Riding the Motorcycle

Riding the Motorcycle

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Section 16 - MotorCyclists

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Section 16.6 - Riding the motorscycle

As a motorcyclist you must obey the law governing traffic. You need to develop:

a high level of attention;
an awareness of likely hazards;
good anticipation; and
excellent observational skills.

You also need to make the most of the advantages of height, positioning, flexibility and manoeuvrability a motorcycle provides. The ability to sense danger in a situation develops only with experience, so you should always ride within your abilities.

Always make sure that the road space that you intend to enter is completely safe and be aware that others may be looking at larger objects and not the narrow profile of the motorcycle. Gravel chips, sand, pools of water and rough surfaces can seriously de-stabilise motorcycles and can be a cause of crashes. Reduce speed before hazards such as these and continue riding with extreme caution.

Follow the rules below.

Avoid riding between traffic lanes.
Keep well clear of other vehicles when passing them. Remember that drivers might not always see you in their 'blind spots'.
If your machine is fitted with indicators and a brake light, use them. However, if other road users cannot see these signals, or if you think they might not be working, you should give clear hand signals as well. See section 7 on hand signals.
Use rear-view mirrors if your motorcycle or moped is fitted with them. Remember though, not to rely on your mirrors when moving off, changing lane, turning right and overtaking. You should also look over your shoulders and check any 'blind spots'.
Your motorcycle tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1 mm, but you should replace them before they become this worn.