motorcycle-riders-handbook

Transport for NSW
Motorcycle Rider
Handbook
nsw.gov.au
Introduction
The handbook covers the main road rules you must know to ride legally and
safely on NSW roads. It’s essential reading for anyone applying for a rider
licence or learning to ride. This handbook and the Road User Handbook will
prepare you for the Rider Knowledge Test.
It is written in plain, easy to understand language, so it is not a detailed
version of road law. To access the current and complete set of Road Rules,
visit legislation.nsw.gov.au
In this handbook, the words ‘must’ or ‘must not’ are used for rules you need
to follow. The words ‘should’ or ‘should not’ are used when explaining safe
and low-risk riding.
Tips for safe riding

Riders do not have the same protection as car drivers, so motorcycle riding
can be hazardous. Safe and low-risk riding skills can increase your survival
in a crash.
Visit ridetolive.nsw.gov.au for motorcycle rider safety tips and test your
skills on a virtual ride.
Motorcycle Rider Handbook 1

Contents
Contents
Introduction1
Licensing4
Getting your rider licence 5
Rider licence restrictions 14
Riding with the correct licence 18
Rider management 19
Concentration 19
Fatigue 20
Alcohol and drugs 21
Protective clothing 23
Safe riding 28
Observation 28
Speed management 30
Road positioning 34
Making decisions 52
Hazard perception 53
Basic riding techniques 55
2 Motorcycle Rider Handbook

Contents
Road rules for motorcycle riders 61

Motorcycle specific road rules and signs 61
Carrying passengers and loads 65
Parking 67
Restrictions on where to ride 68
Motorcycle safety and compliance 70

Number plates 71
Roadworthy motorcycles 72
Penalties 74
Demerit points 74
Speeding 75
Loss of licence 76
Negligent or dangerous riding 76
Hooning and drag racing 77
Fines 77
Glossary 78
Index 79

Licensing
Licensing
In NSW getting your rider licence is a journey. You start as a learner and
gradually progress to a full licence over 2 or 4 years. This builds your
experience, so you become a safe and skilled rider.
The purpose of this book, rider training courses and licence tests is to give
you the skills you need to ride safely.
Rider licence obligations

A rider licence gives you freedom but also brings responsibility. It is
a commitment between you and the NSW community to keep the roads
safe for everyone.
When you get your licence, do not abuse or misuse it. If you do, you risk heavy
penalties and may lose your licence. If you have another class of licence you
could also lose this too.
Bribery is against the law

It is illegal to offer, request or accept gifts, rewards, money or other favours to
get a licence without passing the required tests.
Penalties are severe and include fines and imprisonment. All cases of
corruption will be reported and investigated, and strong action will be taken
against all those involved.
Reporting bribery
If you know or believe that someone has got or is about to get a NSW licence
by offering or responding to a request for a bribe – or if you suspect or know
of any other corruption involving a NSW Government employee call:
• Transport for NSW on 1800 302 750 (free call)
• The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) on (02) 8281 5999.
This includes Transport for NSW accredited Registered Training Organisations
(RTO) and their assessors.

Licensing
Getting your rider licence

To get a full (unrestricted) rider (R) licence, you need to go through three
licence stages:
• Learner rider licence
• Provisional P1 rider licence (red Ps)
• Provisional P2 rider licence (green Ps) unless exempt.
Along the way you need to pass:

• Pre-learner rider training
• Rider Knowledge Test
• Pre-provisional rider training and a Motorcycle Operator Skill Test (MOST).
There are fees for rider training courses, tests and your rider licence.
You do not need a car driver licence to get a rider licence.
These licensing stages are called the Motorcycle Graduated Licensing
Scheme (MGLS) and aim to help you become a safe and low-risk rider.
Before you start, you must:
• be aged 16 years and 6 months or older
• live in NSW and be able to prove who you are
• be medically fit to ride and pass an eyesight test.
The MGLS gives you at least 3 years of riding experience before getting a full
rider licence.
Riders aged 25 and older with a full car licence are exempt from the
P2 licence stage.
Rider training and testing

If you live in an area where motorcycle rider training and testing is provided,
you must complete it to get your rider licence.
To find a rider training centre near you visit nsw.gov.au
If you live in an area without a rider training centre, you’ll need to book and
pay for rider licence tests at service.nsw.gov.au

Licensing
Steps to getting your rider licence
1. Pre-learner course*
Pre-learner
• Two-wheel training
motorcycle course
7 hours
• 2 sessions sessions
over 2 of three and a half hours over 2 days
• Three-wheel trike course
• 1 day over 6 hours
Rider Knowledge Test
• Valid for 3 months
• Minimum age for this stage is 16 years and 6 months
Learner
2. Riderrider licence Test
Knowledge
Minimum 3 months
RKT • Minimum age for this stage is 16 years and 9 months
Valid for 12 months
90 3. Learner ridertraining
Pre-provisional licence
• Minimum
6-hour 3 months
course
4. Pre-provisional course*
Motorcycle riding
Pre-learner trainingtest
• 6-hours over 1 day and includes a Motorcycle Operator Skill
7 hours over 2 sessions
Test (MOST)
Provisional (P1) rider licence
Minimum
Rider 12 months
Knowledge
5. Provisional P1 Test
rider licence
Valid for 18 months
• Minimum 12 months
Learner rider licence
Minimum 24 months
6. Provisional
Minimum P2 rider licence unless exempt**
3 months
Valid for 30 months
Valid for 12 months
• Minimum 24 months
Full licence
Pre-provisional training
Issue for 1, 3, 5 or 10 years*
7. Full Licence
FULL 6-hour course
LICENCE • Issued for 12 months, 36 months, 5 or 10 years***
* 10 years applies to full Class C and R licence holders aged 21 to 44 years.
* Where the pre-learner,Motorcycle riding

pre-provisional test
and MOST are provided you must pass them.
** Riders aged 25 and older with a full car licence are exempt from the P2 stage.
*** 10 years applies to full Class C and R licence holders aged 21 to 44 years.
Minimum 12 months
Valid for 18 months
Licensing
Step 1: Pre-learner course

The first step to getting a rider licence is to do a pre-learner course. This is
offered by rider training centres as:
• Two-wheel motorcycle rider training is where your motorcycle, helmet,
gloves, and tuition are provided by the rider training centre.
If you want to learn to ride an automatic motorscooter, you need to
organise it with the rider training centre when you book.
• Three-wheel motor tricycle (trike) training is where you need to supply
a learner approved trike but your helmet, gloves, and tuition are provided
by the rider training centre.
When choosing to do three-wheel trike training you must:

• bring a registered trike
• ensure the trike is trailered or transported to the rider training centre by
a licensed rider
• provide the trike registration and Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Insurance
details to the training provider.
You do not need to have motorcycle or trike riding experience to do the

pre-learner course.
The pre-learner courses are designed to help gain basic safe riding skills
before riding on the road.
To learn to ride a motorcycle you need good balance, coordination, and
concentration. Some people may need extra training to develop these skills.
If you live in an area without rider training you only need to pass the Rider
Knowledge Test.
Booking the pre-learner course

Book and pay for your pre-learner rider training course with an accredited
rider training provider.
Find the list of accredited providers:
• online at nsw.gov.au
• by calling 13 22 13
• from a service centre.

Licensing
If you pass pre-learner course

A motorcycle riding certificate of competence (green in colour) is issued.
This certificate is valid for 3 months but is not a licence to ride. If you have
a condition added to the certificate, this will restrict what motorcycles you
can ride when you get a learner rider licence.
Your next step is to prepare for the Rider Knowledge Test to get your learner
rider licence. Make sure you bring your certificate of competency with you to
the test.
You must pass the Rider Knowledge Test before your certificate expires or
you may need to do the pre-learner course again.
If your pre-learner course is stopped

The instructor may stop you from continuing to ride on the course for your
safety and others. If this happens, the instructor will advise what the next
steps are for you to continue the course.
Safety first
Pre-learner course clothing
What to wear on the day of your course:
• sturdy long sleeve jacket
• sturdy long trousers
• sturdy enclosed footwear (preferably with ankle protection and
a low heel)
• wet weather gear (training goes ahead in wet weather).
You must wear this clothing to protect yourself from injury. If you do
not have the correct clothing the rider training provider can remove you
from the course. Then, you will need to rebook and pay again before
attending the course.

Licensing
Step 2: Rider Knowledge Test

The second step is to pass a Rider Knowledge Test. You need to pass it to
get your learner rider licence.
The Rider Knowledge Test is a computer-based test about road rules and
road safety. You need to answer 45 questions selected at random from
300 questions. To pass, you must correctly answer:
• 12 out of 15 general knowledge questions
• 29 out of 30 road safety questions (including traffic signs).
You will be issued a learner rider licence for 12 months after passing the
Rider Knowledge Test.
Preparing for the Rider Knowledge Test

Read this handbook and the Road User Handbook for safety and rules
about motorcycle riding. Study them to give yourself the best chance to
pass the test.
You can also:
• take the online NSW Practice Test at nsw.gov.au
• download the NSW Practice Tests app from the App Store or Google Play
• read the Rider Knowledge Test questions at nsw.gov.au
You must pass the Rider Knowledge Test honestly. If you cheat, you cannot
re-sit the test for 6 weeks and must pay the fee again.
Booking the Rider Knowledge Test

Book and pay for your test at service.nsw.gov.au
When you book, you can choose which service centre you want to take the
test at.

Licensing
The day of your test

You must bring your pre-learner certificate of competence to your booked
Rider Knowledge Test.
You will also need to:
• bring your proof of identity documents
• a completed licence application form
• pass an eyesight test
• pay the licence fee (unless exempt).
If you pass the Rider Knowledge Test

You get a temporary learner rider licence on the day you take the test.
Your learner licence card is posted to you. You can also apply for a digital
rider licence at service.nsw.gov.au
A digital licence is optional and does not replace the plastic licence card.
If you fail the Rider Knowledge Test

Depending on availability, you can re-sit the test on the same day, or book to
do it another time. You must pay for the test each time you re-sit it.
A digital licence is optional and does not replace the plastic licence card.
Safety first
Beginners
When learning to ride a motorcycle start riding in daylight only.
Choose quiet streets you know well with speed limits of 50km/h or
less and low traffic flow. As you gain confidence and experience you
can try more complex traffic situations. Do not put yourself at risk by
progressing too soon.
Only ride at night when you gain experience.

Licensing
Step 3: Learner rider licence

Once you’ve passed the Rider Knowledge Test and have your learner rider
licence you can start practising riding.
Your learner rider licence is valid for 12 months, allowing you to practise
riding. If your licence expires, you can renew it for another 12 months by
following steps 1 and 2 again. You must also pay the course, test, and licence
fees again.
Learner rider licence restrictions

There are licence restrictions you need to follow. As a learner, you must
follow the rider conditions for your licence. Examples include always
carrying your licence with you on a ride, zero alcohol and displaying your
L plates. These restrictions are there to keep you safe as you develop your
riding skills.
Penalties
Learner and provisional P1 riders will be suspended for any
speeding offence.
Penalties for speeding include:
• fines
• demerit points (including double demerit points)
• loss of licence
• taking away your vehicle or number plate.
The penalty increases the more you’re over the speed limit, and if you
speed in a school zone.

Licensing
Step 4: Pre-provisional training

To apply for a P1 rider licence in an area with a rider training centre, you must
pass the pre-provisional rider training course.
The pre-provisional training course is 7 hours over 1 day and includes the
Motorcycle Operator Skill Test (MOST).
If you live in an area without rider training you need to pass a Rider Skill Test
with a Service NSW testing officer. Book and pay for the Rider Skill Test at
service.nsw.gov.au
Make sure you book at least 6 weeks before your learner licence expires.
Booking the pre-provisional course

Book and pay for your pre-provisional rider training course with an accredited
rider training provider.
Find the list of accredited providers:
• online at nsw.gov.au
• by calling 13 22 13
• from a service centre.
If you pass the pre-provisional course

A motorcycle riding certificate of competence (red in colour) is issued.
The certificate is valid for 3 months but is not a licence to ride. If you have
a condition added to the certificate, this will restrict what motorcycles you
can ride when you get a provisional P1 rider licence.
To apply for a provisional P1 rider licence go to a service centre with your:
• certificate of competency
• learner rider licence
• completed licence application form
• licence fee (unless exempt).

Licensing
Step 5: Provisional P1 rider licence

To get a provisional P1 rider licence you must:
• be at least 17 years of age
• have held your learner licence for at least 3 months
• pass pre-provisional rider training and MOST (areas with a rider training
centre), or
• pass the Rider Skill Test (areas without a rider training centre).
A certificate of competency is issued when you pass the pre-provisional

training and skill test. The certificate expires after 3 months. You must get
your P1 rider licence before your certificate expires. If you do not, you will
have to complete the training and testing again.
If you pass the training but fail the skill test, you must redo the skill test and
pass it to get a certificate of competency. If you do not pass the test within
3 months, you need to do the pre-provisional training again.
Step 6: Provisional P2 rider licence

To get a provisional P2 rider licence in any area, you must have held a P1 rider
for a minimum of 12 months (not including any periods of licence suspension
or cancellation).
You can apply for a P2 rider licence at service.nsw.gov.au
Your provisional P2 rider is valid for 30 months and you may progress to a full
rider licence after a minimum of 24 months.
Step 7: Full licence

To get a full rider licence, you must have held a P2 rider for a minimum of
24 months (not including any periods of licence suspension or cancellation).
You can apply for a full rider licence at service.nsw.gov.au

Licensing
Riders aged 25 and older

Riders aged 25 and older with a full car licence may be exempt from holding
a P2 licence.
To be exempt from holding a P2 rider licence you must:
• be aged 25 or older at the time of applying for a full licence
• hold a current Australian unrestricted driver licence
• have completed a minimum of 12 months on a rider P1 licence
• meet all other licensing requirements.
Rider licence restrictions

There are restrictions you must follow when you ride with a:
• Learner licence
• Provisional P1 licence (red Ps)
• Provisional P2 licence (green Ps).
These restrictions are in place to help keep you safe as you develop your
riding skills. They also apply when you ride in another state or territory.
If you do not follow these restrictions, you’ll get a fine. You can also get
demerit points or even lose your licence.
Restriction Applies to
Alcohol limit
90
Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) must be zero.

This means you must not have any alcohol in your system
when you ride.
Location restrictions
90
You must not ride in Parramatta Park, Centennial Park

or Moore Park when in Sydney.

Licensing
Displaying L or P plates
90
You must clearly display a plate on the back of the

motorcycle you are riding.
Learners must display an L plate.

P1 riders must display a red P plate.
P2 riders must display a green P plate.
The whole letter (L or P) must be visible.
Secure your plate with a clip or holder so they do not

fall off. This ensures they do not become litter and stay
visible at all times.
Helmet
90
You must wear a securely fitted and fastened motorcycle

helmet that complies with:
• Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1698

• an earlier version of the above standard or Australian
Standard 1698-1988 in force at the time of manufacture
or importation
• United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
Regulation No 22 (UNECE22.05 or UNECE22.06).
The helmet must also have a mark certifying compliance
with one of these standards.
Lane filtering
90
You must not lane filter.
Maximum speed limit

90
You can ride to a maximum of 90km/h.

You must observe all speed limits below 90km/h.
You can ride to a maximum of 100km/h.

You must observe all speed limits below 100km/h.

Licensing
Manual or automatic motorcycles

90
You must ride an automatic motorcycle if you:

• completed a pre-learner course on an automatic
motorcycle or tricycle (condition A036)
• completed a pre-provisional course and Motorcycle
Operator Skill Test (MOST) on an automatic motorcycle
or tricycle (condition A035).
If you have a learner rider licence (condition A036) and

want to ride a manual motorcycle you must complete the
pre-learner course on a manual motorcycle.
If you have a provisional P1 licence (condition A035) and
want to ride a manual motorcycle, you must complete your
pre-provisional course and MOST on a manual motorcycle.
You must ride an automatic motorcycle with an engine

capacity of not more than 160ml if you:
• did not complete the pre-provisional course but passed the
MOST (condition A037).
This also applies to a rider with a full licence.

To remove condition A037 you must pass a pre-provisional
course and MOST on a manual motorcycle.
If you passed the pre-learner or Motorcycle Operator Skill

90
Test (MOST) on a manual motorcycle or trike you can ride

either a manual or an automatic motorcycle.
Towing a trailer
90
You must not tow a trailer or any other vehicle.
Full licence towing rules apply.

A green P plate must be on the back of the trailer.

Licensing
Mobile phone use

90
You must not use a mobile phone while riding, even when
you’re stationary, for example, stopped at lights or stuck in
traffic. This includes:
• texting
• phone calls
• music
• emailing
• social media
• using the internet
• maps
• photography.
The only time you can use your phone is to:

• show your digital rider licence when instructed by police
• use wallet functions to make a transaction or show a
voucher, but only in areas such as a car park, driveway or
drive-through and if the vehicle is stationary.
Motorcycles
90
You must only ride a Learner Approved Motorcycle (LAM)

for Novice Riders. The motorcycle must be on the LAM list
and have:
• an engine capacity of not more than 660ml
• a power to weight ratio not more than 150kw per tonne
• a power up to 25kw or less for electric motorcycles.
Visit nsw.gov.au for the Approved Motorcycles for Novice

Riders list. If a motorcycle is not on the list you must not
ride it.
Pillion passenger restrictions

90
You must not carry any pillion passengers.
You may carry a pillion passenger.

Licensing
Riding with the correct licence

You must always carry your licence and have the correct licence when you ride.
Police can ask to see your licence anytime. If you’re using a digital rider licence
make sure your phone is charged and the screen is not cracked.
You can get a fine for riding without your licence with you or refusing to show it
when asked.
Your licence must be:
• current (not expired, suspended or disqualified)
• the correct licence class and conditions for the motorcycle you are riding
• a NSW licence, unless you’re complying with the current requirements and
conditions for interstate and overseas rider licence.
If your licence is not in English you must also carry an International Driving
Permit or an English translation of your overseas licence.
You must not ride if your licence is disqualified by a court in NSW, another State
or Territory or overseas. If rider privileges for an overseas or interstate rider are
suspended in NSW, you must not ride.
Penalties for riding without the correct, current licence include large fines and
prison and an increase for repeat offences within 5 years.
Penalties
You must not let anyone without a correct licence ride your motorcycle.
Fines and demerit points also apply to the owner of a motorcycle that
has a rider without a licence.

Licensing
Rider management
Riding a motorcycle can be great fun and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
When you ride a motorcycle you are responsible for your safety and
wellbeing along with all other road users.
Compared to driving other road vehicles, riding a motorcycle can place you
at a higher risk. If you are involved in a crash the chances of being injured are
high and even higher if you are not wearing protective gear.
Concentration
Riding on the road requires your full concentration. Your survival depends
on it.
Many factors will affect your ability to concentrate such as:
• fatigue
• alcohol
• drugs.
Riding requires your full concentration. Taking your eyes off the road for
2 seconds means that at 60km/h you will travel 34m, and at 100km/h you
will travel 54m. If you are not concentrating you may miss seeing other road
users or hazards and this can cause you to crash.

Rider management
Fatigue
Many people think ‘fatigue’ involves going to sleep, but for motorcyclists the
real problem is a lapse in concentration.
Rider fatigue indicators include:
• running a bit wide on a corner
• a couple of rough gear changes
• not seeing a sign
• day dreaming
• dry mouth
• stiff joints (neck, knees and wrists).
If you have any signs of fatigue stop immediately and rest.
Managing fatigue
Riding a motorcycle is much more tiring than driving a car. Even if you are not
tired, stop about every 1 hour and 30 minutes or after travelling about 150kms.
Here are some tips to help riders manage fatigue:
• Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
• Avoid too much coffee or sweet soft drinks.
• Stay away from alcohol at all costs.
• Eat small amounts frequently, simple foods like fruit, nuts, a muesli bar
or a little chocolate.
• Avoid fatty foods and large meals before or during a ride.
• Layer your clothing and use venting, being too warm will affect
concentration.
To help you manage fatigue have the right protective clothing for hot
and wet weather riding. Visit motocap.com.au for protective clothing
breathability (hot) and water resistance (wet) ratings.

Rider management
Alcohol and drugs

You must not ride while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including
illegal drugs, prescription medicines and over-the-counter medicines.
If you think you might be under the influence of alcohol a drug or medicine,
do not ride.
Alcohol
Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) must be under the legal limit when
riding. Your size and weight, how tired you are, and variation in alcohol
servings can all affect your BAC.
The only way to be sure you are under the limit is to not drink alcohol at all.
Alcohol influences you at much lower levels than the legal blood alcohol limit.
For the years 2021 to 2023, 16 per cent of motorcycle riders killed in a crash
on NSW roads had an illegal level of alcohol in their blood.
Zero alcohol is the safest level.
Penalties
The drink-riding penalties are increased according to the level of
alcohol detected in the blood.
Penalties are severe and may include:
• large fines that increase if a second offence is committed
• immediate licence suspension
• prison terms that increase when a second offence is committed
• a period of disqualification from riding.

Rider management
Drugs
Drugs can affect your ability to ride a motorcycle safely and well. These
include prescription and over the counter drugs as well as illegal drugs.
These drugs and illegal drugs can change your behaviour, causing you to
take risks you usually would not consider.
If you have used illegal drugs you must not ride or attempt to ride. Make sure
you know the effects of any drug before you attempt to ride. Check with your
doctor or pharmacist and read the label to make sure the medication will not
affect your riding. If any drug affects your riding, you must not ride.
Presence of illegal drugs

You must not ride with the presence of illegal drugs in your system.
Drugs can remain in your system for a long time after you’ve taken them.
Police can test any rider for four common illegal drugs through Mobile
Drug Testing (MDT):
• ecstasy
• cannabis
• cocaine
• methamphetamine (including speed and ice).
If you think you might have illegal drugs in your system, do not ride.

Rider management
Protective clothing
As a motorcycle rider you are particularly vulnerable to injury in a crash.
Wearing the right protective clothing can:
• significantly reduce injury in a crash
• protect you from the weather
• improve your comfort and help manage rider fatigue.
To help you choose the right gear for your ride, view the safety ratings from
these programs:
• Motorcycle Clothing Assessment Program (MotoCAP) provides safety
and breathability star ratings for jackets, pants, and gloves. What to
look for in protective clothing may not be obvious. MotoCAP performs
independent testing to determine how well gear will protect you in a crash.
• Consumer Rating and Assessment of Safety Helmets (CRASH) tests
and awards star ratings for helmet safety protection and comfort. CRASH
provides information to help choose and use the safest motorcycle helmet.
MotoCAP and CRASH compare products and help you choose the right gear
for your ride, visit motocap.com.au
It is important to wear motorcycle specific protective clothing instead of

everyday clothing, such as jeans. Over 25% of motorcycle clothing can fail
you in a crash.
When buying a motorcycle, also budget for the protective gear you will
need, this includes:
• helmet
• jacket and pants
• gloves
• boots.

Rider management
Helmet
The law requires all motorcycle riders and their pillion or sidecar passengers
to wear an approved motorcycle helmet.
The two key types of motorcycle helmets are:
• full face
• open face helmet.
Full face helmets have a chin panel and face shield (visor) for protection from
the wind, sun, and eye injury.
Consider choosing a light coloured helmet such as white or yellow as other
road users are more likely to see you. Light-coloured helmets can also be
cooler to wear than darker colours on hot days.
Never buy a second-hand helmet.
To help you choose and use a safe motorcycle helmet visit motocap.com.au
for CRASH star ratings on safety protection and comfort.
Helmet checklist
• By law, helmets purchased in NSW must comply with the Australian
Standard 1698, Australian/ New Zealand AS/NZ 1698 or the United
Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Standard 22.05 or
UNECE 22.06 and have a mark certifying compliance with the standard.
• A helmet must fit firmly but not too tight.
• Your helmet must be in good repair and securely fitted and fastened.
Helmets should be:

• replaced after a crash or a significant impact
• replaced if they become loose fitting, or the straps become worn
• cleaned only with mild soapy water or as recommended by the
manufacturer, as using some chemicals and cleaners can weaken the shell.
If the protective lining in your helmet becomes loose or is not a firm fit on
your head, it could be time to replace it. An old or borrowed helmet may not
have the same safety features or protection as a new one. It is also, not easy
to see if a borrowed helmet has had a significant impact that can affect your
safety. A new helmet is an investment in your safety.

Rider management
Eye protection
Your eyes need protection from the wind, dust, rain, insects and stones
thrown up by other vehicles. A visor attached to the helmet or goggles
provides the eye protection needed for riding. If you wear glasses
(spectacles) you should still use a face shield, visor or goggles while
you ride.
Some motorcycles have screens or fairings to provide weather protection.

These do not protect your eyes, and you should use a visor or goggles to
protect them.
Visor and goggles should:

• be clean and not scratched
• be shatterproof
• have clear lenses to use at night.
Gloves
Gloves specifically designed for motorcycle riding will improve rider
comfort and protection. When buying gloves, check for fit and feel.
The gloves should allow you to move and operate the motorcycle
controls comfortably.
Motorcycle gloves are protection for your hands and should have:
• a strengthened palm area shaped for riding
• knuckle protection
• a fastener around the wrist to prevent sliding off, such as a zipper or Velcro
• an overlap with the jacket (gauntlet style).
Visit motocap.com.au for glove safety star ratings.

Rider management
Jackets and pants

Specialised motorcycle clothing provides weather and crash protection.
Ordinary clothing does not give your body much protection at all. Motorcycle
gear should provide protection and ventilation to keep you comfortable.
Your jacket and pants should:
• be highly abrasion- and tear-resistant
• be tailored for a riding position
• completely cover your arms, legs, and body
• fit securely around your wrists, waist, and ankles to prevent sliding up to
expose your skin
• have impact protectors (armour) for your back, shoulders, elbows, hips
and knees.
Secure any impact and abrasion protectors within your clothing for
effective use.
Some jackets will also include a kidney belt to support your lower back and
reduce fatigue.
Consider choosing gear with fluorescent or reflective elements to help other
road users to see you and reduce your risk of being in a crash.
Choose the right jacket and pants for your ride at motocap.com.au
Footwear
Specifically designed motorcycle riding footwear will provide great comfort
and protection for your feet and ankles.
Motorcycle footwear generally has:
• strengthening in the instep between the ball of the foot and the heel
• ankle protection
• shin protection
• a fastener around the leg to prevent sliding off such as zipper or Velcro
• an overlap with the pants (boot style)
• gear change cover to prevent wear.

Rider management
Rider with protective clothing

Helmet:
Must comply with one of
the approved standards:
AS 1698, AS/NZS 1698,
UNECE 22.05 or UNECE
22.06.
Visor:
Clear and shatterproof
without scratches.
Back protector:
To protect the spine in
the case of a crash.
Gloves:
Gauntlet-style with a
strengthened palm area
and knuckle protection.
Zip or Velcro fastening
around wrist.
Jacket and pants:

Made of highly abrasion
and tear resistant
material completely
covering your arms, legs
and body. When secured
at the wrists, waist and
ankles this prevents the
garment riding up and
exposing skin.
Footwear:
Boots overlapping the
pants provide extra
shin, ankle and instep
protection. Zipper or
Velcro fasteners help
to prevent the foot
from sliding and foot
reinforcement for
gear-changing wear
and tear protection.

Safe riding
Safe riding
Observation
The road environment is constantly changing and this requires high levels of
observation and concentration. The key to good observation is scanning.
Scanning
Scanning, is keeping your eyes moving, checking in one area for a couple of
seconds, then moving your eyes to another area.
When scanning look:
• in the distance
• at the road surface
• to your left and right
• regularly at your mirrors and instruments.
Safety first
Be aware of what is around you
When following a vehicle look over, under and through to scan for
changes in traffic conditions. This is particularly true when following
large vehicles. Other vehicle’s brake lights can let you know in advance
you may need to slow down or stop.
If you are first at traffic lights, before you move check all directions to
make sure the traffic has stopped.

Safe riding
Mirrors
You should check your mirrors every few seconds so you always know what is
behind you. There are also particular times when it is very important for you
to use your mirrors:
• Check your mirrors before making any change to your speed or
road position.
• When preparing to turn or change lanes, watch carefully for any cars
behind you, especially if you plan to turn where others may not expect it,
such as at lane ways, driveways and side streets.
• When you are stopped behind another vehicle, leave plenty of space in
front of you to move. Watch vehicles approaching from behind. Remain in
first gear, with a brake applied and be able to move off to avoid being hit
from behind.
Blind spot area
Check blind spots before changing your road position.
Head checks
Motorcycles have ‘blind spots’ just as cars do. A blind spot is the area next
to you that you are unable to see in your mirrors. When you are about to
change your position on the road (for example make a turn, exit a roundabout,
move off or change lanes), make sure you turn your head and look over your
shoulder to see if it is clear. This is called a ‘head check’ and is the only sure
way to see objects that are in your blind spot.

Safe riding
Safety first
Check blind spots
Always do a head check of the blind spot before turning right into
a street or driveway. This is to make sure any vehicle following you
didn’t see your indicator and attempts to overtake you.
Head position for turns

Looking through a corner will help
with your coordination and balance
when cornering. Use your peripheral
vision to scan the road surface while
keeping your head pointed in the
direction you want to go.
Speed management
Low risk riders manage their speed and road position to maintain a crash
avoidance space completely around their motorcycle.
To determine the crash avoidance space to the front of your motorcycle you
need to take into account two key factors – reaction time and response time.
Reaction time is the time the rider needs to:
• see the information
• perceive what it means
• decide on a response
• instigate that response.
A rider who is fit, concentrating, alert and not affected by alcohol, drugs,
fatigue or a distraction, will require about one and a half seconds to react to
a sudden and unexpected change in traffic conditions.

Safe riding
Response time is the time required to take action. Generally a minimum of

one and a half seconds is needed to respond. In many situations braking may
be the only possible response. Swerving is rarely appropriate and is likely to
result in a more severe crash, for example a head on collision.
In good riding conditions, most people need a 3-second crash avoidance
space (often called the 3-second gap) to react and respond to a situation
safely and avoid a crash.
You should increase your crash avoidance space to 4 or more seconds when
riding in poor conditions, such as on unsealed (dirt or gravel), icy or wet roads,
or at night.
Maintain space to the front

To calculate a 3-second crash avoidance space when following another
vehicle, use this basic technique: as the rear of the vehicle in front of you
passes a stationary object at the side of the road, such as a power pole, tree
or sign, start a 3-second count ‘one thousand and one, one thousand and two,
one thousand and three’.
3 seconds
Stay at least 3 seconds behind the vehicle ahead.
Safety first
Stopping distance
Be aware that in most situations cars can stop in a shorter distance
than motorcycles, due to the greater grip provided by four tyres.

Safe riding
If your motorcycle passes the point you picked before you finish the count,
you are following too closely. Your crash avoidance space is not large enough.
Slow down and repeat the count again until the 3-second crash avoidance
space is achieved.
More than 3 seconds
Increase following distance in poor conditions.
In poor conditions such as rain, night and gravel roads, it may be necessary
to increase your crash avoidance space to 4 or more seconds.
To reduce the risk of riding into the back of another vehicle, the 3-second crash
avoidance space is essential, as the vehicle in front has the ability to stop very
quickly, especially if it collides with another vehicle or a stationary object.
Maintain space when stopped

When you stop behind another vehicle leave at least one car length between
your front wheel and the back of the vehicle in front. This will provide some
space in case they roll back or if you need to ride around them.
One to two car lengths
Leave one to two car lengths in front when stopped.

Safe riding
Maintain space behind you

It is difficult to maintain a crash avoidance space behind you, as another
driver or rider controls the space.
If a vehicle behind is travelling too closely, slow down slightly to increase the
space you have in front of you. This will enable you to brake more gradually if
you spot a hazard in front, which will enable the following vehicle more time
to stop as well.
Reduce speed
Slow down if you do not have a clear view of the road ahead. Situations where
your vision may be reduced include:
• blind corners
• blocked intersections
• crests
• poor weather conditions.
Slow down if you cannot see 5 seconds ahead.
5 secon
d vision
Slow down if you cannot see 5 seconds ahead.
To calculate 5-second vision in a curve, pick a fixed point in the oncoming

lane that has just come into view and start a count ‘one thousand and one,
one thousand and two... one thousand and five’. If you reach the point before
5 seconds you are riding too fast for the available vision.

Safe riding
Road positioning
Traffic and road situations are constantly changing and so does the safest
position on the road. Low risk riders aim to be in the right place all the time.
Space, surface and sight

Three important things to consider when choosing your position on the road.
These are: space, surface and sight.
Space
As a motorcycle rider you have very little to protect you in a crash other than
your riding gear. The more space from other vehicles and pedestrians the
better. Creating space from hazards is referred to as buffering. Moving away
from hazards can also increase the likelihood of being seen.
Surface
A motorcycle rider needs to be aware of the road surface they are riding on.
Paint, oil, water, sand, gravel, pot holes and metal plates are all examples of
the road surfaces a rider needs to manage. For a motorcycle rider a relatively
small change in road position can result in a significant change in the quality
of road surface.
Although it is best to avoid riding on a poor surface, sometimes this is not
possible, for example when buffering an oncoming vehicle the best road
position may be the left side of the lane. The left side of the road may be
bumpy and broken up, however it may be preferable to ride on this surface
to get a safe buffer from the oncoming hazard. The solution is easy, if you
need to ride on a poor surface to buffer a hazard, just slow down.

Safe riding
Buffer Buffer
Move away from hazards, like oncoming cars. If you need to ride on a poor surface in
order to maintain a buffer, slow down.
Sight
A good road position can allow you to see further and get more information
about what is happening up ahead. Generally, the right side of the lane
provides good vision up the road, to the sides and also behind you.
However, the right side of the lane is a dangerous position to be in if
there is oncoming traffic.
Try choosing a road position where you can see the road ahead and still
buffer away from hazards.
By actively managing space, surface and sight a rider can significantly
reduce the risk of crashing.
Safety first
Buffering
A motorcycle rider can legally use any part of their lane to buffer away
from hazards.

Safe riding
Creating space - buffering
Buffer
Create space (buffer) from oncoming vehicles.
Maintain a buffer from hazards and slow down if vision is limited.

Safe riding
Buffer
Buffer
Slow down and buffer when a vehicle could Buffer both vehicles and slow down.
turn across your path.
Maintain a buffer from hazards and a good following distance when vision is limited.

Safe riding
More buffering
Buffer Buffer
Buffer
Buffer
Slow down and buffer when a vehicle could In busy traffic you may be in the left side of
turn across your path or enter the lane you the lane for most of the time only moving
are in. right to buffer vehicles in side streets.
Buffer
Buffer
You may need to buffer hazards even when Buffer all hazards including pedestrians.
they are on the other side of the road.

Safe riding
Managing space behind
After
Increase
space
to front
Buffer
Before
If a vehicle is following too close behind you, Maintain a buffer from vehicles as they
move to the centre of your lane and slow pass you.
down to create space ahead of you.

Safe riding
Vision
Buffer
Buffering can improve your vision and make The further back you follow other vehicles
it easier for others to see you. the better you can see around them.
Buffer Buffer
On country roads move to the right side of the lane to improve your vision and provide a buffer
from wildlife.

Safe riding
Blind crests
Approaching a blind crest from the left If there is a possibility of multiple hazards,
creates a buffer from any oncoming traffic. slow down and buffer both sides.
Approaching blind crests look for clues as to where the road goes. Slow down and select a road
position to suit.
Approaching blind crests look for clues as to where the road goes. Slow down and select a road
position to suit.

Safe riding
Multi-laned roads
Buffer
On multi-laned roads, reduce the risk of a Create a buffer from turning vehicles in
head on crash by choosing a lane away from case not all the vehicles are turning.
the oncoming traffic.
Buffer Buffer
Buffer
Buffer both parked and oncoming vehicles. Slow down and buffer slow moving or
stopped traffic, they may be blocking
the view of a turning vehicle.

Safe riding
Buffer
When using bus or transit lanes keep a buffer from other vehicles in case they change lanes to
make a turn.
Blind
spot
area
Blind
spot
area
Do not ride beside other vehicles or in their blind spots.

Safe riding
Overtaking
Buffer
When overtaking create a buffer from the Before overtaking a slow moving vehicle
vehicle you are passing. check for side streets and driveway that they
may be turning into.

Safe riding
Head
check
Before overtaking check for side streets Before turning into a street or driveway
and concealed driveways, particularly in have a head check for vehicles that may
country areas. be overtaking you.
Safety first
Give way to Pedestrians
When turning left or right you must give way to any pedestrians
crossing the road you are turning into.

Safe riding
Turns at intersections
Buffer
Buffer
When turning right from a single lane, Maintain a buffer from oncoming traffic
start the turn as near as practicable to the while you are waiting to turn right.
far right of the lane or middle of the road,
buffering hazards as you exit the turn.
Buffer
When turning left from a single lane, start Always use an indicator when merging,
the turn as near as practicable to the far changing lanes, turning and joining traffic.
left side of the road. Buffering hazards as Using an indicator can make you more
you exit the turn. noticeable to other road users and let
them know your intention.

Safe riding
Positioning for curves and bends

Starting curves wide will improve your vision. Planning to finish them in
tight will help you get your speed right and leave you room for slight errors.
Most importantly, keep away from the area where oncoming vehicles are
likely to cross the centre of the road (the head on zone). Taking curves and
bends this way will slow you down a little on the approach but will allow you
to accelerate out much earlier, when you have a clear view.
Buffer zones on
curves and bends
Bu
Plan to start curves wide
ff for vision. Plan to finish
er
in tight. Keep away from
the head-on zone.
On blind left curves slow down and begin to move

left as vision becomes limited.
Exiting a curve
or bend
er
ff Many crashes happen
Bu
because riders run wide
on the exit of a turn.
On right curves slow down and keep to the left until

you see the road is clear of oncoming traffic.

Safe riding
The danger of exiting wide

Many riders try to straighten turns resulting in the motorcycle exiting the
curve out wide.
This is a particularly dangerous practice as it allows no room for error. If the
curve ‘tightens up’ or changes direction the rider will need additional effort to
complete the turn. Furthermore, on right curves the risk of a head-on collision
is greatly increased.
Exiting wide can result in a crash.

Safe riding
When a rider finishes a curve wide there is no room for error. Turn too early can result in
a head-on collision or a crash on the exit of the curve.
Safety first
Buffer away from vehicles
If you see an oncoming vehicle or are being overtaken create a buffer
by moving away from the vehicle.

Safe riding
Planning a series of curves

Starting curves wide and planning to finish them in tight allows you to link
a series of curves together.
By exiting each curve in tight you will be perfectly positioned for the entry
into the next curve.
Planning to finish in tight will position you for the next curve.

Safe riding
Riding in groups
Buffer
3 seconds
Buffer
3 seconds
Buffer
Riding ‘single file’ allows every rider to buffer Riding ‘staggered file’ can be dangerous.
hazards and if a 3-second following distance Riders are unable to buffer hazards and
is maintained vision is less affected. vision is reduced by the other motorcycles
in the group.

Safe riding
Making decisions
Selecting a safe gap when turning, overtaking or changing lanes is a critical
skill to safe riding. Gap selection is also very important at intersections where
the chance of colliding with another vehicle is very high if the gap you select
is too small.
Gap selection
A safe gap is one that enables you to turn, overtake, change lanes or cross an
intersection without affecting the crash avoidance space of other road users.
3 seconds 3 seconds
Choose a gap so other vehicles are not forced to change Be clear of the intersection
speed or road position. for 3 seconds before other
vehicles arrive.
A safe gap ensures that other vehicles do not need to change their speed or
position. When turning across traffic make sure your vehicle is clear of the
intersection by at least 3 seconds before the approaching vehicles arrive.
When joining a traffic stream select a gap that allows you to reach the
traffic speed before the approaching vehicles are within 3 seconds of
your motorcycle.
Overtaking other vehicles is very hazardous. You not only need to be able to
judge the gap between your motorcycle and an oncoming vehicle, you also
need to have enough space between your motorcycle and the vehicle you
are overtaking.
When overtaking maintain a buffer zone between your motorcycle and the
vehicle you are overtaking.
On country roads and highways there are often overtaking lanes at regular
intervals that allow you to safely overtake.

Safe riding
Hazard perception
When riding a motorcycle good hazard perception is important and
responding to hazards correctly is essential.
Responding to hazard
A hazard is something which has the potential to accelerate or steer into your
crash avoidance space.
The 3-second gap can also be used for situations where there is potential
for something to accelerate or steer into the space. For example, a vehicle
in an adjacent street could fail to give way and accelerate out. Or a vehicle
approaching could turn without warning into an intersection and steer across
your path.
Experienced motorcyclists who ride low risk, can mentally judge the
3-second gap in front of their motorcycle. If there is potential for a hazard to
enter this crash avoidance space, your response should be to protect it by:
• slowing down (‘Setting up’ or covering the brakes)
• moving away, creating a ‘buffer’ from the hazard by changing your position
on the road or changing lanes.
Your ability to respond means that you are better able to deal with any
dangerous situation that might occur.
Crash
avoidance
space
Respond before reaching the hazard. Respond when something can enter your
crash avoidance space.

Safe riding
Examples of hazards that require a response
A vehicle waiting to turn in front of your path. A vehicle waiting to pull out from the
left side.
Stopped traffic obscuring vision at an A vehicle waiting to pull out from the
intersection. right side.

Safe riding
Basic riding techniques

The key to good riding technique is smoothness, and the key to smoothness
is good preparation and practice.
Riding posture
When you first get a motorcycle take the time to adjust the controls to suit your
height and build. Correct riding posture reduces fatigue and improves control.
Five key points of posture

To control a motorcycle well, your body must be in the correct position:
• sit well forward
• keep your head up and point your chin in your direction of travel
• relax your arms and place minimal weight on your wrists
• keep your back relaxed and support your weight with your stomach muscles
• grip the motorcycle firmly with your legs and knees.
Safety first
Follow your chin
In curves, point your chin through the turn and scan the road with
your eyes.

Safe riding
The five key points of riding posture apply to all types

of motorcycles
Sit well forward
Keep your back relaxed

and support your weight
with your stomach
muscles.

Safe riding
Keep your head up and

point your chin in your
direction of travel.
Relax your
arms and place
minimal weight
on your wrists.
Grip the
motorcycle
firmly with
your legs and
knees.

Safe riding
Braking technique
Correct braking is done in two stages:
1. Put light pressure on the brake lever and pedal (set up the brakes).
2. Progressively apply the necessary braking pressure (squeeze).
Two-stage braking makes braking more effective. It also reduces the chance
of skidding and gives you better control.
Harsh or excessive braking pressure may cause skidding and a loss of
control, particularly on wet or gravel roads.
If the front wheel starts to skid, quickly release the front brake, and reapply
gently. If the rear wheel skids, gently release the rear brake and slowly reapply.
Safety first
Braking safely
Use both the front and rear brakes to stop in an emergency.
Applying only the front brake in a curve can make the motorcycle
run wide.

Safe riding
Steering technique
A motorcycle can be steered using a number of different inputs. Handle
bar pressure, body weight and changes in speed all have an effect on
a motorcycle’s direction of travel. Good riders use a combination of these
inputs to achieve smooth and precise turns.
Handle bar pressure

A motorcycle can be steered by direct steering or counter steering.
With direct steering the motorcycle goes in the direction to which the
handle bars are turned. With counter steering the motorcycle goes in the
opposite direction to which the handle bars are turned, for example a slight
forward pressure on the left handle bar will make the motorcycle turn left.
Direct steering is only used for very low speed turns, such as U-turns and
turns at intersections. Counter steering has more effect as speed increases.
Body weight
How a rider uses their body weight will have a significant effect on a turning
motorcycle. Leaning with the motorcycle in a curve allows the motorcycle
to be more upright thereby giving the tyres better grip and the motorcycle
greater ground clearance. With low speed turns leaning out from the turn can
help balance the motorcycle.
Effect of speed
The faster a motorcycle is travelling the harder it is to turn. Reducing speed
before turning is essential. You should apply the brakes or and downshift
a gear or two before you start the turn.
Wait until the motorcycle begins to straighten up out of the before you
accelerate. The motorcycle will stand up and run wide if you use too
much acceleration.

Safe riding
Rider leaning the motorcycle in a curve
Head and eyes level

with chin pointed
in the direction of
the turn.
Arms relaxed with

slight pressure on
the inside handle bar.
Body weight on the

inside of the turn.
Knees firmly
gripping the
motorcycle.

Road rules for Road rules for motorcycle riders
motorcycle riders
Motorcycle riders must follow the same road rules as other road users.
So, make sure you keep up to date with the main road rules and
requirements, found in the Road User Handbook.
The rules covered in this section only apply to motorcycle riders.
Motorcycle specific road rules and signs

Riding on a motorcycle
Motorcycle riders must:
• sit astride the rider’s seat facing forwards
• wear an approved motorcycle helmet, properly fitted and fastened
securely to their head
• keep at least one hand on the handlebars
• keep both feet on the foot pegs (designed for use by the rider), when the
motorcycle is moving, unless it is travelling at less than 10km/h and the
rider is:
(a) manoeuvring to park the motorcycle
(b) decelerating to come to a stop
(c) accelerating from a rest.
Riders can have one foot off a foot peg to stretch and relieve leg cramps.

Road rules for motorcycle riders
Keeping left
Vehicles must travel as near as practicable to the left side of the road.
This rule does not apply to the rider of a motorcycle. Lane positioning is
important to a rider’s safety. They can use any part of a lane to position safely
and avoid hazards.
Lane filtering full (unrestricted) riders only

Unrestricted riders can lane filter between vehicles in traffic that is stopped
or moving slowly, but only when it is safe to do so and:
• where there are marked lanes with traffic travelling in the same direction
• when the speed travelled by the motorcycle is 30km/h or less.
You must not lane filter through traffic moving above 30km/h. Riders must
not edge filter along a length of road.
Penalties
Fines and demerit points apply to unlawfully lane filtering.
Motorcycles riders must not lane filter next to kerbs or parked vehicles,
or in school zones or a bus only lane.
Learner and provisional riders must not lane filter.

Hand signals
Motorcycle riders can use hand signals for stopping, slowing or turning.
Hand signals can improve rider safety in situations where very bright light
conditions made it difficult for the motorcycle’s brake and indicator lights to
be seen.
To give a hand signal for stopping or slowing, the rider must extend either
arm at a right angle with a flat palm. Turning is signalled by a straight arm
with flat palm pointing in the direction of the turn.
You are turning left. You are stopping or slowing down.
Lending or borrowing a motorcycle

Many fatal rider crashes occur on borrowed motorcycles. So if you are not
familiar with riding a particular motorcycle, you should allow for differences
in braking and handling and may need extra distance to stop.
It is an offence to let a person ride your motorcycle if they are not licensed for
the motorcycle type. Even if a person has a licence and you know them well,
it is still easy to make mistakes on an unfamiliar motorcycle. The best solution
is not to lend or borrow motorcycles.

Motorcycle warning sign

This warning sign shows a motorcycle rider needs
to use caution for the road ahead.
Riding at night
Riding at night, particularly on country roads can be more dangerous for
motorcyclists. The risk of hitting an animal, misjudging a curve, or not seeing
a problem on the road surface is also increased at night. If you ride at night,
slow down to a speed to reduce these risks and ride within the range of the
motorcycle’s headlight.
Motorcycles with an engine capacity not exceeding 100ml are limited to
a maximum of 40km/h. For motorcycles with an engine capacity exceeding
100ml but not exceeding 200ml, a maximum speed of 50km/h applies.
However, if your motorcycle’s headlight has an effective range of at least
50m the restrictions above do not apply.
Safety first
You must not ride a motorcycle at night if the lights are not working.

Carrying passengers and loads
Motorcycle passengers
Any passenger carried on a motorcycle (not in a sidecar) must:
• sit astride the motorcycle pillion seat facing forward
• keep both feet on the footrests designed for use by the pillion passenger
• wear a correctly fitted and securely fastened approved motorcycle helmet
• be 8 years of age or older
• not interfere with the riders control of the motorcycle.
A motorcycle rider must not ride with more than one passenger (excluding
sidecar passengers) on the motorcycle.
Sidecar passengers
Passengers carried in a sidecar must:
• wear a correctly fitted and securely fastened approved motorcycle helmet
• remain safely seated.
The motorcycle rider must not ride with more passengers than the sidecar is
designed to carry.
Children under 8 are allowed to travel in a sidecar.
Penalties
Learner and Provisional P1 riders must not carry passengers.
Fines and demerit points apply for illegally carrying a pillion passenger.
A rider must have had their rider licence for at least 12 months
(not including a learner rider licence) before they can legally
carry passengers.

Loading
Any load carried on a motorcycle must not project:
• more than 150mm in front of the outer extremity of the front wheel
• more than 300mm behind the outer extremity of the rear wheel
• beyond the extreme outer portion of the motorcycle on either side.
Any load carried on a motorcycle and sidecar combination must not project:
• more than 600mm in front of the outer extremity of the front wheel
• more than 900mm behind the outer extremity of the rear wheel
• beyond the extreme outer portion of the combination on either side.
All loads must:

• be properly secured
• not cause the motorcycle or combination to become unstable
• not project from the motorcycle or combination in a way that is likely
to injure or obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians, or cause damage to
a vehicle or anything else (including the road surface).
Riding with animals

You must not ride a motorcycle with animal between rider and handle
bars. A motorcycle rider or passenger must not tether or lead an animal
while the motorcycle is moving. Animals should be seated or housed in
appropriate areas.
Fines and demerit points apply. The penalty increases if you are in school zone.
A rider must not ride with an animal on the fuel tank unless the rider is
travelling less than 500m for farming activity.

Towing and being towed

If a motorcycle is being towed by another vehicle, with a towline (chain,
rope, fabric, strap or wire), the distance between the two vehicles must not
exceed 2.5m.
If the towline is longer than 2m, a white or brightly coloured flag, piece of
cloth or other similar material must be attached to the line as a warning.
Parking
Motorcycle parking
Parking rules and restrictions apply to all vehicles including motorcycles.
However, a motorcycle may park at an angle.
Some areas are designated motorcycle parking only.
Safety first
A motorcycle is generally more stable when parked facing up a slope.

Restrictions on where to ride
Road and road related areas

To ride a motorcycle on a road or road related area the rider must hold
a current rider licence and the motorcycle must have current registration.
Road and road related areas mean any area that is publicly accessible to
vehicles. This includes:
• roads
• the shoulder of the road
• car parks
• fire trails
• state forests
• recreation areas.
Riding on footpaths
A motorcycle must not be ridden on a footpath. Exemptions apply to the rider
of a postal motorcycle provided it does not exceed 125cc and their speed
does not exceed 10km/h.
Bicycle lanes
Motorcycle riders must not to use a bicycle lane, except for 50m when
entering or leaving a driveway or intersection.

Transit lanes
Motorcycle riders can use these lanes.
Bus lanes
Motorcycle riders can use these lanes.
Bus only lanes

When the words BUSES ONLY appear on a BUS LANE
sign, or lane markings indicate a BUS ONLY lane, only
buses can drive in these lanes. Motorcycle riders must
not use these lanes.
T-way lanes
These are special lanes which can only be used by authorised
buses and service vehicles. Motorcycle riders must not use
these lanes.

Motorcycle safety
Motorcycle safety and compliance
and compliance
Before you ride a motorcycle, do some basic checks to ensure your safety
while riding. In most cases you will need an annual safety inspection to
register the motorcycle.
Your motorcycle must be registered.
It is an offence to allow another person to ride an unregistered motorcycle
on a road or road-related area. An unregistered motorcycle is not covered
by compulsory third party insurance. This means you could be liable for
compensation to any person injured in a crash. The penalties are severe for
riding an unregistered or uninsured motorcycle.
Safety first
Roadworthy motorcycles
Ensure your motorcycle is suitable for safe road use at all times.
The lights, tyres, mirrors, chain guard, brake and clutch levers must
be in good condition. Your safety depends on it.
If you are doing rider training with a course provider, your motorcycle
will be inspected. If it is not safe you cannot use it for training or
testing. You will need to rebook and pay the fee again.

Number plates
NSW number plates on the motorcycle you ride or own must:
• be issued by Service NSW
• match what is printed on the Certificate of Registration
• be clean and not damaged
• be readable from a distance (at least 20m), from above and from the side
(within a 45-degree arc from the centre of the motorcycle)
• not be obscured, for example, hidden by L plates or P plates
• ensure if a plate cover is used, they are clear, clean, untinted,
non-reflective and flat
• be returned to Service NSW if the registration is cancelled
• be placed on the back and have a light for clear visibility at night.
It is an offence to:
• alter number plates in any way
• attach a number plate to any vehicle other than the one registered with
Transport for NSW
• use a number plate cover that is not flat, clear and untinted
• have an obscured number plate.
45
45
Visible to 20m Number plate

Visible to 20m
Number plate
45
Motorcycle number plate visibility distance Motorcycle number plate visibility distance
from above. from the sides.
Penalties
Don’t obscure any part of your number plate as heavy penalties apply.

Roadworthy motorcycles
Before you ride you need to make sure that your motorcycle is suitable for
safe road use. The condition of your motorcycle is one factor you can control,
so take time to ensure it meets safe standards. Always check the headlight
and brake (stop) light are working.
To learn more about motorcyclist safety and what to check before you ride
visit nsw.gov.au
Tyres
Your motorcycle’s tyres must be in good condition and have a tread at least
1.5mm deep across the tread surface. Motorcycles must not have regrooved
tyres, unless the tyre was manufactured to be regrooved.
Keep the tyres inflated to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer
or they may overheat and fail. The sidewalls of the tyres should not have any
cracks or bumps. If your tyres wear unevenly there may be a problem with the
steering or suspension.
Safety first
Tyre pressure
Tyre pressures are critical to a motorcycle’s handling. Under-inflated
tyres significantly increase the risk of crashing.
Brakes and controls

Check your brakes are working before you start riding. Check the clutch,
throttle and brake cables for kinks or broken strands. If your brake or clutch
lever is broken or has sharp edges, replace it. When damaged they can cause
serious injury if you crash.

Mirrors and indicators

A rear vision mirror must be fitted to each side of motorcycles made after
1st January 1983. All other motorcycles must have a right side mirror.
Mirrors must not project more than 150mm beyond the extreme width of
the motorcycle.
Flashing turn indicators must be fitted front and rear. Motorcycles
manufactured before 1 January 1979 do not require indicators.
Checking your motorcycle

Check your:
• lights – headlights, brake lights, indicators
• brakes
• steering
• horn
• tyres
• chain guard.
Adjust the controls of the motorcycle so they are right for you. You should be
able to reach all the controls easily without being cramped.
Make sure that your lights all work and can be clearly seen. Make sure that
your lights and mirrors are clean. Adjust the mirrors so that you have a good
view of the lane behind you and the lanes next to you.
You must not ride any motorcycle at night if the lights are not working.

Penalties
Penalties
Under NSW laws, if you do not comply with the road rules you can be penalised.
Penalties for traffic offences include fines, demerit points licence
disqualification, cancellation, refusal or suspension, passenger restrictions
and in extreme cases, imprisonment.
Demerit points
Demerit points are penalty points that you get if you commit certain riding
or driving offences. There is a limit to the number of points you can build
up before your licence is suspended. Some riding offences attract double
demerit points during holiday periods. These offences are speeding and
not wearing a motorcycle helmet.
Increased penalties apply for offences committed in a school zone.
Your licence is suspended when you reach a certain point limit. The limit
depends on your rider licence type.
If you need more information about demerit points, visit nsw.gov.au or call
on 13 22 13.
Rider licence type Demerit point limit Suspension time

(3-year period)
Learner licence 4 points 3 months
Provisional P1 licence 4 points 3 months
Provisional P2 licence 7 points 3 months
Full (unrestricted) 13 points 3 months (13–15 points)

licence
4 months (16–19 points)
5 months (20 or more points)

Penalties
Speeding
Penalties for exceeding the speed limit include demerit points, fines, licence
suspension or disqualification. Penalties increase depending on how many
kilometres over the speed limit you are going.
The minimum penalty for speeding is 1 demerit point. If a learner and
provisional P1 rider get any demerit points for speeding their licence is
suspended for at least three months.
Over the speed limit by 30km/h and 45km/h

If you go over the speed limit by:
• more than 30km/h but less than 45km/h you will get a minimum
of 5 demerit points, a large fine and your licence will be suspended
for 3 months
• more than 45km/h you will get a minimum of 6 demerit points, a larger
fine and your licence will be suspended for 6 months.
The 6 month suspension can be applied immediately by police at the roadside

or later by Transport for NSW.
If your licence is suspended for speeding, a letter will be sent to you to advise
when the suspension starts. This will happen even if your demerit points are
under the relevant limit.
Your licence will be suspended for a longer period should the demerit points
for a speeding offence bring your total points to or over your relevant limit.

Penalties
Loss of licence
If you are convicted of more serious riding offences, you may be disqualified
from riding by a court.
You may even be sent to prison. These offences include:
• riding or attempting to ride under the influence of alcohol or any other drugs
• riding or attempting to ride when your alcohol level is over the legal limit
for your licence
• refusing to take a breath test
• not stopping after a crash when someone is injured or killed
• riding at a dangerous speed
• riding dangerously.
Negligent or dangerous riding

The law provides for serious charges to be laid against people riding
a motorcycle in a negligent or dangerous manner which causes injury
or death.
As the rider of a motorcycle involved in a crash where somebody is injured
because of your negligent riding, you could be imprisoned, face a heavy
fine and a period of disqualification. If somebody is killed in such a crash,
you could be imprisoned and face a higher fine.
Should somebody be injured because of your dangerous riding, you could
be imprisoned for up to 7 years. If somebody is killed in such a crash, you
could be imprisoned for up to 10 years.
The maximum penalties for these offences can increase up to an additional
4 years if ‘aggravating circumstances’ are proven to exist.
These circumstances are:
• riding more than 45km/h over the maximum speed limit that applies on
that section of road
• having a blood alcohol level of 0.15 or more
• riding a motorcycle to escape police.

Penalties
Hooning and drag racing

The penalties for hoon driving or riding are very severe. If the police suspect
you have been involved in street or drag racing, or performing a burnout in
circumstances of aggravation, they may take possession of your motorcycle
on the spot.
If convicted in court, you will get a large fine and your motorcycle can be
impounded for up to 3 months. You will also pay for storage fees when you
get your motorcycle back.
A second conviction for this offence can mean your motorcycle may
be forfeited, taken away and sold. Under the demerit points scheme,
3 demerit points may also apply to burnout offences.
Fines
You can get a penalty notice on the spot or in the post and you have to pay
a fine. Some fines can be paid at a service centre and depending on the
licence suspension it may be removed.
To access information about your fine or to pay visit revenue.nsw.gov.au
or call:
• 1300 138 118 to pay or request a review
• 1300 655 805 for an overdue fine or to set up a payment plan
• 1300 130 112 to pay securely by credit card.
Unpaid fines
If you do not pay a fine by the due date, your rider licence and motorcycle
registration can be suspended or cancelled.
Once you’ve paid, the suspension ends and you get your licence back. If you
do not pay or set up a payment plan within 6 months of your suspension,
your licence can be cancelled and you will have to apply to have your licence
reissued. You can only do this when you’ve paid all outstanding fines.

Penalties
Glossary
Certificate of competency –certificate issued on successful completion of
a pre-learner or pre-provisional rider training course.
Crash avoidance space – the space a rider needs to prevent a potential crash.
Combination (motorcycle and sidecar) –a motorcycle with a sidecar attached.
Covering the brakes – where the rider’s fingers are over the front brake lever
and their toes over the rear brake pedal without activating the brakes.
Footpeg – pegs attached to the motorcycle to support your feet.
Hazard – any object or feature, fixed or moving, that can or potentially be
a danger.
Head check – looking over the shoulder to the left or right to make sure that
nothing is in the blind spot. Also known as a shoulder check.
MOST – Motorcycle Operator Skill Test – the practical riding test.
Oncoming – a vehicle approaching and travelling in the opposite direction.
Pillion – motorcycle passenger.
Setting up the brakes – the action of taking the free play out of the front and
rear brake levers.
Sidecar – a wheeled attachment fitted to the left side of a motorcycle.
Skid – when a tyre loses grip on the road surface.
Throttle – a control used to vary the motorcycle’s engine speed.
Two-stage braking – a set up and squeeze braking technique. Applying light
pressure on the brake lever and pedal (set up) then, progressively apply more
pressure (squeezing).

Index
A F
Alcohol and other drugs 11, 14, 19, Fatigue 19, 20, 23, 26, 30, 55
20-22, 30, 76 Fines 4, 11, 18, 21, 62, 65-66, 74-75, 77
Footwear 8, 26, 27
B
Blind corners 33 G
Blind crests 33, 41 Gap selection 52
Blind spot 29-30, 43, 78 Gloves 7, 23, 25, 27
Braking 31, 58, 63, 78
Buffering 34-44, 46-47, 49, 51-53 H
Bus lanes 43, 62, 69 Hand signals 63
Hazards 19, 33-38, 41, 46, 51, 53,
C 62, 78
Carrying passengers 17, 65 Helmet 7, 15, 23-27, 61, 65, 74
Carrying your licence 11, 18
Certificate of competency 8, 10, 12-13, I
78 In a curve 33, 58-60
Clothing 8, 20, 23, 26, 27
Counter steering 59 J
Crash avoidance space 30-33, 52-53, Jackets 8, 23, 25-27
78
Curves and bends 47-50, 55
L
Lane filtering 15, 62
E
Learner licence 5-6, 8-16, 62, 65,
Exiting 29-50 74-75
Eye protection 24-25 Load projections 66

Index
M S
Mirrors 28-29, 70, 73 Scanning 28, 30, 55
Speed management 30
N Steering 53, 59
Number plates 11, 71
T
O Training 4-5, 7-8, 12-13, 70, 78
Observation 28 Turning 30, 42, 44-46, 52, 59, 63
Offences 11, 18, 21, 63, 70-71, 74-77 Tyres 59, 70, 72-73
Overtaking 30, 44-45, 49, 52
P
Parking 61, 67
Penalties 4, 11, 18, 21, 62, 65-66, 70-71,
74-77
Posture 55-57
Protective clothing 19, 20, 23-27
Provisional licence 5-6, 11-14, 16, 62, 65
74-75
R
Registration 7, 68, 70-71, 77
Restrictions 8, 11-12, 14-17, 64, 67-68, 74
Rider Knowledge Test 1, 4-11
Rider groups 51
Riders aged 25 and older 5, 6, 14
Road positioning 29-30, 34-35, 41, 47,
50, 52-53
Road surface 28, 30, 34-35, 64, 66, 78

nsw.gov.au
13 22 13
ISSN 0728 4985

Pub. 09.192
Catalogue number 48024416
09/24
Disclaimer
While all care is taken in producing this work, no responsibility is taken or warranty
made with respect to the accuracy of any information, data or representation.
This work is not intended to substitute a reader’s reference to relevant laws and
Transport for NSW expressly disclaims all liability in respect of the consequences
of reliance on the contents of this work.
© Transport for New South Wales (2024)

Users are welcome to copy, reproduce and distribute extracts from this work for
non-commercial purposes only, provided Transport for NSW is acknowledged as
the copyright owner and the title of this work is referenced as the source.

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Transport for NSW

Tips for safe riding

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 1

2 Motorcycle Rider Handbook

Road rules for motorcycle riders 61

Motorcycle safety and compliance 70

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 3

Rider licence obligations

Bribery is against the law

4 Motorcycle Rider Handbook

Getting your rider licence

Along the way you need to pass:

Rider training and testing

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 5

Steps to getting your rider licence

* Where the pre-learner,Motorcycle riding

Step 1: Pre-learner course

When choosing to do three-wheel trike training you must:

You do not need to have motorcycle or trike riding experience to do the

Booking the pre-learner course

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 7

If you pass pre-learner course

If your pre-learner course is stopped

8 Motorcycle Rider Handbook

Step 2: Rider Knowledge Test

Preparing for the Rider Knowledge Test

Booking the Rider Knowledge Test

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 9

The day of your test

If you pass the Rider Knowledge Test

If you fail the Rider Knowledge Test

10 Motorcycle Rider Handbook

Step 3: Learner rider licence

Learner rider licence restrictions

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 11

Step 4: Pre-provisional training

Booking the pre-provisional course

If you pass the pre-provisional course

12 Motorcycle Rider Handbook

Step 5: Provisional P1 rider licence

A certificate of competency is issued when you pass the pre-provisional

Step 6: Provisional P2 rider licence

Step 7: Full licence

You can apply for a full rider licence at service.nsw.gov.au

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 13

Riders aged 25 and older

Rider licence restrictions

Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) must be zero.

You must not ride in Parramatta Park, Centennial Park

14 Motorcycle Rider Handbook

You must clearly display a plate on the back of the

Learners must display an L plate.

Secure your plate with a clip or holder so they do not

You must wear a securely fitted and fastened motorcycle

• Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1698

You must not lane filter.

Maximum speed limit

You can ride to a maximum of 90km/h.

You can ride to a maximum of 100km/h.

Motorcycle Rider Handbook 15