Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: i get fear riding my bike, honda cbr125, motorcycle roadcraft


Question
hi, i did my cbt nearly 2years ago bought myself a bike, but the bike had a few problems with it so didnt get to ride it much,so i bougtht myself a honda cbr125 when i got it i went on some waste land to get used to it. but as soon as i know i have to ride it on the road i start to panic and become very aware of the traffic around me up until i did my cbt i had never driven or riden before.

Answer
Marie,

It is very wise of you to seek advice at this point. The Honda CBR125 is a reasonable bike to begin your riding on streets. One of the things we tell our students when they complete the Basic Rider Course in the US is that the skills they have learned and practiced during the class should have a "freshness label" like baked goods. If you do not use the skills they will diminish as time goes on.

You are to be commended for recognizing this and actively looking to refresh your riding skills and comfort level. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the new rider training programs enough to offer specific suggestions in your area. I hope that I can provide you with some ideas for locating assistance.

I am familiar with the UK Bike Safe program and I also use the Motorcycle Roadcraft Police Rider's handbook as references.

Based upon what you have explained in your question I suggest 1) locating additional formal training; 2) continue to spend time practice riding away from traffic; and 3) continue to focus on building your riding skills. The higher your skill lever, the more comfortable you will be riding on public streets.

I located this link that appears to have several resources for beginning riders in the UK. I hope you will find some valuable information here.

http://www.begin-motorcycling.co.uk/

In any event please stay in touch with me and keep me informed of your progress. I hope I have been able to give you some worthwhile advice.

Regards,

Tom Wright