Motorcyclists should always apply both brakes smoothly at the same time. This ensures safer, more efficient stopping. Do not apply the brakes in a sudden, jerky manner.

If the motorcycle begins to wobble, do not accelerate. Maintain a firm grip on the handlebars and slow down steadily until it is safe to stop.

If these steps are not followed correctly, the motorcycle will most likely not start. Once the engine starts, a motorcyclist should change to first gear keeping feet on the ground. Apply the throttle slightly, releasing the clutch slowly as the motorcycle begins to move forward. Move feet to the footrests, continue to release the clutch, and accelerate as needed to drive forward. Shift to second gear using the clutch and throttle appropriately when the motorcycle reaches the correct speed.

Even with protective headgear, motorcyclists can be distracted and potentially hurt by debris or flying objects. Be prepared and do not panic. Panic can cause motorcyclists to make potentially fatal driving errors. Maintain a firm grip on the handlebars, drive until there is a safe place to pull over and stop, then assess any damage.

Mirrors give a strong general idea of the situation on the road, but they do not provide an image of the road that is 100% accurate. All vehicles, including motorcycles, have blind spots, so it is important to always perform a shoulder check before changing lanes.

It is important to maintain proper posture on the motorcycle in order to steer properly and maintain balance and speed. Low placement of the wrists ensures speed is not increased mistakenly; it also enables the rider to reach the front brake lever more effectively.

Full-faced helmets offer the best protection. A wide variety of sizes and styles are available for full-faced helmets. It is advisable to pick helmets with bright colours and reflective strips or patches.

Passengers should also be instructed to keep their feet on the footrests, to lean when the driver leans, to refrain from the sudden movement, and to avoid talking to the driver.

Railway crossings are potentially hazardous due to the fact that trains travel much faster than they seem, and cannot stop quickly. It can take 2 km or more for a train to stop even when brakes are fully applied. Never depend on a train to be able to stop on time to avoid you, and drive on only once the train has passed. Other hazards at railway crossings may include having to stop for other vehicles, and the loss of traction which can occur because train tracks are slippery at all times, and more so when they are wet.

One should never secure the cargo to the back of the seat since this changes the weight and balance of the motorcycle by changing the centre of gravity.