Riding safely

By the end of this topic you can

• You can carry out a quick safety check before riding.
• You can choose a lane position that keeps you visible and away from hazards.
• You can handle intersections and driveways with extra caution.
• You can manage the speed gap with faster traffic.
• You can spot surface hazards that matter more on small wheels.

What you need to know and understand

• Mopeds and limited-speed motorcycles follow motor vehicle rules; e-bikes follow the rules for cyclists.
• Ontario limited-speed licence holders are restricted to roads posted at 80 km/h or less at the M2-L stage.
• Approved helmets are required on mopeds and limited-speed motorcycles, and on e-bikes in Ontario and BC.
• Small wheels are more easily upset by potholes, rail tracks, gravel and wet paint.
• Drivers turning left across your path are a common cause of crashes with two-wheelers.
• Riding at night requires working front and rear lights; reflective gear makes you easier to see.
• Quebec does not allow moped riders under 16 to carry a passenger.

A two-minute pre-ride check

1. Squeeze both brake levers and roll the vehicle to check that both brakes work.
2. Check tire pressure and look for cuts or worn tread.
3. Test headlight, tail light, brake light and signals if fitted.
4. Check battery charge or fuel level for the trip.
5. Adjust mirrors so you can see behind you.
6. Put on and fasten your approved helmet.

Living with the speed gap

Choose routes with lower speed limits where you can keep up with the flow, even if they are longer. Ride where drivers behind and ahead can see you, rather than hugging the curb, which invites close passes and puts you near drains and debris. If traffic builds up behind you on a narrow road, pull over safely and let it pass.

Intersections, driveways and parked cars

• Assume a turning or waiting driver has not seen you until they make eye contact or stop.
• Cover your brakes and ease off the speed as you approach intersections.
• Watch for vehicles pulling out of driveways and plazas.
• Leave a door's width of space from parked cars.
• Avoid riding in a driver's blind spot at a stop; move ahead or drop back.
• Signal early so drivers know your plans.

What to do and what to avoid

• Do: wear bright or reflective gear, gloves and sturdy shoes.
• Do: slow down for gravel, rail tracks and wet painted lines.
• Avoid: using a phone or headphones while riding.
• Avoid: carrying loads that unbalance the vehicle or block your lights.

Common mistakes

• Hugging the curb, which encourages unsafe passing and puts you near hazards.
• Assuming drivers have seen you at an intersection.
• Riding on busy high-speed roads where you cannot keep up with traffic.
• Skipping the helmet for short trips.
• Riding at night without working lights.

Test yourself: Riding safely

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.