Advice for Motorcycle and Moped Riders

Motorcycle and moped riders need to be aware of the dangers they face on the road

What's one of the biggest dangers to catch out many riders especially in the first few months on a bike?

Road Surface - but why?

Newcomers are often oblivious to the danger motorcyclists' face each time they go out on the road.

Imagine hitting a big pothole halfway around a corner in a car - it wouldn't be much cause for concern, but on a bike you could easily end up biting the dust. The same goes for a whole host of other dangers which car drivers don't have to worry about.

Large goods vehicles have a reputation for overfilled fuel tanks and 'dumping' slippery diesel on tight bends and roundabouts, making the road surface a real danger, and it doesn't end there.

Next time you are out and about have a look at all the gravel and debris which builds up at some T-junctions and sometimes in bends and corners.

Think about the onset of autumn: How many roads do you know which are or will be covered with slippery leaves?

Now imagine it's raining: Road surfaces, which usually wouldn't cause a problem, such as white lines, manhole covers and shiny tarmac suddenly, become real dangers.

Now imagine dealing with all the above when it's dark ............

So what can we do to help ourselves stay safe?

• Constantly scan the road ahead - long, medium and short range (in that order)

• Read every road sign, as they will warn you of dangers such as tight bends ahead

• Try to avoid accelerating or braking on slippery road surfaces - when cornering avoid the 'shiny' patch or any white paint on the road surface

• Make yourself familiar with the smell of diesel - then you will recognise it if it's on the road ahead.

• Even if the rest of the road is dry, watch out for damp areas under trees

• On country lanes, look out for farm entrances - the roads are often covered with mud

• Consider uprating your bike's headlamp bulbs for a brighter view at night

See our other Related Motorcycle articles below.

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