Queensland Motorcycle Riders' Guide - Department of Transport and Main Roads - Great state. Great opportunity.
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Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide Great state. Great opportunity.
Acknowledgements Contents
We would like to acknowledge the Good Gear Guide for Motorcycle Introduction 1
& Scooter Riders (de Rome, 2009) as a source contributing to the
development of the Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide. Section 1. Licensing in Queensland 1
The Queensland Government has adapted both the New
South Wales and Tasmanian Motorcycle Riders’ Handbooks to Section 2. Motorcycle registration 5
Queensland requirements.
Section 3. Rules for riders 6
We would also like to acknowledge the input to this guide from:
• the Department of Transport, Western Australia Section 4. Rider protection 10
• the New Zealand Transport Agency
Section 5. Safe riding 14
• VicRoads.
Section 6. Returning riders 30
Many organisations and groups have contributed to the
development of the Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide and their
assistance is acknowledged and greatly appreciated.
Section 7. Motorcycle roadworthiness 32
The guide is owned and maintained by the Department of Transport Section 8. Routine motorcycle maintenance 33
and Main Roads. Any requests to reproduce information or
diagrams contained in the Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide Section 9. Modifying your motorcycle 34
must be made in writing to Transport and Main Roads.
The guide incorporates information to help motorcyclists ride Section 10. Makes and models 36
safely and responsibly in Queensland.
Section 11. Classic and vintage motorcycles 37
The guide does not contain all of the road rules outlined under
Queensland legislation.
Section 12. Imports and custom motorcycles 38
For the latest and comprehensive list of the road rules please refer
to the department’s website www.tmr.qld.gov.au. Section 13. Mopeds and scooters 38
While every effort is made to ensure that the information is
Section 14. Sidecars and trikes 39
accurate and conforms to Queensland legislation, this publication
must not be taken as a legal interpretation of the legislation.
Section 15. Children’s safety 39
All enquiries regarding this publication should be directed to 13 23 80
(during business hours – higher rates apply for mobile phones). Section 16. Off-road riding 40
Information is accurate as at 1 December 2013 (Version 4).
Section 17. Offences and penalties 40
Section 18. Glossary 42
Section 19. Safe riding tips 43
Reference: de Rome, L. (2009). Good Gear Guide for Motorcycle and
Scooter Riders.
In essence, you are free to copy, communicate and adapt
this Queensland Motorcycle Riders Guide, as long as you attribute
the work to the State of Queensland (Department of Transport
and Main Roads).
To view a copy of this licence,
visit www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/deed.en
i Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014
Introduction 1: Licensing in Queensland
The Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide has been developed to In Queensland there are two motorcycle classes:
provide a comprehensive guide to motorcycle riding in Queensland. • Class RE (restricted to riding learner approved motorcycles only)
The guide contains information on getting a motorcycle licence, • Class R
registration and road rules, and provides some useful tips on how to
become a safer rider. Applying for a class RE licence
If you are considering becoming a learner rider you should read the To apply for a class RE motorcycle learner licence you must:
guide before you apply for a motorcycle learner licence. • have held a provisional (P1 or P2) or open licence of another
The guide contains information about the road rules, safe riding class, for a minimum period of 12 months (during the five
techniques, and how to cope with hazards. Understanding this years before applying for a class RE learner licence)
information will help you pass the motorcycle knowledge test. • successfully complete a knowledge test and pay the test fee
For continuing riders, the guide can help you understand more • show suitable evidence of your identity and if required,
about road safety and low-risk riding and keep you up to date with Queensland residency documents.
new rules and initiatives. If your application is successful you will be issued with a class RE
If you are considering a return to riding you should also read the learner licence. While riding on this licence you must display a yellow
guide as a lot may have changed since you last rode a motorcycle. L plate and be supervised by a person who has held a class RE or
class R open licence for at least 12 months.
The guide should be read in conjunction with the department’s
Your keys to driving in Queensland (Your Keys) publication. Your To graduate from the class RE learner licence you will be required
Keys contains important information about the Queensland to successfully complete a Q-Ride competency based training
licensing system, road rules and road safety for everyone who uses and assessment course. If you live outside a 100km radius of
the road, regardless of their level of experience. a Q-Ride Registered Service Provider, you will also have the option
of completing a Q-SAFE practical riding test.
Copies of Your Keys can be purchased from any departmental
Customer Service Centre or selected newsagents. Q-Ride: a competency based training and assessment program
administered by Q-Ride Registered Service Providers.
Both the Riders’ Guide and Your Keys can be downloaded from the
Transport and Main Roads website at no cost. Under this option there is no minimum learner licence period that
you must complete before enrolling in a Q-Ride course. During the
The Queensland Government is committed to supporting
Q-Ride course you will be required to demonstrate your competency
motorcycling as an important part of the transport system and
in riding an approved motorcycle under the Learner Approved
is working towards providing a safe riding environment.
Motorcycle (LAM) scheme.
Our aim is to make motorcycling a safe and enjoyable experience
for those who choose to ride. Q-SAFE: a practical riding test administered through Transport and
Main Roads.
In return, motorcycle riders must also recognise their
responsibilities – to ride sensibly and safely within the law, to be To be eligible to complete a Q-SAFE practical riding test, you
considerate of other road users and to set an example for others. must live outside a 100km radius of a Q-Ride Registered Service
Provider. You can check your eligibility by looking at the list
Motorcycling can be fun, economical and safe, but we have to recognise of Registered Service Providers on the department’s website, or by
that motorcycle riders are amongst our most vulnerable road users. calling 13 23 80.
As a motorcycle rider you are less protected than a car driver and
If you are eligible to complete a Q-SAFE practical riding test, you are
you have a greater chance of being killed or injured in a crash.
required to hold your learner licence for a minimum period of six
You can become a safer rider by getting the necessary skills and months (in which time you can undertake supervised practice).
understanding the road environment. You always need to be alert and
After this period you can book a Q-SAFE practical riding test
defensive and accept that you are responsible for your safety on the road.
through Transport and Main Roads on 13 23 80 (involves paying a
Enjoy your riding, but above all, ride to survive. test fee). You will be required to successfully complete a practical
riding test on an approved motorcycle under the LAM scheme.
On successful completion of either a Q-Ride training and
assessment course or a Q-SAFE practical riding test you will
graduate from your learner licence and will be issued with a
class RE provisional (P1 or P2) or open motorcycle licence.
Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014 1
Learning to ride Approved motorcycles for class RE
When learning to ride a motorcycle it’s a good idea to start on very The LAM scheme applies restrictions based on the overall
quiet streets that you know well. Start off riding only in daylight performance capability of a motorcycle.
and only ride at night once you gain experience.
A learner approved motorcycle is a production motorcycle that is
Whether you’re just starting out, you’ve been riding for years, or fitted with an electric motor, or has an internal combustion engine
you’re thinking about coming back to riding, you need up-to-date with a capability of not more than 660mL, and has a power-to-
motorcycle handling skills to help you survive on the road. weight ratio that does not exceed 150kW/t.
If you are considering returning to ride, think about doing a refresher Almost all motorcycles 250 mL and under, are LAM scheme
training program. Accredited rider training providers offer tailored
approved and are not listed individually. However, there are six
programs to practice your riding skills prior to heading out on the road.
250 mL motorcycles that have been deemed unsuitable for class RE
Note: The type (i.e. provisional P1, P2 or open) of motorcycle licence riders and as a result, class RE licence holders are prohibited from
that you are issued will be determined by the type of licence you riding them.
currently hold. For example, if you hold a class C P1 type licence you These motorcycles are:
will be issued with a class RE P1 type motorcycle licence.
Suzuki RGV250
You will be required to comply with the restrictions that are associated Kawasaki KR250 (KR-1 and KR1s models)
with that particular type of licence appropriate for a motorcycle Honda NSR250
(see section 3: Rules for riders).
Yamaha TZR250
Aprila RS250
There are also a number of motorcycles over 250 mL and under
660 mL that are LAM scheme approved.
To help you identify what you can legally ride, a list of the
motorcycles between 251 mL and under 660 mL is available
on the department’s website. The list is regularly reviewed.
Modifying your motorcycle
If you modify your LAM scheme motorcycle you must notify Transport
and Main Roads. Your motorcycle may no longer comply with the LAM
scheme criteria and your registration details will need to reflect this.
For further information see section 9.
Applying for a Class R Licence
A class R motorcycle licence authorises you to ride any registered
motorcycle (i.e. any capacity or power output) on Queensland roads.
Before applying for a class R licence you must have held a class
RE licence for a minimum period of 12 months. After this period you
are automatically authorised to commence learning to ride a class
R motorcycle (i.e. a motorcycle that is not LAM scheme approved).
While riding on the class R motorcycle you must display a yellow
Learner Approved Motorcycle (LAM) scheme L plate and be supervised by a person who has held a class R
open licence for at least 12 months.
Queensland has adopted the LAM scheme for people who hold
After the 12 month RE licence period you can apply for a class
a class RE motorcycle licence.
R licence. To be eligible for this licence you must successfully
What kind of motorcycle can you ride when you get your class complete another Q-Ride course or pass another Q-SAFE practical
RE motorcycle licence? riding test on a motorcycle that is not LAM scheme approved.
A Queensland class RE motorcycle licence authorises you to ride Note – if you live within a 100km radius of a Registered Service
an approved motorcycle under the LAM scheme. If you intend to only Provider, you will be required to attend Q-Ride.
ride LAM scheme motorcycles you can choose to remain on a class
As a guide, if the motorcycle exceeds 250 mL and does not appear
RE licence indefinitely. However, if you wish to ride a motorcycle that
on the LAM list then it is suitable to use to obtain your class R
is not LAM scheme approved, you will be required
licence. If your application is successful you will be issued with
to obtain a class R licence.
a class R provisional (P1 or P2) or open motorcycle licence.
2 Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014
More about Q-Ride Registered Q-Ride service providers
Q-Ride is a competency-based training and assessment program Q-Ride Registered Service Providers provide Q-Ride training to
that aims to ensure participants reach a demonstrated level of skill learner riders. These providers set their own fees and charges
and proficiency as a motorcycle rider. so it is recommended that you contact different providers to make
a choice based on preferred location, fees and charges.
Q-Ride focuses on improving the quality of pre-licence rider
training, with the aim of boosting education and awareness,
and enhancing road safety.
More about Q-SAFE
Q-Ride training and assessment is available from Q-Ride Registered Q-SAFE is a practical riding test designed to evaluate a person’s
Service Providers. ability to ride safely and correctly, in diferent road situations.
You can undertake a Q-SAFE practical riding test if you live outside
Six steps to Q-Ride
a 100km radius of a Q-Ride Registered Service Provider and you
1. Have the correct licence have held your class RE learner licence for six months.
To participate in Q-Ride training and assessment, as a Before the test starts
minimum you must hold a current class RE motorcycle
The test will start with the pre-ride check followed by the practical
learner licence.
riding test.
2. Choose
The pre-ride check will involve the riding examiner asking you to locate
Choose a Q-Ride Registered Service Provider to provide your
and explain the operation of any four of the following: the fuel reserve,
Q-Ride training and assessment.
choke, kill switch, side stand, horn and headlight/dip switch.
3. Enrol
It is up to you to bring an approved, registered and roadworthy
Contact your preferred service provider to enrol. The service
motorcycle to the test.
provider will ask you to provide some information about your
licence history to determine which class of motorcycle you are If your motorcycle is not roadworthy you will not be able to undertake
eligible to learn to ride. For example, if you want to learn to the test and you may forfeit your test fee.
ride a class R motorcycle, you may need to know the date on
The examiner will talk to you about the test and ask you to
which your class RE licence was first issued. You can obtain
undertake a series of riding tasks throughout the assessment. You
this information by completing a Driver’s Record Information
will be given clear directions by radio (where circumstances permit)
Request form (F2121) and presenting it at any Transport and
in ample time.
Main Roads Customer Service Centre. You must pay a fee when
you lodge the request. The examiner will follow and assess you during the riding test.
4. Learn to ride
Q-Ride training and assessment consists of a number What to wear
of competencies that your trainer will take you through. Whether you undertake Q-Ride competency based training and
When learning to ride a motorcycle you must display a yellow assessment or a Q-SAFE practical riding test it is recommended
L-plate and carry your class RE learner licence. Your licence that you wear the following clothing:
must be shown to a police officer or any other authorised • pants made from heavy material that cover your legs
person if you are asked to do so. • long sleeved shirt or jacket made from heavy material
• gloves providing appropriate protection
5. Competency declaration • fully enclosed shoes or boots
When you have demonstrated you are competent in all • eye protection.
of the Q-Ride competencies, the Q-Ride registered service
You must always wear an approved motorcycle helmet that
provider will issue you with a competency declaration
complies with Australian Standard AS 1698 (1988), or AS/NZS 1698
(Q-Ride Certificate).
Getting your licence
Before you can ride unsupervised on your motorcycle, you
must take your current licence and Q-Ride Certificate to a
Transport and Main Roads Customer Service Centre to apply
for your motorcycle licence. You must be eligible for the
licence you are applying for.
Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014 3
Process for getting a motorcycle licence
To get a Queensland motorcycle licence you must meet the relevant eligibility criteria and successfully complete various stages of training
and testing. The following table shows the requirements to progress through the motorcycle rider licensing system.
• Hold a provisional (P1, P2) or open licence of another class for at least 12 months
Knowledge test in the last five years.
• Pay the knowledge test fee.
• Pass the knowledge test.
Motorcycle • Complete the Driver Licence Application/Renewal form (F3000).
learner licence • Show suitable evidence of identity and Queensland residency documents.
• Declare that you are medically fit to learn to drive the class of motorcycle.
• Class RE – complete Q-Ride competency based training and assessment to obtain
Q-Ride competency based a Q-Ride Certificate, or if you live outside a 100km radius of a Q-Ride Registered Service
training and assessment Provider, and hold a learner licence for at least six months, undertake a Q-SAFE practical
riding test.
or
• Class R – you must hold your class RE licence for at least 12 months in the past five
Q-SAFE practical years, and either complete a Q-Ride competency based training and assessment to
riding test obtain a Q-Ride Certificate, or if you live outside a 100km radius of a Q-Ride Registered
Service Provider, undertake a Q-SAFE practical riding test.
P1 Provisional
licence
Once you have successfully completed the Q-Ride competency based training
P2 Provisional
and assessment or a Q-SAFE practical riding test you will be eligible to hold a
licence
motorcycle licence of the same type as your car licence (P1, P2 or open).
Open licence
Evidence of identity requirements Interstate licences
When applying for, or renewing a Queensland licence you must To apply for a Queensland motorcycle licence of the same class
show an existing Queensland driver licence (current or expired less as your interstate licence you will need to:
than two years) or show three ‘evidence of identity’ documents • show your interstate licence
(see section 2). • show your ‘evidence of identity’ and Queensland residency
At least one document must show your signature. All documents documents
must be current unless otherwise stated. Only original documents • surrender your interstate licence.
can be accepted. You may also be required to:
• show evidence that you are medically fit to ride safely
If your current Queensland residential address is not stated on any
• pay the licence fee.
of these documents, you must show a document with evidence
If you have a current interstate motorcycle licence but do not have
of your Queensland residential address.
a car licence you will still be able to transfer to a Queensland
For further information on what you have to provide to meet the motorcycle licence (as long as you meet the ‘evidence of identity’
evidence of identity requirements, go to the Transport and Main and eligibility requirements).
Roads website www.tmr.qld.gov.au.
4 Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014
2: Motorcycle registration
Motorcycles ridden on Queensland roads must be registered. This Note: The registered operator of an interstate motorcycle is
enables the Department of Transport and Main Roads to identify responsible for contacting the relevant interstate authority for any
and manage registered operators, and support the safety and refund and cancellation requirements.
security of Queensland’s road transport.
Finally, you need to go to a Transport and Main Roads Customer
Registration fees provide essential funding for the development Service Centre to apply for registration.
and maintenance of our road network.
When you arrive at the Transport and Main Roads Customer Service
Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance is included with Centre, you can make the process of registration quicker and easier
registration. It indemnifies motorcycle owners and riders who are if you have the following:
legally liable for personal injury to any other party in the event of • a completed Vehicle Registration Application form (F3518)
a motor vehicle crash. Registration also allows common safety • a CTP insurance certificate from a licensed insurer
standards to be enforced and provides an efficient system to
• original copy of the current Queensland safety certificate
prevent the re-registration of stolen vehicles.
• evidence of the motorcycle’s origin: old registration papers
Registration is cheaper if the motorcycle has only one seat (for the in your name or a purchase receipt
rider) and one set of footrests (for the rider), as the CTP insurance • evidence of vehicle’s garage address: current Queensland
is less expensive. driver licence, property rates notice, gas, phone or
electricity bill or bank statement (must be accompanied by
If you modify your motorcycle from a two seat to a one seat you will
corresponding debit/credit cards) issued within the last
need to have a modification plate fitted to your motorcycle by an
six months
approved person. You will need to present the modified motorcycle
• evidence of personal identification, such as a current
to the department to obtain a reduction in your registration fees.
Queensland driver licence. Refer to the Evidence of Identity
If your motorcycle is later changed back to two seats another Information Sheet (F4362) on the department’s website
modification plate must be fitted. • evidence of organisation identification: certificate of
incorporation, business registration and so on. To register
For more information on modifications see section 9.
a motorcycle in a business’ name, the proprietor must also
bring their Queensland driver licence as identification
How to register a motorcycle • a means of paying the registration fees and costs.
To register an unregistered motorcycle, you need to go to a Note: Organisation representatives must also bring proof that
departmental Customer Service Centre. If you live in a rural area, they are acting on behalf of the organisation and their own
you can take it to a Queensland Government Agency Program personal identification, such as their Queensland driver licence.
(QGAP) office, your local police station or a Magistrates Court. If the proprietor is an organisation, evidence of identity of the
organisation is required.
Before you can move your motorcycle from its place of purchase or
from where it is currently garaged, you must:
If you have not paid your registration fees, DO NOT ride
• complete a Vehicle Registration Application form (F3518).
your motorcycle after the registration has expired. Your
This form is available at your local Transport and Main Roads
Customer Service Centre and on the department’s website
motorcycle will be unregistered and you may be fined
and in the event of a crash you may be left uninsured.
• organise a CTP insurance certificate for the motorcycle
through a licensed insurer
• if your motorcycle was registered interstate or if the Renewing your motorcycle registration
registration has expired, remove the plates and complete
Before your registration expires, a renewal notice will be sent to
the steps above.
you in the mail. If you don’t receive your renewal notice you can,
Prior to obtaining registration at Transport and Main Roads, you phone Transport and Main Roads on 13 23 80.
must take your motorcycle directly to an approved inspection
When you receive your renewal notice you should pay your renewal
station to obtain a Queensland safety certificate. You must carry
before the expiry date. If your registration has expired you must not
the completed form F3518 and your CTP certificate with you to
ride your motorcycle. You could be fined for using an unregistered and
legally take your unregistered motorcycle to an inspection station. uninsured vehicle. If you are involved in a crash you may not be insured.
If you are unable to take the motorcycle directly from the approved If you do not renew your registration before the due date you must:
inspection station to a Customer Service Centre, you will need an • not ride your motorcycle if the registration has expired. Your
unregistered vehicle permit (for example, when a motorcycle needs registration expires at midnight on the date of expiry
additional work to pass the safety certificate that cannot be done • renew your registration, including CTP insurance, within
at the approved inspection station). two months of the expiry, or you will have to reregister the
motorcycle. This means you will have to buy a new number
If your motorcycle was registered interstate and registration is still
plate, obtain a safety certificate and buy CTP insurance.
current, simply complete the vehicle registration application form,
and nominate your CTP insurer. When registration fees are paid,
this will include the CTP premium.
Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014 5
Visible to 20m
Number plate The number plate must also be illuminated so that it is clearly
Number plate
visible at night.
The number plate fitted to the motorcycle must be:
45˚
• issued by Transport and Main Roads
• mounted at the rear of the motorcycle 45˚
• in an upright position parallel to the motorcycle’s axle Number plate
• no more than 1.3 metres above ground level Visible to 20m visible to 20m
• able to be seen and read clearly from anywhere within a 45
degree arc of the motorcycle’s centreline, at a distance of 20 Number plate 45˚
metres (see diagrams). That means it cannot be hidden by
anything (such as a registration label holder) It is an offence to:
45˚
• clearly readable – clean and in good condition • alter a number plate in any way
• free of any characteristics that would prevent the detection • attach a number plate to any vehicle other than the one to
of traffic offences which it is registered
Number plate
• returned to Transport and Main Roads if you do not intend to • use a numbervisible
platetocover
20m that is not flat, clear, clean and untinted
renew your registration. • have an obscured number plate.
45˚
3: Rules for riders
You must adhere to the same rules as other road users, so make sure that you keep up-to-date with the different road rules, signs and
markings by reading the latest edition of Your Keys to Driving in Queensland.
Special rules for learner motorcycle licence holders
Blood/Breath You must have a zero blood/breath alcohol concentration (BAC) when you are learning to ride, regardless
alcohol concentration of the type of licence you hold.
Display an L-plate You must clearly show a yellow L-plate on the rear of the motorcycle you are riding or on the back of a vest worn
while riding. The plate must not be hidden or covered.
Motorcycles If you have a class RE learner licence you must only ride LAM scheme motorcycles. This restriction does not
apply if you’re learning to ride a class R motorcycle.
Passengers You are not permitted to carry your supervising instructor or any other pillion passenger on your motorcycle
when you are learning to ride. However, your supervisor is permitted to sit in a sidecar attached to the
motorcycle, on another motorcycle or in another motor vehicle when you are being directed by them.
Licence carriage You must carry your learner licence with you at all times when you are riding.
Ride supervised You must ride supervised at all times. A supervisor must be a person who has held a class RE or class R open
licence for at least 12 months.
Special rules for probationary and restricted motorcycle licence holders
Probationary licence If you were disqualified from holding or obtaining a licence by a court and you have now served the period
of disqualification you will be issued with a probationary licence.
If you held a P1 or P2 licence before you were disqualified, you must continue to display the appropriately
coloured P plate on your motorcycle if you are riding on a P1 or P2 probationary licence.
Conditions for You must:
probationary licence • carry your licence at all times when riding
holders • have a zero blood/breath alcohol concentration (BAC) when riding.
You may:
• ride and/or drive any class of vehicle shown on your licence
• learn to ride a motorcycle as long as you are supervised by someone who holds an open licence for that
class of motorcycle and has held their licence for at least 12 months.
Restricted licence If you are convicted and disqualified for drink driving (regardless of whether you were riding a motorcycle or
driving another type of vehicle) but need a licence to earn your living, you may ask the court that convicts you to
grant you a restricted licence, commonly known as a ‘work’ licence. You must apply to the court for this licence.
Conditions for You must hold the restricted licence for the same period as the disqualification period imposed by the court.
restricted licences You may only ride/drive the class of vehicle shown on the licence and drive the vehicle in accordance with
conditions stated on the court order. You may also be required to hold a probationary licence for a required
period of time before being eligible for a provisional or open licence.
6 Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014Special rules for provisional motorcycle licence holders
Blood/breath
You must have a zero blood/breath alcohol concentration (BAC) when riding on a provisional licence.
alcohol concentration
Display a P-plate If you hold a provisional licence, you must clearly show a P plate (P1 red ‘P’ on a white square or P2 green ‘P’
on a white square) on the rear of the motorcycle you are riding or on the back of a vest worn while riding.
The plate must not be hidden or covered.
Motorcycles If you have a class RE licence, you must only ride LAM scheme motorcycles.
Passengers Before you carry a pillion passenger you must have held your motorcycle licence, for the class of motorcycle
you are riding (class RE or class R) for at least 12 months.
Licence carriage You must carry your licence with you at all times when riding.
Demerit points If you hold a provisional licence and get four or more demerit points in a continuous 12 month period, you will
be sent an ‘Accumulation of Demerit Points – Notice to Choose’ requiring you to choose between a period of
suspension or a 12 month good driving behaviour period. (refer to Offences and Penalties section 17).
Special rules for open motorcycle licence holders
Blood/breath In your first 12 months of holding a class RE licence you must have a zero blood/breath alcohol concentration
alcohol concentration (BAC) when you are riding regardless of how long you have held your open licence.
After 12 months on a class RE licence, if you hold an open licence your blood/breath alcohol concentration
(BAC) must be less than 0.05.
Motorcycles If you have a class RE licence you must only ride LAM scheme motorcycles.
Passengers Before you carry a pillion passenger you must have held your motorcycle licence, for the class of motorcycle
you are riding (class RE or class R) for at least 12 months.
Demerit points If you hold an open licence and get 12 or more demerit points in a three year period, you will be sent an
‘Accumulation of Demerit Points – Notice to Choose’ requiring you to choose between a period of suspension
or a 12 month good driving behaviour period (refer to Offences and Penalties section 17).
General rules for motorcycle riders Keeping left
When riding on your motorcycle: Generally when a vehicle travels on a single lane road the vehicle
must drive as near as practicable to the far left side of the road.
• you and any pillion or sidecar passenger must each wear
However, due to the importance of lane positioning for rider safety,
a correctly fitted, securely fastened and approved helmet
this rule does not apply to motorcycles and they can legally use any
(complies with Australian Standard AS 1698)
part of the lane.
• there must be an approved seat and adequate/secure footrests
(separate from any rider’s footrests) for any pillion passenger Riding at night
• you and any pillion passenger must sit astride the seat and Riding at night, particularly on country roads, is considerably more
face forwards dangerous for motorcyclists. The risks of you hitting an animal,
• any pillion passenger must have their feet on the footrests misjudging a curve or not seeing a problem on the road surface
are greatly increased at night. At night, visibility is lower than
• only one pillion passenger can be on a motorcycle during the day time and other road users may have trouble seeing
• any pillion passenger must be eight years of age or older a headlight or tail light because of other lights. It is also more
difficult for other road users to judge the distance and speed of a
• you must have at least one hand on the handlebars
motorcycle, because motorcycles have a single headlight. While
• you must keep both feet on the footrests except when riding at night, you are advised to take extra care and apply safety
stopping or moving off measures such as:
• if the lane is wide enough in certain circumstances you can • ensure you can be seen on the road
share a lane with another vehicle
- check that your lights and indicators are working properly
• you may ride side-by-side with another rider within a marked - wear reflective or fluorescent clothing
lane, provided you are not more than 1.5m apart • avoid wearing dark, tinted or scratched visor/glasses
• you must not ride more than two abreast within one lane • ride further away from other traffic and be able to stop within
the distance you can see ahead
• when moving sideways within a marked lane, you must • ride more slowly at night to give you more time to read the
giveway to any other vehicles in the marked lane. road and react to any potential hazards
Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014 7• use high beam to increase your vision, except when within - if spray from vehicles makes it difficult for you to see,
200 metres of another vehicle you should drop back until you can see clearly.
• if an on-coming vehicle has not dipped its high beam, - ride with your headlights on low beam during the day to
slow down and look to the left. enhance your chances of being seen.
You must not ride at night if your motorcycle lights are not working. • High winds can cause strong gusts on entering or emerging
from under bridges, crossing an open valley and riding into
Riding in different weather conditions open country.
- High winds can cause vehicles, especially high sided
Conditions can vary and change quickly. When riding you should
ones, to veer suddenly. A slip stream may result where
be prepared for a variety of conditions on the road. Safe riding
smaller vehicles are pulled towards the larger vehicle
requires you to ride in a way that enables you to stop safely. This
during overtaking. In such situations you may need to
will vary when road, weather and light conditions are poor. These
counter high winds by using a firm grip on the handlebars
conditions include:
and considering leaning the motorcycle into the wind
• road surfaces that are affected by line markings, potholes, to compensate for the sideways force.
metal plates, gravel, oil, sand, ice, mud and water
- When riding in windy conditions keep your speed
• different times of day, bright sunlight, at night time, in fog, down as wind buffeting can affect the handling
rain and high winds of your motorcycle.
• crests or curves and when vision is limited. Pedestrians
Below are some conditions you may encounter when riding and
Always keep a look out for pedestrians and be ready to give way
hints and tips on how to manage them safely:
to them. Some of the places to look out for pedestrians are:
• Bright sunshine may cause significant dazzle. When the sun
is shining in your mirrors, adjust them to give you the best • pedestrian crossings
visibility with minimum glare. When overtaking, be aware that • intersections
other road users in front of you may have difficulty seeing
• between parked cars or behind buses
behind.
• near schools and playgrounds
• Sunrise or sunset will make it hard for you to be seen by other
road users, irrespective of whether you put the lights on and • near shopping centres and
wear brightly coloured protective gear. You must exercise
• near hotels, taverns or clubs.
extreme caution when riding at these times.
• Heat haze on open roads can hide approaching vehicles from Riders must give way to pedestrians (including people in
view. Make sure that the path is clear before you overtake wheelchairs) who are crossing:
other vehicles, especially long vehicles. • at an intersection in front of your turning vehicle
• Fog reduces visibility and your perception of speed. It also • at a pedestrian crossing (zebra crossing) or children’s crossing
encourages riders to closely follow a vehicle in front in order
• at a marked foot crossing (traffic signal controlled crossing for
to see the vehicle lights ahead. You must adjust your speed
vehicles and pedestrian lights for pedestrians) when a light
to suit the conditions and allow yourself more time to react.
facing vehicles is flashing yellow or red
Riding in fog is tiring, so watch for the signs of fatigue, and
rest if necessary. • in front of your vehicle at any time.
• Rain can significantly reduce visibility. When riding in the rain: You should never wave people across a road as there may be other
vehicles approaching.
- remember that after a long dry spell the road usually
becomes very slippery and your stopping distances will Lane splitting/filtering
be much longer. In such conditions, ride very carefully
and slow down. It can be dangerous to overtake between two vehicles travelling
side-by-side in the same direction on a multilane road, irrespective
- a film of water can build up between the tyres and the
of whether the vehicles are moving at high speed (lane splitting) or
road, known as ‘aquaplaning’. This can result in a lack
stationary or moving at low speed (lane filtering). The only exception
of control and lighter than normal steering. If you do
to this is if the vehicles travelling side-by-side are motorcycles.
aquaplane, ease the throttle off smoothly. To avoid
aquaplaning, you should reduce your speed. Riders who lane split or filter may be penalised for committing
- avoid painted arrows and road markings as they can offences such as failing to stay within a single marked lane,
be very slippery. keeping a safe distance when overtaking or overtaking to the left
of a vehicle.
- if you ride through a deep puddle you should ride slowly
in a low gear and after you are clear of the water, test that
your brakes work effectively.
8 Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014It can also be dangerous when the traffic is congested or stationary Carrying passengers and loads
(e.g. peak hour or stopped for traffic lights). The handle bar only
has to clip a car’s exterior mirror and the motorcycle rider will lose
control. Drivers can be taken by surprise, especially when moving, Before you carry a pillion passenger you must have
and can make reflex manoeuvres that result in a crash. held your motorcycle licence for at least 12 months.
Signalling Learner riders cannot carry pillion
passengers even if under instruction.
When changing direction, signal for long enough to give sufficient
warning to other drivers and pedestrians before you turn or change
lanes. You must signal for at least five seconds when moving off Motorcycle passengers
from a parked position on the side of the road. Turn your indicator
off when it is not needed. If you leave it on after you’ve made the Your motorcycle will act differently when it is carrying a load,
turn you are giving the wrong message, which could be dangerous. whether it is luggage or a pillion passenger. The motorcycle will not
accelerate or brake as quickly and it will handle differently around
Hand signals corners and over bumps.
Hand signals can improve your safety in situations where very As a rider, it is advisable that prior to riding with a pillion, you:
bright light conditions make it difficult for your motorcycle’s brake • check the motorcycle manual on how to adjust the pre-load
and indicator lights to be seen. To give a hand signal for stopping suspension to carry extra weight
or slowing, you must extend either arm at a right angle with a flat • add air to tyres to increase air pressure if required
• adjust your mirrors with you and the pillion both sitting
palm. Turning is signalled by a straight arm with flat palm pointing
on the motorcycle.
in the direction of the turn.
Remember that extra weight will require different handling.
You are stopping or slowing down: Therefore, increase your following distance behind other vehicles
and allow more time to speed up and slow down.
Pillion passengers who are not used to being on a motorcycle may
act unpredictably. You should instruct your passenger to relax, hold
onto the ‘grab rail’ or your waist and follow your lead when leaning.
If you are a pillion passenger on a motorcycle (not in a sidecar) you
must:
• sit astride the motorcycle pillion seat facing forward
• keep both feet on the footrests designed for use by the pillion
passenger
• be eight years of age or older
• wear a correctly fitted and securely fastened approved
motorcycle helmet
• not interfere with the rider’s control of the motorcycle.
Sidecar passengers
If you are a passenger being carried in a sidecar you must:
• wear a correctly fitted and securely fastened approved
You are turning left: motorcycle helmet
• remain safely seated.
The motorcycle rider must not ride with more sidecar passengers
than the sidecar is designed to carry.
Carrying an animal
An animal can be carried in a box, cage or bag attached to the rear
or side of a motorcycle as long as it does not affect the operation
of the vehicle. Animals must not be carried between a riders arms
and the handlebars.
Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014 9Loading
All loads must:
4: Rider protection
• be properly secured Protective gear
• not cause the motorcycle or combination to become unstable
• not protrude from the motorcycle or combination in a way that No matter what size or style of motorcycle you ride, from mopeds
is likely to injure or obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians, to super sports, good gear is an investment in everyday riding
or cause damage to a vehicle or anything else (including the enjoyment.
road surface).
The right gear could make the difference between a nasty fall
Towing and being towed and injuries that prevent you from ever riding again.
Towing motorcycles is not recommended due to the dangers The right gear can also enhance your riding enjoyment and
involved and because they do not have an appropriate towing performance by protecting you from the elements while riding.
point to attach a cable.
Being cold, wet or hot takes the fun out of a ride; it can also be a
However, if a motorcycle is being towed by another vehicle, with safety risk by affecting your riding performance through distraction,
a towline (chain, rope, fabric, strap or wire) the distance between fatigue and dehydration.
the two vehicles must not exceed 2.5 metres.
The basics
If the towline is longer than 2 metres, a white or brightly coloured
flag, piece of cloth, or other similar material must be attached • Cover your whole body
to the line as a warning. • Protect your joints with impact protectors
• Ensure you have high abrasion resistance and impact
Parking protectors in your most vulnerable areas
• Check the construction of seams to ensure there is more
Before pulling out from a parking spot on the than one line of stitching and at least one line of concealed
side of the road: stitching on exposed seams
• make sure you are in the correct gear • Check that all fastenings are secure and protected from
• do not allow the vehicle to roll back contact with the road or other surfaces in a crash
• check your mirrors and blind spots for • Use insulation, waterproofing and windproofing to cope
other traffic with the cold
• indicate/signal for at least five seconds • Use ventilation and light/reflective colours to cope with the heat
• ride off smoothly into a safe gap in the traffic. • Do not carry anything in your pockets that could penetrate
your body in the event of a crash e.g. keys, pens, coins
Motorcycle parking • Avoid wearing a backpack. Landing on it in a crash could
Parking rules and restrictions apply to all vehicles including cause serious spinal injuries and its contents could penetrate
motorcycles. your body
Some areas are designated motorcycle parking only. When parking Protection from injury
a motorcycle, position at least one wheel as close as possible
In a crash you are particularly vulnerable to injury. The right gear
to the kerb.
can prevent or reduce many of the most common rider injuries, and
Restrictions on where to ride almost certainly:
• prevent or reduce the severity of fractures and joint damage
Riding on footpaths
• protect you from cuts and punctures from sharp objects
You must not ride a motorcycle on a footpath except when you are
moving from a driveway or parking space to the road. • save you from having the skin and muscle stripped from your body
Note: If you are an employee of, or a contractor or a subcontractor • prevent most of the cuts, gravel rash and friction burns from
with Australia Post, you may ride a motorcycle on a footpath or sliding across the road
road reserve if:
• reduce the severity of contact burns from the engine and
• you are delivering postal articles exhaust pipes
• the motorcycle engine is not more than 125 mL
• avoid additional complications due to infections caused
• the speed of the motorcycle is not more than 10 km/h
by road dirt.
• you ride safely, taking care to avoid danger or a crash.
Bicycle lanes
• You are not allowed to ride a motorcycle
on a bicycle lane, except for 50 metres
when entering or leaving a driveway
or intersection.
10 Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014Wearing the right clothing can also: Helmet check list:
• protect you from the weather
• your helmet must be an approved helmet that complies with
• improve your comfort when riding Australian Standard AS 1698
• reduce the likelihood of a crash by improving concentration
• it must fit comfortably, not too tightly or too loosely
• reduce fatigue
• it must have the chin strap fastened and properly tightened.
• make you more visible and more likely to avoid a crash.
It is recommended that helmets should be:
Research suggests that riders who wear protective clothing spend
fewer days in hospital and are 40 per cent less likely to have • replaced after a crash or a significant impact
permanent debilitating injuries. • replaced if they become loose fitting, or the straps become
While most riders wear a jacket and helmet, they are least likely worn. Loose fitting helmets do not offer the needed protection
to protect their legs, and yet it is their legs that are most likely and a worn chin strap may break in a crash
to be injured in a crash. • only cleaned with mild soapy water (some chemicals and
It is not just about injuries from crashes; unprotected skin and eyes cleaners may weaken the shell).
are also vulnerable to flying insects, as well as stones and other Helmets should not be:
debris sprayed up by other vehicles.
• second hand. You do not know if it has been dropped or
Helmet damaged. Second hand helmets should be regarded as being
unsafe for use.
Your most important piece of protective equipment is your
Make sure there are no dents or weak spots on the shell or inside
motorcycle helmet. You and any pillion or sidecar passenger must
your helmet.
wear an approved motorcycle helmet that complies with Australian
Standard AS 1698. If you’re unsure whether a helmet is suitable you should check with
There are many makes and models of motorcycle helmets available. a reputable dealer such as one carrying a Motor Trades Association
Queensland (MTAQ) label.
There are two key types of helmets:
Helmet Description
Eye protection
Full face Has a chin panel and visor. Protects your face, Your eyes need protection from the wind, dust, rain, insects and
jaw and chin and offers better eye, wind, sun and stones thrown up by other vehicles. Only a visor attached to the
impact protection. helmet or goggles provides the eye protection necessary for riding.
Glasses, including sunglasses, are not adequate.
Open face Face open to the elements. Offers less protection
from the elements and impact. Some motorcycles have screens or fairings to provide weather
protection. These do not provide adequate protection for your eyes
and you should still use a visor or goggles to protect your eyes.
Full face helmets
Visors and goggles should:
Full face helmets offer greater protection and should be worn
while riding. • be clean and not scratched
• be shatterproof (standard for helmet visors is Australian
Light coloured (eg. white, yellow) helmets Standard AS 1609)
are more visible to other road users when you
are riding and are generally cooler in summer. • have clear lenses for use at night.
Maintaining clean and clear eye protection is important to ensure
your view of the road and surroundings is not impaired.
Replace any eye protection that has scratches on the surface, as
this can blur and distort light at night.
Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014 11Protective clothing
Helmet: Must be an approved helmet
that complies with Australian Standard
AS 1698, or AS/NZS 1698
Visor: Clear for night and shatterproof
without scratches and must be approved
to Australian Standard AS 1609.
Back protector: To protect the spine in
the case of a crash. Dual density foam
is recommended.
Gloves: Gauntlet style with a
strengthened palm area and knuckle
protection (e.g. extra layer of leather).
Zip or velcro fastening around wrist.
Jacket and pants: Should be highly
abrasion and tear resistant and
completely cover your arms, legs
and body. They should be secured
at the wrists, waist and ankles to
prevent your protective clothing
from riding up and exposing your
skin during a fall.
Footwear: Boots should be
leather and overlap the pants in
order to provide shin, ankle and
instep protection. They should
also have zipper and/or velcro
fasteners in preference to laces
to prevent the boots from sliding
off or being caught in the pegs,
gears, brake levers etc.
12 Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014Gloves Wet weather gear
The flesh on your hands is thin and the bones are fine. The natural Changes in the weather are unpredictable so it often pays to carry
reaction in a fall is to use your hands to protect yourself. wet weather gear with you at all times.
Motorcycle gloves generally have: Waterproof (rather than water resistant) clothing that lets your
body breathe is the best way to keep dry.
• a strengthened palm area shaped for riding
• knuckle protection Waterproof gear lets your sweat out, while stopping the rain water
• a fastener around the wrist to prevent gloves sliding off from getting in.
(e.g. zipper and/or velcro)
• an overlap with the jacket (gauntlet style).
Always wear proper motorcycle gloves. Gloves that are specifically
designed for motorcycle riding (with extra layers of leather) will
improve rider comfort and protection.
Jackets and pants
Purpose-made motorcycle clothing provides better weather
and crash protection than ordinary clothing.
Jacket and pants should:
• be tailored for a riding position
• completely cover your arms, legs and body
• secure around wrists, waist and ankles to prevent sliding
up and exposing skin during a fall
• have impact and abrasion protection for your back,
shoulders, elbows, hips and knees
• be highly abrasion and tear resistant
• be done up properly to offer the best protection.
Visibility
Road users can fail to see motorcycles because:
• they are smaller than other vehicles
• they easily blend into the background environment
• they can accelerate faster than other vehicles
• it’s harder to judge their approaching speed.
In addition to riding in accordance with the road rules, increasing
your visibility to other road users can greatly reduce your chances
of being involved in a crash. Dress to be seen by choosing gear that
maximises your visibility. If other road users can see you, even in
poor light or bad weather, they can avoid you.
To increase your visibility:
• wear light or brightly coloured clothing that stands out against
most backgrounds such as; yellow, orange and red
• wear a reflective or fluorescent vest
• use reflective strips/tape on your clothing or motorcycle.
This will increase your on-road visibility to other road users
and make you more noticeable at night.
Do not assume that just because you are wearing high-visibility
clothing that other road users have seen you. High-visibility
clothing works by contrasting with the background environment.
Due to the constantly changing riding environment (houses, trees
etc) the effectiveness of high-visibility clothing can vary. Also
reflective materials require a light to be shining on them
to be effective at night. High-visibility clothing is just one way
of increasing your visibility on the road.
Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014 13Footwear
5: Safe riding
Riding is never risk free, but a truly skilful rider rides ‘low risk’.
A skilful rider has good observation, speed management, road
positioning, decision making and hazard perception skills.
Compared to driving other road vehicles, riding a motorcycle
can place you at a higher risk. If you are involved in a crash, the
chances of being injured are very high.
It is also important to clear your mind of distractions and focus on
the task of riding.
One of the most valuable resources you have as a beginner rider,
or someone returning to riding, is the knowledge and experience of
other motorcyclists and riding instructors. Use it. Ask around when
you are considering buying a motorcycle, clothing and accessories.
However, always make sure you balance advice, read up on the
Boots are the best footwear to wear when riding. subject, and ask more than one person.
Your boots should:
• cover your ankles Rider’s attitude and safe riding
• be made of leather or strong synthetic material. How you feel is reflected in how you act and interact with others.
You act differently when you are angry, stressed and/or unhappy
Don’t ride in running shoes, or worse, in sandals or bare feet. Avoid
compared to when you are relaxed and happy. You can improve
shoes with rings or laces that could catch on the motorcycle.
your safety by ensuring that you do not ride when you are angry,
Look for boots that fully enclose the foot, ankle and lower shin. stressed and/or unhappy.
Impact protection is recommended for the shins, instep (the top Sometimes road users may display less-than-courteous behaviour
of your foot), ankles and heels. Beware of steel-capped boots in their interactions with other road users. A person’s ability
which can cause friction burns or may cut into your toes in a crash. to judge a situation and make sound riding decisions may be
impaired by a bad mood. Unfortunately, a bad mood is often
Motorcycle footwear generally has:
reflected in aggressive driving behaviour, such as:
• strengthening in the instep between the ball of the foot and
• road rage
the heel
• tailgating (following too close)
• ankle protection
• speeding
• shin protection • reckless riding
• a fastener around the leg to prevent sliding off (e.g. zipper • running red lights.
and/or velcro)
When road users display any of the above behaviours they may
• an overlap with the pants (boot style)
be prone to make mistakes and consequently, cause injury to
• gear change cover to prevent wear. themselves or other road users.
Fireman’s, flying and elastic sided boots are not recommended as As much as you can control your own moods and behaviour, you
they are not suitably reinforced and slip off too easily. cannot control the mood and behaviours of other road users. You
Further protection can only influence these through your attitude, actions, and by
riding in a safe manner. The best option is to stay impartial and
Other rider specific protective clothing that should be considered not react to inappropriate behaviour, such as threats and obscene
includes: gestures made toward you by others.
• back protectors to protect your spine in a crash
If you are a target of aggression, do not succumb to the behaviours
• kidney belts to support your lower back and reduce fatigue
of others, for example, if you are tailgated, do not accelerate in
• demister visors. order to accommodate the driver/rider behind you. Remain calm
For further information about protective clothing, go to the Australian and maintain an appropriate speed (within the prescribed speed
Government’s Good Gear Guide for motorcycle and scooter riders. limit) and buffer between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you.
Visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/safety/publications/2009/
Reacting to aggressive driving behaviour with shouting and/or
good_gear_guide.
offensive gestures may further fuel the aggression and may lead to
a more unsafe situation developing.
14 Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide, Department of Transport and Main Roads, May 2014You can also read
