Riding a moped safely

By the end of this topic you can

• You can carry out basic pre-ride checks on a moped.
• You can use the throttle and both brakes smoothly together.
• You can choose a road position that keeps you seen and away from hazards.
• You can make rear observations, including a final shoulder check, before changing position.
• You can anticipate drivers pulling out, doors opening and slippery surfaces.

What you need to know and understand

• Most scooter-style mopeds are twist-and-go: twist the right grip to accelerate, with no clutch or gears to change.
• On many scooters the right lever works the front brake and the left lever works the rear; check your own machine's handbook.
• Use both brakes together, applied progressively, with the moped upright for the hardest braking.
• Make yourself visible from the front, back and sides: dipped headlight, bright or fluorescent kit by day, reflective kit at night.
• Look behind and to both sides before manoeuvring, using mirrors and a shoulder check.
• Drain covers, painted lines, diesel and gravel are far more dangerous on two small wheels.

Before every ride

1. Check tyres for damage, tread and correct pressure.
2. Test both brakes and check the throttle springs back when released.
3. Check lights, indicators, horn and mirrors work and are clean.
4. Put on a fastened, well-fitting helmet with a clean visor, plus gloves, boots and a protective jacket.
5. Make sure L plates are fitted front and rear if you are a learner.

Road position and being seen

Do not hug the kerb. Riding a little way out keeps you clear of drains, potholes and debris, makes you easier to see, and stops drivers squeezing past too closely. Move out slightly from parked cars too, so an opening door or a pedestrian stepping out does not catch you.

Because a moped is slow, drivers may misjudge your speed and pull out or overtake late. Keep checking your mirrors, especially before slowing, turning or moving around obstructions, and take a quick look over your shoulder before any change of position.

Hazards that catch new riders out

Car drivers often struggle to see two-wheelers at junctions, so ride as if they have not seen you until you are sure they have.

• Vehicles emerging from side roads or driveways: cover the brakes and be ready to stop.
• Drivers turning right across your path from the opposite direction.
• Car doors opening and pedestrians stepping out between parked cars.
• Large vehicles turning left, which can cut across you: never ride up their inside.
• Wind and turbulence from lorries and buses passing you.
• Wet painted lines, drain covers and spilt diesel, especially at roundabouts.

Common mistakes

• Grabbing one brake hard. Use both, smoothly and progressively.
• Riding in the gutter. Take a sensible position away from the kerb.
• Skipping the shoulder check. Mirrors do not show everything.
• Riding up the inside of a lorry or bus at a junction. Hang back.
• Braking or turning sharply on wet painted lines or covers.

Test yourself: Riding a moped safely

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