Motorcyclists must protect back: Nelson

Brendan Nelson has the same advice for aspiring motorcyclists and politicians - protect your back.

And as a motorcycle enthusiast and former opposition leader, Dr Nelson knows a bit about both.

His sage advice was the essential message of a new booklet launched on Wednesday, aimed at giving motorcyclists tips on what to wear while riding to keep them protected in the event of an accident.

Dr Nelson, who retires from parliament at the end of this month, was one of a number of motorcycle enthusiasts who joined Transport Minister Anthony Albanese for the release of The Good Gear Guide outside Parliament House.