The Motorcycling Community

The majority of today’s riders in the motorcycling community are mature, safety-conscious individuals. Many have taken a motorcycle safety course, and ride with due regard for their safety, their passenger’s safety, and with respect for those with whom they share the road. Further, many riders have taken advanced riding courses to better protect and equip themselves for the pleasures of riding.

The members of your local law enforcement community encourage you to follow the rules of the road, and become an ambassador for the motorcycling community.

Pre-Ride Check List

Am I mentally prepared to ride today?

Do I have all my safety gear with me?

• Department of Transportation approved helmet
• glasses
• jacket
• gloves
• riding pants
• riding boots
• ear plugs

Do I have all the necessary documents for my bike?

• Driver’s License
• Permit
• Registration
• Insurance
• Safety Inspection Checklist & Sticker

Mechanical Inspection

• Tires

     - pressure
     - cracks
     - cuts
     - foreign objects

• Oil Level
• Brakes
• Mirrors
• Horn
• Muffler
• All lights - especially brake lights (foot and hand)
• License Plate - clean and illuminated with a valid registration tag
• Valid Safety Inspection - mounted on the lower left fork leg
• Kill Switch - always test and use this switch
• Look for obvious problems and items that require repair before riding

Riding Tips

• Take the Canada Council Motorcycle Safety Course.
• Practice what you’ve been taught.
• Become an ambassador for your motorcycling passion.
• Ride with respect for yourself and others. You will be judged by your riding actions.
• Claim your lane - ride in a position that will allow all motorists (cars, trucks and buses) to see you.
• Wear bright gear/helmet. Ultimately, you want to see and be seen.
• Always shoulder check, even if you are just pulling away from a gas bar.
• Use both electronic and hand signals.
• Ride the posted speed limit (50 km/h maximum in all cities, towns and villages).
• Never ride after consuming alcohol or drugs.
• Adjust your speed for road and weather conditions (ie. fog, gravel, pot holes, etc.).
• Beware of night time riding, particularly small animals that may be on the road.
• Never loan your bike (in particular to riders without a license or those who are inexperienced with your ride, etc.).
• Be prepared for the unexpected, ride both within your limits and the speed limit.
• Join a recognized riding club. It’s a great way to meet new people and share information.
• When riding with others, ride in a staggered formation.
• Make frequent pit stops to keep yourself alert and rested.

Most Common Complaints received by Police about Motorcyclists:

• Speeding
• Loud exhaust pipes
• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Unsafe lane changes
• Not using signals
• Riding on one wheel
• Racing and revving the engine
• Wearing illegal helmets
• Obscuring their license plates
• Using bikes that are unfit for the road, including:

  - bald tires
  - no mirrors
  - no mufflers
  - burnt out or missing lights

Please ensure you do not contribute to these complaints. Thank you for motorcycling responsibly.