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Ride safety for UK motorcyclists

Riding is more fun when you get home. This page covers what the Highway Code says to motorcyclists and the habits that matter most on a day out to a biker café.

Last updated 2 November 2026

What the Highway Code says

Rules 83 to 88 of the Highway Code are for motorcyclists. GOV.UK summarises them as follows.

• Rule 83, helmets. Riders and pillion passengers must wear a securely fastened protective helmet on every journey, with an exception for a Sikh wearing a turban. Helmets must meet the Regulations. Before each journey check that your helmet visor is clean and in good condition.
• Rule 84, protective gear. Eye protectors are advised and must meet the Regulations. Ear protection, strong boots, gloves and suitable clothing may help protect you in a collision.
• Rule 85, passengers. You may carry only one pillion passenger, who must sit astride a proper seat facing forward with both feet on the footrests. The motorcycle must be designed to carry a passenger. Provisional licence holders must not carry passengers.
• Rule 86, daylight. Make yourself easy to see from front, back and sides, for example with a light or bright helmet, fluorescent clothing and dipped headlights.
• Rule 87, darkness. Wear reflective clothing or strips so you can be seen from further away.
• Rule 88, manoeuvring and filtering. Check behind and to the sides before manoeuvring. In queues watch for pedestrians crossing between vehicles. When filtering in slow traffic, go carefully and keep your speed low.

Kit: dress for the slide, not the ride

The Highway Code says protective gear "may" help. Many riders choose a full set: a helmet that fits and meets the standard, an abrasion-resistant jacket and trousers, boots, gloves and, in some cases, back protection. Cheap clothing offers little protection if you fall. Replace a helmet after a significant impact or drop, as hidden damage is possible.

Speed and the road

• Speed limits are limits, not targets. The Cat and Fiddle's record, covered on our great biker roads page, shows how often speed and cornering feature in crashes.
• Leave space in front, particularly on wet roads and in cold weather when tyres have less grip.
• Watch for gravel, mud and diesel on country lanes, especially after farm traffic.

Be seen

Drivers often fail to see motorcycles, especially at junctions, as Rule 86 warns. Use dipped headlights, wear bright colours, and position yourself so you can be seen in mirrors. Never assume you have been spotted.

Before every ride

1. Tyres: pressure, tread and damage.
2. Brakes, chain, lights and indicators.
3. Fuel and weather.
4. Your own condition: tired, ill or after alcohol means do not ride.
5. Route and stops. Check opening times before you ride if you are planning a café stop.

Fatigue, weather and alcohol

Fatigue slows reactions without you noticing. On a long day, plan a break roughly every hour or two, and eat and drink properly. Cold also reduces concentration and grip strength, so layer up. Alcohol and riding do not mix at all; if the café day ends at a pub, either leave the bike at home or stick to soft drinks.

Advanced training

BikeSafe is a police-led initiative offering courses, and BikeSafe promoted them at its March 2026 event at Matlock Bath. Check the BikeSafe website for current details.

Riding with others

Group riding has its own risks and habits; see group-ride etiquette.

This is general information, not a substitute for training or legal advice. Read the full Highway Code on GOV.UK.

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