Techniques

The Right Frame of Mind

Whenever you ride, get your brain into the right frame of mind and don't get distracted. Get into that proactive state of rider awareness. If you are tired, stressed, angry or depressed please don't ride.

Observe

Observing and scanning is the key. Check out the KickStart Rider's Mindset page for more info.

Identify Hot-Spots

There are areas and scenarios in traffic that are more dangerous than others. Intersections, especially roundabouts, are one of the biggest danger zones. A lot of mistakes are made by drivers and riders at intersections. Once you've identified a Hot-Spot, be prepared to take any actions to ensure your safety.

Examples of Hot-Spots:

• Intersections like roundabouts
• Merging lanes
• Motorists driving next to you on multi-lane roads
• Aggressive motorists driving threateningly
• People on mobile phones

Whatever the situation, be proactive by using the following techniques.

Be Proactive - Separate Yourself from Hazards

Take action to physically separate yourself from any potential harm. Space is your biggest asset.

By being a smart Learner rider and predicting what could happen gives you the opportunity to get yourself away from any trouble. Here are some examples:

• Expanding your following distance from behind the bus in front of you, so other motorists have a greater chance of seeing you.
• Speeding up or slowing down to get away from a noisy and distracting truck driving next to you.
• Identifying the actions of an aggressive driver up ahead, and staying back from them.

Take control of any situation you are in and don't let yourself become cornered if you can help it.

Be seen in traffic

Motorcycles are narrower and harder to see in traffic.

Some things you can do to be seen. But never solely rely on them:

• Wear bright coloured gear, including your helmet.
• If you can, choose a brighter paint scheme on your bike.
• Know the blind spots of other vehicles.
• Ride so other motorists know you're there.
• Give other motorists enough time to see you in their mirrors.
• Don't move suddenly between lanes.
• Get in the most visible lane position when you can.