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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!
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