Highways pose a hazard for motorcycle riding.

Here are a few ways while motorcycle riding to be safer on the highway and still get to where you want to go. This doesn't take much and can help you to get out of tough situations if they should arise.

Most motorcycles can out accelerate a car so instead of using that as being a hot shot on the road, let's tuck it in our back pocket and use it intelligently later. Judy and I are big advocates of safety on the road and the "image" that motorcyclist portray to others on the road.

With that in mind lets talk quickly about what doesn't work. The things that don't work on the highways are anything that is out of the "ordinary". What I mean be that is the highest percentage of vehicles on the road belongs to the car and Mom and Dad going to work, the store etc.

So anything that happens on the highway that is out of that mold is unexpected and can have the potential to cause problems. So as a motorcyclist we should try to fit that mold as best as possible. As motorcyclists we are already at a disadvantage since we are not the standard sedan or SUV.

So how can we better fit in? First, group ride when possible. You become a more visible object on the road. Anticipate the movements of cars looking forward and down the road like in a chess game.

If someone beside you moves into your lane the best move is to back off if you can and let them slide in, then flash your high beams to let them know you are there. A few times I've hit my horn which almost caused an accident.

Chances are the driver of the car doesn't see you there to begin with, if you hit your horn it will scare them and cause them to dive back into their lane. This will inevitably cause them to over correct and come back into your lane this time out of control. Bad idea.

Other things like splitting lanes, even if legal in your state, can be dangerous. If you are stuck in traffic and someone should open a door to get out you can find an unsafe practice coming to an abrupt stop in a hurry.

Trucks of course are a big issue. They have more blind spots than anything else on the road. The best thing to do with trucks is to hold back until you can make a pass of the entire length of the truck and use that acceleration you tucked in your back pocket. Never ride beside a truck or right up on their bumper. If you can't see the drivers pearly whites in the mirror, then he cannot see you.

Bottom line here, use your common sense, ride in groups when you can and drive as if you we driving a car. And one last thing, enjoy the ride.

Return to Motorcycle Safety from Motorcycle Riding

Return to Motorcycle Touring Made Easy from Motorcycle Riding