Get your motor running… and save energy

Have you ever considered driving a motorcycle, scooter or moped?

Some of our readers have told us they consider these vehicles the best way to get around Edinburgh: they cost less than cars, use less petrol, produce less pollution, and it’s easier to find a parking space.

In fact, you can park for free in many locations.

Is it safe?

There is anecdotal evidence that the more motorcycles on the road, the more drivers become used to looking for motorcycles and accident rates fall.

The popularity of motorcycling is growing steadily in Scotland with more than 2.6 million motorcycles registered at the end of 2007. This is up 24 per cent since 1999.

How do I learn to ride a motorcycle?

If you’re looking into trying out a motorcycle or scooter for the first time, training is essential. There are plenty of options:

• Most motorcycle dealers offer advice or run training courses for novices.
• The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (www.roada.org) and the Institute of Advanced Motorists (www.iam.org.uk) offer advanced training.
• The Motorcycle Rider Training Association offers advice and training (click on MRTA at www.rmif.co.uk).
• Lothian & Borders Police also run skills assessment courses, so you can see if there are any areas where you need improvement – visit www.lbp.police.uk/bikesafe