How to Spot Trouble While Riding a Motorcycle

The easiest way to avoid trouble is to see it coming long before you need to react. Experienced riders make a habit of looking far ahead while practicing the suggestions listed below.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Motorcycle Gloves
• Motorcycle Jacket
• Motorcycle Pants
• Motorcycle Insurance
• Eye Protection For Motorcycle Riders
• Federally Approved Motorcycle Helmets

1. Look anywhere from one-half to a full block ahead in the city and suburbs. Search as far ahead as you can on the highway, allowing yourself plenty of time to adjust to hazards.

2. Avoid panic stops or sudden swerves, which can cause even more trouble.

3. Keep checking the asphalt ahead for slippery spots, big bumps, potholes, loose gravel, wet leaves or objects in the road.

4. Remember that curves and ramps are common collectors of oil and gravel.

5. Use your height advantage to see over or through the car in front of you. Watch for vehicles stopping or turning ahead.

6. Scan the roadway for cars and trucks that may leave the curb or enter from side streets or driveways.

7. Look over your shoulder before turning or switching lanes, particularly when making rapid lane changes. Remember that motorcycles have blind spots too; checking your mirrors is not enough.

8. Check the far lanes as well as the one next to you when changing lanes on roadways with multiple lanes. Other drivers may be headed for the same space.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be on the lookout for open spaces where you can quickly retreat when you're in heavy traffic.
• Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

Who Can Help Sponsored

on 6/30/2006 When riding at night, watch for the lights of other vehicles coming around the corner or over a rise in the road. That way you will be prepared for anything that may happen.

on 11/22/2005 If you cannot see the other end of a turn, roll-off the throttle and "ease" through until you can see the far side - then roll-on the throttle to resume speed.

on 11/22/2005 Drive just left form the lane's center. First, this avoids the area where oil collects. Also, when cars pass, this forces them to use the full left lane. If you drive right of center, passing vehicles sometimes use part of your lane to pass you.

on 11/22/2005 I like to tap my brakes in rapid succession while coming to a stoplight so following cars are alerted in case they're coming up to the light without paying attention to me.