Due to your lack of protection, motorcycle and moped riders have a higher risk of death or injury than drivers of other vehicles but there are simple steps you can take to set yourself up for a safe ride.
Motorcycle rider risks
As a motorcyclist you’re at higher risk of crashing when:
you’re riding around a curve
you’re at an intersection when you or another vehicle is turning right.
The most common causes of crashes involving motorcycles include:
swinging wide on bends (leading to a head-on crash)
pulling out to pass too quickly or cutting in after passing
losing control of the motorcycle
collisions at intersections with turning, side-on, merging and in-front traffic
collisions with objects, such as parked cars.
Steps for safe riding
Ride your own ride. Don’t feel pressured to keep up with the group or ride beyond your ability – arriving in one piece is more important.
Check for any closures, delays or warnings on your route and plan your journey and rest stops to manage fatigue. NZTA journey planner(external link)
Improve your skills
Ride Forever offers on-road motorcycle coaching courses suitable for all levels of riders. Analysis has shown that Ride Forever trained riders crash less often than other motorcyclists.
