Motorcycles: licence and getting started

In short: Motorcycle licences are tiered by engine power and displacement. Riders typically start on smaller, easier-to-control machines.

In more detail: Classes A1, A2, and A form a tiered system, where higher classes allow more power and often require a minimum age or experience.

In detail

• Licence classes: A1 for smaller motorcycles, A2 with a power limit, A without a power limit from a certain age or after a progression rule.
• Protective gear: Helmet, motorcycle jacket, gloves, and sturdy shoes significantly reduce injury risk in falls.
• Riding technique: Cornering, braking, and visual scanning differ significantly from driving a car and require dedicated training.
• Visibility: Motorcycles are harder for other road users to see; bright clothing and defensive riding improve safety.
• Weather dependence: Wetness and cold affect grip and reaction ability more strongly than in a car.
• Maintenance: Tyre pressure, chain tension, and brake pads should be checked more often than on a car.
• Accident risk: Statistically, the risk of severe injury in motorcycle accidents is higher than in cars, which is why rider training courses are recommended (fuehrerschein-klassen, unfall-richtig-verhalten).