Motorcycle European Breakdown

DOCUMENTS to take with you

It is important to ensure you have the right documents for you and your bike when you are traveling abroad. You must ensure you bring the following documents when you ride.

1. Passport - Non-EU citizens can also obtain a visa.

2. Driver's license - Full UK license with their paper counterparts if a photo license. (An International Driving Permit is not required).

3. MOT certificate - If your bike is over 3 years.

4. Registration Document (V5) - Sometimes called a logbook.

5. Certificate of insurance for your motorcycle - According to European Union directives your car insurance you will be automatically covered with the minimum requirement of only one third, while in other EU countries (No green card ' is not necessary). If you want to maintain the same level of coverage you have in the United Kingdom, you should contact your insurance company or broker before you leave. Your insurance company will normally make a small charge to extend your existing coverage to other EU countries.

Make sure all your documents are current and cover you for the duration of time you spend abroad. Also make sure your bike is a current road tax, and the road is otherwise lawful.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Ride on the right side of the road (with the exception of Malta and Cyprus). If you have no mirror on the left side of your bike, have one fitted to aid in the electoral right.

Wearing a suitable helmet is mandatory in all countries of the European Union.

A GB sticker must be displayed right at the back of your bike. Since 2001, when you have a license plate displaying the euro symbol blue-GB, a conventional label no longer necessary.

For many motorcycle headlamp deflectors, or readjustment is not necessary (the beam projector is different from that of cars). If in doubt, ask your local station to check MOT.

Driving with dipped headlights at all times is mandatory in most European countries.

GOOD IDEAS

Although not a legal requirement, the following will give you peace of mind and could be essential if the worst should happen.

1. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) - In order to receive treatment from health care in any other EU country, you will need a European Health Insurance Card. From 1 January 2006, this card replaced the E111 and is entitled to medical treatment for injuries and disease state. You can request an EHIC by picking up a form at your local post office, there is no charge. The EHIC may not cover all the services you can expect the UK, so it's a good idea to take appropriate staff travel insurance.

2. Personal Travel Insurance - Make sure the policy covers motorcyclists. Some insurance companies consider the bike a dangerous pastime. As always, if in doubt, ask.

3. European Breakdown Insurance - None of us expect to degradation, but adequate insurance could save a lot of hassle and money if you have the misfortune to suffer mechanical problems.

It is also a good idea to perform a set of spare bulbs and fuses, a kit of basic tools, a repair kit, chain lube (if applicable) and a spare key.

Dave Roffe