Think of the last time you were stuck in heavy traffic.
Vehicles surrounding you, cutting you off all while your trying to monitor
closing speeds, read street signs, anticipate traffic signals, and keep track
of pedestrians. It can be overwhelming, and that’s exactly why street-riding
newcomers crash and burn while riding in congested areas. Being a motorcyclist
means that you have to be able to process multiple different tasks and be able
to react to each of them correctly. Not being able to do so could turn you into
roadkill, so here are 15 strategies for dealing with traffic-choked streets.
Watch drivers heads and mirrors
Watching the head movements of drivers through their windows
in an excellent way to anticipate sudden moves. Majority of drivers will move
their head left or right before making any sudden lane changes (even if they
don’t check their mirrors).
Trust your mirrors, but not totally
Your bikes mirrors can be lifesavers, but they don’t always
tell the entire story even if adjusted properly. In heavy traffic always make
sure that your checking over your shoulder before making a lane change, if
preformed quickly it will add rear-view and blind-spot knowledge to your
info-gathering tasks.
Never get between a vehicle and an off-ramp
This may sound simple, but drivers who decide to exit at the
last second kill plenty of riders every year. The simple rule is to never
position yourself between a vehicle and an off-ramp. Passing on the right is
generally a no-no, but in this day and age can be necessary. If you do so make
sure it’s between exits or cross streets.
Cover your brakes
In traffic you must react extra quick, which means not
fumbling with the brake pedal. Minimize reach time by always keeping a finger
or to on the brake lever and your right toe close to the rear brake pedal. So
when a cellphone toting 10th grader flies across your lane to snag a
burrito from Taco Bell you’ll be ready!
Be noticed
Make sure riders and pedestrians can see you, even from a
distance. Ride with your high beams on during the day (turning them off when
sitting behind someone a light), and wear brightly colored gear, especially
your helmet and jacket.
Be ready with power
In traffic, ride in a gear lower than you normally would so
your bike is ready to jump forward instantly if asked. Doing so gives you the
option of leaping ahead instead of being limited to just using the brakes when
that pick-up suddenly moves over. The higher revs may also alert more cagers to
your presence.
Practice the scan
Constantly scan your environment while riding. Check your
left, right, blind spot, and the road ahead. This will make you more aware and
allow you to react quickly. Being stuck in one area for a long time only
focusing in front of you is asking for trouble.
Pete’s Cycles reminds you to be safe on the road and gear up
with protective equipment that will make you more visible on the road. We would
like thank the motorcyclistonline.com for the helpful information. Stay Safe!
