New York Chapter "W"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association

Rochester, NY

Seeing is Believing

When you ride your motorcycle, constant scanning of the environment is something we were taught to do, know we should do, but do we really practice it? We need to be aware and be looking for potential hazards in the constantly changing environment. Motorcycle safety courses teach you to continually scan your environment from side to side and front to back. Some use a figure 8 to scan the environment; it sure beats the 0 scan.

When you approach cars at intersections, watch their tires. If the tires are pointed toward you, that indicates their intent to turn in your direction. Try and do eye contact so you know they can see you, this may make them reconsider that quick turn into your path. This may cause you to re-tire from riding for a while.

If you are in an unknown area, observe all the road signs and reduce your speed as needed. As you approach curves, be aware of surprises that may await you such as animals, stopped cars or debris in the road. Be in control of your speed so you have ample time to react to any given situation. Make sure you have set your speed at a level that is appropriate, that means the correct speed to accelerate out of the turn, and not having to apply brakes in the turn.

While traveling, observe the road for shiny spots which could mean spilled coolant, diesel fuel or oil, all of which are very slippery. Tar snakes on the road become slippery when the temperature increases, or in the rain. Be careful so you don't get bit. Railroad tracks are slippery when wet, try to cross them at reduced speed and position yourself as perpendicular to the tracks as possible to avoid sliding. Paint at crosswalks and other markers painted in the road become slippery as well.

Ride slower at night, in the rain and fog as visibility is greatly reduced. Your speed should be appropriate for the riding conditions. Observe the speed limit and remember it was established for ideal conditions. If conditions have become too hard to see, pull over in a safe area and wait until you feel comfortable to continue. If visibility conditions are reduced to a point that it is hard for you to see, think how hard it is for people to see you. Dress to be seen. Don't be concerned about being late; concern yourself with getting there safely. In this case, it would be appropriate to be fashionably late.

When following large trucks, your forward vision is significantly reduced, as well as the ability for drivers to see you. If you cannot see the drivers face in their mirrors, they cannot see you behind them. Stay in their line of sight. Back off and make sure you have a good view of the total environment. For smaller vehicles, look through their windshield to see down the road for obstacles. Make sure you have enough room for an escape route if needed. Scan and plan.

Be smart, see and be seen.

Practice safe riding

Gary Mandak

Chapter "W" Educator