Motorcycles are a safe means of transport, provided the rider has had proper training and is confident at the controls; if you're unlicensed and untrained, you're unsafe. 

Riding a motorcycle is of course much different to driving a car. Because motorcycles have only two wheels, there's an obvious difference in balance.

Braking technique is also different to a car. Motorcycles have two brake controls - one for the front brake and one for the rear. On a car, one pedal controls all four brakes. But from a learning perspective, the essential difference is that you can hop in a car and have a driving lesson on the road without ever having driven before; there is someone sitting in the front passenger seat to instruct you and offer assistance. On a motorcycle, you are more or less on your own.

That's where rider training comes in. By attending an approved training course, riders can learn to control a motorcycle and to ride safely while receiving instruction and advice from experienced riding instructors.

Rider training plays an important role in motorcycle safety. Many riders are unlicensed, unregistered, and don't always possess the skills required to do what they're supposed to be doing. Rider training is absolutely critical; the better the skills of the rider, the better their chance of survival.

It's just like driver training, but substantially more critical because more often in a motorcycle accident, you don't get a second chance. The injuries from a motorcycle accident are traditionally worse.

There are now more opportunities than ever for riders to gain experience before getting a licence to ride on the road, with a number of training courses available. Courses such as Honda Australia Rider Training (HART) cater for students wanting a learner permit or licence, as well as people who want to advance their riding skills, or who wish to do a refresher course.

The issuing of motorcycle permits and licences is no longer in the hands of VicRoads offices, so if you want to obtain a learner permit or licence, you will need to contact a VicRoads Accredited Training Agent if you live in the metropolitan area.

There are VicRoads Accredited Training agents in a few country areas only. If you don't live nearby one, you can be tested for a learner's permit or licence through the nearest VicRoads office. Once you've got your licence, see a VACC Accredited Motorcycle Dealer for the best advice on bikes, helmets and clothing.

If you ride a motorcycle remember that a responsible attitude, correct training, regular bike maintenance, helmets and protective clothing aid a rider in all aspects of safety.

Motorcycling tips and reminders:

• Some people simply cannot handle some of the larger heavyweight motorcycles or race replicas. People should buy motorcycles appropriate to their riding skills and physical attributes.
• First time riders are restricted to an upper limit of 260cc for the first year of their license.
• Recreational motorcycling requires (discounted) recreational registration, but this limits motorcyclists to off-road approved roads.
• Safety clothing should be worn at all times.
• Regular maintenance is a must.
• Join a motorcycling club for added enjoyment.

For more information on trainers and other resources, go to VicRoads web site at www.vicroads.vic.gov.au or the Motorcycle Riders Association of Australia (MRAA) at www.mraa.org.au

Issued by VACC, the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce. www.vacc.com.au