Back to school: How to take kids on a motorcycle

After the summer lethargy, families with children have resumed their daily routines this week, and mornings once again become a frantic race against time. In the morning preparations for everything needed for the school day, every minute is precious, and commuting becomes one of the key phases. Many parents choose motorcycles or mopeds as a means of transportation to take their children to school or college, as they are one of the vehicles that best optimize time thanks to their agility, efficiency, and economy.

Motorcycles cover a useful range of distances for many citizens and reduce commute times, making it easier to balance work and family life. In Spain, around 5 million people choose to travel by motorcycle (according to ANESDOR data), especially in large urban centers, thanks to its numerous advantages.

A motorcycle takes 50 to 70% less time than other private motorized vehicles and avoids getting stuck in traffic jams. Because it's a smaller vehicle (taking up three times less space than a car when moving and five times less space when parked), it's easier to weave through traffic. Furthermore, a motorcycle is a low-emission vehicle, which contributes to sustainable mobility in cities (on average, a motorcycle emits about 99 g of CO2/km, less than half of the 210 g of CO2/km emitted by the average gasoline and diesel car). Its fuel consumption is much lower, making it more economical: a 125 cc can travel 3,000 km using only €100 of gasoline. And of course, one of its great advantages is how easy it is to find parking.

Requirements and possible sanctions

The minimum age at which a minor may ride as a passenger on a motorcycle or moped, according to Article 12 of the Royal Traffic Decree in its basic regulation, is 12 years . However, the law establishes an exception for children between 7 and 11 years of age : they may only ride a motorcycle if the driver is one of their parents, their legal guardian, or an adult expressly authorized by them.

In addition to age, the regulations establish a series of safety requirements that are mandatory for any minor: the use of an approved helmet, properly adjusted and adapted to the child's size; the minor must ride astride, that is, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle, and always behind the driver in the passenger seat; their feet must reach the footrests (if not, they may only ride with approved adapters); and the motorcycle must be approved for two people on the vehicle registration card. If the motorcycle does not have footrests, it is prohibited to carry minors.

Failure to comply with any of these requirements will result in a 200-euro fine for the driver . On intercity routes or highways where the speed limit is higher, only passengers over 12 years of age are permitted.

How to ride a motorcycle with a child

When getting on or off the motorcycle, it is recommended to support the child with one of the rider's forearms and pay attention to the location of the exhaust pipe. Before starting off, it is important to ensure that the child can be securely fastened. Children should never wear a backpack while riding on a motorcycle, as it can destabilize them, putting their safety at risk. The backpack must be properly secured to the motorcycle's carrier or luggage rack. If you travel frequently with children, it is recommended to add back support to the motorcycle, such as a backrest or rear trunk, to improve their support and safety.

On initial occasions, it's advisable to explain some travel instructions to the child, such as not to move excessively to avoid destabilizing the vehicle, holding onto the driver's waist without affecting driving (for example, the sides of the seatbelt), and some communication instructions. The handles on some motorcycles can be unsafe for children, as their short arms may not yet be able to easily grasp them. There are specific seatbelts equipped with handles that facilitate proper grip.

When riding , it is recommended to accelerate the motorcycle smoothly and progressively, without sudden acceleration or aggressive handling, and to use the rear brake before applying the front brake to balance the weight and prevent it from tipping forward. Above all, use common sense and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Ride calmly and relaxed, allowing plenty of space for your feet, and always pay attention to traffic.

Motorcycle clothing for children

It is essential that children travel properly protected, with an approved helmet (Regulation 22) sized for their head size and with the strap secured under the chin. The penalty for carrying a passenger without a helmet on a motorcycle is imposed on the driver, with a fine of 200 euros and the loss of 3 points on their driver's license. They must also wear specific motorcycle clothing such as a motorcycle jacket with protective gear, gloves, pants, and boots. If this technical equipment is not available, closed-toe shoes, long pants, gloves, and a jacket with easily adjustable protective gear (back, shoulders, and elbows) and knee pads are recommended.