You’re going to be riding in Spain next summer. Every biker needs to know the one rule change that has been made for all bikes.

Spain’s motorbike crackdown: What riders really need to know this summer…

You’ll want listen to this if you plan a weekend trip in Spain and ride a motorcycle. The Spanish traffic authorities, or DGT for those who are in the know, have had enough with the grim statistics. So they’re increasing road checks for motorcyclists every weekend until October. Although it may seem like Big Brother is keeping an eye on you, there are serious reasons for this.

It’s true that bikers still top the list of fatalities on Spanish highways. This is a hard pill to swallow. Nearly a hundred motorcyclists died in accidents this year. DGT is concerned with those mountain and country roads that are popular among bikers. Eight of every ten fatal accidents happen on the roads that we use on a daily basis, and not on the motorways.

What changes are taking place on the spanish road?

What does all this mean for your morning ride on Saturday? Expect to see the Guardia Civil more often, particularly in areas where motorbikes gather and on popular routes at weekends. Police may stop you to do a quick check.

• Overtaking: Overtaking maneuvers that are risky or illegal will be strictly prohibited.
• Helmets, gear and clothing: Officers are on the lookout to see if you have a helmet that is legal and if you have any protective equipment, like jackets or even airbag vests.
• Drugs, alcohol and speeding: More speed cameras, breathalyzers and drug tests. When you are out on a fun ride, be safe.

Why is there so much interest? The consequences of a biker’s mistake are often much more severe than those for a driver in a car. The aim isn’t to ruin your fun—it’s to make sure everyone gets home in one piece.

DGT and experienced motorcyclists offer top safety tips to motorcyclists

No one likes to be lectured, but if your riding experience is good, you do these things every day.

• Check your bike before you ride: Tyres, brakes, lights—the basics. Two minutes is required before you start.
• Do not skimp on your helmet: Make sure you choose a full face mask and that it is up to date.
• Wear the gear Even if it’s hot, proper jackets, trousers and gloves really can save your skin—literally.
• Be seen Reflective clothing can be boring but it does make a difference.
• Leave a gap Keeping your distance will give you the time to react.
• Know your limits: Maybe today is not the best day to take that epic bike ride.
• When you breakdown: Alert others by getting yourself to a safe, visible place.
• Keep to the rules It’s not just about avoiding fines—it could be your life on the line.

Motorcycle licenses in Spain: Everything you need to know

Spain offers a number of different motorbike licenses.

• A1: 16 years and older for bikes under 125cc.
• A2: Up to 47 horsepower for 18-year-olds (or 35kW, if you prefer).
• A: The big one for unrestricted motorcycles, but only with A2 after two-years and if over 20.

Riding smart is about more than just rules

It’s easy for you to become annoyed by the extra checks and police. The truth is that no one wants their family to become a statistic. And the police are not interested in knocking on the door of another family. Even a few minutes spent slowing down or thinking twice could make a big difference.

So as summer rolls on, enjoy the freedom that comes with two wheels—but keep your wits about you, look after your mates, and get home safe. Spain’s roads are some of the most beautiful in the world—let’s keep them safe for everyone.

Enjoy the ride. And if you see a checkpoint, just smile—you’re helping keep the roads a bit safer for all of us.