Staying out of trouble, by the pros: staying safe on busy roads

[@danielwoozy]

I commute riding and my approach is that we bikers are willing to be up front with as little interference as possible but not at all costs. Give respect to car drivers to be respected as well, don't filter too fast and try being as visible to them as possible and wave to considerate drivers every once in a while. Ride safe and enjoy.

[@johnclifton3512]

Good point - thank drivers who move over for you. Not always possible but I do it whenever I can as it gets bikers a better reputation.

[@Ze-Germanzuk]

As a lorry driver one word of warning about that first clip, I probably wouldn't see you there. Unless I happened to be looking in the left mirror as you filtered and caught you pulling up I won't see you in either side mirror nor the 2 downards facing mirrors. Either pull much further out in front (cross the white line) or sit behind and pass when it opens up etc. A lot of fellow bikers I meet are surprised how little you can see from the cab of an artic.

[@Chris-vq5vr]

Filtering is legal here in Australia. It becomes illegal when there is a heavy vehicle that you have to pass

[@rcraven1013]

I don;t agree that filtering is the safest thing to do and to get into the front at all times. He passed two lorries quite close together and one could not see what was round a curve in the road so one could find oneself unable to make any further progress ans as said end up to be below eye level and side on to that cabin or indeed only slightly in front of it which could men that you are in the blind spot of the HGV drivers sight and as he doesn't know that you are their you could end up as the meat in the sandwich. That is is something one doesn't want to be. Sometimes its best with all forms of overtaking to say Yes I will filter or overtake or better still No I wont and thus stay well behind the vehicle in front with an eye on whats happening behind you. Giving safe space of, as they say, tyres and tarmac, just in case you need to avoid the vehicle in front for whatever reason should the need arise.

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

A solicitor saying filtering up to 40-50 mph is OK? Wow! I'm actually speechless.

[@r6singh]

By far the best motorcycle journalist on KZbin. Keep it going Neevesy. Love and support from 🇨🇦

[@Chris-vq5vr]

When Neevsy talks, I listen.

[@samgregory107]

Not a fan of filtering between two HGVs who are sat at traffic lights on a roundabout. Lights could have changed to green before you got to the front of the queue and then you would be stuck in the blind spots of two moving/turning lorrys. I would have waited for the sake of 2 or 3 vehicles. I do filter, but there’s a time and place I think.

[@niallrowan9308]

I think it's ok if you know they aren't going to move. But if the two big vehicles are e.g. at the front of the queue and the lights are about to turn green then yes, hold back.

[@MGman100]

Fully agree 👍

[@AJSpinDrift]

Filtering is an important topic and it has been proven to be far safer than sitting behind or in long queues of traffic. Doing so requires added vigilance, however. Not all car drivers check their mirrors or even indicate before changing lanes, so always expect the unexpected and ride at a speed differential that allows you to react in time.

[@benwells2338]

the “added vigilance” bit of filtering or lane splitting cannot be mentioned enough. I live in Southern California and though the residents here are fully accustomed to sharing the road with motorcyclists and many I’d say, even expect you to split lanes or filter around them when you come up from behind, you absolutely cannot take that for granted. I often tell family and friends that even though I can make it to my destination during peak commute hours far quicker than any car, I often feel more mentally drained at the end of the ride than had I been driving and stuck in traffic.

[@chrisnightingale6417]

Genuine question. Has filtering really been proven to be far safer than sitting in traffic? That’s a big statement without evidence.

[@DeathComesSwiftly]

It’s also not legal most places

[@DeathComesSwiftly]

@@benwells2338 did probably 30k miles of filtering in LA. Spot on with mental exhaustion. It literally drove me crazy after awhile. I just couldn’t do it any more

[@Chris-vq5vr]

@@chrisnightingale6417 there was a study conducted by the EU that found a rider is 6 x times safer when filtering.

[@stevietrucker4631]

A time and a place to filter i always think because there's just too many idiots on the road. But ive seen so many bikers who do it all the time and nearly get knocked off because they are just impatient. Stay safe bikers out there and take your time.

[@nomading_in]

I definitely err on the side of caution filtering, slipping back into traffic through junctions or at narrower pinch points. Feel I've made myself visible to the last car I've passed by passing, so going back in is safer than continuing to filter in less than optimal scenarios. I miss riding in India at times, compared to UK, because even though it's crazy, the horn "system" actually works really well, especially with filtering.

[@stephenmassie1520]

Best thing I did quite a few year ago was the institute of advanced motorcycling course and test. You come away with a really worthwhile skillset.

[@splodge57]

I go to the front of stationary traffic all the time, part of the fun of being on a bike. But I dont undertake moving traffic nor overtake at any junction where a car may turn right. Stay safe.

[@philliplum3845]

Great video informative too. Gavin from white Dalton is fantastic, and I can definitely recommend him as he has represented me in the past.

[@riderramblings]

It's interesting that Gavin says up to 40 or 50 is OK to filter. I spoke to a Traffic Officer some time ago about this and his opinion is that he'll probably pull you if you're doing more than 30mph. Back in the mists of time, late 60s and early 70s, the Highway Code was much more specific about filtering, even giving advice on how, where, why and when. One of the Highway Code books from that era actually gave a "considered safe maximum speed" of 27mph. I still have mine somewhere. When I took my motorcycle test about 40 years ago. one thing that was drummed into me by my Motorcycle instructor (a Police Motorcycle Traffic Officer) was _drive in a manner suitable to the conditions_ . How that has changed in the UK, but then, a lot of drivers today don't seem to pay any attention to the conditions.

[@MGman100]

My instructor, a former traffic officer, said not to filter above 20. However, 50mph is ridiculous and appalling advice.

[@riderramblings]

@@MGman100 Over the years the advice has changed due to Elf & Safety becoming all intrusive. _Ride to the conditions_ and you'll usually be fine

[@MGman100]

@@riderramblings This is very recent advice.

[@eastendimages]

Most conditions warrant 35mph in a 20mph zone if no build up area around 🙃

[@tracer1127]

If you filter at 50mph you are putting a lot of faith in the other road users. Someone moves or closes a gap it’s game over and the other road user will say they wasn’t expecting someone to come up their inside and didn’t see you. All of which is of no relevance when your queuing up at a hospital in an ambulance.

[@philroy818]

Perfectly legal in NSW and Vic for full licence riders, best advice for any filtering - gaps are traps, if there is any gap between cars that will fit a bonnet expect one to appear.

[@Gnerko123]

In the Netherlands, there is no law for this but a only code of conduct, so more like a guideline. It says lane splitting is generally allowed up to 25mph with a speed difference of up to 6mph. Filtering at 40-50mph would probably attract police attention

[@benwells2338]

There are many vids and articles out there trying to explain to all the car drivers out there, why we as riders do the things we do. I’m sure this thing I do will fit neatly into that list. So as the video opened up with lane filtering and why it’s far better not to sit at the end of a line of stopped traffic, I thought how I will not only do this, but if I come up to a light with multiple lanes (at least 3) in my direction and say, one of those lanes isn’t occupied by a car, but the other two are, I will more often than not prefer to slot between those cars than sit in that third lane bare without the “crumple zones” those two sitting vehicles provide. Similar in concept, if I’m on a road with two lanes and one of the lanes is open at a red, I’ll sit in that open lane but on the side closest to that other vehicle. Again, I’m sure many car drivers out there must’ve thought I was being some tool or just weird, for preferring to slot between them over slipping into that open lane 😅

[@Ontheroadtourism]

I've been riding my motorbike in Turkey and Istanbul especially is taking like your life in your hands. I've found praying to be the most effective weapon in my armoury.

[@mistahugespliff1265]

Please do more of these videos really useful. Long distance commuting tips please?

[@neilmckenzie1989]

Re filtering. I take the approach that filtering is for when traffic isn’t flowing or is stopped. I will go through as far as I am able to - once it starts moving again I’ll get in a lane (albeit to the left or right of the lane!). I would never filter on a moving dual carriageway as I think it leaves me too little space and time to react to someone else’s actions.

[@johnclifton3512]

This is pretty much how I do it too. I also make sure I look around me lots - head movement makes me more visible to other road users (I think!).

[@ElectricFlashMedia]

Still need to do a video on doing the advanced licence, through organising like IAM. It's completely changed my riding and improved my understanding of law on the road, what I can do safely and what is not legal

[@NooBiker]

1000% agree "Filtering" at 40-50 isn't filtering at all.

[@motojojo_]

When I filter, coming to a stop in a line of traffic I’m generally checking my surroundings as some drivers want to boot it away from the lights (because they’re upset at someone filtering or whatever)

[@888jackflash]

Filtering... or, "Lane-Splitting" as we call it in the US, is illegal in almost every state. Riders still DO it, but too many have zero idea of how to do it safely. The biggest threat is that car drivers are not accustomed to it, and often become enraged to see a bike coming up beside them, and will do aggressive, or just plain stupid, moves.

[@pawelg374]

Pure experience… I love him ;)

[@LaLa4iZ]

I have my own rule when it comes to filtering. 1. Patients 2. Low speeds only, no more than 30mph 3. Never go in-between 2 large vehicles 4. If you have someone tailgating you, use hazards. If they don't back off, uses the bird

[@GR-332]

Neevesy and Gavin, great combination, love these informative videos. Please update the backing music though!

[@palicar]

I feel most vulnerable on busy roads in the US when cars to the right are pulling onto the road and also making left turns across my lane. It’s hard to position myself so everyone sees me. If I hang back too far I invite the cross. Too close I disappear. Same with right and left. I’ve had to develop Terminator levels of scanning awareness. 😎

[@expatbiker6598]

You're a good rider/ driver from just your thinking process. You'll be alright and when the time comes. We all die.

[@DeathComesSwiftly]

It’s the best and only way to be. Head on a swivel and always anticipating others moves.

[@grahamx8623]

I got taken out while filtering about 10 years ago, a van driver did a U turn with no indication and a broken door mirror. White Dalton sorted me out, I'd use them again. Take it easy when filtering, vindictive pr*cks with a dashcams will dob you in given half a chance if things go wrong.

[@TK-_-421]

Here filtering is legal if both lanes are completely stopped but even then I only do it if I know the light is going to stay red long enough and there's enough room to begin with. I also often use the blinker just to be sure the cars know what I'm about to do. It's also a good idea to check what kind of cars are in front since some premium german brand and van drivers can get insanely provoked and will speed to catch and tailgate you because they "lost".

[@hoodedr6]

Not completely stopped “slow moving traffic”

[@stuartkraven]

I have seen hundreds of messages on the gantry signs about debris on the carriageway, queues ahead or other problems. I cannot ever remember actually seeing anything they say being right.

[@hoodedr6]

Filtering is one of my favourite things, like “ha sucks to sit in traffic”

[@RobertBrown-qt8dp]

How not to safe filter. In August I was in my car on the A13 driving out of London, as usual most drivers leave a good gap for filtering, I was travelling at 10mph in my mirror I see a bike 2 up as they pass me at about 40mph, him in a tee and shorts, a young lady on the back in a sleeveless tee, shorts and flip flops. North Wales Police have an advisory that a differencial of lower than 20mph when filtering, sounds like good advise.

[@tonybarton3746]

That’s what I call a peeler , him in the t shirt etc, theirs talk that if you have a accident dressed without adequate safety clothing, your insurance is void , I agree , how much extra does it cost the nhs to repair these people ( all at the extra cost to our insurance) ?

[@mrglide7078]

@@tonybarton3746 Easy peeler. Like tangerines at xmas 😂

[@pjakpjak7000]

I was filtrering through heavy traffic (not moving) in Stockholm and a guy in the passengerseat of a car thought it would be a good idea to get out of the car and walk over to another car to knock on the window to wave. Luckily managed to break in time but judging by the colour on his face and eyes the size of tea cups I'm guessing he won't be doing it again.

[@iainamurray]

“Being in control of your own destiny” - couldn’t agree more! I call it aggressive defensiveness.

[@argieessex]

Avoid filtering between two lorries but will do if I can see they need to remain stationary. Will only filter on major roads if the road traffic is impeded and below 30mph and only at 10-20max mph above.

[@Sankara561]

What does everyone do when the lead car is right on the give way line? I don't like to pull alongside because I reckon then I'm in a blind spot so I stop just behind and position myself in between the first and second cars. Then pulling away, let the lead car be first and tuck in in front of the second. And never stop alongside a long vehicle.

[@S7AINLESS]

Take the hit and accept you are 2nd in line. Much safer than sitting in their blind spot or risking sitting too far over the dividing line for oncoming to safely pass. Could always pass once the light turns green if there's no oncoming as even a little 125 is likely to get to 30 quicker than most people driving normally in a car.

[@fixento]

A few of the things, take the corners wide as you enter so you can see as far around the corner as possible. Its illegal to do lane splitting in the US, and only CA allows lane filtering. Lane filtering at stops is safer for bikes as your aware, however, politicians don't ride bikes here.

[@peterconnell3162]

Glad the point was raised that filtering is not legal in all countries, and in others the law is ambiguous. British riders should be careful when riding in Europe.

[@maxflight777]

So many lanes are narrow (esp on motorways ) this really makes filtering a challenge

[@petervautmans199]

Just this morning, riding to work, there were 330 kms of traffic jams in poor little Belgium. So on my 120 km journey, i filtered through ± 40 kms. My travel time was around 1h25minutes. I my car, it would have taken me about 3 hours. This evening, I expect to save another 45 minutes. It is legal and certainly rush hour drivers are aware of bikers, often a lot of biker, forming an extra lne trough te centre. In Flanders, cars are obliged to clear an emergency lane, when traffic is jammed, and bikers are allowed to use it. Precautions: hazard lights blinking, alternating with the D2 led lights, high viz clothes and helmet, always have the front brake covered and 200% focus, expect people to fill any void and specifically look at the front wheels of cars: the have a tendency to go to where the wheels point. (actually, filtering in the dark is safer, because my leds bunce of the back of cars and are much more obvious) Speed differential max 30 kmh, mostly less.

[@josephconrad9725]

Good points Peter. It’s mandatory in all of Belgium for cars to leave an emergency corridor between the two left lanes for emergency vehicles. Motorcycles are allowed to use it. Car drivers have not yet incorporated it, unfortunately. Also, intenational drivers are not aware of this and you’ll often find Dutch or Luxembourg plates keeping their cars in the middle of the lane. Most disappointing is when you have car drivers either frustrated being stuck in traffic or not paying attention where they drive. Stay safe!

[@chrisnightingale6417]

Really interesting that you choose to filter rather than sit in stationary traffic because of the unpredictable actions of other drivers. I would of thought those unpredictable actions would have made filtering even more risky. Watching this I feel I should filter more but I always look at the risk versus reward.

[@iainamurray]

Filtering is the main benefit of having a motorbike!

[@chrisnightingale6417]

@@iainamurray Well, for you it maybe or a regular commuter. My main benefit for having a motorbike is my love of riding motorbikes. Give me a quiet A or B road anytime. Filtering when you have to go through traffic is an added bonus.

[@iainamurray]

@@chrisnightingale6417 Riding a motorbike in and of itself isn't a bonus. It's a choice. Some people like driving cars. Having a roof and heating is a benefit of having a car. Being able to filter is a benefit of having a motorbike.

[@David-lr2vi]

It makes perfect sense though that filtering is safer. Most crashes on motorways are nose to tail because someone wasn’t paying attention and didn’t stop in time. If your not there because your filtering then you are far less likely to get sandwiched between two cars.

[@allwheeldrive]

Lane splitting (called in the US) has been legal in a few states, most notably in California, for a long time. The very best rule is to keep your speed to no more than 10 mph above the traffic around you and STAY in your lane position. After 50 mph or so, just flow with traffic. I've seen - firsthand - several bad wrecks involving riders zipping through stopped and slowed traffic at much higher speeds, switching across lanes by cutting in front of other vehicles. Death and destruction and can be avoided, and it's this simple. But, natural selection has a way of whittling down our population, doesn't it?

[@stevek8829]

Can you name a state besides California? I don't think so.

[@ironmanmichael]

Couldn't disagree more about filtering. In over 40 years I've only ever been tail-ended by a following vehicle while stationary, and that was another bike. However, I have had to avoid countless thoughtless acts by vehicles while filtering. You pays your money and takes your choice. Always watch your mirrors though.

[@kirkdunn1379]

That's just your experience....another could have been slammed from behind on his first day ( you think he would share your view)......overall it's proven to be safer.....generalities exist because it's an overall statistic, it accounts for multiple riders.....your statistic accounts for you and you only....

[@ralphwarom2514]

Filtering is fine at low speed. At high speed it is better to just take proper overtakes.

[@IanTed]

If you don’t filter you can’t take the IAM and ROSPA tests, it’s fine at the right speed and what’s the point of a motorbike in a city if you can’t make progress…perfectly legal in the UK.

[@chrisnightingale6417]

@@kirkdunn1379 you’re right but you say it’s been proved filtering is safer than not filtering so can you show that proof, otherwise you’re doing the same.

[@DeathComesSwiftly]

I thought about this too, the trade off of avoiding a potential rear ender for having to avoid a car changing lanes while filtering. The rear end potential is way less than having a close encounter. The only real reason I choose the filtering option is to not stay in stopped traffic on a bike for long periods of time. Some highway traffic can be brutally hot with the bike, and other cars throwing off so much heat. I rarely ever do it on the regular roads unless it’s a few cars and I can clearly get to the front.

[@chris53small]

that Triumph is beautiful

[@robertw413]

In Australia you can only filter at 30kmh or slower. Which basically means it’s mostly still illegal.

[@bwoo6223]

A36 ringwood from cadnam after waiting hours for the road to open the biker rushed off, the fence that was incorrectly replaced let horses on to 70mph road it ended badly

[@craiggraham2638]

Filtering the M25 of a morning commute is almost relaxing - the lanes are wide, (so there's plenty of space), the cars will be going very slowly or stopped and the vast majority of people on the road are doing their usual commute and bikers filtering the jams don't come as a shock to most of them. It's pretty much the only place I filter regularly (especially around the A3 to Heathrow stretch) - in town there's to much chance of getting rear ended by a Deliveroo scooter on L plates (or ebike/cycle/escooter/neon-trimmed-unicycle)

[@johnclifton3512]

Yes, Deliveroo riders and the like are usually a complete menace on our roads!

[@allenglishknives6823]

Another great video thanks. As for filtering, 50mph sounds way to fast, I don’t filter above about 20mph on the motorway. It’s 50mph filtering just an undertake?

[@wl660]

Police (via Bike Safe) have their videos explaining that Filtering is legal, but is typical up to 25-30mph, with a speed differential of 10-15mph. Certainly 50mph on a motorway they seem to indicate is Lane Splitting (undertaking) and would take a more dim view of it. I prefer to filter when lights have just turned red and cars are braking to a stop, then I have plenty of time to get to the front, if space allows. I never go between 2 HGVs though, especially when their cabins are turned in so they can’t see you coming.

[@linopontes]

That reminds me last week while filtering through traffic at earls court (London) I had a cyclist pass me ... Filtered while filtering! 🤣🤣🤣

[@wanderlpnw]

Don't think I could trust an attorney with an Icon helmet.

[@alancarver2511]

Lane splitting is totally illegal in Canada and is very dangerous because nobody expect a bike to pop-up from nowhere. I'm 54; had bikes all my life and never did it even one time.

[@WilkoLV]

National Speed Limit on a single carriageway road is 60mph for a motorcycle, not 50. So no need for using cruise control at 49 on that road Neevsey 👌🤘

[@expatbiker6598]

People don't realise that filtering gives you the confidence to see space on side of cars should the car in front stop suddenly.

[@meteficha]

Funny story on the stuck cruise control. Use the clutch? Turn off and on the bike? Surely better ways of dealing with it than “had to lay her down”

[@deputydd4364]

I actually had to give evidence in court as (I'm an automotive car engineer) when a customer tried to blame their crash on cruise control stuck on. We fixed a car to have cruise control stuck on at 75MPH and on a test track pressed the cars brakes. Brakes in a car are more powerful than the engines and still bring the car to a stop, maybe just a bit warm! Bikes brakes are not as strong relative to the engine but will still stop you. The case was dismissed. Try it yourself in a car, on a quiet road keep the accelerator pressed and press the brakes, brakes always win. Wouldn't recommend trying on a bike as a bit more tricky to hold the throttle and brake!

[@stevek8829]

Yes, 1. Use kill switch 2. Pull clutch 3. Use brakes, as rpm decreases hp does as well 4. How do you set down a bike? You can only crash it. 5. Narrator just glossed over it.

[@kirkdunn1379]

Before I rode a streetbike I had totally different concept of why bikers filtered.....now that I ride one it makes perfect sense.....would rather worry about what's in front of me than in front and behind..... You have to take general stats....one rider saying his experience is this or that way is just one rider and their experience....doesn't mean it's the general rule......you need a broader perspective and generalities exist because it's fact.....even though it may not pertain to 1 rider specifically

[@pgVeritas]

I was taught that filtering up to 50mph was legal and that the maximum filtering speed was 5mph above the speed the traffic is going. Has this changed? BTW, I always check inside a car (from the rear) what the driver is doing before performing any manoeuvre taking me past someone.

[@ianwilson2064]

On my Bike Safe course the police officer advised me that he viewed filtering above 20mph was viewed as undertaking.

[@aps-pictures9335]

Tbfair if you’d arrived late and tried filtering to the front like that first clip, then the traffic started moving as you were between those lorries…

[@sailor5026]

Thank you

[@Spiderwebsider]

If you are going to filter to the front, make sure you get away quickly. I probably wouldn't do it on a Grom. And filtering your way to the front, then stopping to turn right 20 yards down the road isn't going to make you many friends either.

[@Bikeadelic]

"where should you do it" wherever you want it's legal!

[@mihkcs5372]

If cruise gets stuck could you not pull in clutch and then brake?

[@poprin5194]

40-50mph filtering. what are you on about! That's definitely not a way to stay out of trouble on a bike!

[@pedro_mg]

important content 👍

[@pedro_mg]

more bikers like these two, both on skills, mindset and mentality

[@roythearcher]

Not that I didn't know about the filtering law or rather the lack of law governing filtering per say, but most bikers will know that this has been allowed ever since biking was first invented! Do we really need to have to explain to car drivers that it is, in fact, perfectly legal to do every time? Should they not know this in the first place? After all, what is the highway code for? This is another case of slipping driving standards that mean that after the tests have been passed, there is no kind of follow up to ensure that drivers continue to drive at the same level of knowledge and skill they took their test at, and that they can essentially do what the hell they like and then blame the biker for their own ignorance.

[@mosca3289]

Filtering at 50mph is too fast for me.

[@Firestorm637]

Thx

[@brian53p22]

Re Filtering You specified and defined Wales ,England.. being legal. Omitted Norther Ireland Scotland A lot of bikers go to All parts of our great nation to ride and enjoy our bikes. Perhaps you need to clarify the legality for all of us bikers in All 4 parts of the nation. ??. Btw.. good videos and took Neevesy advice from another vid he did. Re sportsbikes, choice for the road, gsxr1000r or s1000rr sport.. the latter One being delivered this week..

[@paullacey2999]

Filtering at 50mph?Thats asking for trouble.... Ride like everyone hasnt seen you and be safe,thats all you can do.

[@johnpro2847]

i do not filter..too many things can go wrong.

[@brianpreval5602]

even more confusing in america - some states it's legal, others it's not.

[@ronr6605]

You are the rider, no passenger. My cruise control got a "reset" by closing throttle forcefully over zero. There shouldn't be any tech roadlegal you can not overrule manually. Want to see the judge that lets you get away with that lame excuse. Oo

[@tedwitus]

forever mystified why they (cagers, automobile drivers) take umbrage. or worse. and so frustrated that here in U.S. (besides California) it remains illegal. Part of why I'm not currently a motorcyclist

[@Grazetech]

Good information but a lousy heading. This video was more about lane filtering, technology and the law and little to do about keeping safe. Simple things like looking for other drivers eyes to see if they have seen you or slowing down at intersections as a matter of course or checking both ways before proceeding from a stop would have far better suited the title of the video, and be beneficial to younger bikers who might otherwise have to learn these simple things the very hard way. Just saying!

[@surferdude642]

In the US, it depends on what State you're riding in. In California, filtering, aka lane splitting is legal, but helmets are mandatory. Makes sense to me. In South Dakota for example, filtering is illegal, but not wearing a helmet is legal. Just stupid.

[@rcraven1013]

I think that when he was talking about filtering at speeds of 40 45 mph or more then what he might have been referring to was a case of actually overtaking by being on the outside of all the streams or single stream of traffic that is say stopped due to roadworks. Filtering as it is considered by many is what I consider to be between two or more streams of traffic all going in the same direction and anything that is on the offside of that or on the wrong side of the road is not filtering to me but it is as said overtaking. Therefore the rules of filtering, of being slow up to 15 mph faster than other vehicles does no apply as in principal you can overtake at whatever speed you like providing its not in excess of the speed limit and is not considered by the police or indeed others as being dangerous. So at speed and offside/ wrong side should never be considered to be filtering but adhering to the law and rules and recommendations of overtaking as they will all apply. .

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

People mention this "up to 15mph more..." can you point me to a link where this is officially written and not just some opinion please? I know this advice of "no more than 10 to 15mph" is in the IAM how to be a better rider book but is still only what they've written. There's too many variables to be generalising. For example, car moving at 15mph in slow traffic, according to this unofficially banded about "advice" it's OK to ride at 30mph (44 feet per second) between cars with a 3 feet gap? I'm pretty sure this wouldn't stand up in court if the rider hit a pedestrian at this speed and he quoted them. Thanks

[@rcraven1013]

@@RoadcraftNottingham You are quite right there is as yet no specified legal speed for safe filtering tho one could generalise that the slower the better or safer. The point that I was making is that safe filtering is lawful as it should be done slowly but actual overtaking, that being on the offside of all vehicles and sometimes over the mid line can be done at any speed up to the legal speed so what had been previously mentioned as being 45/50 mph would be well withing many speed limits and thus not nec. dangerous or unlawful. It appears that within the law such an overtake is now considered to be filtering which it should not be . Its similar what has happened with safe passing distances for cyclists. Its not written in any law book or any legal legislation saying that one should be at least four and half feet away when overtaking them. Someone somewhere came up with this totally arbitrary figure but its been adopted by all road safety authorities. You even train to it. Its now been adopted as n absolute must and we now see drivers sometimes swerving well over the mid line and facing oncoming vehicles, even forcing them to change speed and move to avoid them which is a stupidly dangerous situation. However that measurement is now in the latest issue of the H.C. but its not in any legislation. I have often spoken out that that 10 to 15 mph over the speed of traffic is wrong if that traffic is travelling at say 30 mph. That to me is or could be very dangerous. A much slower overtaking speed could be adopted or indeed if traffic is moving like that then one must decide whether its safe or not to filter at all. So if you are not happy with what I say and the IAM recommending a speed of between 10 to 15 mph above the speed in stopped or slow moving traffic then at what speed does your training organisation recommend or is that decision left up to individual trainers. .

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

@@rcraven1013 Motorcycle Roadcraft or the government 2022 highway code do not give any recommended speed amounts over the traffic. All the HC states is "take care and keep your speed low" I've never given a definitive speed recommendation when filtering as there are so many variables. Take a look at my uploads and see what I recommend. Cheers. ☺

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

@@rcraven1013 kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4ScqqN6pLeCY8U

[@rcraven1013]

@@RoadcraftNottingham So you are basically agreeing with me and re iterating what I have just written. There is no definitive answer as to what speed one can d filter at but the recommendations from most training sources are and common sense tells us also that it should be done slowly, safely and with caution and may I say a anticipation of something likely to go wrong.

[@stevelawrie9115]

You're ok filtering in Australia, unless you're in Tasmania. You have to have a full licence.

[@IN_ZANE_]

What's different in Tasmania?

[@stevelawrie9115]

@@IN_ZANE_ I think there's very little multi lane traffic there. The main highway going through the centre, north to south, Launceston to Hobart, is single lane each side, 110km.

[@IN_ZANE_]

@@stevelawrie9115 👍 thought you were saying Tasmania has different filtering laws before

[@stevelawrie9115]

@@IN_ZANE_ As far as I know it does. It's not allowed.

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

Filtering is illegal in my area , and they can’t convince non riders of the benefit. Since covid though, the traffic deaths have increased, and the level of “drive like it’s my road” is also greater. Not sure educating the public would have much effect. 👍🇨🇦🤪

[@dennisgreene7164]

I would not recommend filtering between lorries at those 'apparent' speeds. Hugely dangerous.

[@goldilocks913]

I was certain that you couldn’t filter on zig zags as it’s classed as overtaking but I’ve watched a couple of times and they say it’s ok as long as you don’t go past the lead car. Anyone else confused?

[@Grahamvfr]

No confusion, (rule191) its quite clear in the way uk highway code, you can overtake on zig zags but not the lead car. As he is the one likely to ge obstructing your vision of a pedestrian.

[@goldilocks913]

@@Grahamvfr Thanks for the clarification Graham 👍

[@Grahamvfr]

@@goldilocks913 It's a pleasure, I'm a driving instructor and get pupils asking me that question often. Ride safe👍

[@Firestorm637]

Some people filter way too fast

[@robertburwood7299]

What about overtaking stationary or very slow traffic on broken white lines? I do this a lot and ride down the middle of the opposite lane to afford max visibility. Is this fully legal?

[@sf3137]

I do that all the time and take the same position as you for visibility, can't see how it can be illegal as it's just an overtaking manoeuvre, key thing is that you're sure you've got a "landing space" back in the left hand lane if traffic starts coming towards you.

[@milodebruin4821]

Gowd that bike is pretty, I wish it was $10k cheaper and had higher bars

[@johnclifton3512]

Very thought-provoking and useful. But filtering at 40-50mph...? Madness! If traffic is at standstill, clearly cars aren't changing lanes so it's safe; if you're careful and watch for driver behaviour (is that car about to do something odd?), up to about 20mph is my personal limit. I'd like to know the stats for bikers being hit while filtering...

[@yc-tai]

Surely MCN meant:" most of you lot!"

[@Grahamvfr]

5min 40sec... .. 40 mph to 50mph, ohh that's a touch high for filtering in my safety bubble confines.

[@Bavenbushcraft]

Filtering when the traffic is doing 50mph and you're 5-10pm faster... Are you insane!

[@loosingparts6159]

In the U.S. it’s only legal in California and maybe 1 or 2 other states. Still riders filter and split way to fast to ever see them coming. In Atlanta ga you’d have to be totally insane to split lanes. Been riding for over 40 years and no way. Hitting a bike here must be a sport or something

[@napeenasir]

i guess if you gys come and visit my country, Malaysia, you'll probably think we're all stunt riders when you see us filter through traffic 😁

[@fadiatieh626]

Would love to 😊

[@madpete6438]

Same joy in New Zealand. We get to filter too. Also get the arrogant and ignorant car drivers who "know" the law - only they are wrong. Some even deliberately swerve into you - but cameras rule then.

[@Mikey__R]

If the gearbox does seize up on a bike, is that still the bikers fault for not maintaining their motorbike in roadworthy condition? Or would a valid MOT be evidence that the bike was maintained and was roadworthy to the best of the riders knowledge?

[@azr6662]

MOT soley proves the vehicle passed minimum safety checks on the day of inspection. It doesn't guarantee correct mechanical functionality or replace servicing. Things like proper engine and gearbox operation are not tested during an MOT.

[@steve23464]

In stand still traffic I would never filter faster than 10-15mph. I just have no trust in the average cager.

[@johnclifton3512]

Yep - I'm a cager as well as a biker and I know that when I'm in slow-moving traffic I'm aften more aware of what is in front of me than behind, so I regularly see bikes go past that I didn't know were coming until they were past me.

[@jonhaxe3738]

never ride a cruise control bike, so if the CC gets stuck doesnt stop acelarate if you grab the clutch our just hit the cut corrent bottun?

[@stevek8829]

Those would all work fine. The commentary was bizzare. It was as if the narrator knew totally nothing of motorcycles.

[@jonhaxe3738]

@@stevek8829 ok thanks

[@MGman100]

I think there was some really poor advice from your solicitor re. filtering. My former instructor who's ex traffic police said you shouldn't filter above 20mph.

[@Firestorm637]

Is filtering allowed in UK

[@Firestorm637]

Asked too soon sorry

[@specialandroid1603]

Yes

[@the3by5]

Lane splitting, filtering, both illegal in New York state, USA, where I live. Were they legal, I would still refrain. Why? In the 56 years since I obtained my driving license, I have seen too many people open their car doors while stopped in traffic to spit or dump out their ashtray, or whatever stupid thing car drivers do. Second, it has the ability to enrage car drivers. They come home and rail to their significant others about crazy bike drivers. How do I know? When I'm driving my car and a motorcyclist lane splits at at stop, I find myself getting angry -- and I'm a biker! Really bad for relations with car drivers. Better to just sit at a decent distance behind the vehicle in front of you. If you're last in the lane, watch your mirror for vehicles approaching and flash your brakes when they do.

[@ghostmonk8254]

Hahaha but does it have a fuel guage and not just a 20km to empty light

[@eastendimages]

Filtering is fine, as long as you pay attention and don’t speed next to stationary traffic. The nice things about big bikes is that you can always step down a gear or two and have those Brembo brakes that usually bite pretty fast. The problem is with oversized vehicles and SUVs that can’t decide which lane they belong to and often don’t indicate/look in the mirrors. Also, buses and lorries need loads of space when turning, so don’t undertake them on the turns or junctions, even if you’re on the inside lane that seems free. And watch for idiots on the scooters with brakes made out of cheese, as they will either pull out in front of you or ride into you from behind 🤡

[@davidwales9657]

In australia you can't filter above 30 km/h, a well-defined rule. None of that ambiguity you guys are dealing with here

[@Jimo368]

I watch a lot of bike vids from the UK and am always shocked at the congestion on your roads compared to where I live. I don’t think filtering would work here because our car drivers are too stupid and unskilled.

[@allanyeates]

Where do you live?

[@Jimo368]

@@allanyeates northern Canada

[@jamest5149]

I have ridden bikes for 35+ years, but as a car driver as well I don’t appreciate how a lot of motorcyclist filter aggressively and get far to close to my car and occasionally clip the mirrors etc, if filtering a a slow/steady speed and give enough room I don’t have a problem. Also this craze ‘rev bombing’ with loud cans is wrong, aggressive and anti social.