Attitude is everything on a bike. Regardless of make or model, it's the one thing that climbs on board the moment you do.

Every single time you ride.

Kick-starting a good one now will do more than accelerate your learning. By freeing up energy that would otherwise be spent on distractions, you'll grant yourself a greater capacity for sound judgement... and that all-important ability to keep cool under pressure.

First things first
Focus. Keep your mind trained on the task - and the road - ahead. Bikers are less exposed to the bewildering array of 'in-vehicle' diversions that plague car drivers. But the very fact they exist should be enough to remind you that, mile-by-mile, the price of freedom is vigilance.

Steady, even breathing will help you maintain a clear head and stay calm. That way, correct choices are more likely.

And keep yourself in shape. Lack of fitness hastens the onset of fatigue and loss of concentration. Pass your own WOF first, and both you and your bike will benefit.

The right to remain sane
Ride the way you know you should. Being disciplined entails not allowing yourself to be led astray by the actions of others, and riding within your abilities. If you find yourself receiving regular frights, it's likely you're not doing that. Always keep something in reserve to deal with unexpected situations.

Remember too, reaction times tend to slow with age. They also increase significantly when you're cold or tired.

Below are two states of mind you'll want to avoid in any conditions:

Red-mist
Used to describe an aggressiveness not directed at anyone in particular, 'red-mist' frequently expresses itself in the urge to speed inappropriately. In extreme cases, it can lead to feelings of not caring or even a death wish and can lead to appalling lack of judgement.

If you ever feel it, pull over and regain control of yourself. Repeated red-mist periods are a sign you're unfit to ride and should seek medical help.

Race-face
The desire to race someone (or everyone) going in the same direction. A very dangerous emotion which can spark appalling lapses in judgement. If you feel it coming on, again stop and regain your composure. Breathe deeply. Remind yourself the sensation will pass quickly if you keep calm.

When not to ride
You owe yourself the best performance possible. Never ride when you are affected by alcohol and drugs, pre-occupied or stressed (i.e. after a quarrel). Add to these:

• Hungry
• Angry
• Lonely
• Tired.

And think HALT before you hit the road. Or it may be hitting you.

One last word about alcohol. Because riding involves balance as well as judgement, the effects of alcohol consumption are far greater on motorcyclists than motorists.

Some riding groups tend to stop at pubs to refresh and socialise, which can put peer-pressure on you to drink. If it can't be avoided, stay with something non-alcoholic. Alcohol and riding are a lethal mix.