There are a lot of rookie bikers on the road....

Motorcycles have been steadily increasing in popularity for several seasons now...

That tends to happen when gas prices are high. Unfortunately, accidents are on the rise too. Recent statistics show as many as 30% of motorcycle accidents involved an untrained or not properly licensed rider. If you’re tempted to ride, here are some biker basics from Consumer Reports:

* Don’t buy more bike than you can handle. If you’ve been off of motorcycles for awhile, you may be surprised by the performance of today’s bikes. Even models with small-displacement engines are notably faster and more powerful than they were 10 or 20 years ago.

* Invest in antilock brakes - they’re a proven lifesaver. Motorcycles equipped with ABS brakes are significantly less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than bikes without. 

* Hone your skills. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers riding safety courses nationally and may make you eligible for insurance discounts. 

* Wear a helmet. Like it or not, they prevent head injury and save lives.

* Dress like a real biker. Jeans and a t-shirt are out. Brightly colored, padded, vented gear is in. You want to be visible to other drivers and protect yourself from flying bugs, debris and unthinkable injuries in the event of a slide out.