August 30, 2018
Passing the motorcycle license is only the first step. Before taking the plunge and driving a motorcycle, certain precautions must be taken. Large cube motorcycles are generally a source of pleasure for enthusiasts. Young drivers, as well as those not so young, will keep in mind that the road is shared with other users.
The checklist before you start
One detail that is not always specified: remember to remove the disc unit or the lock from your two-wheeler and remove the side stand before setting off: you risk stalling or falling. As learned in motorcycle school, bikers will have to invest in motorcycle helmets, approved gloves, but also the recommended accessories: high shoes, jacket … Of course: take a good look around you before setting off.
Glue the badge A
The temporary license is now compulsory for all new holders of a driving license, whether it is a car license (license B) or a motorcycle license (license A1 & A2). Stick the "A" badge on your motorcycle after obtaining the A2 license. Forgetting will result in a 2nd class fine and a fixed fine of 35 euros.
If you hold the license B for at least three years and that you have just obtained the A2 license, you will not be subject to the rules of the probationary license and therefore will not be obliged to stick an "A" badge on the back of your two-wheeler.
The category A1 license is obtained after two years of the A2 license and seven hours of training. In the meantime, you will be riding a two-wheeler that does not exceed a certain power-to-weight ratio (0.2 kw per kilogram): the maximum power is limited to 35 kilowatts (47.5 horsepower).
In the event of a driver’s license due to offense (s), you will have to go through a probationary period of the license again, regardless of your age and experience.
Whatever your bike, an imposing Harley Davidson, a gleaming Suzuki or a discreet Piaggio okus 125cc scooter, you will have to opt for a motorcycle insurance (all risks or liability insurance): make your choice on an online motorcycle insurance comparator. Keep your papers in a safe place so that they can be presented in case of an inspection.
Learn to read the road conditions
Practical training and learning the Highway Code during theoretical training are not everything: there are reflexes to be acquired that only experience confers.
At the start, drive slowly to understand the road as well as possible, not always in good condition, and its dangers: be careful not to slip on the white stripes, manhole covers, oil stains, gravel and sand, potholes…
Stay in control of your speed, especially on wet roads.
Always check priorities
Priority is never granted on two wheels. Look around and make sure that drivers have seen you, especially at intersections and roundabouts.
Be careful what you carry in your backpack
In the event of a fall, an overfilled backpack can cause serious damage to the spine: wearing a back protector is strongly recommended. Whenever possible, use the boot of the scooter or the luggage space of the motorcycle.
Don’t overestimate yourself
If you just got the license and bought a motorcycle, take the time to break in. Don’t try to emulate other drivers if you don’t feel like it. Watch out for speeding !
Even if your bike has a good displacement, keep in mind that the public road is not a circuit !
Excessive speed exceeding 50 km / h may result in withdrawal of 6 points on the driving license as well as confiscation of the vehicle. These basic rules, such as the dangers of blood alcohol or fatigue, are crucial.
Pay attention to your mount
New motorcycles or old motorcycles, every racing car must be serviced. Remember to regularly check the condition of your motorcycle tires, the pressure, as well as the safety elements: brakes, hoses, etc. When starting, allow time for the tires to heat up properly !
Brake with the right dosage
If you have held a motorcycle license for less than a year, or if you ride little, you may display a stressed behavior on the road: avoid sudden movements, hits with the handlebars and dry braking, even if the motorcycle is fitted with ABS, compulsory since 2016. Keep your safety distances, and remember to downshift before stopping by measuring front and rear braking.
Only overtake if you have visibility
A lot of bodily and physical damage is caused by blind overtaking! Do not double on a solid white line. These passes are even more dangerous near a truck or bus because of the risk of drafts, this phenomenon that literally sucks the biker.
In town, watch out for car doors
On a motorcycle or on a bicycle, observe the environment! Watch parked cars in case someone walks out without looking.
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