Tight Squeezes
Keep a keen eye out for disappearing routes
You’re on your way home from work on the hottest day of the year. Traffic is moving slowly and the heat coming off our motorcycle’s engine is becoming oppressive. You are in the middle of a line of cars and trucks approaching an intersection. The lane is lines with cones to direct traffic through nearby construction.
The mid-afternoon sun is intense and you’re losing your cool as traffic creeps glacially forward. As you near the intersection, you decide to get moving by threading between the traffic and right side road edge. As you move forward alongside a semi-truck, you notice the truck moving into your path. The open lane you hoped to dart through is closing quickly. You swerve slightly to the right away from the trailer, but the cones and dirt lining the road leave little room to continue. Your front wheel is about to be pinched by the truck’s rear wheel so you chop the throttle and grab the brakes. The next thing you know, you’re sliding off the road into the dirt with cones flying everywhere.
In an effort to find relief from the traffic congestion and heat you saw an opening and decided to take it. You didn’t count on the trucker having the same idea. The dirty road and narrowing lanes caused by the construction should have triggered extra caution. Your selected path around the truck was located in his blind spot where the driver had little chance of seeing you. It’s not called the ‘no zone’ for nothing.
When the trucker made his move, you were already committed. An evasive maneuver was required. Unfortunately, the toad surface was not conducive to hard braking which caused your tires to skid and your motorcycle to fall.
Next time, consider an alternative route to avoid the heaviest traffic and any construction zones. If that’s not possible, be patient and select opportunities to move through traffic with more consideration to the possibility of an unexpected lane change. And, if a quick braking maneuver is necessary, favor the rear brake when traction is very limited.
Anita
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Delusive drivers
Delusive Drivers
A driver can’t signal his intentions if he hasn’t decided what to do.
You’re out for a ride in the country, following a secondary highway that wanders past farms and the occasionally family store. There are lots of twists and even right-angle turns, and a few railroad grade crossings, but everything is well marked. You’ve ridden this road before, and have a pretty good idea of the layout. The weather is warm and dry today, the surface is clean and predictable, and there are few other vehicles on the road. The bike begs to be ridden aggressively today, and you can’t resist. Most of the road is posted 55 mph, which feels good at 70. You feel comfortable taking the 25 mph corners at 40.
Approaching a left-hander near a country store, you decelerate, ease over to the right edge of the pavement, and prepare to accelerate just as soon as you are over the railroad tracks. The driver ahead appears to be slowing to turn off at the store, and you plan to pass him on the left. But, rather than continue his turn, the driver suddenly brakes to a stop in the middle of the road. You can’t pass on his left because not where is an oncoming SUV. You attempt a quick stop, applying both brakes just short of skidding, but at the speed you’re traveling, you run out of room. You manage to ease over to the right, but the painted white line and the plastic aprons for the railroad tracks conspire to cause the bike to slide left and bang into the car door. You aren’t hurt, but it’s a collision, and you are at fault.
It may be fun to ride the back roads at spirited speeds, but you need to slow immediately for situations that are out of your control, such as wild animals, sightseeing trains, or tourists who are lost or undecided. The oncoming SUV driver could be planning a left turn into the store, or the car on the right could be about to pull out. In this situation, you should have reduced speed sooner, and waited for the other drivers to get out of the way before deciding your move. It’s important to be in full control of the bike, but it’s just as important to be in control of the situation.
Anita
A driver can’t signal his intentions if he hasn’t decided what to do.
You’re out for a ride in the country, following a secondary highway that wanders past farms and the occasionally family store. There are lots of twists and even right-angle turns, and a few railroad grade crossings, but everything is well marked. You’ve ridden this road before, and have a pretty good idea of the layout. The weather is warm and dry today, the surface is clean and predictable, and there are few other vehicles on the road. The bike begs to be ridden aggressively today, and you can’t resist. Most of the road is posted 55 mph, which feels good at 70. You feel comfortable taking the 25 mph corners at 40.
Approaching a left-hander near a country store, you decelerate, ease over to the right edge of the pavement, and prepare to accelerate just as soon as you are over the railroad tracks. The driver ahead appears to be slowing to turn off at the store, and you plan to pass him on the left. But, rather than continue his turn, the driver suddenly brakes to a stop in the middle of the road. You can’t pass on his left because not where is an oncoming SUV. You attempt a quick stop, applying both brakes just short of skidding, but at the speed you’re traveling, you run out of room. You manage to ease over to the right, but the painted white line and the plastic aprons for the railroad tracks conspire to cause the bike to slide left and bang into the car door. You aren’t hurt, but it’s a collision, and you are at fault.
It may be fun to ride the back roads at spirited speeds, but you need to slow immediately for situations that are out of your control, such as wild animals, sightseeing trains, or tourists who are lost or undecided. The oncoming SUV driver could be planning a left turn into the store, or the car on the right could be about to pull out. In this situation, you should have reduced speed sooner, and waited for the other drivers to get out of the way before deciding your move. It’s important to be in full control of the bike, but it’s just as important to be in control of the situation.
Anita
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Sitting Ducks
Sitting Ducks
You’re riding home through the maze of shopping center entrances and neighborhood access streets after a hard day of work. Traffic lights control the heavy commuter traffic. It’s a routine ride, but you are distracted by the nagging thought that you left your cell phone at work, so you take the opportunity at the next red light to quickly search your tank bag to find it.
You stop behind a minivan, click the transmission into neutral and begin opening the bag’s zipper when you hear squealing tires behind you. A quick glance in your mirrors reveals the sickening sight of a car closing very fast. You squeeze the clutch and stop the bike into first gear, but you’re too close to the minivan to maneuver out of the way. The impact sends you violently backward onto the hood of the careless driver’s car with the back of your head smashing into the windshield. Thankfully, you were wearing a helmet and you escape with only a seriously bruised elbow and shoulder. Unfortunately, your bike is a total loss.
It was a good ideal to eliminate the distraction about your cell phone, but it would have been smarter to pull out of traffic, or at least wait until the surrounding traffic was completely stopped before attempting to search your tank bag. When sitting in traffic, it is smart to keep our bike in first gear and your attention on your mirrors to identify and react quickly to hazardous situations from behind. Flash your brake light to alert inattentive drivers that you are stopped. Finally, it’s better to stop far enough away from vehicles in front to allow a near-straight escape route between the rows of cars to the left or in the breakdown lane to the right. Following these simple steps can prevent you from being a sitting duck.
Anita
You’re riding home through the maze of shopping center entrances and neighborhood access streets after a hard day of work. Traffic lights control the heavy commuter traffic. It’s a routine ride, but you are distracted by the nagging thought that you left your cell phone at work, so you take the opportunity at the next red light to quickly search your tank bag to find it.
You stop behind a minivan, click the transmission into neutral and begin opening the bag’s zipper when you hear squealing tires behind you. A quick glance in your mirrors reveals the sickening sight of a car closing very fast. You squeeze the clutch and stop the bike into first gear, but you’re too close to the minivan to maneuver out of the way. The impact sends you violently backward onto the hood of the careless driver’s car with the back of your head smashing into the windshield. Thankfully, you were wearing a helmet and you escape with only a seriously bruised elbow and shoulder. Unfortunately, your bike is a total loss.
It was a good ideal to eliminate the distraction about your cell phone, but it would have been smarter to pull out of traffic, or at least wait until the surrounding traffic was completely stopped before attempting to search your tank bag. When sitting in traffic, it is smart to keep our bike in first gear and your attention on your mirrors to identify and react quickly to hazardous situations from behind. Flash your brake light to alert inattentive drivers that you are stopped. Finally, it’s better to stop far enough away from vehicles in front to allow a near-straight escape route between the rows of cars to the left or in the breakdown lane to the right. Following these simple steps can prevent you from being a sitting duck.
Anita
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
One-way Blunders
One-way Blunders
Don’t assume everyone knows it’s a one-way street.
You’re riding through an urban neighborhood on our way to work on a two-lane road where both lanes go in the same direction. There are crossroad intersections ever 1000 feet or so with a stoplight or stop sign at each intersection. Most of the stoop lights are synched to each other. Allowing traffic to move at a steady rate. You are behind a lower car in the right-hand lane, so you decide to change lanes to overtake the slower driver. You pass at a relaxed pace, knowing that the one-way road continues for several more blocks. Once past the car you decide to move back into the right lane.
Only moments after you return to the right-hand lane a car pulls out into the left lane heading in the wrong direction! Yikes! The inattentive driver passes to your left with a puzzled look on his face as you attempt to signal his mistake. He disappears out of your peripheral vision still accelerating. Suddenly, you hear skidding tires behind you and the sound of crunching metal and plastic. You check your mirrors before pulling over to assess the damage.
The head-on collision involved two cars in addition to the errant driver’s vehicle. The first car in line took the brunt of the hit with the car following rear-ending the unfortunate driver. Cell phones were being dialed to dispatch emergency personnel, so you go on your way.
Your thoughts swarm around the narrow escape you just experienced. Hand you continued to ride in the left-hand lane, you could have easily have been the victim of the driver’s error.It may have been dumb luck that you were in the right-hand lane at the moment the driver entered the one-way street in the wrong direction, but you can be grateful that a lesson was learned without harm to you. While most drivers recognize a one-way street, there is the real possibility that an approaching driver unfamiliar with the neighborhood will turn from an intersecting road heading in the wrong direction. To avoid being caught up in this possibility, avoid the left-hand lane in two lane one-way streets.
Anita
Don’t assume everyone knows it’s a one-way street.
You’re riding through an urban neighborhood on our way to work on a two-lane road where both lanes go in the same direction. There are crossroad intersections ever 1000 feet or so with a stoplight or stop sign at each intersection. Most of the stoop lights are synched to each other. Allowing traffic to move at a steady rate. You are behind a lower car in the right-hand lane, so you decide to change lanes to overtake the slower driver. You pass at a relaxed pace, knowing that the one-way road continues for several more blocks. Once past the car you decide to move back into the right lane.
Only moments after you return to the right-hand lane a car pulls out into the left lane heading in the wrong direction! Yikes! The inattentive driver passes to your left with a puzzled look on his face as you attempt to signal his mistake. He disappears out of your peripheral vision still accelerating. Suddenly, you hear skidding tires behind you and the sound of crunching metal and plastic. You check your mirrors before pulling over to assess the damage.
The head-on collision involved two cars in addition to the errant driver’s vehicle. The first car in line took the brunt of the hit with the car following rear-ending the unfortunate driver. Cell phones were being dialed to dispatch emergency personnel, so you go on your way.
Your thoughts swarm around the narrow escape you just experienced. Hand you continued to ride in the left-hand lane, you could have easily have been the victim of the driver’s error.It may have been dumb luck that you were in the right-hand lane at the moment the driver entered the one-way street in the wrong direction, but you can be grateful that a lesson was learned without harm to you. While most drivers recognize a one-way street, there is the real possibility that an approaching driver unfamiliar with the neighborhood will turn from an intersecting road heading in the wrong direction. To avoid being caught up in this possibility, avoid the left-hand lane in two lane one-way streets.
Anita
Unfamiliar Rides
Unfamiliar Rides
It’s fun to ride other people’s bikes, but beware! You’re on your way to meet a few friends for a long weekend ride. The weather is terrific for the overnight excursion and your bike is running great. You arrive at the designated meeting spot to find the other riders having their breakfast and engaged in a lively conversation about their respective bikes. During the conversation, one friend insists that his new bike is worlds better than the older generation bike you own. The owner of the new model wants to prove his position, so you both agree to switch bikes sometime during the ride. Everyone finishes their breakfast and suits up to go.
During a rest stoop you and your friend decide that it’s a good time to switch bikes. At first you ride cautiously, not wanting to risk crashing your friend’s bike. But the new motorcycle seems to ask to be ridden harder through the twisty sections or road. You oblige by turning the throttle.
You dart into a blind right-hand corner when you are surprised to see that the turn’s radius decreases significantly toward the exit. You press hard to lean the bike more, but this bike turns quicker and sharper than your bike and you end up in the dirt on the inside of the turn. The next few moments are a blur. Eventually, you notice the new bike laying on its side. You are mostly okay, thanks to your full complement of riding gear, but you’re horrified at what you’ve done. You jump up to assess the damage while the rest of the riders park their bikes and run over to assist. The damaged bike’s owner looks in disbelief at his now scraped and broken machine.
Statistics suggest that crashes occur more often when an unfamiliar bike is involved, whether a borrowed bike or a newly purchased one. Handling, power, and braking characteristics are different between different types of bikes, and even between two different examples of the same model. One bike may respond differently from another simply because of a different tire profile or a suspension setup.
When you do choose to test a demo bike or take the offer to ride a different bike owned by a generous fellow rider, take time to get a feel for the differences the unfamiliar bike possesses. And, consider declining the offer if you are uncomfortable with the risks.
Anita
It’s fun to ride other people’s bikes, but beware! You’re on your way to meet a few friends for a long weekend ride. The weather is terrific for the overnight excursion and your bike is running great. You arrive at the designated meeting spot to find the other riders having their breakfast and engaged in a lively conversation about their respective bikes. During the conversation, one friend insists that his new bike is worlds better than the older generation bike you own. The owner of the new model wants to prove his position, so you both agree to switch bikes sometime during the ride. Everyone finishes their breakfast and suits up to go.
During a rest stoop you and your friend decide that it’s a good time to switch bikes. At first you ride cautiously, not wanting to risk crashing your friend’s bike. But the new motorcycle seems to ask to be ridden harder through the twisty sections or road. You oblige by turning the throttle.
You dart into a blind right-hand corner when you are surprised to see that the turn’s radius decreases significantly toward the exit. You press hard to lean the bike more, but this bike turns quicker and sharper than your bike and you end up in the dirt on the inside of the turn. The next few moments are a blur. Eventually, you notice the new bike laying on its side. You are mostly okay, thanks to your full complement of riding gear, but you’re horrified at what you’ve done. You jump up to assess the damage while the rest of the riders park their bikes and run over to assist. The damaged bike’s owner looks in disbelief at his now scraped and broken machine.
Statistics suggest that crashes occur more often when an unfamiliar bike is involved, whether a borrowed bike or a newly purchased one. Handling, power, and braking characteristics are different between different types of bikes, and even between two different examples of the same model. One bike may respond differently from another simply because of a different tire profile or a suspension setup.
When you do choose to test a demo bike or take the offer to ride a different bike owned by a generous fellow rider, take time to get a feel for the differences the unfamiliar bike possesses. And, consider declining the offer if you are uncomfortable with the risks.
Anita
Monday, July 9, 2007
Orange Barrel Blues
Orange Barrel Blues
You’ve finally found time for a weekend trip, and you’ve been riding mostly superhighways to save time. There has been a lot more construction than you would have liked, but you know that’s just the nature of summertime travel. You’ve noticed hundreds of those big plastic construction barrels used as warning barriers. Some have flashing lights on top. Some are placed outside the concrete barriers. But you also observe that some are placed between traffic lanes, like those between the right lane and that entry ramp, and you wonder if they are a motorcycle hazard. With several trucks entering the freeway on the entry ramp, you’re looking for an opening that will allow you to change lanes to get out of their way. But before you a can move over, the wind blast from a large truck has blown over an orange barrel, and it’s bouncing right toward you. Before you can react, the barrel slams into the front wheel and is crunched under the engine. You lose steering control, and the bike topples over in a trail of sparks and an exploding saddlebag. Fortunately, drivers behind you are able to brake in time to avoid running you over. You’re not hurt badly, thanks to your riding gear, but you’re shocked at how easily a flimsy plastic barrel can cause a bike to go down.
When approaching or riding through a construction zone, you need to be aware of hazards such as loose gravel and edge traps. But don’t forget about those big orange construction barrels. The greatest barrel hazard is when they are placed between two lanes, where larger vehicles might knock them out into your path.
Anita
You’ve finally found time for a weekend trip, and you’ve been riding mostly superhighways to save time. There has been a lot more construction than you would have liked, but you know that’s just the nature of summertime travel. You’ve noticed hundreds of those big plastic construction barrels used as warning barriers. Some have flashing lights on top. Some are placed outside the concrete barriers. But you also observe that some are placed between traffic lanes, like those between the right lane and that entry ramp, and you wonder if they are a motorcycle hazard. With several trucks entering the freeway on the entry ramp, you’re looking for an opening that will allow you to change lanes to get out of their way. But before you a can move over, the wind blast from a large truck has blown over an orange barrel, and it’s bouncing right toward you. Before you can react, the barrel slams into the front wheel and is crunched under the engine. You lose steering control, and the bike topples over in a trail of sparks and an exploding saddlebag. Fortunately, drivers behind you are able to brake in time to avoid running you over. You’re not hurt badly, thanks to your riding gear, but you’re shocked at how easily a flimsy plastic barrel can cause a bike to go down.
When approaching or riding through a construction zone, you need to be aware of hazards such as loose gravel and edge traps. But don’t forget about those big orange construction barrels. The greatest barrel hazard is when they are placed between two lanes, where larger vehicles might knock them out into your path.
Anita
Sunset Surprise
Sunset Surprise
Just because there wasn’t any gravel on the road a few minutes ago, doesn’t mean it isn’t there now.
You’ve enjoyed hanging around the motorcycle rally, kicking tires and telling lies, but late Saturday afternoon you decide to experience that twisty road over the mountain pass that everyone has been bragging up. The road turns out to be just as exciting as they said, and one advantage of turning around and riding down the mountain is that you’ve just seen the road and know what the surface is like. You feel more comfortable riding aggressively, closer to the limits of traction and lean angle.
But, halfway down, approaching a sharp downhill left-hander, you are shocked to see a fresh trail of gravel spread across the pavement. It wasn’t there a few minutes ago. You quickly lift the bike vertical and get hard on the brakes, sliding through the loose gravel and straight off the pavement onto a level dirt area. Apparently, within the last few minutes some local driver spun his tires, spreading gravel out onto the pavement.
Your tactic of getting the bike vertical and sliding straight off the road was good, but you were extremely lucky there was a level area to slide into, rather than a tree or rock wall. This could have been a serious crash. While it’s fun too ride aggressively, avoiding accidents requires that you always keep speed within sight distance, and never assume you know what you can’t see. Downhill left-handers are more hazardous because of gravity and surface camber. Clever riders slow down earlier when approaching potentially hazardous situations, not only to scrutinize the surface, but also to ensure there is no cross traffic.
Anita
Just because there wasn’t any gravel on the road a few minutes ago, doesn’t mean it isn’t there now.
You’ve enjoyed hanging around the motorcycle rally, kicking tires and telling lies, but late Saturday afternoon you decide to experience that twisty road over the mountain pass that everyone has been bragging up. The road turns out to be just as exciting as they said, and one advantage of turning around and riding down the mountain is that you’ve just seen the road and know what the surface is like. You feel more comfortable riding aggressively, closer to the limits of traction and lean angle.
But, halfway down, approaching a sharp downhill left-hander, you are shocked to see a fresh trail of gravel spread across the pavement. It wasn’t there a few minutes ago. You quickly lift the bike vertical and get hard on the brakes, sliding through the loose gravel and straight off the pavement onto a level dirt area. Apparently, within the last few minutes some local driver spun his tires, spreading gravel out onto the pavement.
Your tactic of getting the bike vertical and sliding straight off the road was good, but you were extremely lucky there was a level area to slide into, rather than a tree or rock wall. This could have been a serious crash. While it’s fun too ride aggressively, avoiding accidents requires that you always keep speed within sight distance, and never assume you know what you can’t see. Downhill left-handers are more hazardous because of gravity and surface camber. Clever riders slow down earlier when approaching potentially hazardous situations, not only to scrutinize the surface, but also to ensure there is no cross traffic.
Anita
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Changing Plans
Changing Plans
Just because a driver is in a designated turn lane doesn’t always mean they will turn. The traffic is moderate on your route into town. You ride impatiently because you’re late to meet friends at a neighborhood restaurant. The local traffic is in no apparent hurry, which only adds to your frustration. There are cars turning left onto intersecting side streets with a good deal of frequency. Thankfully, there are left turn only lanes at many of the side streets so that traffic flow can continue unimpeded.
A driver in a station wagon ahead is stopped in one such turning lane, apparently waiting for her chance to turn left across oncoming traffic. Cars in front of you continue past on her right. All appears to be normal when the driver of the station wagon suddenly begins moving straight instead of turning left. She accelerates without checking her right hand blind spot where a minivan is positioned. The road narrows ahead, which forces the minivan driver to slam on his brakes to avoid being pinched between the car and the edge of the narrowing road. Your mind struggles to comprehend what is happening. By the time your react, the distance between you and the van is dangerously close. You apply your brakes with authority to avoid colliding with the van’s rear bumper, and your bike begins fishtailing. Thankfully, you are able to keep the bike upright while stopping just short of the minivan.
While control lanes are helpful for managing traffic flow, it is important to realize that there is no guarantee that drivers will not change their minds and break the rules to implement their revised plan. Predicting the unpredictable is something that motorcyclists must do on every ride. It would have been smart to position yourself so you would have space around and in front of you to avoid being involved in unexpected mishaps.
Also, it is important to understand the negative effects frustration can have on attention and good judgment. Had you been in less of a hurry, perhaps you could have been more alert and maintained greater following distance.
Anita
Just because a driver is in a designated turn lane doesn’t always mean they will turn. The traffic is moderate on your route into town. You ride impatiently because you’re late to meet friends at a neighborhood restaurant. The local traffic is in no apparent hurry, which only adds to your frustration. There are cars turning left onto intersecting side streets with a good deal of frequency. Thankfully, there are left turn only lanes at many of the side streets so that traffic flow can continue unimpeded.
A driver in a station wagon ahead is stopped in one such turning lane, apparently waiting for her chance to turn left across oncoming traffic. Cars in front of you continue past on her right. All appears to be normal when the driver of the station wagon suddenly begins moving straight instead of turning left. She accelerates without checking her right hand blind spot where a minivan is positioned. The road narrows ahead, which forces the minivan driver to slam on his brakes to avoid being pinched between the car and the edge of the narrowing road. Your mind struggles to comprehend what is happening. By the time your react, the distance between you and the van is dangerously close. You apply your brakes with authority to avoid colliding with the van’s rear bumper, and your bike begins fishtailing. Thankfully, you are able to keep the bike upright while stopping just short of the minivan.
While control lanes are helpful for managing traffic flow, it is important to realize that there is no guarantee that drivers will not change their minds and break the rules to implement their revised plan. Predicting the unpredictable is something that motorcyclists must do on every ride. It would have been smart to position yourself so you would have space around and in front of you to avoid being involved in unexpected mishaps.
Also, it is important to understand the negative effects frustration can have on attention and good judgment. Had you been in less of a hurry, perhaps you could have been more alert and maintained greater following distance.
Anita
Friday, July 6, 2007
Proactive Riding
Proactive Riding
As riders and drivers, we have to be prepared to deal with other road users who do not always go with the traffic flow. Sometimes we can predict what they might do, other times it is not that easy. Being able to recognize the potential for conflict or defensive action on our part is the first step of a street strategy – most of which can be applied with equal effectiveness behind the wheel or a set of handlebars. Motorcycle riders, obviously, are at much greater risk than drivers from minor accidents. Therefore, it is even more crucial that we ride in such a way that minimizes the ill effects of mistakes others may make. The art of riding a motorcycle safely in traffic means taking this defensive approach as far as possible. The idea is to out-thing the other person – to anticipate driver mistakes and unsafe situations, and respond proactively rather than reactively. Here are a few specific situations you may frequently find yourself in while riding:
Turns for the worse- Year after year, statistics tell us the most common cause of motorcycle accidents is a driver turning left into the path of a motorcycle at an intersection. For this reason alone, always approach intersections with utmost care. Assume the driver waiting to turn left does not see you. Adjust your lane position to maximize your visibility. Lower your speed by downshifting or lightly applying the front brake. Cover both brakes and the clutch in case you have to stop suddenly. If possible, make eye contact with the driver to make sure he or she does see you.
Movin’ on over- With three lanes of traffic traveling the same direction on a freeway, a situation is created where two drivers/riders, separated by the center lane, may well be eyeing the same piece of center-lane real estate at the same time. If they decide simultaneously to claim it as their own, the results could be deadly. If you find yourself wanting to pass a slow driver in the right lane, don’t be greedy. Don’t look at only the center lane as you evaluate the situation, look at the far left lane, as well. Is there a driver who looks as if he might be eyeing the same spot you are? If so, wait a moment before passing to give that car a chance to pull ahead, or lay back a bit to create some separation. When that car is in the clear, signal your intentions, check your mirrors, do a head check, then move carefully but confidently into the center lane to pass.
Don’t tread on me- It is a wise rider who makes a point never to be in a hurry on a motorcycle. Unfortunately, we can’t control the intentions of the drivers around us, or in this case, close behind us. A tailgater can be one of the most annoying and potentially dangerous drivers a motorcyclist can encounter. As always, the best way to get yourself out of a high-risk situation is to avoid it in the first place. If you see a driver approaching quickly from behind, signal, check to make sure it’s safe, and change lanes. If the car is upon you before you have a chance to move over, the risk is that the driver will abruptly change lanes to pass you just as you change lanes to get out of the way. In this situation, signal early and wait just a moment before changing lanes to be sure the driver is aware of your intentions. If you find yourself on a winding two-lane road with a tailgater behind you, keep your cool. Though it can be tempting to speed up to put some distance between you and the driver, this likely won’t work. Chances are the driver will still stay right on your back end. Instead, check your pride at the side of the road; find a safe place to pull over and let the driver pass. Then continue riding at your own pace. Conversely, if you wind up stuck behind a slow-moving truck on such a road, and you can’t find a safe place to pass, consider stopping for awhile to let that vehicle get well ahead of you. It’s better to relax and take your time than to tempt fate by making a high-risk pass or letting your frustration build to where it affects your judgment.
Stop but don’t relax- As you roll to a stop at a red light, it is tempting to switch off your brain for a moment while you wait for the light to turn green. After all, you’re at a complete standstill – what could happen? Consider the inattentive driver coming up behind you, distracted by the kids in the back seat or dialing a cell phone. As you wait to get rolling, it is wise to keep an eye on your backside with your mirrors. If you see a car coming, flash your brake light to make sure the driver notices you sitting there. Take note if there is a quick escape route to your left o right. And keep your bike in gear in case you have to make that escape in a hurry.
Abrupt exits- Freeways were originally designed to have limited access and exit points, in order to create a steadier, safer flow of high speed traffic than smaller highways typically provide. But in urban areas with lots of traffic, as well as many on and off ramps, abrupt and unexpected lane changes are the order of the day. In these circumstances, consider staying out of the exit lane to begin with because it’s there that most of the action happens. Otherwise, do your best to try to determine the intentions of the drivers around you. Make sure you’re not riding in anyone’s blind spot. Is there a car coming up quickly behind you to the left? If so, keep a close eye on it, as the driver may be intending to beat you to the ramp, swerving into your path abruptly at the last instant. Create as much of a space cushion as you can and look for escape paths around you. When approaching an on-ramp, assume the merging driver can’t see you. Speed up, slow down, or carefully change lanes if necessary to create space for the incoming vehicle. Don’t assume the driver is going to adjust to you. Again, it’s often best to stay out of the far right lane when possible. Unfortunately, motorcycle riders are often thought of by motorists as being a danger on the road. But the truth is, if we could just get drivers to adhere to the same defensive practices advocated by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, our roads and highways would be a lot safer for riders and drivers alike.
As riders and drivers, we have to be prepared to deal with other road users who do not always go with the traffic flow. Sometimes we can predict what they might do, other times it is not that easy. Being able to recognize the potential for conflict or defensive action on our part is the first step of a street strategy – most of which can be applied with equal effectiveness behind the wheel or a set of handlebars. Motorcycle riders, obviously, are at much greater risk than drivers from minor accidents. Therefore, it is even more crucial that we ride in such a way that minimizes the ill effects of mistakes others may make. The art of riding a motorcycle safely in traffic means taking this defensive approach as far as possible. The idea is to out-thing the other person – to anticipate driver mistakes and unsafe situations, and respond proactively rather than reactively. Here are a few specific situations you may frequently find yourself in while riding:
Turns for the worse- Year after year, statistics tell us the most common cause of motorcycle accidents is a driver turning left into the path of a motorcycle at an intersection. For this reason alone, always approach intersections with utmost care. Assume the driver waiting to turn left does not see you. Adjust your lane position to maximize your visibility. Lower your speed by downshifting or lightly applying the front brake. Cover both brakes and the clutch in case you have to stop suddenly. If possible, make eye contact with the driver to make sure he or she does see you.
Movin’ on over- With three lanes of traffic traveling the same direction on a freeway, a situation is created where two drivers/riders, separated by the center lane, may well be eyeing the same piece of center-lane real estate at the same time. If they decide simultaneously to claim it as their own, the results could be deadly. If you find yourself wanting to pass a slow driver in the right lane, don’t be greedy. Don’t look at only the center lane as you evaluate the situation, look at the far left lane, as well. Is there a driver who looks as if he might be eyeing the same spot you are? If so, wait a moment before passing to give that car a chance to pull ahead, or lay back a bit to create some separation. When that car is in the clear, signal your intentions, check your mirrors, do a head check, then move carefully but confidently into the center lane to pass.
Don’t tread on me- It is a wise rider who makes a point never to be in a hurry on a motorcycle. Unfortunately, we can’t control the intentions of the drivers around us, or in this case, close behind us. A tailgater can be one of the most annoying and potentially dangerous drivers a motorcyclist can encounter. As always, the best way to get yourself out of a high-risk situation is to avoid it in the first place. If you see a driver approaching quickly from behind, signal, check to make sure it’s safe, and change lanes. If the car is upon you before you have a chance to move over, the risk is that the driver will abruptly change lanes to pass you just as you change lanes to get out of the way. In this situation, signal early and wait just a moment before changing lanes to be sure the driver is aware of your intentions. If you find yourself on a winding two-lane road with a tailgater behind you, keep your cool. Though it can be tempting to speed up to put some distance between you and the driver, this likely won’t work. Chances are the driver will still stay right on your back end. Instead, check your pride at the side of the road; find a safe place to pull over and let the driver pass. Then continue riding at your own pace. Conversely, if you wind up stuck behind a slow-moving truck on such a road, and you can’t find a safe place to pass, consider stopping for awhile to let that vehicle get well ahead of you. It’s better to relax and take your time than to tempt fate by making a high-risk pass or letting your frustration build to where it affects your judgment.
Stop but don’t relax- As you roll to a stop at a red light, it is tempting to switch off your brain for a moment while you wait for the light to turn green. After all, you’re at a complete standstill – what could happen? Consider the inattentive driver coming up behind you, distracted by the kids in the back seat or dialing a cell phone. As you wait to get rolling, it is wise to keep an eye on your backside with your mirrors. If you see a car coming, flash your brake light to make sure the driver notices you sitting there. Take note if there is a quick escape route to your left o right. And keep your bike in gear in case you have to make that escape in a hurry.
Abrupt exits- Freeways were originally designed to have limited access and exit points, in order to create a steadier, safer flow of high speed traffic than smaller highways typically provide. But in urban areas with lots of traffic, as well as many on and off ramps, abrupt and unexpected lane changes are the order of the day. In these circumstances, consider staying out of the exit lane to begin with because it’s there that most of the action happens. Otherwise, do your best to try to determine the intentions of the drivers around you. Make sure you’re not riding in anyone’s blind spot. Is there a car coming up quickly behind you to the left? If so, keep a close eye on it, as the driver may be intending to beat you to the ramp, swerving into your path abruptly at the last instant. Create as much of a space cushion as you can and look for escape paths around you. When approaching an on-ramp, assume the merging driver can’t see you. Speed up, slow down, or carefully change lanes if necessary to create space for the incoming vehicle. Don’t assume the driver is going to adjust to you. Again, it’s often best to stay out of the far right lane when possible. Unfortunately, motorcycle riders are often thought of by motorists as being a danger on the road. But the truth is, if we could just get drivers to adhere to the same defensive practices advocated by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, our roads and highways would be a lot safer for riders and drivers alike.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
riding gear
Riding Gear
It is no secret that bikers are style conscious. Just look at the dollars spent on motorcycle customizing. Each type of biker values different looks, with the cruiser crowd favoring flashy paint and chrome, while sport bikers opt for high performance exhausts and mini turn signals. Adventure tourers look past pure fashion in favor of function by fitting aluminum panniers and GPS. Whatever the riding genre, bikers share the common bond of identifying with their motorcycle and the style in which they ride.
While it is easy to focus on the bike as fashion statement, riding gear is equally important in completing the appearance. Fashion guides a lot of our riding gear buying decisions. In the early days of biking, everyone pretty much wore the same type of riding gear. Leather bomber jackets became the gear of choice after WWII for their durability and availability to the many veterans who became bikers after returning home. As the decades passed and bikes became more specialized, riding gear evolved to better match differing riding styles.
Cruiser riders continue to choose traditionally styled riding gear to match their traditionally styled bikes. This consists of a black leather jacket and chaps, perhaps with shiny buckles and a dash of fringe, engineer boots and black gauntlet or open fingered gloves. Head protection most often consists of an open-faced helmet, either three-quarter or half-coverage, or the novelty beanie helmet.
Touring and sport-touring riders tend to favor practical gear that includes a sturdy, protective jacket and pants with abundant pockets, reflective material and vents for comfort. Their riding boots are chosen for comfort over long miles and for walking. They often choose full-fingered gloves with decent protection and full-coverage or flip-up helmets to protect their head.
Sport riders look to their racing heroes for styling cues where snug-fitting, brightly colored jackets or full road-race leather suits are the norm along with heavily armored boots and gloves. They choose brightly colored full-faced helmets, often with racing influenced flashy graphics. The advantage these riders have it that their chosen line of riding gear offers maximum protection.
Stunters who demonstrate acrobatic skill seem to revel in their risk taking lifestyle and thus, might don little more than a tank top, baggy jeans, and sneakers. Helmets seem to be optional, but more and more are wising up to the benefit of this fundamental form of protection.
Riders who treat biking as pure transportation or casual recreation often opt for whatever outerwear they have around. They can be seen wearing non-biker-specific clothing, including fashion leather, lightweight jacket, work boots or sneakers and work gloves. What helmet they choose depends on their level of commitment to safety.
Of course, the above descriptions are type casts and not all riders fall neatly into these categories. There are cruiser riders who wear light-colored jackets and full-faced helmets, sport riders who wear black leather and open-faced helmets, stunters who don full protective gear and commuters who spend money on biker-specific apparel. But, the reality is that matching riding gear with a specific motorcycle and riding style is a huge motivator for what riding gear is worn. Fortunately, there is good quality protective gear available in all styles to match the type of riding you do.
Anita
It is no secret that bikers are style conscious. Just look at the dollars spent on motorcycle customizing. Each type of biker values different looks, with the cruiser crowd favoring flashy paint and chrome, while sport bikers opt for high performance exhausts and mini turn signals. Adventure tourers look past pure fashion in favor of function by fitting aluminum panniers and GPS. Whatever the riding genre, bikers share the common bond of identifying with their motorcycle and the style in which they ride.
While it is easy to focus on the bike as fashion statement, riding gear is equally important in completing the appearance. Fashion guides a lot of our riding gear buying decisions. In the early days of biking, everyone pretty much wore the same type of riding gear. Leather bomber jackets became the gear of choice after WWII for their durability and availability to the many veterans who became bikers after returning home. As the decades passed and bikes became more specialized, riding gear evolved to better match differing riding styles.
Cruiser riders continue to choose traditionally styled riding gear to match their traditionally styled bikes. This consists of a black leather jacket and chaps, perhaps with shiny buckles and a dash of fringe, engineer boots and black gauntlet or open fingered gloves. Head protection most often consists of an open-faced helmet, either three-quarter or half-coverage, or the novelty beanie helmet.
Touring and sport-touring riders tend to favor practical gear that includes a sturdy, protective jacket and pants with abundant pockets, reflective material and vents for comfort. Their riding boots are chosen for comfort over long miles and for walking. They often choose full-fingered gloves with decent protection and full-coverage or flip-up helmets to protect their head.
Sport riders look to their racing heroes for styling cues where snug-fitting, brightly colored jackets or full road-race leather suits are the norm along with heavily armored boots and gloves. They choose brightly colored full-faced helmets, often with racing influenced flashy graphics. The advantage these riders have it that their chosen line of riding gear offers maximum protection.
Stunters who demonstrate acrobatic skill seem to revel in their risk taking lifestyle and thus, might don little more than a tank top, baggy jeans, and sneakers. Helmets seem to be optional, but more and more are wising up to the benefit of this fundamental form of protection.
Riders who treat biking as pure transportation or casual recreation often opt for whatever outerwear they have around. They can be seen wearing non-biker-specific clothing, including fashion leather, lightweight jacket, work boots or sneakers and work gloves. What helmet they choose depends on their level of commitment to safety.
Of course, the above descriptions are type casts and not all riders fall neatly into these categories. There are cruiser riders who wear light-colored jackets and full-faced helmets, sport riders who wear black leather and open-faced helmets, stunters who don full protective gear and commuters who spend money on biker-specific apparel. But, the reality is that matching riding gear with a specific motorcycle and riding style is a huge motivator for what riding gear is worn. Fortunately, there is good quality protective gear available in all styles to match the type of riding you do.
Anita
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
motorcycle safety
This is my first blog and it is about motorcycle safety.
I went on my first motorcycle ride when I was in 9th grade and was hooked. Throughout the years, I dated men who had bikes and was content to be a passenger; I never wanted my own bike. One friend did not ride enough and he got tired of my constant requests to go riding, so he bought me a bike for Christmas 2002. I enrolled in the State approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider course and received my motorcycle endorsement. One month later, I took the Harley Davidson Rider’s Edge New Rider course, three months later, I took the Skilled Rider course, and one year later, I took the Experienced Rider course. By July 2003 I had already logged in 10,000 on my bike.
Through the years, I have learned some basic safety tips:
Know your limits, know the limits of your motorcycle, and ride within these limits.
Common rookie mistakes are not looking far enough in front, not using proper braking technique, and not understanding how to counter steer.
It is a good idea for experienced riders to occasionally take a refresher course, as we all get accustomed to everyday riding, which includes basic straight-line riding, turning, shifting, and stopping. We do not practice critical lifesaving skills such as the quick stop or quick swerves to avoid obstacles, which are perishable skills that diminish without regular practice. Taking a refresher course every two to three years refreshes these reactions as well as reinforces our everyday riding techniques.
Anita
I went on my first motorcycle ride when I was in 9th grade and was hooked. Throughout the years, I dated men who had bikes and was content to be a passenger; I never wanted my own bike. One friend did not ride enough and he got tired of my constant requests to go riding, so he bought me a bike for Christmas 2002. I enrolled in the State approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider course and received my motorcycle endorsement. One month later, I took the Harley Davidson Rider’s Edge New Rider course, three months later, I took the Skilled Rider course, and one year later, I took the Experienced Rider course. By July 2003 I had already logged in 10,000 on my bike.
Through the years, I have learned some basic safety tips:
Know your limits, know the limits of your motorcycle, and ride within these limits.
Common rookie mistakes are not looking far enough in front, not using proper braking technique, and not understanding how to counter steer.
It is a good idea for experienced riders to occasionally take a refresher course, as we all get accustomed to everyday riding, which includes basic straight-line riding, turning, shifting, and stopping. We do not practice critical lifesaving skills such as the quick stop or quick swerves to avoid obstacles, which are perishable skills that diminish without regular practice. Taking a refresher course every two to three years refreshes these reactions as well as reinforces our everyday riding techniques.
Anita
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