when you are riding or if you come off your bike. You can read our advice about picking out a proper helmet and clothing on our young motorcyclists page (https://cms.dsfire.gov.uk/safety/on-the-road/young-motorcyclists).
2. Check your tires and brake lights regularly
Cold weather can reduce visibility, tyre grip and pressure, making conditions more dangerous.
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Regularly check your tyre pressure.
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Keep an eye out of any wear and tear.
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Consider winter specific tyres if you live in rural areas.
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Check that your brake lights are working, so you are visible to other road users.
3. Be prepared for unpredictable weather
We are used to experiencing unpredictable weather during the winter months. When on the road, leave more space between you and the vehicle ahead, giving you more time to react if anything suddenly changes.
Use your brakes gently, harsh breaking can lead to skidding on icy or wet surfaces.
Make sure you are visible to other road users. As the days become shorter, the visibility can be poor. Wear reflective clothing and ride with your lights on, ensuring you are visible to other road users.
4. Know what to do if an emergency does happen
We need specific information if you need to call 999, such as:
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where you are
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the type of incident
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how many causalities
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how bad are the injuries
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what's been involved
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what's happening at the scene.
5. Scene safety
Scene safety is important to protect any potential casualties at the scene, and ensure you aren't taking any personal risks.
We also provide crash cards, a small card that is kept inside your helmet, containing your details so paramedics can have quick access to your medical history, medication details and a next of kin to contact. There are more details about crash cards on our motorcycle safety page (https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/safety/on-the-road/motorcycle-safety).
If you come across a casualty, there are three main things to do:
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check if the casualty is bleeding, if so try and stop it
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protect the casualty, this could be keeping them warm or making sure they are in a safe place
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get help by calling 999.
Using ‘what3words’ (https://what3words.com/pretty.needed.chill) is also useful if you find yourself in an emergency. This is because control rooms can use it to identify your location, meaning that help will be on the way as soon as possible.
6. Consider attending a free Biker Down workshop
Biker Down training is designed to teach motorcyclists life-saving skills to keep you and other motorcyclists safe on the roads.
We run free Biker Down sessions for motorcyclists (and those who ride with them) in Devon and Somerset. Upcoming course dates will be listed on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/bikerdowndevonandsomerset/), so check there for the latest information.
Read more tips on the New Rider Hub website (https://newriderhub.net/) and our young motorcyclists page (https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/safety/on-the-road/young-motorcyclists).