The sun is out, and for motorcycle enthusiasts, that means one thing – the time is ripe for long leisurely rides. Dawes Senior Motor Underwriter, Russell Scheuber, shares his top four tips to keep riders and their prized bikes safe.

1. Stay on top of maintenance 

Russell says that to ensure riders can experience an enjoyable and safe ride, staying on top of bike maintenance is vital.

"By regularly cleaning and checking the bike to make sure it's in good condition and the tyres are properly inflated, riders will not only be able to have a good time when they're out and about but make sure that they actually get home again."

2. Secure bikes properly 

While a pit stop for lunch or coffee often features in a long ride, having a bike damaged or stolen during that time isn't part of the plan. Russel says that when stopping for a break, riders should be aware of their surroundings and park their bike within sight, but not where it could get hit by cars or other bikes.

And – while it may seem obvious – riders should never leave the keys in the ignition, something Russel says happens more often than you'd think.

"It doesn't take long to steal a bike, and no matter where you are, there could be somebody around that might think they want it more than your client does."

3. Think security when it comes to gear and accessories

Just as it's important to secure a bike if stopping for lunch, it's also important for riders to ensure any gear and accessories are also secure to avoid theft. Russel advises that helmets, jackets and other belongings should be locked in a luggage or storage compartment on the bike (if possible) or taken with the rider.

4. Ride to the weather and road conditions and the driver's ability

Russel's final tip is for riders to respect the weather and road conditions and adjust their riding to suit. So, riders should make sure to slow down in the wet and adjust their riding when gravel or debris is on the road. Knowing their limitations as a rider is also important, he adds.

"Groups often comprise riders of different abilities and experience and trying to keep up with more experienced riders can potentially be a safety issue for beginner riders." He adds that riding to the driver's ability extends to carrying passengers, as the additional weight can affect the balance of the bike.

Comprehensive motorcycle insurance from Dawes 

While Dawes Motorcycle Insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) covers most motorcycle types, if you're looking to cover something a bit different, Dawes specialises in arranging insurance for recreational, high-performance and classic motorcycles.

Dawes' comprehensive motorcycle insurance includes cover for:

• accidental or malicious damage (including windscreen glass),
• storm, hail, flood or fire,
• theft or attempted theft,
• your client’s legal liability for damage to property of other people following an accident involving your client’s motorcycle,
• new for old replacement on bikes up to 36 months old if total loss,
• recovery and towing,
• emergency accommodation and travel expenses,
• replacement of locks and keys that are stolen,
• emergency repairs,
• personal property and riding apparel,
• hire vehicle after theft.

While group or charity rides are considered a part of routine motorcycle use, in a race, rally, time trial, or used on a racetrack or closed course in any capacity whatsoever is not covered.

First-class insurance with Dawes

With Dawes, your client's prestige, classic and exotic cars and motorcycles are always in expert hands. Visit our website or call us at 1300 188 299 to learn more about our first-class insurance for first-class vehicles.

Dawes Underwriting Australia Pty Ltd t/as Dawes Motor Insurance (ABN 18 050 289 506, AR No.342982) (Dawes) is an Authorised Representative of SGUAS Pty Limited (ABN 15 096 726 895, AFSL 234437) (SGUAS) and acts for the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited (ABN 15 000 122 850, AFSL 234708) (Allianz). Consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination available by contacting Dawes on 1300 188 288 or visiting www.dawes.com.au, before deciding if it is right for you.