Riding Safety Tips

• Take a riding safety course.
  
• Be physically and mentally prepared to ride. Often overlooked, these are very important aspects of motorcycle safety. Operating a motorcycle safely is much more physically and mentally demanding than driving a car.
  
• Perform a quick, overall inspection of your motorcycle before each ride to ensure that it is mechanically sound.
  
• Adhere to all motor vehicle laws and regulations applicable for the jurisdiction or jurisdictions in which you are riding.
  
• A valid motorcycle license is required. Foreign travellers must have a valid international motorcycle license.
  
• Abide by posted speed limits. It is illegal to exceed the speed limit and if caught, you will be issued a ticket and fined.
  
• Weather on Vancouver Island can be unpredictable. Full riding gear and rain gear is recommended.
  
• A Dot approved helmet is mandatory. The helmet should fit snugly but not be too tight.
  
• Protective eyewear, jacket, long pants, boots and gloves are recommended. Proper riding gear is used to maintain comfort as well as provide crash protection.
  
• Ride within your own skill and comfort limits.
  
• Use hand signals in heavy traffic in addition to your turn signals to increase your chances of being seen.
  
• There is zero tolerance for alcohol or drug use while riding.
  
• Only carry a passenger if your motorcycle is designed for one, including seating space and passenger footpegs. Make sure that the weight of yourself, your passenger and all gear does not exceed the maximum recommended weight for your motorcycle according to manufacturer's specifications.
  
• When packing your motocycle, the bulk of the weight should be placed low and as close to the center of the motorcycle as possible. Distribute the weight evenly on both sides.