The evenings are getting lighter, the mornings a bit brighter, and there’s that unmistakable feeling that riding weather is on its way back.
That’s right – the season when many of us start thinking seriously about getting back on the bike.
Now, for the die-hard riders among us there’s no such thing as a “riding season”. They’re out there in all weathers. But for plenty of us in the riding tribe, scooters, mopeds and smaller bikes spend the colder months tucked away waiting for better days.
And when those better days arrive, the temptation is simple – grab the helmet and get straight back in the saddle.
But before we do, it’s worth taking a moment to make sure both the bike and the rider are ready for the road.
Bike sorted – what about us?
Last week we talked about checking the bike itself using the POWDERS checklist to make sure everything is in good working order.
If that’s done – great. But now comes the next question:
Are we ready to ride?
The legal bits
If the bike’s been sitting for a while, it’s easy for things like tax, insurance or MOT to slip our minds. Before heading out, it’s worth checking everything is still valid. Nobody wants the season’s first ride to end with a penalty.
The same goes for CBT certificates. If we’re riding on L-plates, remember a CBT only lasts two years. It’s surprisingly easy to forget when it was taken, so it’s worth double-checking the expiry date.
Fit to ride
Riding takes more out of us than we sometimes realise. Balance, concentration, vision and quick reactions all matter on two wheels.
If we haven’t ridden much for a while, it’s worth asking ourselves honestly – are we ready for it physically?
A bit of exercise to build core strength and flexibility can make a big difference to comfort and control. And if it’s been a while since we checked our eyesight, a quick visit to the optician isn’t a bad shout either. Spotting hazards early is one of the best safety tools we’ve got.
A quick skills refresher
If it’s been months since we last rode, a short refresher course can be a great confidence booster.
Delivered by experienced trainers, these sessions cover things like road positioning, handling, traffic awareness and riding techniques. Even seasoned riders often pick up useful tips.
A half-day course usually costs £150–£250, with full-day training around £200–£400 – a worthwhile investment in our safety and confidence.
Start steady
However experienced we are, returning after a break is different from riding regularly.
Plan the first ride back as something short and relaxed – good weather, light traffic and familiar roads. Give yourself time to get the feel for the bike again before planning longer rides.
Confidence and smooth control come back quickly – but there’s no need to rush it.
One last check
If a few months have passed since we last rode, it’s also worth thinking about whether anything else has changed – for example new medications that might affect concentration or reactions.
It’s always better to check than assume
Now the bike’s ready, we’re ready, and the roads are calling.
Time to get out there and enjoy the ride.