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There is nothing like the freedom of the open road and the feel of the sheer power of your wheels. However before you rush out to try your new vehicle there are a few things to think about.

Choice of bike: if this is your first bike do not spend a large amount of money. Bear in mind that you will not be keeping your first set of wheels for long. You will do a lot of learning and need a cheap but sturdy bike to start on.

' Test driving- There are many different types of bikes so always test drive them and get the feel of the bike before you buy.

' Don't get stuck with a 'dud'. Try to find a more experienced friend to help you check out your purchase. Educate yourself on the bikes you like before going to the dealer or buying from a private party.

' Try to get a good used bike at first-cheaper and good for practice.

Safety: There are more accidents on the road involving bikes than ever before. To save you from a gnarly accident here are a few tips:

' Places to be careful of-intersections

' The culprits-an easy guess, cars violating your rights. They often turn out in front of you.

' How do you get hit-you are a small vehicle and people simply don't see you. There is always a certain amount of drunk drivers.

' How to make yourself more conspicuous. Make sure that you are dressed in a colored jacket and helmet. Your clothing and helmet should have reflectors on them for night riding. Consider taking a course, this will teach you a lot of safety tips and how to control your bike to avoid accidents. Wear proper eye protection to ensure maximum vision.

' Protect yourself with; full coverage headgear, heavy boots and jacket with gloves.

Maintaining your 'wheels' and looking after your bike is very important. Always keep your bike in good condition. Learn all that you can about looking after your wheels yourself and also take your bike to the shop for regular check ups and oil changes.

Choosing the right insurance: biking has its own dangers it's part of the territory, so you will need to get some good coverage for you and your bike. Remember to shop around to find the best prices and value for money. You can check online and in your yellow pages for insurance companies.

You're ready to hit the road: Now comes the exciting part trying out your new wheels! Try to do this on a quiet road and everyday. It is good to get a bit of practice and build up your confidence before hitting the streets. When you feel confident go out on the road at a less busy time and work up your confidence. Use a little caution at first to avoid getting into accidents.