Accessoires Moto et Équipements pour Motards – Le Pratique du Motard

To ride a motorcycle, you must have the appropriate license corresponding to the power and cylinder capacity of the two-wheeler. In Europe (and particularly in France), motorcycle licenses are divided into several categories.

• AM license (ex-BSR): accessible from the age of 14, it authorizes mopeds up to 50 cm³.
• A1 license (known as 125 ): accessible from the age of 16, it allows you to drive a motorcycle up to 125 cm³ (max power ~11 kW).
• A2 license : accessible from the age of 18, it is limited to motorcycles with a maximum power of 35 kW (47.5 hp)
• A license : allows you to drive all motorcycles, with no power limitations. In France, it is only obtained after two years of holding an A2 license and additional training.
  (except in special cases of direct access at 24 years of age in certain countries).

Of course, in addition to the license, the vehicle registration document and valid motorcycle insurance are mandatory to drive legally.

The motorcyclist must be properly equipped for his safety. Two pieces of equipment are legally required in France and in most countries: an approved helmet and certified gloves .

Beyond these minimum legal obligations, it is recommended to wear full equipment to protect yourself in the event of a fall.
The essentials are: a motorcycle jacket (ideally equipped with back protection), trousers or knee pads to protect the legs, boots or high shoes and possibly an airbag vest for optimal protection.

Unlike the helmet and gloves, these other items (jacket, trousers, boots, airbag) are not required by law but their use is strongly recommended in order to limit serious injuries in the event of an accident.
In short, a wise motorcyclist will always ride "armed" from head to toe : it is better to be over-equipped than under-equipped when it comes to your safety.

Regular motorcycle maintenance is crucial for the safety and longevity of your two-wheeler. Lack of proper maintenance can lead to preventable breakdowns or accidents.

• Before each outing, check the condition of: tires (wear, pressure), brakes, lights , and levels ( oils and fluids)
• Every ~1,000 km : Inspect pads, discs, chain tension/lubrication and various fluids.
• Every 5,000 km (or 1 year) : change the engine oil and replace the oil filter, as well as a general service of the motorcycle.
• Every 10,000 km (or 2 years) : renew the brake/coolant fluid , which loses its properties over time. Take the opportunity to check elements such as the battery or suspension at these intervals.
  

Finally, remember that in France, from 2024, a periodic motorcycle technical inspection (every 3 years after 5 years of registration) is also compulsory.

Choosing the first motorcycle is crucial for a beginner rider.
It may be tempting to give in to the lure of a big, powerful cube, but it is essential to start on a displacement suited to your experience.
For a beginner , the ideal is to opt for a light, maneuverable and docile motorcycle. For example, a small roadster with a medium displacement (300–500 cc) or a versatile trail bike with low power will do very well. These motorcycles offer an accessible and confidence-inspiring ride, without being under-equipped.
Concretely, models like a Honda CB500F (roadster ~47 hp compatible with A2 license) or a Kawasaki Versys-X 300 (small urban trail) are among the popular bikes for beginners, because they combine agility and ease of handling.