Motorcycle safety
Motorcycles represent fewer than 1 in 50 of all licensed vehicles in Ireland, but motorcyclists account for 1 in 8 road deaths. One of the main reasons is that, in a crash, motorcycle and moped users have less protection than drivers or passengers in vehicles.
But training and education are also an issue. Trained motorcyclists around the world prove every day that biking can be a fun, safe and satisfying activity. However, if you don’t have appropriate skills, the right attitude to safety and the benefit of education and training it’s a much riskier pursuit.
Safety gear
Wear appropriate clothing and a secure helmet every time you get on your bike.
- Jackets and trousers should give you enough protection from impact, abrasion, cold and weather conditions.
- Use body armour on vulnerable areas such as the back, knees, elbows, shoulders, hips and shins. This should be adjustable so it fits snugly and does not move in a crash.
- You should wear a good reflective jacket to make you more visible on the road.
- Wear protective gloves, and footwear that at least comes above the ankle.
Age requirements
Remember: you have to be 16 before you can ride a small motorbike (A1 vehicle category) and 18 before you can ride a larger one (A category).
‘A1’ is defined as a motorbike with an engine capacity of 125cc or less, and a power rating of 11kW or less.
‘A’ is defined as a motorbike with or without a side-car.
You can’t drive a motorbike that has a power output greater than 25kW or a power/weight ratio of 0.16kW per kg until you hold a full driving licence in category A for two years.