Silly Mistakes New Riders Make In The City

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[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks for watching everyone. Check out MotoJitsu.com/shop for my books & new merch :)

[@LITTLEBRAT775081]

0:28 after about the third car I put my bike in nuteral and take my hands off the handlebars . I don't have a hydraulic clutch and after a while it hurts to hold the clutch in . I don't know how to fix it so I still watch but do this sometimes

[@willturner397]

Predicting lights is easy if you observe the pedestrian walking man sign. A lot of cities have a countdown to zero then the light turns.

[@libinchandran9934]

Super cool tricks i would say... Thank you so much for making this aware to everyone..

[@tedsmart5539]

try holding a Ducati desmo clutch at a 4-way stop light and get back to me..

[@asdfjkl987123]

Three rings of the bell to start- Soto Zen Buddhism

[@icecl0ud]

I pretend 80% of drivers can't actually physically see me and the other 20% can see me but were paid to kill me.

[@boomerguy9935]

With everybody texting while driving, there's no need to pretend they can't see you -- they aren't even looking at the road. Yes, the other 20% are paid to kill you.

[@achillezx14r45]

😂😂😂

[@arturocaballero7208]

Good policy!

[@CalefimNihil]

It's real, no need to pretend

[@MotoKeng]

Great information for beginners to experienced riders! 👍💥

[@ItzRoger]

Not nearly enough people acknowledging how nicely illustrated you made all of this. Thanks for the extra effort!

[@pipersall6761]

Yeah I like that too.

[@gilliecalifornio9537]

Old School “Sharpie” power point is still cool till this day 😎

[@wgb1237]

Powerpoint*

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@oscartravis5740]

Fantastic tips. You know it's funny that I've driven cars for 30 years and never once looked into improving my driving skills, but I passed my full motorbike test only this year and have been watching endless videos on developing my riding skills. It's a soul thing

[@MotoJitsu]

👍🏼👍🏼

[@RichO1701e]

Regarding no2, "stopping directly behind", here in the UK, we're taught that waiting off to one side invites creepers, so we get taught to dominate OUR space. Tapping the brake lights to alert drivers we're there is also a tip, even if sitting stationary. We sit dead centre with enough space to see past the vehicle in front, if we sit off to one side, the car behind WILL creep into the space. It works here, different driving cultures. Also, we're legally allowed to filter(lane split), so if there is a queue of traffic, we're ok to filter to the front, so waiting behind a stationary vehicle is mostly unnecessary.

[@kenpickett9317]

Same here in Australia. If I ever parked behind someone either to the left or right, some prick in a car for sure would want to pull into that empty space right next to me. I ride/park smack in the middle of my lane and ride like I’m 10 feet wide.

[@RichO1701e]

@@kenpickett9317, 😂😂

[@ozbusa]

Same here where I was taught many, many years ago (Australia) - use the space, make yourself visible - get in their rear view mirror. Sitting out to the side puts you in blind spots. (not to mention, nowhere to go for the idiotic, spontaneous lane changers). If I'm at a red light and there is 1 or 2 vehicles stopped behind me, then yes, I'll shift to neutral and take a 15 sec rest.

[@KR4Z3D666]

@@kenpickett9317 Where do you think oils and coolants and shit drips onto the road from cars when you're sitting at the lights. That's right, dead centre. I wouldn't sit centre.

[@mc1dash1b]

Stop behind the vehicle but aim your machine so that if you are pushed forward you and your machine will travel past the vehicle in front but not into cross traffic. You don’t actually place your bike to either side of the vehicle. Even if the vehicle behind is stopped if it is a standard transmission a foot can slip off the clutch pedal never mind creeping.

[@jamess6961]

As a rider on the road 35 years all of this is correct. Luckily in the uk lane splitting is legal, so no waiting behind vehicles. My own #1 advice is; Everyone is out to kill you, so be aware at all times. #2 is; enjoy riding.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@Earthneedsado-over177]

Lane-splitting is not legal in Michigan but I wouldn't do it even if it was. I have seen enough motorcycle crashes on KZbin involving lanesplitters especially when they are going too fast between cars with no time to react when someone changes lanes or opens a door in front of them. Then they get all pissed off because THEY couldn't stop in time.

[@jamess6961]

lwolf1952 Lane splitting in the uk is legal and actually expected, almost mandatory in stationary traffic. Although the roads across the pond are far smaller and population far denser as per land mass, I don’t think I’m being rude in saying drivers here are better trained and more polite than in the states.

[@kunalkhanna985]

Always repeat to yourself "who is gonna kill me next" n be attentive. Hardly anyone in USA drives motorcycles and they do not understand that 2 wheeler riders are not in a steel cage.

[@kisse1987]

@@Earthneedsado-over177 you are not talking about lane splitting you are talking about a-holes who should not be on a motorcycle. Lane splitting is safer than standing still between slow moving cars

[@jamesbarros950]

My first time ever lane splitting, I was on the 405 and traffic was stopping, and the car behind me didn't look like it was stopping quick enough, so I "duck walked" my bike up next to the car in front of me just in time to see that car get knocked into the car in-front of it. It was a fender bender for cars, but it may have been my life. I'm a huge fan of being on the side and ready to split if needed. Thanks again for ALL these great videos =)

[@MotoJitsu]

You’re welcome!

[@Cocobeachhippie]

I get palpitations just thinking of riding on the 405 😨. May the force be with you and be safe out there 👍😊. Glad you were able to avoid that situation 🙂

[@JJ-uz9vc]

The 405 is full of idiots dosnt matter if you on 2 or 4 wheels. They are in lala land.

[@bornfacekambatika]

😃😄

[@clivensstuff3289]

I never lane split, some fool will open a door to throw-up, or throw something out if the window doesn`t work ,or just think it`s funny.

[@ricwithers7907]

Most dangerous thing I see is simply running too fast for the environment. BTW thank you for the work you put into your lessons. This was my 1st year riding and your straightforward, no bs, no ego approach has really helped me move up the learning curve to being a better, safer rider.

[@brianjacobsen5762]

The rule of thumb. Never go fast on unfamiliar territory.

[@shiwadaay07]

@@brianjacobsen5762 Exactly. It is the same way as driving a car.

[@brianjacobsen5762]

@@shiwadaay07 You've seen Ricky Mouse channel? Shit on Mulholland drive in california. There's riders who ride it everyday. Fast riders. As your bombing up the hill. You don't know if and idiot in fast car got sideways in the conner kicked a bunch shit in the corner. So you just got be careful I've been hit by a car? It's no fun☮️

[@Iffy50]

Not staying directly behind a car saved my life a couple years ago. I was waiting to turn left on a street with 4 lanes. There was a pick-up truck ahead of me. A pick-up truck behind us was in the right lane, but switched lanes to pass. The truck ahead of me and I were completely stopped. I was way to the left of the lane so there was enough room for a vehicle to miss me. Thank God because that is exactly what happened. The truck came within 2 feet of me at about 50 MPH and he crashed into the pick-up ahead of me, went up on 2 wheels, crossed over the centerline and hit a Jeep Cherokee coming the other direction. When the guy finally came to a stop his left front wheel had just about fallen off and his truck and his left front looked like an accordion. He had obviously been drinking and tried to quietly walk away from the scene. Luckily there were about 50-100 people there in no time. I started following him as he started walking away, but a couple people screamed at him”Where the h**l you going?! “ Get over here with your vehicle. Another person told him to stand still and took his picture with his phone. I’m not sure what happened to him, but hopefully he is still in jail. (not likely, but he should be!)

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

Iffy50 Several years ago, a woman won 34 mil from a casino on the mega millions machine. Very next day her car was struck by drunk driver, he had 23 prior DUIs... impact killed her sister and paralyzed her from the waist down.... hopefully she spent some of that cash to disappear his ass under the desert (since our idiot injustice system continued to fail the People... fuck all judges and legislators in Nevada).

[@dannymiller7187]

@@Rick_Sanchez_C137_ every time you put a comma a period or a .... I imagine you burping.

[@robbyddurham1624]

that had to have got your blood pumping. jeez it's crazy out there.

[@Iffy50]

@@robbyddurham1624 It happened so fast that by the time my heart started racing it was over. I did recognize how close I came to being killed...

[@TheDrwhomever]

I have become such a better driver since I started riding.

[@jamess6961]

Bull 100% of people who ride become better drivers. Most people who have friends, especially family become better drivers. Welcome to riding bro.

[@beyondfossil]

Absolutely. For me, I probably got a few hundred million more neurons added to my visual cortex for spotting bad driving as it happens or just prior. Let alone all the road strategy knowledge I've picked up from videos and forums.

[@corkyakins1519]

Yep, me too. My situational awareness of in overall traffic conditions had dramatically improved.

[@mason3307]

I just had this same thought the other day. Much better awareness while driving and predictive observation. I have also noticed I have a tad of a heavier foot as well. Haha

[@anthonyjarvis522]

Practice will make u and everyone better Dont always copy someone unless you ride to their ability and know that they are almost perfect be safe ta

[@jbmaverick2012]

Regarding predicting light changes, I look at the crosswalk countdowns.

[@corkyakins1519]

I try to do the same, but my vision isn't as good as it use to be so reading the numbers from a distance far enough ahead to react correctly is kind of hit and miss.

[@go4aride854]

I was going to add this exact recommendation. On the bike or in a car, I am always looking at the crosswalk sign to predict when the light will turn.

[@deadsirius3531]

This is a great idea--and even if you're too far to definitively read the numbers, I find I can normally at least tell if it's down to single digits which is usually a good enough indication

[@californiapoontappa]

I look st the cross traffic lights when they are yellow i know its my turn cominh

[@Refr619]

After a while you get the timing down. & You don't need to look anymore

[@dgphi]

The error I see all the time is riders tailgating cars. Bikes rear-ending other vehicles is the most common type of multi-vehicle crash involving bikes. (See the Virginia Tech crash study.) We rear-end cars much more often than they rear-end us. It's such an easy type of crash to avoid. All you have to do is follow at two seconds or more.

[@Relik61904]

Happened to me last year. Had only been riding for 3 months, was on a r6, was riding in the center of the lane behind a brand new f150 on the freeway kind of close. Looked over my should to changed lanes and when i looked back to the front traffic had completely stopped. I panic and slammed on my brakes(which they locked up) and i slammed right behind the f150. I flew over my bike and landed in the bed of the truck. I walked away with no injuries luckily but i learned my lesson. Now i ride on the side of the lane, i have mirros on my bike and i leave room infront of me an other cars.

[@Relik61904]

Well it was actually 2 years ago, in 2018 lol I forgot we are in 2020.

[@dgphi]

@@Relik61904 I've had a couple of near misses like that too. As well as what you say, one thing I've learned is that you have to make your shoulder checks super fast when changing lanes if you are following a car.

[@sm-xc6fn]

I'm a new rider on a 125 and almost did something similar. Did a shoulder check to overtake some traffic and nearly drove straight into one of those little pedestrian islands in the middle of the road. Just missed it with my front tyre. Not as exciting as your crash I guess but still. R6, crash, front flip into a pickup truck sounds like a movie

[@Relik61904]

@@dgphi yep i have learned to quick check haha but also not to be too close to the car infront of me and not to ride in the middle if the lane.

[@pomajzsolt4363]

I think an another big mistake is when people put the bike in neutral when parked.I think if you leave the bike in first gear that works like a handbrake.

[@rogerwilliams4742]

Good point.

[@davidmok108]

"bike in first gear that works like a handbrake" and how this works? the rider gotta be applying down the clutch the whole time while stationary.

[@JhonReyRanario]

@@davidmok108 what he meant was, the driver is not mounted on the bike.

[@marcd7332]

david mok Parked Einstein

[@pomajzsolt4363]

@@JhonReyRanario Yes!

[@user-gv1sy4vg9u]

That effort to draw and teach.. 😱 thank you ❤️

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks 🙏🏼

[@Steve-ec6ed]

I cant tell you how many times I've almost pulled into a parking space in my truck and last second noticed a bike in the spot before I turned in. That is a serious problem, especially if the rider is in the process of getting on or off the bike, and should be brought to riders attention more often. Until now I've never heard anyone address that issue so you're literally saving lives (and paint jobs) with this video. Thanks for all the great content fast eddie hope you have a Happy New Year!

[@hillie47]

I see a lot of people drive like maniacs in parking lots. Especially at my local busy starbucks. It's ridiculous, because people come out from in between cars (often without looking), folks try to back out with limited vision, etcetera. I go slow in parking lots, because there are so many blind spots where some potential accident is waiting to happen.

[@brianchristopher8843]

I tend to park my bike right at the front of the spot for this very reason. Alot of times I'll park in non parking spots. Never is an issue made of it.

[@ThePasak007]

The way you explain things shows how much you care about other people safety. I feel like you're explaining this to your own child, and you want them to be safe and enjoy riding. Thank you for that, much appreciated!

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks!! :) SHARE IT

[@rodbuenaventura6184]

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[@rodbuenaventura6184]

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[@rodbuenaventura6184]

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[@rodbuenaventura6184]

,,,,,,,,,

[@cheftush]

On predicting lights, especially in the city, I look at the pedestrian crosswalk indicators. Often you can see when they are counting down towards a light change.

[@slamboy66]

Right on brother

[@Earthneedsado-over177]

There is also the type that go from flashing walk to steady before the "don't" lights up.

[@froyboy4life]

Where I live most lights turn yellow when the flashing "don't walk" signal turns solid.

[@BrothermanV]

Yup 👏🏾

[@jairuselijasmin3585]

I'm a new motorbike owner / rider. Thank you very much for this.

[@MotoJitsu]

You’re welcome. 170+ more to go through! Check out my playlist all about new rider tips too

[@quikboarder93]

I even go as far as inching forward as cars approach from behind. That way, I can save a second getting the bike in motion if needed and just gun it

[@MotoJitsu]

Me too sometimes

[@javiermori1710]

Im a beginer rider andhave been binge watching all Motos videos. Im learning real quick that you always have to assume the worst scenario and just be super vigilant. I knew this going in but it is much more complicated than i thought. I dont think i will even go on heavy traffic streets for awhile and just take back roads till i get more experience. Thanks Moto!

[@MotoJitsu]

smart! MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.

[@PDPIE1029]

I always do indicate, mirror, blind spot. That extra couple seconds of having my blinker on hopefully has a better chance of people seeing and knowing my intentions. Great info as always!! :)

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com

[@talia4192]

I really like the color coded text and illustrations. So helpful. Everything really makes sense. This and the "6 more mistakes city drivers make" are so important for this NYC newbie

[@MotoJitsu]

thanks :)

[@JamesCAsphalt8]

As a rider of more than 30 years, I would say this is an excellent video for beginners and those who are "experienced".

[@MotoJitsu]

thanks!

[@Pete3Heat]

Also a tip. Blink your brake light at the stoplight when you are stopped to help alert drivers.

[@firstchoicelastchoice28]

I added 2 more rear lights on my motorcycle at the rear one each side - they turn on with my brake light only- I connected to the brake light wiring - therefore I have 3 brake lights. And in case one burns out..... 2 remain.

[@ralphvalkenhoff2887]

As a truck driver, any accident you’re in is our fault. We are trained to predict any and all road conditions which really is a life saver when on a bike. Good stuff, thanks man

[@MotoJitsu]

😊👍🏼

[@seanhunter111]

Great video with really clear presentation as always. In particular, your tip about looking both ways and being properly prepared at an intersection is a real lifesaver. There’s a huge amount of depth there because there is a massive variety of different threats you potentially face at an intersection like that and a bunch of different dumb mistakes that both you and other road users can make. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, just really focussing every intersection on gathering as much information as possible and trying to think through what could go wrong and prepare ahead of time could make the difference between having a fun story to tell your friends and ending up in hospital. I remember a near miss at an intersection when I was learning because someone pulled through a stop. I told my bike instructor “I had right of way”. “You can have them put that on your gravestone if you like”, he said.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks!!

[@beniesenobs]

Thnks for the info I'm also a motorcycle rider and to add to that since I always drive my car in NYC most likely to be watchful of people riding bicycles and skateboards using the streets as their way and basically they always cross the streets uncautiously. The best way to to do is drive slowly cause I've seen a lot of cocky motorcycle riders here in the City speeding as if their riding on the highway.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@Gofr5]

In Winnipeg Canada where I first learned to ride, they actively teach you not to go into neutral on the red lights for the same reasons you mentioned. On the driving test they will even watch for that and if they notice you going into neutral on the lights, they will be docking points from you for it.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@BrothermanV]

Yeah, after watching motovloggers for years, I was surprised to hear my instructor say to stay in gear (I'm in the states). It def makes more sense. It's just baffling to me that so many go into neutral

[@bigworm5024]

You hand drew all these? Fucking legend

[@MotoJitsu]

I draw all the stuff in my videos :) If you haven't already, check out MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.

[@karolinasereikaite8233]

Thanks so much! I'm a new rider, and in exam, we were taught to put in Neutral, but I always put in first gear, now even more since I saw this video, however, never thought about stopping not in the middle but extreme right or left behind the car looking for escape rout, wow! Now it looks like common sense, but it wasn't for me common practice. It will now. Thank you!

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@keltecdan]

I’m a new rider as well. My MSF instructor didn’t even go over this and had to learn this info here on KZbin from other instructors. How have you been doing riding now?

[@worldwide555]

Same things happen to me

[@jellafella6957]

@@keltecdan Going through a bunch of these videos I'm so thankful I got taught most of these lessons when I started so they could become habit.

[@mgwgeneral6467]

@@MotoJitsu hey you forgot one other reason why we don't stop in the middle of a lane at a stoplight. Oil and antifreeze and gravel accumulate there!

[@mc1dash1b]

I have only been riding for 48 years. I witnessed a 2 up Harley at the rear of a group of 20+ bikes waiting to turn left off a 2 lane blacktop all with turn signals on get rear ended by a young lady in a Celica at about 25 mph. Luckily no one was hurt but the bike. I am amazed to see riders stopped at a light, bike in neutral, and the rider actually sitting up with their arms crossed on their chest, watching traffic. When I tell them very nicely of their risk they act pissed off but inevitably after a few seconds they put their bike in gear and hands back on the controls. This is all common sense but...I remember how the Harley pilot, after helping his girlfriend up and to the side of the road, righting his softail, seeing the rear tire and rim bent 90 degrees and disgusted letting go and let the poor machine just drop on its side again. This is a worthwhile vid for new and old riders alike.

[@jakem9519]

Genuine videos that have meaning, way to go dude!

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com

[@fernandezf80]

I've just buy me a scooter... you know, just for fun. After watching this video, I've found out that I have a lot to lern. Thanks a lot. Greetings from Mexico.

[@nac5000]

amigo eso hize yo compré una Italika 110 para aprender y ver si me gustaba manejar moto te lo recomiendo valen bien baratas y empieza poco a poco con precaución no pasa nada

[@fernandezf80]

@@nac5000 Gracias... ya me compré un scooter Honda Elte...! Saludos desde México.

[@Ro6entX]

I admit I still sometimes make few of these riding "sins" now and then. First being in Neutral, second is the coming to stale green light. Several years ago, I pinned throttle to beat a yellow, a car made turn on red into my lane (furthest left) right into my path. Counter steering saved my butt, but side swapped the divider (popped fork seal, scrapped up my rotors too) but avoided the car completely. I took full responsibilities on that close call as being all on me. So, after wards, i slow down when i see greens. So as side note to new riders; city streets isn't place to haul ass, ride with brains, not balls. And hope you have awesome n safe new year

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@joepromedio]

To all beginner MC riders. Listen to this guy. He is giving excellent advice. Do yourself a favor, watch all his videos. I have been riding street since 1969. Never had a MC Training Course. Everything I have learned came from experience. I have the scars to prove it. When I ride in the city, I use my peripheral vision. I'm always in scan mode looking for any potential hazards. Like he said, lane position is very important. Never ride in traffic when you are in the blind spot of a vehicle that is slightly ahead of you in the next lane. They most likely can't see you.

[@MotoJitsu]

Get into more training!! MotoJitsu.com/courses FYI: Have you heard about my other KZbin channel? It's a podcast where I interview interesting people...it's called MyIgnorance. Check it out :) kzbin.info/door/VJeRk29mNO-YRuvOJ73klQ

[@johnwray798]

Another parking tip: Parking parallel or on an angle behind a big pickup can be asking for trouble. If that driver gets in his truck and glances in the rear-view mirror before backing up, there is an EXCELLENT chance that he simply will not see the bike, and will back up into, or right over, your bike.

[@abc456f]

Great tips. Big problem in Florida is car drivers never using their turn signals, ever. Sometimes I wonder if they even know what the turn signal lever is for. Always give cars in front of me plenty of space because you never know what they're going to do. I don't care if cars behind me get pissed because they think I should close the gap to the car in front of me. I'm not risking rear ending someone because people behind me are too impatient. Worst drivers in the world down here, especially now in the winter with all the blue hair snowbirds. Can't even see their heads looking through their rear window. They drive scared, sitting an inch from the steering wheel, brake for no reason, doing 20 mph less than the speed limit. They're a real danger to themselves and everyone else on the road.

[@ladytao6370]

The first time I rode in Florida I used to keep it in 1st gear at intersections, then I realized red lights last like 5 minutes or maybe more (Fort Myers area), hard to keep your hand on the clutch all that time, although by then you had a long line of cars behind you.

[@omarcarrillos2727]

Great advise As always . I started watching your videos before I even got the bike. Thanks to you I've been riding for 14 months now without accident. Your safe riding tips are real life savers.

[@stogie0608]

I’m a new rider and learned my lesson when I parked front tire first touching the curb on rounded street like you explained. I had to walk my 600 pound bike backwards up that small incline when I was leaving and I couldn’t do it 🤣 it was quite embarrassing, my brother helped me back it up. Never again. now I always park it as you show on here, the right way. Thanks for all these tips they really help out a lot.

[@MotoJitsu]

You're welcome!

[@Evangeline5001]

On point #2, I also leave about 20 feet between me and the car in front. This gives me room to move up if someone behind isn’t stopping.

[@MotoJitsu]

We all have our own ways :)

[@pennsyltuckyden9823]

Some pretty good info here, just trying to get as educated as possible.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@Firestorm637]

30% of motorcycle crashes are rear end crashes.

[@firstchoicelastchoice28]

It is not the fault of the car driver if they run into the back of your motorcycle when you stop at a red light or stop sign. Sure it is your fault - forget any laws - if you are in a car or truck or bus and someone rams into the back of your vehicle do you just have to sit there and take it? But you are on a small, nimble motorcycle. And I may assume you have 2 good legs for jumping off the motorcycle if need be. Why would you sit there and get hit? How to avoid being hit in the rear of your motorcycle when you stop: Two feet down for every stop - only when the motorcycle has fully stopped - 1) Have both feet on the road - one foot means the motorcycle is leaning - to ride off you have to spend effort to get the motorcycle vertical before you can do anything. (you might need that one second) - so 2 feet down. If it is an uphill stop or downhill stop you want the security of 2 feet down. If it is off camber when you stop you want both feet down for security. These things apply especially to beginners. But is good practice always for every rider. Next be sure to be in first gear - you can't ride away quickly if you are in a high gear. All of that happens the instant you stop. Next immediately turn and look behind you (NOT look in your mirrors) mirrors tell you what you cannot see - does the driver see you? Make eye contact. Let them know you are watching them. So next you have determined they may run into you: 2) First is to always stop way back from the vehicle in front of you - you might just need to ride ahead enough to allow the car behind you to stop - if you are the first in line at the stop or red light - stay back from the white cross line and the intersection - same reason - you may just need to ride ahead a bit to allow the car behind to have more stopping distance. 3) Because you are back from the intersection you can ride ahead and make a 90 degree turn either right or left and avoid being run into - this means you are essentially sideways maybe even in the pedestrian walkway - who cares - you avoided being run into. 4) You are not first in line - you perceive you are going to be run into from behind - ride ahead between the vehicles ahead of you either to the right or left of any of them - let the car behind run into them not you. 5) You are not first in line - make a sharp right or left and go between the cars ahead of you and end up crosswise across the front of somebodies car - who cares - you didn't get run into. 6) You perceive you are going to be run into from behind - in a millisecond you determine there is nowhere to go - jump off your motorcycle and run aside - who cares about a piece of metal and tires and plastic compared to your body - you can always get another motorcycle. 7) As you determine that traffic is going to stop ahead of you, you have a few things you can do before stopping - check how close is the vehicle behind you - start slowing earlier than usual - the vehicle behind will notice and start slowing as well - if they are too close turn around and look at them - it shows them you are a human not just the back of a helmet - make a pushing back motion with your left hand palm facing the car behind you - indicating to them to push back - blink your brake light rapidly with your rear brake pedal - this will not slow you - but will draw their attention that something is going on - initiate your 4 way flashers if you have them - rapidly alternate your right and left signals if you don't have 4-ways - and /or do both at the same time - alternate signals and flashing brake light(s). Are they using a cell phone in some manner? 8) You notice someone behind you too close - you get a 'feeling' - you can put on your signal light - slow down and turn off or pull off to the side of the road and let them drive by to be a problem for someone else - you count to 15 and then continue on your way - the one minute you lose means nothing - you are not in a hurry you are on a motorcycle for fun. Get their attention in preparation way ahead of the stop situation you see ahead of you. You are in charge of the guy behind if you do it right. Remember you are not in a hurry - you are on a motorcycle for fun.

[@Firestorm637]

I have the Weiser 2 in 1 led. brake/turn/running lights on my KTM Super Duke. Turns your rear turn signals into extra brake lights(3 rear brake lights with turn signals and front turn signals into running lights(turn signals)

[@darkma77er]

Been using all of these and teaching my new rider friends these for some time. Thanks for giving me a video to refer them to. Also something that I do that goes with the predicting intersections, is predicting cars waiting to enter the road. Typically stay left and imagine them pulling out and what my counter move would be all the way until I pass them.

[@MotoJitsu]

You're welcome!

[@michaelcoffey2706]

I thought about becoming a cop. I could literally pull people over all day for improper lane changes.

[@hillie47]

One of your better videos Greg, very good stuff. And you know, a lot of this is good for car drivers too.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@dennisbuckley]

Currently enjoying your back catalogue of vids, great tips! Re, looking both ways at a crossroads, always worth keeping eyes and ears open for emergency vehicles wanting to creep through on a red. Also, another thought, if you come through a junction towards the end of a green signal, ie on your own with no other traffic immediately ahead of you, watch out for pedestrians starting to cross - it’s often not the first person to cross that’s the problem, they’ve probably looked, seen you coming, calculated the gap and worked out they can cross safely, it’s the sheep that follow them you need to watch for, assuming the road is clear. Love the illustrations btw. Best wishes from the UK 👍

[@MotoJitsu]

thanks! MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.

[@JoeMamaCausesEarthquakes]

1. Neutral at a stop light. 2. Stopping centre behind a vehicle. 3. Not predicting lights ahead. 4. Not looking both ways at a green light. 5. Undivided 2way street. 6. Blinkers. 7. Parking.

[@MotoJitsu]

:) forgot the time stamp for each

[@tdublove9558]

I'm a noobie rider and your videos make a lot of sense thanks for sharing your experiences 😊

[@MotoJitsu]

Glad to hear it! MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.

[@MegaJackhart]

My thought when riding your motorbike !!! treat every one as an idiert ,that way your alway looking ahead “ may the force be with you “ That’s 60 yrs on the road ,but your never to old to lean , Perth wa 👍👍👍

[@tommoore2572]

Just watched this for the first time. All excellent advice and please keep them coming. One thing I might add and keeping in mind that we do not have lane splitting here. I always wait for the cager beside me to start moving before I do from a red light. This is especially so if it is a large vehicle that I cannot see around.

[@jetfirehi5229]

My worst thing now that I’ve started riding is I’ve got a broken headlight, which flashes a lot for no reason and I’ve nearly been hit many times until I realised. It’s a new bike as well, so didn’t expect anything. Useful video though, will definitely use these tips

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@Blue-moon12]

Some think just by putting their indicators on think they have the right of way. You gave some really good advice in this video. Reminders to all of us even the seasoned vet rider.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks 😊

[@lifelink3297]

Yo number 2 blew my mind. What if I get sandwiched? Def staying to the side now thanks for the tips

[@MotoJitsu]

you're welcome!! Share the video with others :)

[@leslieaustin151]

I’ve not (yet) done advanced motorcycle training, but have done it in a car here in UK. We were taught when moving that all indications (blinkers) should flash at least once per 10mph BEFORE you turn the steering to make your move. I try to do this on my bike too. Distracted drivers are unlikely to see one or two flashes of a blinker, but more likely to pick up four or more at 40mph - or on motorways six+ at 60mph. Les

[@MotoJitsu]

Yes, use those blinkers!! :)

[@dennisreidjr.454]

This video reminds me of an acronym, I learned in my first course I took, SIPDE (scan, identify, predict, decide, execute). It has stuck with me and helped me in many situations. Even when driving a car. Thanks D

[@MotoJitsu]

Yes, I teach that course :)

[@hellohogo]

We do love our little death traps tho😂😂🖤

[@planecrazyish]

Really sensible advice. Your drawings are great too. No doubt at all, you really know your stuff. I may get a bike one day, so really trying to get all this knowledge and wisdom into my subconscious. Besides a lot of it is relevant to general road usage anyway, so it's all good.

[@MotoJitsu]

:) MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.

[@ftby59mikeD]

Man, I just don't understand lane splitting! But then again I've never experienced Cali traffic🤔

[@MotoJitsu]

ok MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, affiliate links, discounts, etc.

[@brandonmacon3317]

It causes a lot of accidents. Plenty of videos on youtube that should be titled "Why you shouldn't lane split".

[@nikolakatsarov6768]

Just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for all the hard work, all the teaching and great advises you're constantly giving to the people, who love riding on two wheels, but also love seeing their family every night. Even after several years on the streets of a big city, I'm learning so much from your videos. In addition to the second point of this episode - by standing right behind a car you're in danger if the guy in front decides to go backwards.. Sounds ridiculous, but just yesterday I had this exact accident, despite stopping about 4m behind a van with no windows on the back. Without even trying to see me, he got on the reverse and the result is broken front fender.. it could've been much worse, but from now on I'm always stopping wide right or wide left, 'cause staying center is also a fault from the rider IMO.

[@MotoJitsu]

You're welcome!

[@AmericanMX]

With the predicting lights ahead. If you can see well enough, look at the cross walk time and you can see how much time is left before the light changes. If there’s cross walks.

[@brianvermeulen558]

An excellent tip, I do this all the time whether riding my bike, or in a car. Also good to spot bonehead bicyclists who are deking on and off the sidewalks.

[@mihaif6323]

Like before watching the video as I know it is something good coming from MotoJitsu. Happy New Year!

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com

[@heatherjeffmallorybowes2959]

You are a great teacher! At this point I have only watch a couple if ur videos and I have learned something from both. Very good at getting your point across without confusion. Ty for taking the time to teach ppl to be better riders. You have a SUBSCRIBER for life now. I take my M tomorrow.. .

[@MotoJitsu]

You’re welcome!

[@NovatusRSGaming]

4:50 I worked a crash where an 18 yo high school senior was one block away from his house coming home from the gym. He went through a green light, and the car to his left ran the red and crashed into the driver’s door. The kid died, and I had to tell his mother that he died. The roads are no joke, always check both ways at a green especially if you’re on a motorcycle.

[@MotoJitsu]

Yup, bikes are 28 times more dangerous than driving a car.

[@Spot_the_dog]

Is Wisconsin really America's Disneyland? 😁 Good content man, keep it up and safe 2020.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com

[@SaeedAlFalasi]

THANK YOU FOR THESE AWESOME SAFETY TIPS!

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@gamingcroctv4523]

hi motojitsu, im a beginner scooter rider, and your videos helps me alot! thanks! from the Philippines!

[@Ridingrules10000]

@5:27, I hit a bicyclist in my car on a college campus in that scenario once. I was coming up to a red light in the right lane with no one in front of me and several cars stopped in the left lane. The light turned green about 4 car lengths away and I was going about 20 mph when I reached the intersection. A girl on a bike materialized from behind the stopped cars. I jammed the brakes and she was pedaling as hard as she could. She managed to get far enough that I barely clipped her back tire, didn't even look back and kept on riding. It was a lesson learned for both of us.

[@MotoJitsu]

sheesh MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.

[@Nature22]

Love the drawings love these safety vids

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@karljay7473]

Wisconsin !? Nice art work :D Happy New Year, keep the vids coming.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com

[@marinehm]

Highly informational. Thanks! @4:30 This happened to me last week. I'm at a light. It just turned green. I waited until the cars going in the opposite direction came to a stop. I noticed a pickup truck not slowing down. So, I stayed where I was. The truck totally blew through a red light and almost hit the cars that did not wait once the light turned green. Always anticipate!!!!

[@Nostrum19]

rewatching this as getting ready for my first motorcycle!!!!! just ordered my gear yesterday

[@MotoJitsu]

Awesome!!

[@Juror63]

This is really good "road strategy"! I'd like to add at 4:06 that I stay to the inside of the inside lane (if applicable) so that folks making a "lefthand" turn can see me well before they bolt across the lanes too get where they're want. I've had a couple of scars with that noise... 👌👍

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com

[@thublihlenzimande495]

"Blue falcon" lol looked it up

[@lastinline000]

I realize this video is a few tears old but would like to share a tip I use. On the page you had about coming into the intersection with cars stopped on your left and right I like to observe the front tires of the nearest car for ant movement as I approach, I see it as an indication that sometimes the driver is going to pull out and they don't even realize they have started the movement it has helped me several times over the years

[@MichaelWTurner]

Excellent tips. Putting the bike in neutral at a light, I was definitely guilty of that, but not anymore. The parking info was also very insightful. Never would've thought to do any of it. Thanks!

[@MotoJitsu]

Glad it helped!

[@paulisbest1970]

Too F**king right Sensei ! I had a bus up my arse/ass (UK) recently at a junction stop and thankfully I was in 1st gear looking at my escape manoeuvre, and guess what? The bus was so so aggressive and not exactly a professional driver, it came in hard and I just move forward into the forward vehicles gap. I would've been toast! Stopping at junctions especially, stay aware, up, down, left, right and those mirrors baby! Not checking your phone or changing your itunes or checking out some hot chick on the pavement. Be proficient dudes and dudettes, we are so much better than those relaxed car drivers. Our attention to details is paramount and saves lives. Peace and goodness everyone. x

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@paulisbest1970]

@@MotoJitsu Done dude. Peace

[@ErosSirianni]

I will never be neutral again at red lights after this video 😁 thank you Fast Eddie!

[@tommy605]

Pay attention to the surrounding. I stay in gear until that car behind me has stopped. Then, if I want (ie the light isn't changing in a few seconds) I go into neutral. Also, if there are no cars behind me, but watch the mirrors. If you see someone coming up, go into gear, and I tap my brake pedal a few times to make it flash so I'm more noticeable. Never going into Neutral is unrealistic. Being safe about when is more ideal. But always have the brake lights on.

[@ErosSirianni]

@@tommy605 maybe the safer thing is to get ahead of the lane so you are the first on row when it's possible.but yes when the red light is long lasting is very difficult to stay with the clutch pulled

[@KHETS_BROKEN_SCALE]

I have a bad habit of going into neutral when the car behind me comes to a complete stop. False sense of security I guess.

[@ErosSirianni]

@@KHETS_BROKEN_SCALE I have a worse habit instead, I go into neutral even before coming at the lights 😂 fast Eddie is right, it's safer to stay in gear, just in case you have to move fast (ie if you have to move because of a passage of an ambulance...)

[@tommy605]

@@ErosSirianni No lane splitting or filtering allowed here. But I do pull over to the extreme sides, almost right on the line so if I have to, I have a straight shot out and I almost always choose the side opposite to what the car in front has favoured and I do get pretty close distance wise to the car in front, but off to the side. So if a car does hit me, I am not sandwiched between cars. But the reason I get close is because cars tend to give the car in front of them space so me being off to the side and close usually fits inside of the space well. My only point is, if you're aware of the surroundings, being in Neutral isn't a bad thing in and of itself.

[@alsepu80]

Tks for sharing this. Much appreciated !

[@MotoJitsu]

My pleasure! If you haven't already, check out MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.

[@nothinleader]

I had to learn the hard way always park backing in. Didn't realize there was a slope and got stuck for a while-they really should teach this in the MSF course! I had a light(~400lbs) bike and I'm fit so eventually I was able to make it with a lot of sweat but if I had a heavy bike or was a small person I think I'd be screwed!

[@MotoJitsu]

:) MotoJitsu.com

[@Firestorm637]

You are responsible for your safety, not the other guy.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@flatspin0976]

Tip on the Light Turning Green section... what I do is look at the Crosswalks up ahead and they will usually start blinking and turn to "No Walking" just before the lights turn Yellow>Red.

[@MotoJitsu]

:)

[@grahamwagner1880]

I always drive the centre of the road unless there’s oil or antifreeze in the middle. I give myself plenty of room, much more room than I would on four wheels between myself and the person in front. The reason for this is I still have an escape route and the area where car tires travel is usually where the potholes are. I also don’t like other motorcyclists pulling up beside me when I am at a stop, when that happens I wait for them to go first because I’m not in a race I wanna arrive at my destination safe.

[@MotoJitsu]

Many ways to do one thing

[@grahamwagner1880]

MotoJitsu Thank you for your response sir. I drive an iron 883 so I have a lot of people try to pull up beside me and complement me on a blacked out bike, don’t care for that much. I learned my lesson the hard way by hitting gravel patches, once doing three somersaults and breaking the ribs on my right side and the second time losing two fingers. My original driving instructor told me once to pay attention because you never have a guarantee that anyone else is. I have 40 years of martial arts but that doesn’t make me a black belt at riding. Your videos carry a lot of weight with me and I am grateful that a person like yourself would share such great advice. Cheers brother!

[@brokebob1125]

Also Speeding through yellow lights just to T- bone a car attempting to make a last second left turn. Fatal mistake

[@thublihlenzimande495]

Witnessed a bike & car accident, rider was chasing the amber light so was the car turning right...catastrophic end result

[@jonb4763]

Great tips and advice all the way around. Your explanations along with the drawings make things very clear. Most of it is common sense but that appears to be in short supply most of the time for most people. We gotta start paying more attention and thinking about what is going on around us.

[@MotoJitsu]

Many things seem like common sense only after it’s said :)

[@mrnice2994]

Similar thing happened to me! The difference is that it was a car that suddenly decided to jump the light by accelerating very hard. Luckily, I saw it and had to brake very hard. It would be a completely different story if I hadn't seen this A.H. on time.

[@chapajunin]

Very useful video! Most of us have been involved in any of those situations you explained al least once in our rider life. Greetings and blessings, Eddie! And Happy New Year, mate!

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com

[@anindanahiyan8660]

good way to spot a light about to go yellow is to look at the pedestrian signs. The pedestrian signals usually flash for 10-15 seconds before the traffic lights turn yellow, and a lot of them have timers too. so you'll know when to be prepared

[@mrsimpleesarcastik3494]

here in upststate NY the thing alot of car drivers have been doing is go thru red lights and stopping at greens...makes no dam sense

[@contessa.adella]

Escape route: I had a cheap Tomos moped years ago with very poor drum brakes. One day, slowing in traffic the car in front simply out braked me. Fortunately I managed to squeeze my front wheel in beside his rear wheel as we came to a stop..…rather than write off my cheap ‘n cheerful chicken chaser bike on his rear bumper. That was a learning experience! 9:30 Two ‘blinks’ of your indicator light prior to lane change or taking a junction are no where near enough. You must give drivers time to notice it AND react. 7 to 10 blinks is what you need as a minimum…and that’s only about ten seconds before you move! Remember…elderly drivers might see the blinking for three of four seconds before it registers in their minds and their reactions are much slower.

[@bobbennett2075]

Good advice on positioning behind a vehicle and I stay in the middle til I come to a stop so that car’s brake lights (in front of my bike) are visible (to drivers behind me). I also change my posture (when on my sport bike) as I come to a stop to give the driver behind me an additional sign that I am slowing.

[@MotoJitsu]

thanks

[@jeffreyscott4564]

One quick tip if I may,, Your scenario of the intersection with a what I'd call a "Stale" green (A light that's been green for some time) one way to predict if it's going to change soon, IF,, it has a crosswalk there is usually a timer on it for the pedestrians that tells them how many seconds they have remaining to cross safely. Most generally this only applies to intersections in urban/city areas but it is a way to calculate you as the rider has before the light is going to change. Your tutorials are really helpful to keep us,, the motorcyclist alive as we enjoy our sport. Thanks friend...

[@MotoJitsu]

you're welcome

[@yankhosomanje]

Thanks man. Actually I saw an accident yesterday that had a lot to do with lane position. Where I live, cars keep left and this motorcycle was riding on the extreme left of the vehicle in front of him so he could not see up the road and couldn't be seen either. He didn't notice in time that the vehicle in front had swung off the road to avoid an on coming vehicle that had gotten out of lane in order to execute a rather reckless overtake. That oncoming vehicle run him over and unfortunately he did not make it. The car in front of him overturned

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks! Share with others MotoJitsu.com

[@kunalkhanna985]

Great job Eddie, your crusade to keep motorcycle riders alive may save lives. I have been riding 20 years and car drivers in USA often do not see me. A car drove into me head on (taking a quick left) when I was stopped at a red light few years ago, the 23 year old driver said he did not notice me, I was on a CBR with 2 head lights on that are hard 2 miss. I hope people watching take your advice seriously. I hope parents educate teens that they need to be attentive and notice motorcycles on roads instead of driving onto them.

[@MotoJitsu]

Thanks!

[@stewy62]

Your tips all make sense and I do them all except number 1. Although I get it, if you ever rode an old British bike the clutch would drag after a while so you got used to snicking the bike into neutral as you came to a stop. It’s in my DNA to do this, as is putting my right foot down on the floor because you need the left foot to shift into 1st gear, which means you can’t put put your foot on the brake which also seems to be the modern recommended way. I’ll try to fight my DNA, keep the bike in 1st at a stop with the clutch in, and my right foot on the brake 🇬🇧🏍

[@MotoJitsu]

:)

[@adamjohnsonmusicvideos]

I've got a repetitive strain injury in both my hands. I keep my bike in neutral while stopped to save my hands, but I'm constantly looking behind me and i have my right foot down, so my left foot is ready to drop into first gear immediately. My left hand's on the clutch, left foot on shifter lever, I feel good about it.

[@colinsphoneemail]

Basic Smith driving system rules. The Key Five Rules of the Smith System: Aim High. The first rule for this method is “Aim high in steering”. ... The Big Picture. “Be aware of your surroundings at all times” may seem obvious to say, but distracted drivers are. ... Keep Your Eyes Moving. ... Leave Yourself an Out. ... Make Sure They See You.

[@iedvigar9163]

Un grand merci à toi pour tous ces rappels "de bon sens" . Belle année 2020!!! Gazzz...

[@gifri672]

Would you consider giving a few tips about how to handle things like bike lanes (where I live they run between the car lane and the parked cars at the curb), zebra stripes (green light for pedestrians when I want to turn left or right) or tram tracks (nasty, especially when wet)? Lots of good stuff in your videos!