Not Crashing

Few racers who part company with their bikes on a circuit are seriously injured because they slide along the road and, of course, they are well protected by the proper safety gear. But even a very low speed crash on the road can lead to injuries or death. Circuits don't have cars, buses, brick walls, telegraph poles and the like to bring the motorcyclist to an instant stop, and that is often the cause of death.

Only an idiot would say there is no such thing as an accident, that we can all exert complete control over our road safety. And, equally, only an idiot would say that it is no more dangerous to have a crash on a motorcycle than in a car. If we need to be defensive drivers, it is even more important to have a totally defensive approach to the art of motorcycling. The mistake that might bring a $1000 panel-beating bill for your car and no injury to you, the driver, could be fatal on a two-wheeled machine.

The starting point is always to assume that other drivers may not have seen you. (Think how hard it is for the driver of a B-Double to be aware of a motorcycle tucked in behind his huge rig!) Secondly, other drivers may do something completely silly, such as stop in the middle of the road, swerve suddenly, or make a right-hand turn from the left-hand lane. So you need to be a mind-reader of worst case traffic scenarios.

Always expect lunatic acts all around you. Try to anticipate the stupid behaviour of others and ride around the problems. It is actually very satisfying to predict an unfolding drama ahead of you and to take evasive action.

Many road users have no comprehension of the accelerative abilities of even a small-engined motorcycle and will under-estimate your speed. Most motorcycle riders have had oncoming drivers make right-hand turns in their path.

Read every book on riding techniques you can get hold of and do at least one and preferably several advanced courses. It is an investment in your own life.

Do not to place yourself in any of a motorist's several blind spots. It is our observation that the majority of drivers not only do not use their mirrors frequently enough but also that they do not have them adjusted properly.

Make yourself highly visible. How you dress is an obvious point. A bright-coloured motorcycle is always going to be easier to see than a black one.

There is an aural factor, too, and one day legislators might realise that insisting motorcycle exhausts be toned down also steps up the risk to riders. (Imagine if heavy trucks could sneak up silently on inattentive drivers!)

Lane-placement is important. The safest place is generally towards the right-hand side of the left lane, and at a discreet distance. From here you get a more commanding view and you also have more avoidance space.