Peter Bookey, riding instructor
How many bikes do you have? Five bikes in total - a KTM 950 Adventure, a BMW GS 650 Dakar (which I ride myself); I also have school bikes that I use to cover the licence categories, these include a moped, a 125cc, and a 250cc.
When did you become a biker? I started biking when I was 14, on a BSA Bantam that my brother-in-law bought me for £10 to start trials riding on and I've been enjoying bikes ever since.
Why did you become a biker? Biking has many advantages for me. They beat the traffic and riding a bike is a better sensation than driving a car. You have the freedom factor when riding a bike and it's a passion whereas you just drive your car to get to a destination. It's also a personal thing; I take the bike out to go for a leisurely spin.
Had any accidents? Yes, quite a few in the early days which was probably due to a lack of knowledge, experience, and the exuberance of youth, none of them were serious.
Do you take part in any motorcycle sports? I've competed in MotoX, Enduro and Rally Raid. I covered 3,100 miles over five countries off road in five days on the Trans Danubian Rally Raid. I rode through Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. You have to use GPS and navigate yourself so it's challenging. I did that three years ago and it was the best thing I ever did!
As an instructor what are the worst mistakes bikers make on the roads? Failing to use the system of motorcycle control, information, position, speed, gear, and acceleration. You only have to get it wrong once. An accident doesn't just happen, it develops so as a rider you have to learn to anticipate early and position yourself on the roads to see and be seen. Training can improve a rider's safety and confidence.
Any tips for safe riding? Of course I'd recommend getting professional training whether you're starting out or riding for years. Always ride in such a manner that you can stop safely on your own side of the road in the distance you can see to be clear. Develop hazard awareness and learn to anticipate. Always concentrate and keep looking ahead. Also protection is very important, what's on your head and what's in your head, the information in your head is probably more important. Keep your headlights on at all times and wear a fluorescent bib to be seen because prevention is better than cure. Always ride within your own and your bike's abilities and enjoy! And if you want to ride fast save that for the track day not the roads.
Any biking issues for the government? Safety is a big issue. I think it's crazy that a person can go into a bike shop and just purchase a bike without compulsory training. I'd like to see the government introduce compulsory basic training to get people off on the right foot.
For more information visit www.aaronridertraining.com