Motorbike Articles

European Touring: Practical Tips

As more bikers are now taking to the roads in European countries, we are offering practical tips to bikers to help their journey be a safe and enjoyable one. There are some legal differences, informal codes of behaviour as well as essential documents that bikers should be aware of when travelling to a European country.

In France - one of the most popular destinations for UK bikers - there are more speed cameras and stringent policing to contend with than ever before. It is mandatory to have your running lights on during the day and night. And there are numerous informal codes of behaviour to be aware of.

For example, if a fellow biker makes a horizontal 'V' sign with his left hand, this means 'hello'. If he sticks his right leg out, this means 'thank you'.

Other popular European countries also have their own rules and regulations that bikers should consider. In Germany you must carry a first aid kit and spare light bulbs. In Finland and Scandinavian countries, all cars as well as motorcycles must have their running lights on during the day and night, making it less obvious to spot fellow bikers. In Italy, motorcycles are not allowed to tow trailers. And in Switzerland and Austria, you must buy a special tax sticker if you are going to use the auto routes. In Spain, warning other vehicles that a speed checkpoint is ahead is illegal. With legal differences and varying codes of behaviour, it would be prudent to have the following:

• A modern driving licence with a photo, making identification easier;
• V5 registration document (original);
• European breakdown cover;
• Insurance certificate which is valid in all countries visited (a Green Card is no longer required in EU countries);
• New E111 form introduced in 2005, entitling free medical treatment in EU countries.

Finally, whilst motoring infringements in mainland Europe currently have no affect on a motorcyclist's UK driving licence, European legislators are reviewing this situation!