The end of the year and the beginning of the next often means cold weather, slippery or wet roads as well as dark mornings and evenings. Winter is never a time that’s kind to us or our bikes!

As many people put their bike away in the garage or shed, a number of us continue to ride for as much of the year as possible, either because that’s our main form of transport or just because we love riding and have no intention of stopping just because it may be raining or it's cold!

If you see other bikers without the correct kit to keep warm and protect themselves from the elements, and you get chance to chat to each other, please take a moment to remind them how vulnerable they are and pass on the knowledge you've gained from your own experiences over the years.

With our weather as unpredictable as it is, it’s worth regularly refreshing our Roadcraft knowledge, and always perform the 'POWER' checks before getting on our bikes.

Many people are still unaware that it could take double the distance to stop in the rain, and ten times the distance in ice. Road markings, 'cat's eyes' and drains get slippery when wet, so we need to avoid them whenever possible. Also look out for diesel spills which could appear as a rainbow pattern in the wet.

Above all, please do everything you possibly can to get home safely to your family after every ride.