How and Why Motorcycle Lane Splitting is Safe and Good - /RideApart

[@nikka6274]

illegal? Here in Greece if you dont split lanes people will think that you dont even know how to ride.

[@qawsed3]

xaxaxaxa

[@ImranZakhaev9]

100% completely illegal in Canada :'c it terrifies me to sit in traffic like a normal car, the thought of getting rear ended on a bike is awful, and we're even less visible so we're MORE likely to get hit! I usually do. For the sake of my own safety and the safety of those around me, I lane filter. Fuck the law, my life is my priority.

[@Dansk55]

lol so you're the angel that never breaks the law in your prius I assume? Give me a break kid

[@Dansk55]

***** Wow you must be really cool to hang around with. Learn to take a joke KID. Anyway, I don't have time to read all that but be careful on the road.

[@kevinanderson9752]

Not when the law is fucked up anyway....

[@kevinanderson9752]

Great analogy Josh.

[@kevinanderson9752]

***** Actually lane splitting is commonly accepted in many places including of which is California which is on it's way to formally legalizing it. Among those place that are legal , motorcycle related incidents are substantially lower, but hey those are just facts from people much more qualified than you or I, but what do I know?

[@Wazodude]

Lane splitting is only dangerous when you have idiots blasting as fast as they can through stopped or slow traffic.

[@MechRider89]

+Wazodude Sooo true!

[@joeanonimous1105]

Yeah, but only 99.99% of them do that. Gives the other 0.01% a bad name!

[@ahkilbrinkley9715]

K

[@krytenLister]

I've been filtering for 30 yrs - never had a close call and never scraped a car. Keep your eyes open, keep the speed down, thank drivers that move over for you and its all perfectly safe. It reduces congestion and is better for the environment...but I don't really give a sh*t about any of that...I just want to get home quicker.

[@ericwsmith7722]

+Kryten L ----Lets be a little more honest, public transpiration , and multi passenger vehicles reduced congestion, not one or 2 people per vehicle , as for the environment , your kidding right ? motorcycles only pollution control devices is electronic ignition and unleaded fuel. most still use carburetors, the average bike pollutes more then a full size pick up truck.

[@LmnPlays]

+eric wsmith bro....

[@krytenLister]

+eric wsmith Pollutes more than a truck....righto! Bikes pollute less because they don't have to sit stuck in traffic spewing out fumes going nowhere.

[@ericwsmith7722]

+Kryten L --- yea higher RPM,s don't burn more fuel...right

[@chrispewpew]

+eric wsmith Cars will have to produce more energy to achieve the same speed as a motorcycle under the same conditions. That being said, rpm does not mean everything. a 5.0 Liter truck at the same rpm, will pump out way more gas than a 0.5 Liter motorcycle at the same RPM. The reason that a motorcycle may produce more smog is that some motorcycle do not have equipment like catalytic converters and other various items to allow it to output less smog. The EPA standards have been becoming more and more strict, which is a good thing IMO, but please, next time you spit out "facts," make sure you have the right idea. I don't find it interesting to see conversations have two very important viewpoints only to be discussed at a very low utterance as well as lack of actual backing.

[@XV250]

I think lane splitting is safe _if_ you ride somewhere that it is common and expected by the car drivers. Where I live (British Columbia) if you lane split, drivers will get irate because they perceive you to be somehow 'cheating' and cutting to the front of the line. Yes, if you put some thought into it, that makes no sense, but good sense is not very common these days.

[@Canada151337]

I filter almost every day here in Vancouver and i've had more people actually move over for me than honk even! In over a year of filtering i've only have one guy actually rage and try to force me out of the lane once he caught up to me.... WOOP! Cya!

[@markukrainetz5058]

LS650 I lived in BC as well. If a bike filtered past me, I'd get pissed off, thinking that they are "cheating". That was the attitude I took with me to Korea ( where I live now). Filtering is very common here. If fact, it's expected that bikes filter. When I got my bike, I still had the BC attitude, so I didn't filter. Friends and co-workers would marvel at this..."why". I tried it for the first time because traffic here is very congested. Since then, I've developed the Korean attitude, and filtering safely in congested traffic is second nature.

[@wwdavis8989]

i had a bright red jacket and a colorful helmet on when i got hit. hi viz does nothing for a distracted driver

[@myrecommendedisallmemes]

@@markukrainetz5058 At least you learned something new. Try to bring that attitude to America if you come over here because the little cucks in big trucks don't seem to understand that no one owns the road and there's no "line" that needs to be waited in just to travel. As a motorcyclist these people piss me off to the extreme as they're the reason we still dont have legal lane filtering.

[@ALWhiteAuthor]

In my opinion, the safest aspect of lane splitting is removing yourself from the end of a line of traffic. Moving up to the front of the traffic queue at a light puts tons of steel and plastic between you and that idiot on his phone that's not paying attention and would have sandwiched your dead body and mangled bike between his and the bumper of the car in front of him. Forget about all the other benefits of reducing commute times, saving fuel and everything else positive about lane splitting. It just plain saves lives. People really need to start contacting their legislators in their states to push for lane splitting legality for that reason alone. I have.

[@ALWhiteAuthor]

You pull to the front of the traffic queue... Meaning there are cars already stopped at the intersection. You have FULLY STOPPED vehicles between you and the guys that haven't stopped yet. What's so difficult about that to understand? Apparently, due to your complete lack of logic, I have fooled you. On accident. Who knew?

[@ALWhiteAuthor]

eric wsmith Evidently, you're not capable of understanding this simple concept. Therefore, I'm going to bow out now since it's pointless to have a battle of wits with someone as unarmed as you appear to be.

[@samualiam9981]

eric wsmith You don't put yourself out into the intersection to dimwit. You put yourself out of harms way from the rear.

[@samualiam9981]

eric wsmith Your lack of cognitive thought is amusing. I bet you ride a quarter ton land yacht, don't you? You know what don't answer that because it doesn't matter what you ride your still an asshat.

[@wolfg.1867]

As not having Lane splitting in AZ I make the best and stop close to the edge of the lane and put myself in a position to go down the center if jackhole doesn't plan on stopping.

[@staninjapan07]

Here in Japan lane splitting, or filtering as we British call it, is entirely normal. It is also entirely normal all over The United Kingdom, and, I believe in most of or much of Europe (mainland). No one has a problem with it, quite simply, because it isn't a problem. I do it every single times I ride if there is something ahead of me that I can SAFELY pass. If I don't see the light change to red, and therefor cannot predict when it will go green and cars will start to move, then I don't filter through the traffic. Conversely, I rarely wait behind a car if I have seen the light go to red, as I know I have a minute or so to cover the 10 or 20 cars between me and the light. Why do car drivers who have no experience of riding (seeing all of what is going on around them) whinge about it? 1. Wear a high visibility jacket or vest without fail. 2. Put high visibility stickers on your top-box. 3. Don't filter unless you can do it safely. 4. Don't worry about car drivers and/or trolls whinging on KZbin. All done. Why didn't these guys mention the high visibility clothing I wonder? Perhaps because it's not cool.... but then neither is having your bike killed from underneath you by an inattentive car driver - and I speak from experience of being hit by an old guy crossing over from a side-road in a Nissan Skyline GTR. That's what you want to ban! Now I will put away the soap box.

[@Anthony_aus]

+staninjapan07 An old guy in a Skyline? Got sick of his stroller and decided to hit up the turbo I guess!

[@staninjapan07]

Resto Yup, and here in Japan there is no such thing as a 100% fault/claim. So I had to pay 5% of the cost of replacing the bike he killed after admitting that he had not seen me.

[@Anthony_aus]

Hm, that's interesting.

[@staninjapan07]

Quite how you feel that that relates to my comment is lost on me. I use Japanese as my daily work language, but I have to wonder why you chose to write something in Japanese in the first place and why what you wrote is both irrelevant and written incorrectly. There is nothing inherently contradictory about videos regarding, or made by Japanese people. Perhaps you used Google Translate to try to put that into Japanese?

[@staninjapan07]

***** Check what you think you wrote in Japanese and then check what you have just said here. Those two are not the same. No, I am not offended.

[@jimalden9376]

I've been riding for 35+ years, in Los Angeles. I have over 300,000 miles on two wheels, and I can say, without pause, that lane-splitting, done safely is much safer than not. The only reason lane-spitting gets a bad rap is because done carelessly (too fast), it's extremely dangerous and you're likely to get hit. The magic is when and how to lane split. When cars are all backed up at an intersection waiting for a green, it's a perfect time to split lanes and get in front. I never do it more than about 10mph in this situation, so basically bicycle speed. During freeway congestion, splitting is a bit more of a skill, but not hard to master if you follow some basic rules, but I also feel it's much safer than not since most freeway accidents in traffic are getting rear-ended. Fatalities from rear end collisions into motorcycles are 30% lower in California than in Florida or Texas, states with similar riding seasons and populations but which do not lane split. Getting rear-ended is highly unlikely when you're between lanes. Just never go more than 15mph faster than traffic and no more than 35-40mph total and it's safe. I always watch drivers and am extra careful if they have any motivation to change lanes. When cars are completely bunched up on either lane, there is less chance of incident since they have no lane to change into and no motivation to move sideways. When there is a gap on one side, that is where you watch the driver's intentions. The guys that go down between lanes are simply going way too fast and are asking for it, and they give good riders a bad name, and a good thing (lane-splitting) a bad rap. It's legal here in California which is the motorcycle capital of the US (most registered bikes) and it's really a shame it's not legal in more places, like it is in other countries. I got rear-ended in my car by a drunk. If I were on my bike that day, I would have been hospitalized. 35 years and 300,000 miles of riding and lane-splitting safely. No problems, never rear-ended. Knocking on wood, other than riding motocross as a kid, I've never beed down. Knocking on wood some more.

[@kaje01]

Why the 49 states hate lane splitting: Because if I have to wait, it's not fair for you to cut in line. (the whole world revolves around me) 'MURICA!

[@ericwsmith7722]

kevin smith because its not a safe riding practice, and invites abuse .

[@fupabox]

eric wsmith I just watched this again, and found another fabrication (actually an out-right lie) .. at approx 7:30 in the vid. the one guy says that the "hurt report shows 2/3 of motorcycle crashes are bikes being rear ended"..This is so far from factual that it is laughable... rear ending in so insignificant it is hardly mentioned in the hurt report .from the hurt report.. regarding motorcycles being rear ended.. Collision contact at the back of the motorcycle occurs in only 2.6% of those cases, and when the right and left back sides are included (1.5 + 2.1), the total involvement is only 6.2% of the accident cases. This low frequency of rear impacts is far below that of other types of motor vehicles and represents a low threat. .If these guys feel so strongly about their position on lane splitting, why do they have to bullshit people to justify it ?...exact quote from the hurt report The most frequent accident configuration is the motorcycle proceeding straight then the automobile makes a left turn in front of the oncoming motorcycle. almost 75% of all accidentsThey are telling people the danger is from behind, when the greatest danger is in front of you.

[@TwoTall1988]

eric wsmith So statistical studies scientifically proving that lane splitting is much safer makes it 'not a safe riding practice'? Aggressive and dangerous lane splitting (going more than 10-20mph faster than traffic for example) is what is dangerous, and I'm sure that's still reckless driving in LA...

[@TwoTall1988]

***** you're wrong, so very wrong about the clip at 7:30, he states that the report found that 2/3rds of all motorcycle-car collisions were the CARS fault not that they are rearenders.... pay attention to what you right.

[@fupabox]

Jacob Sorensen I did hear him incorrectly....He said 2/3 were caused by other cars..and the most common of those are rear enders...absolutely 100% false...People need to read the actual Hurt report...don't believe me if you don't want to, but he is still completely overstating the occurrence of bikes being rear ended in order to justify his stance on lane splitting.. I have put the ACTUAL stats in my comments.. You point out my slight error but forgive his massive one ? unless of course ..you believe 2.6 % equals "the vast majority" as he states.

[@ZoneTelevision]

Hell yah I agree with lane splitting especially on the interstate in grid locked traffic as long as you're respectful and don't go too fast. There is no way in hell I'm going to cook in 80+ F weather in full gear sitting in traffic while cagers sit in their air-conditioning texting on Facebook or whatever the hell they do... helllll no. You can dehydrate and fatigue very quickly especially if traffic is backed up for miles. It's just common sense.

[@fingerhorn4]

Honestly this is a really poorly argued subject. Splitting lanes (or filtering) absolutely depends on WHEN do to it, how fast to do it, whether it is SAFE to do it. It is not a binary argument. There is no "yes split lanes" or "do not split lanes". It DEPENDS. Here are some killers when lane splitting: 1. Someone opens a car door. 2. A vehicle enters a traffic jam from the side. 3. A car swaps lanes just as you are passing. 4. A pedestrian crosses a stopped line of traffic unseen to you. 5. Filtering fast is dangerous. Do it with total concentration and care. There is no automatic right to lane split. It is only legal if it is safe, just like everything else on the road.

[@austina4189]

fingerhorn4 well yes but that all is avoided by responsible lane splitting, which is up to the rider to not go too fast.. so in the end it definitely is binary.. legal or illegal, then the riders split when they can and everyone gets where they're going faster

[@kgsz]

No need to enter in argument here, +fingerhorn. It's as with everything on the road - "when it's safe". Look how's that regulated in the UK: Rule 88 Manoeuvring. You should be aware of what is behind and to the sides before manoeuvring. Look behind you; use mirrors if they are fitted. When in traffic queues look out for pedestrians crossing between vehicles and vehicles emerging from junctions or changing lanes. Position yourself so that drivers in front can see you in their mirrors. Additionally, when filtering in slow-moving traffic, take care and keep your speed low. www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/rules-for-motorcyclists-83-to-88 Do you see it? Basically only one sentence regulates traffic filtering in England, Scotland and Wales (and I assure you, traffic in London is hell): "Additionally, when filtering in slow-moving traffic, take care and keep your speed low". Everything else (road signs, pedestrians, other road users) is implicit. And yes, " It is only legal if it is safe, just like everything else on the road." - you nailed it.

[@fingerhorn4]

I can't see that we disagree on anything!

[@cisium1184]

I agree, it is all about the circumstances. And while I would like it to be legal and would do it, frankly most of the situations where I see riders doing it are situations in which I stay put. I absolutely want to filter to the front in stopped traffic, but the moment those cars start moving, even a little, lane-splitting becomes much more dangerous. Especially on the highway - rush hour here the highways are filled with people texting, smoking weed, hunched down low behind tinted windows, just hitting the gas and changing lanes without so much as a look.

[@DETRIVNI]

They hate it because they get pissed when they are stuck in traffic and someone gets to go by them. Should have made a wiser vehicle decision.

[@thorazine8402]

And while drivers are fuming in their cars how unfair it is, they should be asking themselves who's responsible for all that traffic: cars or bikes?

[@asdax8311]

Thorazine Well put. Certainly strengthens Wes' Belgium study findings.

[@DETRIVNI]

I read a study that said if 10% of drivers in Los Angeles switched to a motorcycle during rush hour traffic would be reduced 40%

[@joemann7971]

I'll be honest. I was jealous of riders when I was in my car, but not once was I like "hey, they should all stand in line like the rest of us so that there is even more traffic". It's just retarded. Instead of hating on the riders, I joined them. :-) Maybe they should all learn to ride instead of hating on riders.

[@christophmarikovics2764]

Sell it as "filtering". I think lane-splitting would benefit from the PR makeover of a name change. Filtering is more neutral. Splitting makes people think you're taking something they have and taking half of it away. As a NYC rider I'm looking at the nicely paved wide lanes in the video with a measure of envy.​ Even so, there are good safe opportunities for filtering in NYC traffic. Coming across the 59th street bridge in standstill rush hour traffic for instance. No car is going anywhere, there is no advantage to a lane change and there are only two lanes of traffic. The biggest threat is drivers who try to block you for whatever justification they make up in their heads. Very few riders don't take advantage of this opportunity. Having said this I will cite an instance of a jackass on a scooter with a passenger who cut into a lane I was slowing to a stop in (right quarter of the lane) and passed me on the left to get ahead of me to be able to filter. I think that we as riders have to give other riders a bigger buffer zone because we are more maneuverable and less predictable.

[@predragbalorda]

You say potato...

[@troy4553]

Where's RJ? He will show you a thing or 2 ;)

[@Sam-K]

RJ is THE KING of LANE SPLITTING, period...!!!

[@aliakbar515]

+Prince Xamim he is the GOAT

[@wmgthilgen]

Prince Xamim Every king eventually looses their throne. Accidents are not illegal in any of our 50 states, unless they can be proven, to be, without a shadow of doulbt, deliberate. One cannot be charged nor convicted of a crime. Suicide on the other hand, is illegal in all 50 states, Porto Rico, Guam and American Somoa. And though one can be tried and convicted, thus having to pay a fine and or be incarcerated; Since the birth if thus nation, no one succsessful at it has ever faced litigation. One has the inalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of whatever one personally deems happiness. I'm happy driving a car, your happy driving a bike, should we be involved in an accident I would concur that because accidents are not illegal, and after our no fault insurances have repaired our shit, I'll continue my pursuit as I have, yours will be significantly altered, come to a stand still due to a disability and or halted forever by your untimely surmise. Yes, you had the right to lane split, but why push fate into your becoming dead right.

[@SR1Records]

I don't know about that... BaronVonGrumble is better at filtering in my opinion.

[@valebliz]

I love how you americans are cavemen regarding traffic, even if you basically invented it. Says a lot tbh.

[@spacedUK07]

The thing that many Americans don't understand is that 'Lane Splitting' (Referred to as Filtering here in England) is really quite a common and standard practice in many, many other countries. The vast majority of European countries support it and in cities like London it's actively encouraged as a fantastic was to kill congestion.

[@myreality7817]

I recently started riding again after many years. At first I was nervous about Lane splitting and I went more with the flow of traffic. I had so many close calls from people not seeing me I started to question if I should be riding. I managed to evade impact. Then I started lanesplitting and the number of close calls has been greatly reduced. My confidence in my survival is greatly increased.

[@imherehello117]

It doesn’t take long to figure out how much safer it really is.

[@BarbarossaSC2]

I always move over a few feet when I see a moto coming up on my right or left side. I know 90% of drivers don't pay attention enough to what's going on around them. I blast my music and can't hear what's going on outside, but because of that I'm checking my mirrors every 15-20 seconds, and look over the shoulder for EVERY SINGLE lane change combined with actually using my damn TURN SIGNALS. Few things piss me off more than people who don't signal or check before changing lanes. This is how "splitting lanes" becomes dangerous: people driving cars that shouldn't have a license. This may be anecdotal, but I've never seen a motorcyclist on the freeway who was being negligent of what was going on around them, or presenting any increased risk outside of not having personal safety.

[@BarbarossaSC2]

The first word of your comment proves the irrelevancy of anything you have to say.

[@geothr33]

***** get a bick don't be jelly

[@009xsader]

***** as a responsible driver you should be fully aware of your surroundings.

[@asansone1828]

Theodore M. K Haha true! *You're*

[@beemo9]

It's actually better that motorists don't move over for motorcyclists, because there could another biker on the other side of the car trying to get by. I've almost been hit by "nice" drivers in that exact same situation (lane splitting is legal here). Besides, it's unnecessary to move, because bikers have no problem getting by you if you're centered in your lane,

[@dwc1964]

When I first decided (c. 25 years ago) to take the motorcycle safety course and then got my first motorcycle, I had it in my head that "no way would I ever lane-split, it looks so dangerous." That lasted up until the first time I had to cross the Bay Bridge in rush hour traffic. I'm sitting in the traffic lane, doing the stop-and-crawl along with all the cars, and I look at the gap between the lanes and I'm thinking, "I could totally fit through there." So I did. I always proceed with *extreme* caution. Never pass at a relative speed >10mph faster than the cars on either side. Keep my vision wide and long, with an eye out for cars that look like they *might* be trying to change lanes, or wandering side-to-side within their lane. Look in the drivers' mirrors - are they paying attention or are they on the phone or otherwise distracted? If one lane is moving faster than the other, beware of cars suddenly deciding to switch to the faster one. And I could probably think of a few other guidelines. (The CHP used to have a very good set of guidelines on their website, but someone complained and they took it down, which makes me sad.) And always, *always* assume that you are completely invisible to cage drivers - and that if they can see you, they're trying to kill you. Ride defensively - whether lane-splitting or otherwise.

[@domtor7402]

Yes , what could be safer than reducing your visibility., reducing your reaction time to zero, reducing your distance to two feet, massively increasing your relative speed and eliminating all escape paths. Brilliant.

[@jamieeverett9695]

Dom Tor 🙌🏻😂👌🏻they certainly lack the ability to critically think

[@douglaselliott8298]

I have ridden in So California for 37 years and 750,000+ miles professionally, commuting, and for pleasure. Every bit of logic given for lane splitting/filtering and the respective advice given in this video I heartily concur with!

[@actionjessie]

Car drivers sometimes hate motorcyclists that are reckless and lane split quickly and dangerously which is fair enough, other motorcyclists do to because it makes us look like dickheads, but a LOT of car drivers hate it simply because they see it as 'pushing in' and get angry that they have to sit in traffic, and think the motorcyclists should 'wait their turn'. How fucking stupid is that? if you dont like it get out of your car and get on a motorbike yourself! Bikes ease congestion and reduce car drivers travel time as well by not putting another car in the way! We should work together to make the road safe for everyone. Sheesh

[@guillaume1306]

couldn't agree with you more mate. They're all jealous twits at the end of the day. I only split lane when I am stuck in slow moving traffic and have plenty of space but still some of them give me the angry look.But they know,and I know who is going to leave the traffic jam behind the next time the traffic light goes green.

[@eswake]

Prashing... "If some girl is sexting her boyfriend and runs into me that's my fault." Um No. I completely disagree with that, that's a bunch of BS. That would totally be her fault for not paying attention to the road. Yes we need to be more careful, and be on the lookout for these bad drivers but if they crash into us it shouldn't be our fault that's just completely crap.

[@guyedwards6696]

It's like skiing uphill of someone going slower than you and lower skill level than you. Expect them to be erratic and unaware. Be prepared, that's what the dude was correctly saying!

[@wnewman14]

I was really against lane splitting before watching this, but some great points were brought up that make me rethink my stance.

[@STONEAJE]

Thank you for making this video; this message needs to be out there more! We were discussing lane splitting in my San Diego college classroom. When asked by the professor who thinks that lane splitting is dangerous and should be illegal every student but about 2 of 30 raised their hands. I had quite a fight on my hands. Side note: Quite has different meanings in the U.S. and the U.K.

[@CaptainJacksIsland]

Sorry, but I don't like lane splitting (as a general rule). I have a number of reasons, but my biggest is that it makes a rider unpredictable. When you have a vehicle on the road not acting like a normal vehicle, it can lead to confusion and chaos. Similar concept as in Asian countries. You have bicyclists who act like a car one instant and like a pedestrian the next. When traffic is predictable, everyone is safer. Don't wanna get rear ended? You can lane position to help that.

[@LucaTheSkunk]

lane splitting should be legal in all states I have seen cars rear end each other at stop lights and then I think what if I was behind that other car? I think its more useful at stop lights at least here in Alabama where we don't have as much traffic

[@akrokdesign]

yeah like when a car stop for a pedestrian. (like they should) the risk of getting rear ended is quite big due to drivers are not paying attention on driving.

[@LucaTheSkunk]

yeah I usually get completely off the road at stop lights because I'm afraid of becoming the middle of a metal samich :/

[@thumpertalk]

Utah just passed lane splitting! More restricted than California, but none the less, a step in the right direction.

[@johngifford7725]

This is the best video on the subject guys, thanks for making it. Three years on, and it's still getting massive traffic. Awesome! Edit: 3-26-22 Six more years and this is still the video I share when arguing for this. Now Utah and Arizona are getting this right. Beautiful.

[@kavigosai8552]

at no point in this video did he statistically prove that lane splitting is safer. i'm not saying it isn't (i doubt it though) but he gave no evidence towards that. all he said is that you're less likely to get rear ended. yeah no shit, but i'll wager that you're a lot more likely to hit a car that's changing lanes, for instance.

[@ericwsmith7722]

+Kavi Gosai --- there "reduces rear end collisions " is laughable, because no matter how fast you go, there are 2 facts that will not change, ever. 1.there will always be cars behind you. 2 You will always have to come to a stop.

[@TheJunkFarm]

+eric wsmith That's not true. If I am in between two cars, where is the vehicle 'behind' me? He physically has to drive THROUGH two other vehicles before it's even possible to hit me. That's a LOT of energy dissipation prior to impact.

[@ericwsmith7722]

+Aaron Lynch --- You must be in one of those countries that people never change lanes in. And were people are never looking strait ahead, but always in there mirror...... what planet are you in anyhow ?

[@TheJunkFarm]

+eric wsmith I live in a country where drivers are used to half ass using their peripheral vision before changing lanes. Tell me, in YOUR Country, have you personally witness a lot of cars sideswiping Semis? Or do the brake and go into the empty spot?

[@mescellaneous]

their arguments sound more like "because i want to and i can do it safely" rather than "because i have to and it's safer".

[@mickeydee3595]

They legalised lane splitting in Victoria, Australia a few months ago now :)

[@TheJunkFarm]

+JkandI Has the world ended yet?

[@mickeydee3595]

not yet no hahahaha

[@samclements6963]

+JkandI Lane filtering? Lane splitting isn't legal, or at least the one I'm privy to.

[@mickeydee3595]

arnt they the same thing?

[@KingGumboot]

+JkandI splitting is riding between lanes of moving traffic, filtering is riding between stationary (or atleast slow vehicles)

[@rudebwoy8]

I respect the opinions of people who disagree with lane splitting, but to dismiss riders who have ridden around the globe and are all for it is just plain ignorant. If you don't want to do it, then don't it's as simple as that. If it legal where the rider resides and they are lane splitting as per their law, then it's their business not yours.

[@Impalamark64]

A few thoughts from a California biker: I'd have to check the Vehicle Code book, but I believe splitting is only allowed between the #1 & #2 lanes on the freeway. As soon as I enter the freeway, I immediately move to those lanes. When splitting on surface streets, we are still required to stop behind the limit line at intersections with a red light. An important point is the cooling of the engine. That one point isn't an issue with the electric bike, though. Most of all, don't behave like a jerk. Don't split if traffic is moving at a reasonable speed. Be a friendly commuter. Nothing is more irritating than to see someone cutting through traffic that is traveling at 70 mph, and the biker is doing 85.

[@astifcaulkinyeras]

I've been rear ended before by a garbage truck. Luckily I was in my car. Because of that I now lane split even though it's illegal where I live.

[@YTRulesFromNM]

I hope someone opens their door in front of you.

[@YTRulesFromNM]

I have seen accidents caused by shitty riders like you. There isn't always enough room.

[@viveremilitareest9281]

We can't rely on laws to keep us safe. Justified law breaking without a doubt.

[@viveremilitareest9281]

YTRulesFromNM you're a douche bag who doesn't ride. Take a hike

[@MattJesuele]

@@YTRulesFromNM all indications are that you're a shitty person

[@Willisai]

Ok, whoever thinks it's not safe to lane split loses credibility when they don't even ride.

[@SuperScootDude]

yeah and they lose even more if they do!

[@Willisai]

I do it when traffic is completely stopped or slower than 30mph, my engine is air cooled. ;-) you know what I mean? And on the stop I do it too, to prevent being rear ended and end like a sandwich.

[@jeffhotness1276]

Slow traffic is the worst, because traffic seems to try cutting everyone else off even when there isn't enough room to fit in the next lane. I just don't like being sandwiched between 2 cars, and no escape route when they cut you off. If I'm stopped behind cars I just leave myself enough room and at least 2 escape routes. I only filter at "fresh" red lights, so I don't have to worry when idiots start again without seeing me as it turns green.

[@Willisai]

In that case, your opinion counts. I rather do it, you rather not. I love the fact that I have a choice.

[@Willisai]

I do feel sorry for the person that gets squashed by two cages.

[@minnsminns]

Like his first comment about lane splitting on his first lesson in London, really proves a point. Lane splitting is legal and safe here because it is so common it's not even considered anything any more. If you ride a motorbike, you lane split, you'd never get anywhere otherwise. What's the point of a small, maneuverable vehicle that fits between gaps, but isn't allowed between gaps. You might as well be in a car.

[@thomash6111]

Subject explained in a calm, quiet voice. Showing how-to with easy to digest graphics. Well done lads! 10/10

[@pimphand00]

Wow lots of haters of motorcyclist here.I ride every day weather permitting here in the NYC area where I currently live. Riding a motorcycle in it self is inherently more dangerous. That being said I do lane split and feel it can be done safely. I follow the CHP guide lines when I lane split. In very congested urban environments it's the way to go. All the cagers commenting here like "it's dangerous" or "I will be laughing when you die" I give you all the virtual middle finger.

[@Cyber_Striker]

If you say, that Lane splitting/filtering is bad because cars don't expect you to be there, then how about we tell them/ raise awareness to look into your mirrors when stopped. And teach the Learner drivers that

[@captivechicken5543]

EpiDemic117 There will always be douche bag riders just as there will always be bad drivers. However all car drivers need to do is check mirrors, do head checks and indicate correctly which is something they should be doing regardless and there would be significantly less bike/car accidents (2 in 3 caused by car driver)

[@ericwsmith7722]

TanikasMisadventures raising awareness of a unsafe practice is not going to make it safer. that's just wishful thinking.

[@Cyber_Striker]

How is checking your mirrors an unsafe practice?

[@millertas]

TanikasMisadventures I understand that a couple of rear ends on stopped motorcycles ended in killing the motorcyclist. The fact is that many laws are made by people who have NEVER ridden a motorcycle on the road and are jealous of motorcycle's maneuverability.

[@ericwsmith7722]

millertas you do know of course what half (roughly) of all motorcycle crashes are don't you ? single vehicle rider error. that is a fact, my opinion however is over confidence of ones real ability .

[@KurNorock]

Here in Phoenix Arizona only about 1/4 of drivers even use a turn signal. Only 1/8 of drivers pay attention to the turn signals of other drivers. Those two (admittedly anecdotal) statistics combine into drivers switching lanes quick in an effort to get into that spot in the other lane before it closes or is taken by another car from the lane on the other side. And I can promise you that not one of those drivers is looking for a motorcycle coming up between the lanes. It may be better in other cities, but I still wouldn't trust it. Also, in this very video, not even two minutes after they talk about the motorcyclist girls of view, and being able to see when a car will change lanes, they show all the of them splitting lanes around a maroon colored f150 that had it's turn signal flashing. They didn't stop to let the truck switch lanes, they just drove around it like they had no idea he was coming over. I can understand the safety aspect of lane splitting at an intersection to get around a line of stopped cars to avoid being rear ended, but splitting lanes in moving traffic is seriously unsafe.

[@KurNorock]

Point* of view

[@Dreamchaser933]

***** i don't get it? I'm a London biker and have probably only had one or two people in my life get pissed off, and it made no sense because within 10 seconds i was a mile up the road and out of their way...? 1/2 of drivers move and give bikers space! Why would i sit behind a car in the hot city center while my bike overheats when i can just cut in between safely and be on my way, therefore taking up less space! In fact lane splitting saved me, on several occasions when drivers had decided to slam their brakes, my natural filtering position allowed me to cut through the middle and not end up in the back of their cars!

[@atarian345]

***** Many people, including the California Highway Patrol, would disagree with you.

[@iwishiwasjag]

Good thing the majority of these comments are from experienced and intelligent fellow motorcyclists...

[@MattJesuele]

lol

[@alltheworldisyours]

There's a reason it's legal in Europe, most of Australia, Asia. Maybe some of these drivers who are opposed would think twice when their brother, uncle, or niece become a motorcycle sandwich when some soccer mom rear ends them in stopped traffic.

[@robertpaulson3897]

What about everyone else? Just because my truck is safer in the event of a rear end collision doesn't mean I want to be hit. Can I drive on the shoulder or whatever because I have 4wd?

[@ericwsmith7722]

***** yea, in the ambulance with the lights flashing ! lol

[@ericwsmith7722]

***** Then explain how cagers texting accounts for 50% of all motorcycle accidents involving only the motorcycle . mainly the rider loosing control. ?

[@timmccabe503]

***** ... and pissing off those in automobiles, because you don't want to wait your turn in traffic.

[@ericwsmith7722]

EpiDemic117 Right,,, speeding and weaving between cars is always the safest way to go ...... It so dangerous to go slow and in a strait line in traffic. Because accident are always some one else's fault.

[@moscowinla5216]

TO ALL YOU PEOPLE WHO KEEP SAYING THIS VID DOES NOTHING TO EXPLAIN HOW LANE SPLITTING IS SAFER, READ BELOW: Places like Los Angeles are congested with traffic sunrise to sundown. Most accidents occur in traffic with rear ending being the main one. If a motorcycle is sitting in bumper to bumper, they are pretty much exposed to getting rear ended. Most of the time, getting rear ended does not do any real harm to the driver. However a motorcycle rider, you can pin them between two cars when doing this and potentially kill them. In bumper to bumper traffic, they are safer in between cars rather than just sitting in stop and go traffic.

[@fixitmann6685]

No, in LA it is safer NOT TO RIDE A MOTORCYCLE and take a bus or carpool (if saving money/energy is your goal.) The ONE Instance of when this is "safer".. being sandwiched between two cars. By all means, do not be sandwiched between two cars in traffic, DON'T RIDE in traffic! The sandwich argument does not justify the IDIOTS that do it all the time, and get nudged right off the road, hit by a mirror, a door, sideswiped, etc. which is when this is the most dangerous scenario. You can be rear-ended in a car, as well, but you are SAFER because you have lots of metal & lots of safety features around you. SIMPLE. DO NOT RIDE A MOTORCYCLE in LA!

[@moscowinla5216]

Fixit Mann you do know none of that is true. UC Berkley did a study on lane splitting and found out that that lane splitting cut all motorcycle accidents in Cali by 10% so you're entire comment is 100% wrong

[@fixitmann6685]

Riding a bus is definitely safer than riding a motorcycle! How is that 100% wrong? Get off your two wheeled unsafe contraption and walk, if you do not want to ride a bus.

[@moscowinla5216]

Fixit Mann Ya but on a bus you will take over 3 hours to travel 10 miles in LA. the whole point of lane splitting is to get through the sun up to sun down traffic

[@christopherring659]

no the UC Berkley study didn't say that, it did state that the probability of a fatal accident was reduced, if that person was traveling less than 45 MPH and was traveling was within 15 MPH of the surrounding traffic.

[@fupabox]

The safest riding style is to stay away from cars.. lane splitting puts you in a very vulnerable situation that is NOT within your control, you are completely at the mercy of the cars/trucks that are not paying attention to you. "I don't see any motorcycle accidents in Asia" Odd since Asia has 80% of all the worlds motorcycle fatalities...The Hurt report also states that 75% of motorcycle fatalities are due to collisions with cars/trucks..the cars/trucks being at fault...so how does driving between them at highway speeds increase safety, when the statistics clearly show they are your biggest danger on the road? filtering to the front at a stop light or in slow crawling traffic would have minimal risk to the rider, although it does make you more likely to be T-boned if a car runs the light in cross traffic. Most intersection accident fatalities are from people running the light. Rear ended or T-boned.. which would be worse ?

[@Cube210]

***** At highway speeds it is no longer legal lane splitting. As you point out you are at mercy when between two vehicles. Cars/trucks go forward and backwards more easily than they do sideways when sitting still.

[@captivechicken5543]

***** "The safest riding style is to stay away from cars" seriously... where should they ride then, off road only?

[@oHeihei]

Michael Western There's a thing that all riders should maintain, and that's called a "safety cushion". Basically, you want to increase the distance between you and all cars. Lane splitting violates that unwritten rule of riding. However, the rule has exceptions in my opinion. At slower speeds, the safety cushion should be violated to prevent being hit from the rear by an unaware driver, but while lane splitting your scanning skills and awareness must be increased drastically for the maneuver to be considered safer than sitting the line of traffic.

[@PasstheKempSauce]

***** Sorry mate, have you ridden in Asia? The reason we have so many accidents here is due to variety of things including: lack of driving education, people breaking rules, and not wearing safety gear. Car and scooter/motorcycle drivers are not educated well here and the mentality of what you need to worry about is completely different from the West. People are constantly running red lights, turning right when they aren't supposed to, going in the wrong direction on roads, not using headlights, etc. You also constantly have cars and trucks veering into scooter/motorcycle lanes due to their bad driving/blatant disregard for the rules. Finally, the idea of safety gear is virtually non-existent. In Taiwan, a helmet is required, but most wear cheap turtle hats instead of full face helmets and wearing anything else is usually scoffed at. Driving between cars at highway speeds is usually not allowed for lane splitting, but if done safely it can also be the correct choice. If you're stuck behind a slow pack of vehicles and someone comes behind you in a hurry, there is no where else to go. We make it our job to understand and predict what cars are going to do. We learn how to read tires, lane positioning, and driving behavior to better understand what people are planning. I personally don't lane split at these speeds, but I do believe it is acceptable when done correctly. That absolutely does not mean speeding past everyone because you want to go 100+ or speeding past slow moving traffic, but going an acceptable, responsible speed.

[@fupabox]

PasstheKempSauce I never said I had ridden in Asia... They guy in the video said he had never seen a motorcycle collision in Asia..That is what I was challenging...He can argue his position on lane splitting, but when he uses a ridiculous reference ( 10:04 ) it doesn't help support that position

[@Geoffrey7b]

7:35-- participant incorrectly states most common collision is being hit from behind. This isn't true. According to the Hurt Study, the most common collision scenario is an oncoming car tries to make a left turn crossing in front of the rider going the opposite direction, with a left turn from a side entryway (road, parking lot, or driveway) as number two. Rear collisions, while potentially devastating, are not where the biggest area of risk lies for riders. The biggest risk is drinking and Riding, which is responsible for nearly half of all US rider fatalities. I feel qualified to give an opinion on this topic, as I have a Class A UK Motorcycle Licence, and my take is that the only sensible time for lane splitting is when cars are stacked up to a dead stop by traffic conditions (lights, road works, etc.). And when you "filter", you should STILL do it GENTLY. If traffic is moving even just 50% of the speed limit, you aren't increasing your margin of safety by splitting lanes. The time saved doesn't justify the elevated RISK.

[@Matt-rn6do]

100 million % percent agreed! Not being able to lane split is a hazard for a motorcyclist- lane splitting enables us to have more control over how we maneuver around all the cars trying or accidentally about to hit us... :)

[@kenshawpga]

MattyCyclez how about you just act like a car and there are no problems. When you punks lane split, you all act like bitches if anyone doesn't see you immediately or someone moves 6 inches closer to you than you want. Wanna ride a bike, fine. Wanna be above the law, sorry no.

[@charliekiger]

Lane splitting isn't against the law. At least not here in NC, or any neighboring states where I've ridden.

[@WholeEgg290]

MattyCyclez until a car changes lanes and you slam into it.... pretty simple stuff here guys. I know you bikers arent too smart anyway, but even you should be able to understand why its not safe.

[@ZiggySheppardUK]

Those people who believe that bikes are queue jumping or cutting in line, depending on where you come from, here's something for you to consider. In a real life queue (line) of people, those actually cutting in are moving you further back. That is not what happens with filtering (lane splitting). What is actually happening is 5-10% of those in the queue are simply moving out of it and forming their own queue. That actually moves you forward a little and reduces your journey time. Most car drivers here in the UK realise this and often move over to allow bikes through. In France, they move over and will get angry if you DON'T filter past them. As a biker, I have no intention of trying to be aggressive or bully anyone. I try to show as much respect as I can to ALL other road users. I slow down for horses, give cyclists extra room and even stop to let other vehicles out of side roads. Next time you see a bike filtering, ask yourself if you'd prefer that it was in the queue instead, moving you back 1 place plus another place for each of the other bikes doing the same. :-)

[@jamesgjt]

well if u split lane, u are to take the responsibility if u have accident with other cars...

[@robertct06]

As long as people don't pull out rapidly in front of you there won't be accidents

[@deepsouthredneck1]

+jamesgjt If car drivers weren't morons who eat cheeseburgers and text at the same time that would never happen. Being locked away from the outside gives drivers a false sense of security making them less aware of the dangers of traveling at speed, my riding has carried over into my driving for these reasons. Besides, if I have to choose between getting rear ended or side swiped I'll take getting side swiped. Europe is a far safer place for riders than america.

[@TheJunkFarm]

+dreyrugr I'll add that in Los Angeles where I learned to ride, drivers actually look FOR bikers. In other places they glance and look in their peripheral for a large vehicle. You can see it as a rider, in LA they glance sideways and then look in their mirror DOWN the lane. So yeah I think splitting makes it safer for everyone.

[@jamesgjt]

dreyrugr In america, Bikers often go 170km/h on a 80 km/h freeway. Bikers often speed on HOV lane or drive on the hazard lane. Bikers often do 100km/h in town and challenge ppl for drag race. Bikers often not signal when overtaking others. Bikers often do speeding and race along with 10 others anywhere. Bikers often rearend other cars because they cannot stop in time after speeding. That is most bikers will do in america. That is why people hate them

[@alansmilealot]

jamesgjt all the stuff u said is also done buy car drivers but way worse and a 3 ton suv is way worse in those conditions

[@808Rayman]

Lane splitting actually puts you in a greater danger for all kinds of accidents

[@woah.montana]

these guys really talked about lane splitting for 14 minutes😂

[@ARedMotorcycle]

That time would have been better allocated talking about splitting your mother for 14 minutes.

[@quinnymandude1234]

when there is nothing after death, and I need to beat rush hour traffic, I would hope there is someone to talk about lane splitting for 14 minutes because it will save me time in the long run as long as I don’t die and lane split going above 10mph. Plus it’s way more fun than sitting in a metal sauna idling for hours.

[@JayDAnderson]

In Virginia you motorcycles are not allowed to split lanes. Therefore, in 105F weather when I am stuck on I95 and overheating in stop and go traffic I must pretend that I am stuck with no path ahead (when I know better). I have to sit there with no air flow while watching the car drivers enjoy their cool drinks in their Air conditioned vehicles. Makes no sense to me.

[@BNHC0]

Lead-Pin?

[@Gotallofthem1]

Perhaps carry some water with you so you too can sip on something like this www.camelbak

[@QuantumRift]

YOU choose to RIDE a freakin' bike when it's 105. YOUR problem. I've ridden in Tucson AZ when it's 110 and the temp off the pavement is 130 and I'm stuck in traffic. I never whined about it because it's what I CHOSE to do. DUH.

[@Tsoldier4]

QuantumRift True, however one of the of the stronger arguments for owning a bike in the first place is it's maneuverability. Well that's an argument everywhere else but the US or Canada. The fact that those of us who don't reside in California, or anywhere else where lane splitting/filtering is legal, don't even have the choice to take advantage of that perk is.. well disappointing. It's a very uneasy feeling knowing you're vulnerable when sitting at a stop light. Even if safety weren't a major issue used against the legality issues of lane splitting, maybe sometimes I'd like to take advantage of that maneuverability especially in heavy "stand still" traffic. If they were to make lane splitting legal in the US now, in 5 to 10 years more than likely sooner, drivers would at least be used to seeing it occur.

[@jackdaniels19711]

I use to only buy cars without A/C...then I was like fuck that...I need the A/C...... I was on a family trip as a teen in LA....this motorcycle was lane splitting......would you be dammed if a few miles down the road he got hit ...it don't seem to be that safe to me....just from what I have seen the best thing is leave more space between vehicles

[@750vfrman]

Some strange comments from over the pond! Such hate & disrespect to fellow motorist. Cagers? Is that something in a zoo? Are we not riders & motorists at some point. To quote " when I drive the distance between the lines is mine" really? Here in the UK where filtering is allowed most car drivers in a slow or stop/start situation will look out for bikers & move over giving them more room. The biker will lift his hand in thanks, that way we all get along so much better.

[@robertdeford7762]

We call them Cagers, since they feel safe in their vehicles and, 99% of the time they drive like idiots. Most drivers will follow a motorcycle too closely, others will only glance over and merge into your lane, the rest won't even notice you. The drivers education course here is an absolute joke because they privatized it, most companies will not fail an individual unless they essentially crash the vehicle and, even the test done by the secretary of state is a joke for both Motorcycles and Cars. It's scary to see the number of people texting while driving and, have people admit directly to my face WITH PRIDE that they text and drive, especially when people don't know how to drive in the first place. It's even scarier when you question if that persons vehicle is mechanically sound, especially if you were able to see the insides of their vehicle and, saw it full of rubbish from McDonalds or elsewhere.

[@oobflyer]

I live in California where lane-splitting is legal (although it's amazing how few California drivers know this) - I used to do more lane splitting, but now with so many SUVs on the road (and their mirrors nearly touching across lanes) - there seems to be less opportunity. Thanks Jamie, Wes and Harlan for this excellent video - which made me think twice about safety. It reminded me of an accident I witnessed: I was sitting in my car at red light when a motorcyclist in the lane next to me was rear-ended by a car that didn't slow down in time for the red light. The motorcyclist was thrown off of his bike and into the intersection. It was not pretty.

[@drewwatson835]

Lane splitting is not only illegal, it's bloody dangerous.

[@Hitech56]

Legal in California, punk.

[@drewwatson835]

Your turn is coming then.

[@drewwatson835]

Spoken like a third world American. I've worked all of my life so that I can enjoy my retirement. Too bad I have to put up with the likes of you.

[@Hitech56]

Drew Watson You've worked all your life to get to a pathetic stage where you get worked up over matters that have nothing to do with you. I'm glad that you attribute anyone that pisses you off with a third world American. Sadly, a third world American would have more class then your raggedy ass. So fuck off, you old sack of shit.

[@drewwatson835]

Tell that to my night terrors about scrapping jerk-offs like you off a highway. Just because I'm smart enough to not ride a murdercycle doesn't mean I have more insight than jackasses like you.

[@rigdigwus]

well it is not legal in germany, it's not only america...

[@GrauW0lf]

+rigdigwus wrong, it isn´t ilegal but it´s neigher legal, police here will accept it in most terms. Non of these terms are lane splitting in traffic on the autobahn duo a trafficjam, but you can drive besides first car on red light as long as you do it savely (max 10 km/h)

[@rigdigwus]

Damion Moore it is illegal. lane splitting is either taking over on the right side (which is NOT allowed) or if you do it on the left side you dont leave enough space inbetween the vehicles. they tolerate it, but it is not legal!

[@GrauW0lf]

+rigdigwus like i sayed, its neither

[@rigdigwus]

+Damion Moore would you mind giving a valid argument instead of saying 'no it's not'?? I said it is illegal because it is overtaking on the right side and that is just not allowed. you have nothing to prove your point at all so you can't insist on nothing. If you don't know what to say just stfu

[@JH-di3nu]

+rigdigwus Well Germans know how to drive.. people in America don't..

[@ComandanteJ]

The problem is that some lane splitters are total asses. They're too used to go wherever they want to go fast, that they make it a neccesity for city driving. I live in Seville, Spain, and the mirrors of my Alfa Romeo GT have been knoked two times this year, while stopped on a red light, just because some scooter wanted to go between a bus and my car, without enough space to do it safely. I'm getting the motorcycle license this year, and of course, i will split lanes, but i'm sure i'll do it safely, and only when it makes sense. Well, at least, i hope so.

[@rougarou1117]

First off, I am a rider, so I understand the pains of being hard to spot and having people almost run me off the road. That being said, I see the merits of lane splitting, and I think it can be done safely. However, a biker should not be shocked if he is lane splitting at 40mph in traffic that is going half that speed, and someone merges into him. A good biker should be able to expect that. By all means, lane split. But keep the speed deficit to enough time that you can react, and that a merging driver can see you coming.

[@JavTheRipper]

At 5:10 the truck is trying to change lanes as they are splitting lanes. Imagine if he had not been paying attention as they were splitting lanes. Not many people are used to seeing lane splitting, therefore it is unexpected and can become very costly.

[@PrimalMotoVentures]

That is what us smart motorcyclist watch out for. Cars are suppose to be aware of thier surrounding before changing lanes. They are also not supposed to quickly change lanes. I know when I split lanes, my biggest danger is a vehicle in front of me changing lanes....

[@MusashiSolid206]

Jimmy MX Relying on the person in the car to be aware is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.

[@PrimalMotoVentures]

MusashiSolid206 Yes I know... I said that cars are "suppose" to be aware. I also said that my biggest danger is a car changing lanes while lane splitting. I also said that is what us smart riders watch out for (that would mean that riders need to be aware). I am not sure where I said a rider must rely on the driver of vehicles to be aware of their presence... I am supporting the fact that lane splitting can be safe is all.

[@ButtersRazz]

If you do not pay attention when you change lane as someone who rides a bike or drives a car should not be allowed to be on the road.

[@MartinUnited97]

GrahamCrackers Well if you are prepared by having your fingers on the brakes and on the clutch, and having a mindset that says f.ex everyone in the traffic is trying to hurt you that minimalizes the dangers of lane splitting drastically.

[@NOSfusion]

In WA state it's legal to 'lane split' only on the left side of a car that's moving under 25mph; and you cannot go more than 10mph faster than the moving car you are attempting to overtake. So for those of you stuck on i5 rush-hour, now you know ;)

[@igorkholyusev5088]

Since when

[@NOSfusion]

igor kholyusev Since last year. The bill expires August 2017 though and will be put to another vote.

[@milo963]

The bill failed, splitting is NOT legal in Washington. We'll keep working on them though.

[@NOSfusion]

milo963 It passed, please read: "MAY overtake and pass in the same lane occupied by the vehicle being overtaken. ((However, this subsection shall not apply when the operator of a motorcycle overtakes and passes a pedestrian or bicyclist while maintaining a safe passing distance of at least three feet.)) (3) No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles unless the operator of a motorcycle is traveling at a rate of speed no more than ten miles per hour over the speed of traffic flow and not more than thirty-five miles per hour. Any operator of a motor vehicle that intentionally impedes or attempts to prevent any operator of a motorcycle from operating his or her motorcycle as permitted under this subsection is1 2 guilty of a traffic infraction. SENATE BILL 5623 State of Washington 64th Legislature 2015 Regular Session: Third reading, passed; yeas, 34; nays, 15; absent, 0; excused, 0. ADOPTED SUBSECTION: 5623-S.E AMS SHEL S4554.1 02/05/2016 The operator of a motorcycle shall not overtake and pass in the same lane occupied by the vehicle being overtaken, except on the left-hand side of a vehicle traveling in the left-most lane of traffic on a numbered state route that is a divided highway having two or more lanes of traffic in each direction separated by a physical barrier or unpaved median if the operator of the motorcycle is traveling at a rate of speed no more than ten miles per hour over the speed of traffic flow and not more than twenty-five miles per hour." To me that seems very clear. Pass on the left.

[@NOSfusion]

milo963 Look I filter through traffic all the time at red lights, I will not sit idle behind cars waiting to be re-ended.

[@nimbly1693]

Legal in Utah now.

[@orangelion03]

One benefit of it being legal in Cali is that it has been legal a LONG time and folks are more used to it. Back in the 70s, it could get hairy (I've had drivers open their doors on purpose), but these days I find that many drivers are actually paying attention and they yield a little room for us. That may also be due to the proliferation of bikes here, and many drivers not only may own a bike, but likely have a family member or close friends who does.

[@Yowman144]

You can't control a vehicle that suddenly changes lanes; no matter what you say.

[@Konanzor]

That's where splitting sensibly comes into play. You see what speed they were splitting at in that video? They were going at a speed relative to the traffic that gives them time to react. Additionally, when splitting, you are (well, you should be - the ones that aren't are the ones you see getting hurt) very aware of gaps in traffic - the gaps that people try to pull into and either 'fall' into them yourself or be very wary of people in the adjacent lanes that may decide to fill that gap. It's about splitting sensibly. You don't have to split fast to split efficiently and safely. The problem arises when squids race up at high relative speeds, aren't paying attention or are splitting on one side of a narrow lane while other riders are splitting the other side of the narrow lane (this causes the traffic ahead of the squid to pull in front of him when they pull further out of the way of the other riders). Also, people in cars over-reacting to a passing motorcycle causes problems - not sure why some people get all flustered when a bike passes them.

[@Yowman144]

Konanzor Seems to me you're rolling the dice; you cut your defensible space down and thereby your reaction time way down. It's a matter of luck...I'd rather have more control of what goes on around me.

[@Konanzor]

Oh, and I didn't have that u-turn happen while I was splitting lanes. Just re-read my comment and in the structure of that sentence it looks like I was saying it happened while I was lane splitting. It was just on an open street that happened.

[@SoSimonSays]

nope but fines are issued to those who change lanes without checking with mirrors and indicating, if they do that you will never get hit when lane splitting

[@Yowman144]

jackvincent90 That's a pretty big "if" Jack. I like to maintain one lane this way I only have to worry about traffic on one side of me. In Lane splitting you have to worry about what's happening on both sides. This in itself would double your chances of being in a wreck.

[@F1CT1C10U5]

It baffles me that some US riders are against lane splitting instead of supporting it...

[@Impractic4lmn]

***** Ignorance man, the US is full of it. Dunning-Kruger is rampant here.

[@F1CT1C10U5]

Impractic4l Well... I can't say that I don't agree.

[@homer23422000]

***** When I get a bike, I'm splitting lanes.

[@spicy110]

I have a t shirt campaign running to highlight that Filtering / lane splitting is legal, as many people don't realise it is. Google spicy110 yes it's legal. if it isn't legal near you Google spicy110 make it legal

[@YTRulesFromNM]

It's illegal in my state and with good reason. Those idiots are always causing accidents.

[@GhostOfGor]

It should be, but with all things it gets ruined by assholes. We can’t have nice things because people always take it too far. I can wish though.

[@ABH313]

I live in MI and lane splitting is not legal here but they'll allow you to ride without a helmet...utterly ridiculous. where is the logic in that? anyways, you guys made a great video and had some fantastic points. also, you guys kept it very responsible and safe. this video should be the poster child of getting lane splitting legalized in the rest of the states. thanks again for great video

[@mrsuckyatoes9649]

I do too but just because you can't doesn't mean you should. And I live in the Lansing area and I've seen people get tickets before for not wearing helmets.

[@autodelta93]

In Italy lane spliting is illegal but no one cares(police, car drivers) so you can do it without any problem! Welcome in Italy, the greatest country in the world :)

[@nesh620]

I am sold, make it legal .

[@weedtastic]

There are no Laws that allow or prohibit Lane Splitting in California so there are no rules in place yet that determine how you can Lane Split. I live in Texas and there are also no Laws that allow or prohibit. This being said, if you do it where I am, you are much more likely to be harassed by police and written Tickets in Texas. Now you can keep the ticket from sticking if you take it to Court and present the fact that there are no Laws that allow or prohibit this practice and the Judge will drop the ticket. Going through this process can be a huge inconvenience and could jeopardize your employment, as you request time off from work to go to Court. Lane splitting has made it to the Legislative Floor in Texas but wasn't voted on last session, as they felt other items to nbe voted on more important. So they just never got to it. So the question becomes, if your State does decide Rule on this matter and allow Lane Splitting what will the rules be? This seems to be a general synopsis of what you might see: 1) Travel at a speed that is no more than 10 MPH faster than other traffic - danger increases at higher speed differentials. 2) It is not advisable to lane split when traffic flow is at 30 mph or faster --- danger increases as overall speed increases. On most of these Lane Splitting Videos I see Riders breaking these common sense Rules. So if and when it is Legislated in your States expect there to be Rules.

[@malepig420]

lane splitting is allowed in California. your statement is makes no sense

[@weedtastic]

Look at the date dummy, when I wrote it the law hadn't been passed yet

[@G_Gued]

Joel Flanders been pulled over here in Texas three times, written a ticket for it three times, had it thrown out the same day three times. San Antonio drivers will for the most part give you space in traffic for filtering, and are very courteous when it comes to motorcycles. I will continue to filter as long as I ride. Your post is much appreciated, sir.

[@weedtastic]

I guess the only thing I don't understand is how you are getting them thrown out the same day. Must be a small Town privilege. I've always had to wait till the Court date on the Ticket, take time off work.

[@G_Gued]

San Antonio is actually a very large city.. The actual privledge is the fact that I'm an EMT-P in Bexar County and I know some peopl.

[@angusperro1852]

Perfect example of natural selection.

[@beemo9]

At 7:25 he says most motorcycle accidents are rear-enders, which is doubtful, since 75% of fatalities involving motorists are from the front, and only 7% of from rear-enders. For the study this came from, Google "motorcycle traffic safety facts 2012 data". It's legal where i live, but i only do it in very slow traffic, and never more than 5-10 mph faster than traffic. In other situations, it just doesn't feel safe.

[@RoMayDrako]

It really depends on the road and the city. Here in Orange county we have smaller distance between lanes and people switch lanes without warning all the time. The other day I almost hit someone because he pulled out in front of me because I was just a bike. I also had a soccer mom to busy on her phone who almost rear ended me. And when traffic started to go again she remained less then a forearm from my trunk. Yes I know the distance because I turned around stared her down and waited till the light turned red. I think in that instance if there was enough room to lane split I would have.

[@ericwsmith7722]

Yes when they start making up facts, you wonder about there credibility , I am sure they would not mention that almost 1/2 of all motorcycle accidents only involve the one bike. And 1/2 of all multi vehicle crashes are rear end collations. That being said if you are in a accident statistics say its about a 75% chance it was your own fault. Lane splitting is hardly going to help as much as its going to increase the chance of being in a crash. BTW these are accident statistics, not fatality

[@timothy9596]

They're not making up facts. He clearly says that it's car vs. motorcycle and the statistic applies when it's the car's fault. Do you ride Eric? Because I ride and lane split every day here in California and knock on wood, after 34 years of street riding I've never been down. I've been in some close calls to say the least, but never down. A big part of that is because I ride like an adult. Personally, I believe it's way too easy to get a motorcycle license here in the US. I was 17 when I got my first street bike and no way should I have been able to do that. Making the legal age 21 and a very difficult mandatory riding and written test would make a world of difference.

[@alexb5275]

Yea, he didn't say most fatal accidents come from the rear end. He said most accidents are from the rear end. Rear end accidents are not nearly as fatal as head on collisions, but they happen much more frequently.

[@YTRulesFromNM]

The vast majority of motorcycle riders are the single rider messing up all by himself and since there's no one to hear their loud pipes, do they make a sound?

[@TexasKoz]

I just really have an issue with Cycle drivers driving like assholes. Traffic driving at 50 or 60 MPH and a cycle driver splitting lanes at much more than that. The logic is solid but the reality do not support the argument. I'm all in favor of those who drive bikes but don't be an ass.

[@theforeignfilipino6721]

There's one pixel that died on the top right side of the video

[@twotall0012]

+Brotality @12:08 lol

[@InTransit8911]

Shit, thought that was my monitor.

[@frz0]

Its funny you guys mentioned covering the brakes. I did that during my MSF class in Brooklyn NY and the instructor ask me why I was doing that. I explained to him I got used to it riding my bicycle a lot and that just became a natural thing to have my two fingers from each hand holding the brakes, both front and back so that I don't have to think about it when the time comes and suddenly need to stop. He said that was a bad idea then. I don't know how they feel about it now but, it is still standard for me.

[@rclines001]

There is safe lane splitting and then there is ignorant lane splitting. Unfortunately to many people call the former the second one the correct type. God forbid any cars want to change lanes in their minds, and thats why they die far to often.

[@alittlebitofjessica]

+rclines001 Just don't change lanes when there's a moving object beside you. How difficult is that?

[@mike6323]

The second one would be the latter. Not the former.

[@schigara]

@Jam Cloudberry...The world is not a perfect place. As riders, we all should know drivers in cars don't usually see us on bikes. Just because cars should look out for bikes doesn't mean they will. Understanding and accepting this reality is what has kept me crash free after 27 years of riding. Riders that blame "cagers" for wrecks instead of understanding that cars will never be predictable and will never watch out for bikes will always be the type of rider that doesn't live very long.

[@TheJoe89jan]

Hopefully Donald Trump will see this video and give all 50 states legal lane splitting.

[@spoopynoopers9685]

Why would he do that?

[@alexb5275]

Mobsie sixsixsix nah, I'm sure he likes stuff that isn't complete shit. Harley's will be first to go. Just like all the other brands, Harley's come from outside the United States.

[@Alex-jb8rd]

Ur Nan are you serious

[@anongaming1853]

It isnt his choice, states have thier own government

[@anongaming1853]

Jose Reyna also its President Trump

[@YoungSavage_]

Personally, I can understand why people in cars hate it. Pretty much they think your cutting the line and people get pissed about that. In my opinion fuck everybody Im going to SAFELY and CAREFULLY lane split. Welcome to the pros of a motorcycle.

[@thorazine8402]

1st: It's the cars that cause traffic. Why should motorcyclists suffer along with the drivers? 2nd: Its all a series of choices. Car drivers want comfort and convenience, so they can have their lattes, music and climate control. But the tradeoff is having to sit in traffic. Motorcyclists don't want to have to sit in traffic, so the tradeoff is riding exposed to the heat, cold, rain, winds, etc. it all evens out, nut noooo, car drivers still whine it's not fair. It's that simple. They suffer. So should everyone else, even if they're not responsible for the traffic jams.

[@YoungSavage_]

Thorazine Exactly, Well put man.

[@tomasr876]

Like a words from the God!

[@bryno92]

We car drivers often see many motorcyclists lane splitting well over the speed limit which gives us a negative perception on you guys. You can also blame drivers ed for not teaching us this. This video helped change my view slightly.

[@warlordbison]

As someone that has never ridden, this video helped educate me on the mentality of riders. Thanks.

[@ericwsmith7722]

Penga lol

[@thisiswhyiwatch]

Some say lane splitting, most would say it's just Natural Selection

[@illuforce]

Driving a car is also natural selection with that logic

[@FxRiderST]

Drivers don't have a say about the lane splitting cas they don't ride and therefore are clueless about it. Period. They hate it because the biker will make it faster through the traffic while they're still sitting there. On top of it the're angry at themselves for not having balls riding 2 wheels. On a side note, American and Canadian drivers have to visit any country in Europe to learn how to drive properly and how to behave and share the road.

[@crazymonkey4175]

Felix that’s such a bullshit argument. people can have opinions about things even if they don’t participate in those things. lane splitting is unnecessary and fucking annoying for drivers. i have ridden a bike and there was no excuse for me to lane split

[@robertpaulson3897]

Its not safe at all to be racing between vehicles. You create accidents. You're only saving yourselves time. The extent of lane splitting should be limited to parked vehicles and 1 car length if you're so worried about being rearended its much more than everyone else gets

[@ericwsmith7722]

***** Yes there so worried about getting rear ended,,,,,,, they ride to the front of traffic, sounds like some people should loosen then helmet straps let some blood flow back to the brain.

[@fireballfitness170]

EpiDemic117 Well here I am writing about eric again. Now, his point in someways is true or ironic or something, but still it is missing main point. They get to the front of "stopped cars", or to the front of a "traffic cluster", and stay above the flow of traffic. Actually I am missing a point, they are in front, but actually between, so not literally not centered in front after all. Visibility is critical, a car may be able to see a motorcycle splitting lanes farther behind him or in front of him for that matter compared to a motorcycle that is in the center of the lane. I think more actual video footage would be helpful, to show the pattern of cars opening up lanes and creating space when they see a motorcycle coming up at a safe speed behind them between lanes.

[@ericwsmith7722]

Fireball Fitness170 Maybe Walt Disney could make a film explaining it.

[@fireballfitness170]

eric wsmith Like I said, I may be a dummy or slow, but I got a laugh from that walt disney line. I don't know if I earned but it made me laugh anyway and I can see why you said it. I guess your main point is simple, the guy in the vidoe says it is safer to split lanes and you say research does not support it. Personally, I have always thought it was more dangerous to split lanes simply based on the fact that there is less space between the motorcycle and the cars. Even if research ends up "proving" it is safer, i will still probably not split lanes, because my intuition says it is more dangerous. If these guys are wrong, then they are foolish, because it could then lead to an obvious increase in accidents from lanes splitting and then it could become prohibited even in California.

[@ericwsmith7722]

Fireball Fitness170 What epicdermic is trying to explain, is that supposedly, you pull past all the stopped cars , either along side them ( were you can not see if they are signaling left or right ) or directly in front ( the cross walk ? ) And while the "cager" is busy blabbing on there cell phone or eating lunch etc. And looking up at the traffic lite ( are most lites located at least 13 feet above the street ? ) some how the biker is now "safer" and I am supposed to prove that is not stupid.... OK

[@morrisfoston2]

/RideApart needs more episodes! I miss this show.

[@Unb3arablePain]

"Lane splitting is safe!" - Half of all motorcycle fail clips on KZbin (where the rider is at fault) are from people lane splitting. It doesn't even ease congestion like they said, because there's maybe 1 rider for every 100 to 200 cars on the road. So at most staying in your lane as a rider might back traffic up by 3-5 seconds. If you ride a motorcycle, you have to assume EVERYONE is out to kill you, because they kind of are since they have 3000+/-lb steel and aluminum death traps and you are an a beefed up bicycle with no seat belt, roll cages or crumple zones. The only safe way to travel on a motorcycle is in packs.

[@MegaAverageJoeGamer]

The lane splitting you see in fail videos is when the riders are going WAY too fast. Your argument is invalid.

[@MaxSpeedMediaLive]

I think lane splitting is about as safe as smoking cigarettes. It might not kill you today, but it will eventually. One lane change or someone opens a car door in traffic and you're done. These guys are nuts!

[@carlylespicks]

Same applies to riding bikes at all. lol

[@Turdsmear]

well I rarely follow the speed limit so might as well split illegally

[@imherehello117]

I always thought it was obvious that motorcycles should split lanes. I was astonished when I found out that it was illegal in other states. I’ve been doing it since the early to mid-80s at relatively high speeds. No problem.

[@t1oxETy]

You can call it safer but its not, not at all. Its incredibly dangerous if you do it wrong, and its really easy to do it wrong. If you're good at it then chances are you wont have an issue, but too many horrible bikers these days think they know what they're doing and end up killing themselves. If you lane split then be smart about it, even these guys aren't as safe as they think they are.

[@ericwsmith7722]

JukeRider yea,,,hardly any accents happen in moving traffic ! lol...

[@t1oxETy]

JukeRider Yeah if you're blind. Use your mirror to watch the car behind you, park on the far right or left side of the lane so you can escape an accident through the cars ahead if you need to. You're not safer to butt ahead of everyone at a red light just to cram 3 bikes infront of a lineup of cars.

[@ericwsmith7722]

JukeRider there are not statistics that conclude its safer, you know that,Or are you talking about enthusiasts . web sites that say crap like "studies have shown" ,,, but don't seem to mention what studies.

[@tylerbrown9161]

eric wsmith juke rider is right. Alot of times you can sit far right or far left of the lane but most drivers are idiots and dont watch for motorcycles. To someone not paying attention, my rear tail light might align with the person infront of me and the driver behind me wont see it and hit me. And you can watch all you want but you have a split second to decide " is he going to stop? or do i need to pull out into the other lane and risk getting hit there too?" where as, if you split lanes at a safe speed you wont have to worry about that at all.

[@ericwsmith7722]

Tyler Brown Are we ever going to get past this fantasy of lane splitting keeps you from getting rear ended ?? Or this belief that all car driver are just reckless blabbing on there cell phones etc, etc. Here is a 100% hard fact if you are involved in a traffic accident it is a 75% (ball park + - 5% ) chance you are at fault. Believe what you want but your not going to beat statistics. And there are no statics on before or after lane splitting was legalized any place. Putting moving objects closer together increases the likelihood they are going to contact each other, that's just common sense. And BTW I have ridden for years, so please spare me the you don't understand BS.

[@youthandluck]

theres a safe and reasonable way to lane split but on a highway when everyone is going the speed limit in medium trafic it is sooooo fucking stupid to fly past going 80 in a 60 or whatever. YOU WILL DIEE

[@dwc1964]

I agree, and so does the CHP, when traffic is going at or around the speed limit one should stay in the traffic lane and go with the flow. Lane splitting is for when traffic is jammed up and moving slowly. One should never pass at a relative speed >10mph over the cars you're passing. There are other lane-splitting safety guidelines that the CHP used to have on their website, but have unfortunately taken down. I lane-split in heavy traffic, but always keep my speed down and proceed with extreme caution. I've often been passed by other motorcyclists; I give my mirrors a glance often, and when I see a single headlight approaching in the "motorcycle lane" behind me, I find a slot in one of the lanes to either side, hit my signal and slide into it when safe, to allow the other moto to pass.

[@youthandluck]

well thats good to know some of yall are sane, ive been watching closs call videos and all it is just some dick on a bike flying past traffic on the highway saying look how this car cut me off and tried to sqeeeze me and stuff lol

[@dwc1964]

Nick Graham Well if you watch those videos, that's the kind of thing you'll see, and you'll see a lot of it. But if you're just driving in traffic in California, you'll see a whole lot of motorcycles lane-splitting, with nary a mishap. It's like how people think NASCAR fans are just watching for the wrecks, because that's all they see on the evening news "highlights".

[@chrisspooner5404]

HOW IS IT SAFE????????? You really think it's safe to surprise a 2 ton machine and come out are nowhere on its blind-spot? Let's see who turns out on the winning side when insurance gets involved.

[@darylb4814]

You must not realize that in Canada,it is illegal and you receive a ticket for Reckless driving in which it costs you 4-6 points and your insurance company usually will discontinue you as a client and it shows on your record to other insurance agencies.

[@alex305305]

How the fuck is it safe?

[@Nfinity4231]

1. Because there is a reduction of traffic 2. The motorcycle sits higher than most vehicles and can get better visuals when in it's own lane. 3. It eliminates the most common accident of motorcycle riding, getting hit from behind by inattentive drivers.

[@NoLifeGamer1080]

John barfneck It's legal here :3

[@Gotallofthem1]

Nfinity4231 Umm... I could have sworn that the most "common" motorcycle accident is while "Turning on curves", not sure where you are getting your stats from.

[@NoLifeGamer1080]

Gotallofthem1 I thought it was because the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. :/

[@Nfinity4231]

Gotallofthem1 The hurt report they talk about in this video, and the ACEM study. They are referencing the most common accidents that cause injury.

[@kokainkalle]

How is it safe in any way Lol? i could understand why its good but safe? thats a fucking joke... i wouldn't put my life on the risk because you want to earn a few mins...

[@jpm74]

John Wicks Apparently you decided to broadcast your ignorance before the discussion about rear-end collisions in traffic.

[@ericwsmith7722]

The avoiding getting rear ended excuse is almost laughable.

[@orangeorphan]

why? It makes sense to me. If you're at the front of a line of cars you can't be rear ended while waiting for the lights to change.

[@ericwsmith7722]

orangeorphan yea.... all those rear end collisions happen when there are no cars behind you.... and everyone always stops for red lights. and intersections are the least likely place for a accident to happen. and on the 24th of December Santa fly's out of the north pole, believe what you want

[@orangeorphan]

wow you're pretty confrontational about this! I do believe what I want and I will continue to lane split. I have a friend who was rear ended in a car while waiting at a red light. There were cars in front of him and they were barely damaged. He however suffered injuries that will probably stay with him for life. If he was waiting on a bike for that light he would almost certainly be dead. So my argument for lane splitting is that it may save my life someday. Believe what you want as well.

[@ericwsmith7722]

orangeorphan Wow,,, you had a friend who was involved in one of the most common type of accidents. what are the odds ?

[@orangeorphan]

eric wsmith fucking troll

[@crossofintimidation]

Unless traffic is moving REALLY slow I don't split lanes. It's true that it's legal here in California, but in congested areas like here in Los Angeles and San Diego, people don't know how to drive for crap. So for me I reserve it for congested traffic or to get to the front at a stop light. I love the advantage of splitting lanes, but I'll agree it's a dangerous thing to do due to so many uncontrollable factors. Ride safe everyone.

[@ericwsmith7722]

Calling lane splitting safer is just a irresponsible thing to say. You want to do ,, do it, but don't BS the public and fellow riders into thinking that it is safer, that's a bunch of nonsense, its faster for riders that is all it is. .

[@ericwsmith7722]

JukeRider and how is that ?

[@ericwsmith7722]

JukeRider First off, the figures gave in the video are incorrect 1/2 of all motorcycle accidents are signal vehicle crashes, 2/3 came out of some one ass. 1/2 of all multi vehicle crashes are rear end collisions, those are ball park figures but check out for your self NHTSC. (national highway safety committee) and please don't come at me with some "statistics" from the national lane splitting association BS web site. Your other point, moving to the front of traffic some how prevents rear end collisions ? that's laughable. What over heating has to do with safety I have no idea, BUT air cooled bikes will not over heat in traffic, and more and more bikes are liquid cooled any how, Most air cooled engines can idle in hot weather almost indefinably. This may be a crazy concept for you, but the higher engine RPM,s are,,, the more heat they produces, The lower engine RPM,s the less heat,,, understand that ? Crowding more moving vehicles in to a given space and calling it safer is just foolish thinking. And BTW I do ride, riding does not make you immune from common sense.

[@ericwsmith7722]

JukeRider Sure I do, you checked the real facts on highway crash statistics. and found me to be correct. Since most bikes don't have temperature gauges or even warning lights. and you apparently lane split,so this "overheating" problem sounds like its mostly in your head. And once again over heating is not a safety issue , its just a maintenance issue.

[@MrRosuv]

eric wsmith overheating may not be a safety issue for the motorcycle, but for sure its a safety issues for the rider.I live in Florida and let me tell you, if you are stuck in traffic in the middle of summer with temperatures above 100 F and road surface exceeding 120 in full protective suit its not pleasant and on top pf all that you have the engine heat, you can get a heat stroke, so now you try to tell me its safer to be stuck in traffic.You don't ride and if you do you one of those guys with 700 pounds bike,no helmet,t-shit,jeans and sunglasses you can't split lane even if you want to.

[@ericwsmith7722]

Vasi rosu Buy a car if your not physically fit to ride. I am surprised your tears don't cool you off some.

[@orangelion03]

It's legal here in California. You dont HAVE to do it. I chose to do so. One of my riding buddies recently saw a Can-Am Spyder splitting it! Now THAT is actually be illegal here as you cant have your vehicle in two lanes.

[@muvin-fn5fb]

Lane splitting prevents more accidents than it causes. 25% of all accidents are due to human error causing a rear-end accident. In a vehicle, if you get rear-ended, it's not that big of a deal. However, it's harder to see a motorcycle than a vehicle so more likely to get rear-ended, and the rear-ending can cause major damage and injury, potentially even death. Also, motorcycles are generally air cooled. Sitting in traffic can cause them to overheat, even the non-air-cooled ones. But the most important reason (discussed in the video after the 7:00 mark) is because, as studies have shown, when a motorcycle is not filtering, it is occupying a full vehicle lane or space. Filtering means the motorcycle takes up zero space for traffic congestion purposes, for the math. One motorcycle acting like a car occupying a full vehicle space = '1' while a motorcycle sharing vehicle space or lane = '0'. Due to this issue, one study in Belgium showed that if 10% of all car drivers converted to motorcycles or NTVs (Narrow Track Vehicles), all the other drivers would get to their destinations 8 minutes faster and rush hour congestion would end 40 minutes earlier.

[@wolfpatrol318]

Riding a motorbike has really boosted my alert level. Instead of sitting in the cage all cozy we are constantly looking out for Danger and adjusting accordingly. Lane splitting puts us one step ahead of Danger. And besides, when was the last time you saw cagers waving at each other? Middle fingers don't count.

[@ZantiMisfit198]

I have no problem with splitting in very slow traffic but traffic is moving at 30MPH or above it should be illegal because your just asking to get hurt or worse and it also seems and I want to stress "SEEMS" to me that a lot of bikers, not all, but a lot have an elitist mentality and that everyone is supposed to watch out for them so they can ride however they want to. I've had so many very close calls with guys on these suicidally fast sport bikes that I get nervous around them. Good riders like the guys in this video I have no problem sharing the road with but It seems here in america that the majority of sport bike riders are inconsiderate, immature and just plain dangerous!

[@ZantiMisfit198]

***** By the way he handles his bike, shit for brains.

[@footbalr074]

***** He makes his living riding motorcycles, therefore he is a professional rider, fuck off asshate

[@footbalr074]

Someone either rides, or wishes they could afford a Harley

[@RightNowIGuess]

I filter through London everyday, a 2 way trip with a total of 17 miles. I love it. Buses, taxis, people, buildings, cars, cyclists. I have memorised all the pot holes, speed bumps, traffic light timings, cyclist stopping points etc. If I couldn't lane split (filter) then that would be crazy...

[@noisycarlos]

I agree that lane splitting should be legal (I ride an ebike, and the thought of waiting In the middle of a lane is terrifying). That said, yesterday I was in my car changing lanes in 2mph traffic when a group of bikes was zipping in between lanes. They weren't close enough to make it an emergency brake or anything like that, but they did have to slow down (I was already halfway through the lane when I saw them, but they were going fast enough that they caught on before I cleared it). They got really angry and one of them slammed my mirror. I know, they're the minority, but it ruins it for everyone else.

[@ianallso2541]

I agree with everything that was said in this video. The first week after picking up my first motorcycle I didn't lane split, I wasn't confident in my ability and judgment, but was given encouragement from a colleague. Lane splitting is actually less tiring than sitting in traffic making riding actually safer. I do think car drivers need to be educated to let them know that lane splitting is legal (where it is), because some seem to think that it is wrong and try to block the gaps. Another aspect that wasn't discussed in the video is that as motorcycles generally take up only a quarter of the space of a car, more motorcycles on the road also equates to a lot more car parking spaces for the remaining cars, win win, I feel.