Top 5 MISTAKES Beginner Rides Make in TRAFFIC

[@deandoucette7206]

As a motorcyclist who has rode all over the western half of North America and for 42 years without an accident, I have learned how to stay safe from way too many close calls. 1) Do not cheap out on motorcycle gear. Many riders spend a generous portion of their money on the motorcycle and then cheap out on gear. I often hear them say that they plan to get better gear later on. I once spoke with a paramedic who had been at the scene of many motorcycle accidents. She said one of the first things she sees is the running shoes that had popped off. Then she said their ankle bones are ground down. Buy your self proper motorcycle boots. Riders wearing open-face helmets are just asking for facial reconstruction surgery. Look at the chin portion of motorcycle helmets after an accident. That chin portion that is scratched up. That would have been your chin. Wear proper armored gloves. Your hands are made of many tiny bones. When you go down (not if you go down), you will probably be reaching forward with your hands out. Research the type of armor in the gear before you purchase. Lastly, dress for the slide, not the ride. Also, I say to people who ask why I am wearing gear on such a hot day “I would rather sweat than bleed”. Oh, one more thing, west shatter-resistant sunglasses so you don’t end up with glass shards in your eyes. 2) Always have an exit strategy. Do not allow vehicles to surround you and prevent you from having an escape route. You should always be thinking if this driver was to do this, where can I go. Better to plan your next move, if need be, rather than just react. 3) Ride like no one can see you and they are all out to kill you. Distracted and aggressive drivers are the worst. Those family vehicles full of kids with a stressed out parent driving are the absolute worst. Stay well clear of min-vans. Always look to see if the driver is texting or talking on their phones. Contrary to what they think, they are very distracted and incapable of multitasking. I almost got killed by a mother driving a minivan full of kids while holding a phone to her ear. 4) We all enjoy testing the limits of our riding while we are young and some of us live to talk about it. However, you should slow down and just enjoy the ride. You have family at home depending on you to arrive home safe. 5) Avoid riding at dawn and at dusk when the deer are out. 6) always brush up on learning about safety tips. Read books, read websites, and watch videos like this one.

[@erwinerwin1245]

I just got my M2 the other day and all you wrote is valuable info and thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge

[@maathejayandyjohns1343]

While I ride here in Thailand, at night, I have many lights all over my bike do I can be seen by mist drivers. Let's hope some are not sleeping 😪

[@erwinerwin1245]

@@MotorcycleEnjoyer01 Man 350 is cheap. One needs to spend about 1200.00 for a decent helmet and in 5 years the helmet will expire and become useless

[@carlcarlssen4299]

thanks for that brother.

[@evilwestsidefan9249]

As a motorcyclist that has ridden 50 plus years has been hit by cars, motorcycles, and has crashed buy and wear gear. Helmet, gloves, boots, armored jackets and pants.

[@RosieIfYouKnowMe]

As a car driver, I appreciate knowing these things; anything I can do to make riding safer for bikers ❤

[@tempyo512]

Bless ❤

[@Vasudeva108.]

Look over shoulder at lane change is good

[@RandomGuyComments]

You’re awesome 👏 🤩

[@Levitoke]

Bless your soul. We appreciate you 🙏

[@ok_so_what8114]

Plis move to Norway wher i live, LOL.

[@ericcassidy6916]

Drive as if other drivers are actively trying to kill you.

[@xeldinn86]

My Dad says something similar. 'Drive like everyone else on the road is an idiot.'

[@85.SouthLife]

Yes..

[@billygoatgruff2554]

I have been saying that for over 40 years….. because they are. 😊

[@derpsquad1o142]

Sometimes they are

[@brotherflims-r1k]

​@@xeldinn86 because usually they are

[@Zerobar78.]

I’m a former truck driver of 13 years and one of the best ways to predict a lane change was to watch the front tire, this is excellent advice!!

[@dramalexi]

But why exactly the front tire? Can you actually see the change of its angle if the car changes lanes?

[@iawindowss4061]

@@dramalexi Cars steer with the font. So the front of the car moves first wherever it goes the rest follows think of it like a train where the other cars follow the engine but in this case to a much lesser extent. For example when a car is changing lanes there is no way its going to go into your lane rear first its just not possible so its a waste to be watching the back as your eyes have to be scanning up and down the whole car when really the front already tells you all the information you need to know about where the car is going. Lastly the reason you look at the tyre specifically is to know even earlier when the car is going to do something before any part of the car can move the tire has to turn or move in some way and you can pickup on that a bit earlier then waiting to see the whole car start to move.

[@dramalexi]

@@iawindowss4061 I get that. But can you actually see the little change of the angle of the tire?

[@iawindowss4061]

@@dramalexi I guess that would depend on you I mean I can if that means anything but you would have to try it yourself.

[@GuitarPrepper]

As a truck driver....I 100% with watching the front tire.i can not tell how many problems I've avoided.....daily!

[@cantfindneutral]

My mom always taught me to check before clearing the intersection even when it turns green for red light runners when I was learning to drive, I still carry that instinct while riding.

[@devinedgin673]

Yup. Many bike rules are just car rules with greater risks, and greater probability (due to smaller vehicle)

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

My brother in law learned that after the second time that he was T Boned going through an intersection. Fortunately, BMW makes very crashworthy cars.

[@mikelee6331]

That was how I got hit by the intersection stop line was behind a building blocking view so I'm always extra careful at that one

[@Angel9932]

Especially when on my bike I usually allow the car next to me to begin to cross the intersection before I begin moving. Cars and trucks being much larger than our bikes allows for drivers approaching from the sides of the intersection to have an opportunity to see them before proceeding to do something stupid like running the light. They aren't guaranteed to see the car next to me but are much more likely to see them than see my bike.

[@Porsche996driver]

Yes!

[@escanor9920]

Been riding for 30 years and here are my tips : 1/ While waiting at the traffic light I always have a look at the mirrors to eventually check for cars coming who don't have intention to stop like the rest of us (It happened to me once). 2/ Also while "filtering" in traffic, always assume when you see a slot becoming available for a car, that someone in position to "take that slot" is going to cut you off in order to get inside the slot ! 3/ Never ever stay into car's blindspot ! Get ahead or slow down, but don't stay in that zone. 4/ When you look at traffic ahead, do not look only at the car in front of you but try to look through his winshield the further away at cars ahead to anticipate ! (that is also why I never stay behind commercial trucks without glass rear winshields). 5/ Look at people's hands inside their car and see what they're doing ! If they're holding a phone : Be extra careful and leave some space or move ahead far away safely ! 6/ Don't ever let yourself be completey surrounded by cars(front, behind, left and right), always keep a way for you to escape if needed ! 7/ Do not hesitate to use your bike's power to escape risky situations (extract yourself from hazardous drivers and go further away to safety if needed) 8/ Finally, be like a chess player and always think 2 or 3 moves ahead if you can (train yourself to do so, it will come with experience). 9/ Keep in mind that the road is not a racetrack and that you will have to deal with thousands of unpredictable parameters (oil stains, cans and bottles on the asphalt, bees inside your helmet, you name it...) Be safe guys ! 😉

[@HighlifeSAP]

Bees in the helmet! Been there, done that!

[@escanor9920]

@@HighlifeSAP yeah it’s horrible 😅

[@puerry]

I beg your biggest pardon... a *bee* inside your helmet 😭??? Also wdym on number 2 about a slot? Like a slot in front of you or in between the lanes? I want to ride someday when I'm able to afford a motorcycle, so thank you so much for the tips!

[@Noony79]

I live in Australia. Try having a spider on the inside of the Visor whilst doing a 100

[@0trystan0]

​@@puerryslot = empty space in a lane. If you're filtering lanes, it means the traffic's probably dense/jammed so any empty space in one lane may (and usually will) get filled by a car of another lane. As for the bee, yh even a fly can be annoying but knowing you may get stung means you'll stop pretty soon lol

[@Smallbore2wheels]

Don't ride in the middle of the lane. You'll encounter oil and other car fluids that may hinder your traction. I usually try to ride on the tire lanes that cars have made to reduce the grip issue ether oil or fluid leaks on the road may bring.

[@303MoTo]

Lane positioning is also key for being seen by cars/trucks.

[@Kingpin0929]

Lane position is also key to let dumb vehicle drivers on the road now that your bike is just as much a legal vehicle for road use. If you ride on the side off the road they will treat you as a bicycle or scooter and try to pass you all the time.

[@godzeus9702]

Lane split all the time so you don’t get rear ended like Elton John.

[@ginoasci]

I like that. The tire path is much cleaner, you’re right.

[@tedthurgate]

A lot of the questions on the dmv test for the endorsement was about lane position.

[@blackflagrising3716]

I’ve been riding for 50 years. Have owned many bikes. I have never taken a class, all of my riding knowledge is from experience. I give this video 10 stars. Every point is what I preach to others riders. Watching the front tires has saved my skin many times. Changing speed, for me always staying out front and away from cars as much as possible. Don’t ride like you are in a car. Watch cars behind you, especially at intersections. Be seen. Keep your distance. Watch these videos, they are golden

[@wileecoyote5749]

That means you're 89

[@bobkelly2447]

Yes watching the front tire does help, I was going home on a narrow country road and was about to pass a truck pulled way over to the right and stopped...as I was about a car length behind him doing about 45mph I see his front tire suddenly turn left and he romped on it to turn around my bike hit his front tire at about a 45 degree angle as I was trying to get away from him. my knee hit his hoods corner and I flew about 15 feet in the air.... landed on my back and slid off the side of the road.... i now know what a fly feels like when you hit them with a fly swatter.... it ain't nice ! and not something I ever want to experience again. i saw it coming... but still could not avoid the truck because he was accelerating so hard.... if I had missed him I would have had to fight the big pine trees because I was going off the road.... as it was I walked away from it with a very sore knee and wrists and a busted up bike.... that eventually destroyed it (busted the main bearing cage) had I not seen his tire move I would have hit him in the door and went through his cab....so I think it saved my life !

[@petehealy9819]

​@@wileecoyote5749 Wrong. I've been riding steadily for *55* years, and I'm 71yo. Bought my first bike the day I turned 15-1/2, the legal minimum at the time in California. You should practice your math.

[@BrunoNeureiter]

​@@petehealy9819No class and you have a licence? How is that true? What are the rules in the USA (I suppose)?

[@solarone69]

Also a 50 year rider in my early 70’s, also no class. Not required when I started, and I’ve maintained my motorcycle endorsement since. But I’m addicted to safety videos like this, and I treat every ride as a lesson.

[@T_Civ]

I’m a absolute beginner , but my tip is: if you’re a beginner like me, don’t try to act as if you’re not a beginner. Ride at your own pace, and signal through your poor riding skills that you’re a noob, so that they’ll hopefully notice your struggle and be more mindful.

[@JeffMiller-fq8dq]

From a drivers perspective - do not underestimate the importance of using your brakes to at least signal a slow down, especially at night. If you don’t you’re forcing the driver behind you into a 100% reactive situation, meaning his only insight to your slow down is the fact that his car is getting closer to you.

[@deathevans4788]

I agree.

[@h.shadow9725]

👍🏻 Ride your own ride! If another road user tries to intimidate or rush you, don’t get drawn into their nonsense!

[@Angelo80907]

I’m practicing keeping up with traffic flow. Also being on the defensive cause most car drivers on the road have no sympathy for bikers.

[@stevestowell-virtue3781]

Very good advice. 50 years on the roadbikes now and I have used evey technique described in this video and the have kept me alive. One other tip I would suggest is always keep your bike in 1st gear, not neutral, when stopped at a light, and be ready to squirt between the cars if you need to escape a rear-end collision.

[@stephenmiller8567]

And keep an eye on your mirrors, scanning your surroundings, being aware and planning can save your life.

[@lac111254]

I always kept bike in gear at stops, now I have a honda goldwing with dct, so just keep hands on handlebars.

[@Rowbags]

A very good point my friend

[@billparker8954]

I'm listening to you. The comments about tired hands and "I can stomp it in 1st fast" are from inexperienced riders that have no idea how FAST shit happens.

[@ZabDevin]

Correct. And according to the MSF, your right foot should be on the brake and your left foot down (obviously). That way you can take off quickly if a vehicle approaching from behind doesn’t stop.

[@280zjammer]

Always be a beginner. I have nearly one hundred thousand miles on bikes over the last eleven years I've been riding. Every close call I have ever had was by some percentage, my own fault. I constantly look for new techniques that could make me safer. Conversely, as I practice and maintain my technique, I used some of my "incase of the unlikely event" techniques and experienced them working to prevent an accident. Whenever I ride alone, I mostly ride a far left number 3 lane position. I'm almost on the line on the left side of my lane. There are two exceptions. If I'm in the far left lane, I ride an extreme number 1. If I'm in a center lane with traffic on both sides, I ride position 2 with the tendency to "crowd" anyone who has just moved into a position near me. I don't get along side semi trucks unless there's space to pass them entirely and If I have to pass them on the right, I do it quickly. When I feel surrounded by unpredictable traffic, I put my thumb and pointer on the horn button and the high beam flasher incase someone starts coming over without looking. I press both simultaneously and repeatedly if they do and I can think of two times it worked to get their attention and stop them from coming over. Never put your right foot down before you have the bike stopped. This is a big one. I see the vast majority of riders making this mistake. You need to transition from a majority of front brake to a majority of rear brake in the last few feet of stopping. The slower you're going, the less natural stability the bike has and if you suddenly need to stop at low speeds, you want to do it with the rear brake because the front brake will make the bike dive and a lot of riders dump their bikes this way. The other thing that can happen is if there is reduced traction from liquids or debris, the front tire can skid and the bike becomes almost impossible to keep up. It's left foot down after you get the bike in first gear followed by right foot down once the bike is stopped. If it feels like the bike starts leaning right during this very brief transitional moment, give the bars a slight nudge in the left side meaning push the bars away on the left. This will correct the off side lean. The bike you choose makes a difference. -ABS and traction control can save you. -Smooth running engines make for viewable mirrors. -Quiet pipes let you hear what's happening around you contrary to the false popular belief that loud pipes save lives. If you're to the side or oncoming, nobody can hear your exhaust. If they can hear your exhaust, you're already right in their face. -Tires can make a big difference in how comfortable you are with your bike's handling. Replace your tires before they're totally worn out. -A loose chain makes low speed handling jerky. An overly tight chain will damage your bike. Keep your chain properly adjusted and lubricated. Lubrication makes the chain last longer and adjustments will be less frequent. -Upright riding positions cause less fatigue meaning you can ride longer and go further. -Armored gear can prevent significant injury if you do go down and good riding gear also reduces fatigue.

[@spencerdawkins]

"Always be a beginner" is as good as anything in the video. No matter how long we've ridden - I learned in 1972 - we probably aren't experts at riding around THIS curve, or through THIS intersection, and even if we did that yesterday, we don't know what might be in the roadway now that wasn't there before.

[@charlesdeherrera9498]

I wouldn't have said it that way but you're absolutely right. I critique my close calls and there have been many, and there's usually something there I could have done better. 😁

[@CloudNine555]

This is gold, thank you for sharing

[@pink2oo4montess]

New rider here & this comment was very helpful, as was the video! Thank you!

[@jankohudy2290]

Thanks a lot 👍🏻Rear breaking before stop☝🏻 Need to learn that now. Im begginner. And I love to ride. Thx for those tips. Priceless. Ride safe 🙂👍🏻

[@jennyjenny1270]

I’ve been riding over 7 years and never considered being anywhere but directly behind the car in front of me. That changes today! Thank you

[@856Dropout]

I just like to be where cars aren’t.

[@jimnorton2570]

Always think ahead and give yourself multiple escape routes. When I stop anywhere I am always watching my rear view mirror to make sure the car coming up on me is slowing down. Where I live nobody can drive, not even sure why there is a DMV except to take our money. Be safe my friend....

[@pistolpete5620]

Excellent video, Chase! Another tip that I would couple together with the _"don't park directly behind cars at a red light"_ is never be in neutral at a red light. Stay in gear and be checking your mirrors while waiting for the light to change. If you see a car coming in too hot because they're not paying attention you can escape *much quicker* because you're already in gear.

[@dr7coo_]

I agree with everything except staying in gear. Especially if you ride a sportbike or supersport you get very uncomfortable holding in the clutch at that position for periods of time. Because a lot of the time if there are no cars it takes forever for the censor to pick you up

[@rsmith3033]

there are several exits from the interstates that are WAY to short an when i’m waiting for tha green i am allways n gear an lookin more n my mirro than @ the light just incase 😎

[@joerectifier]

You misspelled “when they come in hot because they are looking at their digital daddy” 😂😅

[@gardnerdean]

I put it in neutral to save the clutch, but keep left foot on shifter and hand on clutch ready to put into gear quickly.

[@DaveC_TN]

@@gardnerdean putting it in neutral does nothing to 'save' the clutch. The first concept to understand is the 'engine' in most motorcycles is actually two completely separate mechanical components - the 'engine' which generates power, and the 'transmission' which uses multiple gears to deliver that power at different rates to the final driveline, either chain, belt, or shaft. What connects the two components is the clutch. This is a mechanical friction component, usually controlled by the rider, allowing the transfer of power from the engine unit to the transmission unit. The clutch allows the rider to control how much and how quickly power is applied to the transmission through a variable friction connection called the friction zone. When you pull the clutch lever in you are disengaging the clutch, effectively disconnecting the crankshaft of the engine from the input shaft of the transmission. This 'breaks' the transmission of power from the engine to the transmission. With the clutch disengaged it doesn't matter what gear the transmission is in - no power will be transferred to it or through it to the rear wheel When you put the transmission in neutral the transmission input shaft rotates freely as it is internally disengaged from the output gears. When you release the clutch lever (effectively engaging the clutch) there is no wear and tear on the clutch as there is no load being transferred from the transmission to the engine since the transmission input shaft is disconnected from the transmission gears,. Either way does not wear on the clutch plates or assembly as a whole - with one major caveat!! So long as you have the clutch FULLY disengaged. If you're one of the people that likes to 'play' with the clutch engagement, slowly releasing the lever to 'inch' the bike forward and then pulling in the lever to let it rock back, you're essentially loading and unloading the engine via 'slipping the clutch', using it's friction zone. THIS will add wear and tear to the clutch and shorten its lifespan. Your best bet is to either pull the clutch lever all the way in and hold it OR put it in neutral and release the clutch. Either way, wait until the vehicle approaching from the rear is COMPLETELY STOPPED behind you, that way, if you do need to escape, you're just that much more prepared to move!!

[@KyloGwen]

I've been watching this channel for longer than I can remember. I grew up watching these videos wanting a motorcycle. I got an r3 as my first vehicle and I went 3 years without a scratch, but four months ago someone turned left when I was going through an intersection. They totaled my bike and almost me. Please be safe guys.

[@bas1l1skvolde36]

u good bro?

[@johnnymoore7480]

Stay Strong Brother

[@xkammo]

Hope you good! I just got a dirt bike

[@rodoza66]

That's what keeps me from "making the leap". Good that you made it out alive. Live long...

[@BN99239]

Another key thing for me is getting a helmet with rear lights, or put rear lights on your helmet. There are so many tall cars now, SUVs, crossovers, lifted trucks, that if they are close enough to you, won't notice your brake lights. Helmet lights are great since it's actually at the eye level and it just adds one more thing to you being visible.

[@erwinerwin1245]

Amazon also sells them. I first saw them on KZbin. I also wear a very bright visible safety vest so that I am also more visible. .

[@kurthaas4331]

Reflective material on your gear in general. It amazes me how little light it takes to make the back of my helmet light up like Christmas. For the folks enjoying wear old school vests, there are tons of very cool reflective patches out there that are fluorescent with minimal light on them. Again, my vest has an eagle and VETERAN patch on back that look silver/ gray in ordinary light, but hit them with headlights and they are all you see

[@thirdeyesurvivor3886]

I swear being interested in motorcycles makes me so much more aware when driving my car.

[@timbodude2009]

You are 100% correct, position and speed awareness while driving my car is 90% more than my wife.....lol

[@thechikage1091]

Facts. Whenever i drive im always super cognisant of motorcyclists. From a younger age i was always aware that the most dangerous thing to motorcyclists are cars. We have armor. Motorcyclists don't. I always try to give them a ton of space and also even drive in a way that buffers other cars from getting too close to them, especially on highways.

[@bladeh7734]

Yup. I've noticed that too!

[@shanerobertson6267]

Makes you a great car driver-I avoided some serious trouble with my observation skills👍🏻

[@cptoblivious7357]

One of my road trip games with my kids is “spot a motorcycle”. It helps teaching them to look out for motorcyclists.

[@dadbodincorporated4411]

When you pull to the left or right side of the lane when stopped, be sure to tap the brakes randomly, especially at night. Your brake lights could blend with the car’s lights in front of you and any approaching vehicle might not notice you. Very good video with a lot of great information. I always found it helpful to always guess what another vehicle could do at any given moment. I always tried to get away from other cars so I would have room to move if something happened or something were in the road. One last thing you should always do a head check, don’t always count on your mirrors.

[@AAPSG]

A good thing to do is have a blinking light on the back of your helmet, it's usually higher than most car tail lights

[@MegaMikeArnold]

DITTO, THE BLINKING LED LIGHTS AFFIX TO THE HELMET WITH VELCRO, ARE RECHARGEABLE AND 3 FLASHING SETTINGS CAN BE CHOSEN ON MINE. Absolute LIFE-SAVERS! I have one posted on each side of my rf-1200 and the back. These are no-brainers, cheap, HIGHLY effective life savers.

[@nothingtoseehere93]

Good point. I have that helmet light kit I use at night which makes me more obvious also underglow

[@erwinerwin1245]

Also wearing a visible colorful safety vest helps to be seen also

[@gpfeiffer1489]

Great advice. After almost 50 years of riding my Dad's advice from the beginning is what I pass along. "When you are on a bike, moving or not, you are invisible." Expect everyone to come at you. I had a moment when I went for the sidewalk just in time to look to my left and see a car where I was seconds earlier.

[@DaveCraineAccidentalAquarist]

I’ve been a CDL instructor for more than 10 years and a rider for almost that long. I think this is a VERY well done video. Also- we KNOW drivers are gonna do dumb stuff, so I changed it to “Expect the expected.” Great content 👍🏼👍🏼

[@ktkace]

More like expect the dumbest!!!

[@phantom_10792]

It's definitely a thing to be in the biggest and smallest vehicles on the road.

[@GratefulBamboo]

Right. When riding default setting is I assume they dont see me and they will pull out in front of, roll the stop sign, turn into me..... all of the above. Expect it and it wont be a surprise and am ready to deal with it.

[@garyives1218]

Riders do dumb stuff as well. (riding in all black on black bikes being one example)

[@fabianmckenna8197]

​@@garyives1218 Yeah...... doesn't really make a lot of difference. Despatch rider on a day-glo orange motorcycle with huge day-glo orange fairing, top box and panniers, oh and did I mention the day-glo bib. Beautiful sunny dry day when a car came through a give way sending me somersaulting over the bonnet...... Sorry son, I didn't see you!!🤯 Luckily for me, she was a doctor and the driver behind me who witnessed it all was an insurance loss adjuster . Open and shut case.

[@tommydude969]

I feel (hope) like a good rider would learn these tips relatively early on while riding. Here's another tip: RIDE LIKE EVERYONE'S OUT TO KILL YOU! Complacency is killer. Some people really don't care about other drivers, and care even less about us. This can develop when riding home from a busy day at work on the same route. If you can, switch up your route

[@larrymackey9591]

That is the advice I give to anyone starting to ride act like all of the cars are trying to run you down.

[@CANDIKONETT]

I was going to say this! ❤

[@mongoose59]

I stoped directly behind a van that suddenly decided to reverse. If you can’t see their mirrors they can’t see you. Last tip about watching their front wheel is a really good one. Thanks. Stay safe.

[@krisedwards1003]

I've been riding for nearly 50 years. Videos like this is why I watch them occasionally. This video gave me several new riding tips to put to use. . When you start thinking you know it all,.(and I'm very good btw) that's when you become complacent and hurt yourself. Thank you.

[@Gapper2.0]

I’ve been riding for 31 years and honestly I thought this was gonna be one of those making fun of beginners type video and I’m glad to see that it’s not. Very good info for all riders. Nice refresher 🎉

[@the_bearded_jay]

A tip i've also learned is glance at the side mirrors when you are looking at the front tire. If you see head movement looking into the mirror, this is a good indicator that the drivers is probably about to make a move.

[@bigcity2085]

Exactly. I'm ex trucker. I'm great(experienced) at realizing when someone is looking for something, with the head movement plus vehicle behavior, because when they figure it out, they're gonna make a move....or change a lane. Or just stop. They do telegraph if you're looking so, good point.

[@jackengineer4089]

Never realized I did this too but it’s VERY useful when merging into the center lane of a 3 lane highway with a car opposite of you.

[@Controvi]

When passing normal cars I always look in the mirror and keep track of where a car is in its lane. When passing I always give them nearly half or more of my line as buffer when overtaking. When passing a truck I NEVER overtake if there is no place for me to go passed it when a car is in front of me. I always stay in the gab between the rear of the truck and the car behind it. The car driver will see me and the truck driver as well. When passing the truck, again, I give lots of space for myself as buffer and keep looking in the mirror of the track, while side glancing at the position of the truck. My main tip for everyone is keep moving into the sight of every car. not overly focussing of course but be aware that you need to bee seen. I drive a large BWM R1200RT so my fat bike ass is spotted like a normal car is XD but with smaller bikes, BE IN THE MIRRORS. :)

[@WyteChinpira]

Smart. Gives me extra detail when cars might make a move

[@856Dropout]

I commented the same thing. Another clue is their lane position. Are they riding the ass of the car I front of them. Are they closer to one side or the other of the lane.

[@michaelbarnes75]

I have been riding in Australia for 55yrs the best of these tips is the front wheel observation. Very usefull when other vehicles are stationary and about to enter the road you're on the front wheel movement is an early warning, gives you more time to react. It has worked for me over many years. All the best!

[@RadioSnivins]

Cooee that

[@Controvi]

I never look at the front while. I always use the location the distance of the front wheel towards the center line as marker. the amount of turning you need for the front wheel to really show what it is doing, is way to significant to help you on the road. When you see the wheel of the car turn they are more likely to swirve into you out of nowhere and you are already to late, or they are turning at a crossing. The only time I can really use the wheels is at a roundabout. You can tell of a car stays on it or leaves it by seeing where the wheels are. But even that might not always be the case as you have to keep an eye out for the blinker and the look at the driver.

[@simonespeed]

Dude you literally taught me how to ride motorcycles when you were back on your ZX6r in Italy 15 years ago when I was only 15 yrs old. This is crazy to think about how far along you have came and technology has came not only with the bikes but the content as well! Started on an r1 and have had other liter bikes since. Just wanted to say thanks for everything brother. You are truly a loving KZbin legend in my eyes.

[@simonespeed]

What was your old channel name at that point?? lol

[@brianmoore4299]

Guy said in the beginning he's only been riding for two years.

[@simonespeed]

@@brianmoore4299 you know there’s videos of him riding 8 years ago on this Channel…

[@brianmoore4299]

@@simonespeed nope I don't. I just caught this by chance. Don't know who he is or anything about him. If I'm wrong my apology. I based it on his statement.

[@simonespeed]

@@brianmoore4299 safe riding brother

[@dontevenloveyou]

I have always driven cars the same way one is supposed to ride bikes… as if everyone around everywhere is blind and about to veer into you any second. That mindset has kept me out of trouble in cars and I carried that over to bikes. But there is so much more to bike safety still. These little details like watching front wheels and keeping mindful to tap the brake while engine braking… game changers for me 🙌

[@Briansgate]

Got my first bike 2 weeks ago, and just took it out on the freeway for the first time today. Terrifying might not be the right word, but, definitely having a healthy dose of nervous caution is totally fine. This video is straight on point.

[@jacobwinn2765]

at this stage of your riding career you're on high alert all the time, which is great. Keep in mind the dangerous time is when you get a bit complacent and more confident, that's when you can get bitten. Always assume vehicle drivers are distracted (kids, pets, the radio, thinking about life/work etc etc etc) and that they just won't be looking for you, and you'll ride accordingly. I'm from NZ, and went to the USA last year for a holiday, and was genuinely scared of the massive intersections you guys have over there, as well as the ENORMOUS vehicles... stay safe mate!

[@IceBear702]

Yeah bro I remember a few months ago when I first got on the freeway it was pretty scary, but on the third time something flipped and it became so freeing to get on that ramp and ditch the stop signs and stop lights. To actually rev the bike up and get some of that speed. And once I really got good at predicting other cars movements and staying safe in traffic, as well as more connected to the bike (braking and cornering at speed), it was and still is a blast getting on the freeway.

[@RogerPilcher]

@@jacobwinn2765 So true. I read somewhere that the most dangerous time for a new rider is at about one year. By that time, they are comfortable with the controls and getting used to being in traffic and they get complacent.

[@dontakeshit]

​​@@RogerPilcherI don't think that's true. Statistically most crashes are in the first 3 months.

[@juanpablo9356]

lmao i bought it saturday and i rode it on the freeway that same day to get it to my home. and i learned to ride it that same day. im crazy i know

[@colinlyders]

Good tips for beginners. The front tyre tip is also useful if you're coming up to where a car is waiting to pull out from your left or right from a driveway or side street. A lot of riders say you should look the driver in the eyes to make sure they've seen you - which is all well & good, but just because you've made eye contact doesn't mean they aren't going to pull out in front of you. My focus is always on the front wheel closest to me. If that wheel starts to move before I'm at a point where I can safely get past, then I'm immediately taking evasive action.

[@supramentalmanifestation]

Great video. I am a very experienced street rider. I'll add, regarding rear-end collision potential, when I am sitting I am very aware of my mirrors and what is coming behind me...if I don't see a car decreasing speed, I'm actively getting out of the way. One mantra I have aways had, is use the power of the bike to get you out of, not into, trouble. I love to ride.

[@Oddman1980]

I once had a car brush my leg as they slammed into the car in front of me, when I first started riding on a 750 Vulcan. Just one more data point for your good advice about not parking right behind the car in front of you. One of the weirdest things I have observed, something that I'm pretty sure made me safer, is having a vividly bright helmet with a crazy pattern on it. I have an Icon helmet with huge bloodshot eyes on it, and ever since I started wearing that helmet, people notice me. So a crazy looking helmet can be a big help!

[@ozpilotgirl]

I have a pony tail attached to my helmet (colour co-ordinated, of course!) and that was one of my "not so scientific" attempts at getting noiced on the Monash Freeway here is Melbourne. I commuted daily, in all weather conditions, for over 8 years. It ws my attempt to "stand out" in peak hour, bumber to bumper traffic. I used to get loads of people look and comment, so it had to work to some degree!!!!

[@BloodPshyco73]

Bright colored clothe and reflective clothing (for night riding) really goes a long way

[@shawnllewellyn5112]

Watching the front tire tip is top tier asvice

[@blackdutchviking]

Load pipes that can be heard and sway your bike as you are coming to a stop to give the car operator something to focus and like the rider said about his helmet give the car operator something to focus on like admiring his attire and add a light kit for night time riding better visibility for the car operator to see the video is well explained well thought out and well done.

[@briangilliland3620]

BE SEEN! Bikes blend into the surroundings. Ride with your lights on, present yourself in the mirror of the car in front.

[@IceBear702]

I ride in heavy traffic everyday in Las Vegas and it’s surprising how many of these tips I developed without even knowing. I have a 2009 R1 so a ton of my braking is from the engine, and I quickly realized that it would be a good idea to lightly hold/tap either the front or rear brake to signal that I’m going to rapidly decelerate. There’s some road condition related things I’ve adapted to as well like where the rough sections are, potholes, watching out for debris (such a traffic cone bases/signs), etc. On the rare occasion that it rains you gotta know where and prepare for the roads to be washed out with dirt and rocks. But even in the worst environments I pushed through and rode even when I was uncertain, and now it’s become second nature, I’ve become hyper-aware of my surrounding at all times and can spot something that isn’t right from a mile away lol.

[@stephenmiller8567]

Don't just "tap" your brakes when using engine braking just light pressure on either rear or front brake will activate your brake light. There are kits available that operate on sensors that will turn on brake light or flash hazards when engine braking and decelerating.

[@rosebyan0thername]

I'm in Las Vegas and just learning now, I've been driving out here for years and knowing the way people drive definitely makes me nervous about riding. My car got totalled on the way to valley of fire and I've always wanted a bike so I figured now would be the time, but it's hard work just getting up the nerve to get out on the road, especially when my work commute includes part of Boulder highway 😰

[@geraldcartersr7615]

As a rider coach, I truly like your video. I don't agree with everything however, your explanations are great. I truly like how you added your experience. A huge mistake that new riders make is resting at the stop light.

[@RobertPhillips-k2d]

Shoulder check, life saver and saved my life many a time and a must do before changing lanes or junctions etc

[@jubairahmed4253]

Giving brake light signal while engine braking is definitely a lifechanger tip for me, thanks man.

[@ryanhorvath1308]

Plus lightly hitting your rear brake before a full decel brake loads your bike better for that stop.

[@rodgerrugeresiliencecoach772]

I have over 40 years of riding experience and just wanted to give you a nod on doing a great video/service. Solid advice.

[@GeekGarageDK]

here in Denmark we need to take written test and have a minimum amount of lessons of 45 minutes before said test , then we need to have a minimum amount of hours with a driving instructor before we can take the final exam where you drive "alone" with a certified instructor from the police following you in the car or on their own bike, and then telling your through intercom where to turn and so on and then you have to show proper placement and such. What I'm getting at is where i took my license, we were taught all this you show, both through class room lessons and through practical lessons. One thing i think is missing in these really great tips is the "only have one foot down when holding still", never be in neutral, be ready to move because some day it can save your life. We were taught also to use your mirrors at stoplights if waiting for green, always check them, you might be able to catch some unaware driver who hasn't seen you and move out of the way, especially if it's a truck or a semi. Always drive with the attention and thinking that other drivers are trying to "get" you

[@Keenok]

I rode a superbike for 22 years before moving to Thailand and focusing on the tire WORKS. It has saved me uncountable times. Even here in Thailand were speeds are much slower but drivers are more unpredictable still works the same. Best advice in the video.

[@JasonGoldsmithgoldy1970]

Experienced rider who likes checking beginner lessons to remind myself. I had gotten lazy with mistake 3 . Live in the country and don't ride in cities much. All the mistakes are life saving and I was getting one wrong. Thanks

[@NJtriple7]

I was guilty of all of that 3 years into riding. I actually had to humble myself and downgraded to an R3 from an R6. Rode the absolute piss out of that for 3 years until I upgraded to an FZ-07. I’ve been riding that for 4 years now. But downgrading to an R3 really helped me kick a majority of my bad/beginner habits. Every rider still has a few bad habits, but these tips are great for beginners

[@aprilandsuzi550]

I had a gsxr750 then got a 125 2stroke, gsxr600 now on a rsv4

[@steve00alt70]

Sportbikes just encourage u to speed and be wreckless

[@goobertrooper-df2ms]

I take a quick look in the cars mirrors and windows as I’m approaching the overtake. They may not see you, but you can almost always see the neck snap and face turn that folks tend to make before a lane change!

[@simonson6880]

Best beginner rider video I have seen to date. Informative, clear and concise - not overly wordy or repetitive.

[@BrandonReed-cs3lf]

Brother, you did a great job explaining this. I've got 270,000 miles on two wheels for street riding, and a lot of what you talked about are things I taught myself just from time in the saddle. When stopping at a light, 4-Way, or turning, I tap my brakes gently several times, but also use a hand signal too, just to get more attention. Also, when someone comes up from a side road, I prepare for them to come out in front of me and also look at there eyes/face to see if they are looking my way....also if there tires are stopped or slowly moving. Good job on explaining and the video was awesome.

[@KiwiBudgetGardener-kb1vp]

I was also taught to look for the drivers eyes, if you can't see them, they haven't seen you.

[@zeeya.industries]

Very good tips here! Tip #5 is a very underated skill to have. Looking at their wheels has deffinitly help me avoid so many accidents. Especially driving in roundabouts. Another good tip i feel is to also look at the car driver themselves and observe what their looking at so you know what their intentions are and predict the openings they see. You could catch someone only looking at their side mirrors to merge while you know you're in their blind spot but since you've predicted the situation you can make a quick decision to avoid getting side swiped.

[@MrAminezia]

I'm a car driver and I learned that the bigger you are, the more responsible you have to be with those smaller than you. So for me that means motorcycle, cyclists and pedestrians, it helps a lot to think like that. Next year I'll be riding!!!

[@enjoyyourself7455]

Glad you started with going faster than surrounding traffic... Too many new riders don't realise the significance of utilising the 10% rule

[@RogerEmmelstein]

now I finally understand why my instructor was pressing me on this all the time. In the end of the course I was blasting through traffic like a rocket.

[@nearlypastit2385]

I changed my 'bike recently just because of the point you observe. My bike at that time was limited (electronically, by the manufactuter) to 70 mph, not normally a problem as I ride purely for pleasure in the country lanes of Hampshire (UK). My local dealership (twenty miles away) ceased trading. The next dealership was about 39 miles away, and the route to it nearly all on fast dual carriageway roads. I wholeheartedly subscribe to what Chase observes about varying speed on fast roads so you're more likely to be noticed by other drivers. I didn't want to be an un-noticed mobile road block riding on fast roads in the rush-hour when cage drivers were running late for work or concentrating on their mobile phones !!!

[@jimnorton2570]

Bingo, very important. I lane split on occasion even though it's not legal where I'm at but do it to separate myself from traffic.

[@swaglabchannel]

Solid advice! Adding to the "don't park directly behind cars at a red light" tip, it's wise never to be in neutral at a red light.

[@ryanhorvath1308]

Yep. First gear is your friend when stopped at stop lights in case you need a quick exit

[@malcolmwhite6588]

Well done- been riding 45 years , seen a lot and received a lot of tuition in that time. So many of these “new rider” things are rubbish and sometimes completely wrong. You gave 100% good simple and clear advice. That was even a helpful reminder for an experienced rider like me to re- focus

[@lunar-firefly]

This video is spot on. Only been riding a few years, and I am so thankful I learned some of this stuff early on. A lot of these tips are things people just don't do even as long time riders. Even some youtubers don't and I wish they did to help reinforce potentially life saving practices. Thank you for making a video about it and for helping to teach riders of all ages and skill levels, some fundamentals that are super important. Take care and ride safe!

[@ChillVibes.Central.]

Amateur rider here. What i've learned from self experience is, "look where you want to go, not what's in front of you". Has definitely saved me a few times when i almost hyper fixated a few times. Ride Safe Everyone❤

[@foxley95]

As a rider for 10 years your advice is spot on, riding a bike means you have to be always vigilant, you can't rely on 4 wheels to notice you

[@gregkilleen5678]

The not getting directly behind another car is a BIG one. I stay back and leave myself an out that I can drive into if needed. I've almost been rear ended a couple times and leaving yourself an out is very important. Love the video

[@blackmirror5601]

Uk rider here. First off, I wanted to say that this was an informative, succint video that gives us a lot of good advice. When I'm riding, I pretend that I'm invisible. It's important to always follow traffic with a decent space cushion and signal whenever you need to change lanes. Also, lane filter at slow speeds so that people can prepare to give you space, or you can react with enough time if something goes wrong. Also, invest in sufficient gear. Not a t-shirt and nice sneakers, but full-on ATTGAT, or "all the gear, all the time" with CE rated protective armour. This gives you sufficient coverage, and it is much better to dress for the slide than for the ride. According to statistics, our mortality rates are 37 times that of the average driver. We are literally riding against average drivers most of the time, and is important that we we exude a healthy dose of paranoia when we're on the roads. Thank you so much for your video! Subscribed!

[@jimnorton2570]

Be careful, it takes a long time to truly get comfortable on the street and by comfortable I mean your 6th sense is just there. I've ridden on dirt for a large portion too but the street is a whole different ball game including how to handle the bike. Target fixation is another big one not talked about much, some good youtube vids on that and corning.

[@nephewsouledout]

This guy made a nice video. That insert about the accident just explained why not stopping behind a car resonated with me

[@kenloney9852]

To help with being noticed when engine braking, I picked up the brake free. I’ve had people pull up to me at intersections to point out how noticeable it is. Definitely recommend to other riders.

[@gardnerdean]

"Picked up the brake free". What's that mean?

[@whitemiata]

@@gardnerdeanit’s an accessory you put on the back of your helmet that is lit and lights up with deceleration

[@Jamanator9]

Great tips Chase, I'd like to add a personal tip of staying in first gear when you come to a stop and with your foot on the back brake. Just something I like to do so that if I notice a car speeding towards me when I'm stopped, I can accelerate into a safe space if I need to (provided my reaction time is good enough lol).

[@280zjammer]

It's not legal in every state to keep your right foot on the brake. Where I live, you must put it down or risk a ticket. It makes it so you leave without dipping to one side and also the wind will blow you over here if you don't put both feet down.

[@Jamanator9]

@@280zjammer oh I didn't know that. But as for tipping over, I'd say you're quite stable with one foot down. A lot of bikes are too high for people to flat foot both feet with.

[@kathleenmusiak1369]

@@280zjammeridk where you’re from but that would mean in order to ride you have to be tall in your state which is ridiculous, I’ve ridden my whole legal life, and cannot touch, can literally only stop with one foot

[@djhoyt7609]

Never knew about the front tire but watched the whole side of the car. As well as stopping to the sides but I don’t stop behind directly often. Won’t anymore now thank you!!

[@supersonik]

After watching countless crash compilations etc. from motorcycles I learned than an awful lot of Americans tend to see red lights as just dark green. Intersections truly are a safety hazard for our American riding pals. I really hope that changes in the future. Stay safe y'all

[@MyLife-og2kr]

LOL so colorblind

[@baileybrewer1172]

100%. We need more roundabouts

[@Tensho_C]

american roads are badly designed.

[@lloydbaker8490]

I always use my mirror when stopping at an intersection. One of the biggest dangers is distracted drivers rear ending me . I always have my foot on the gear shifter , the clutch pulled in while still in 1st gear . It saved my life once when a person in a pickup truck didn't see the red light or myself stopped in front of them. I had to punch it hard thru the intersection to keep from getting hit by the truck going 80 kph/50 mph. I was lucky that it was only a 'T' intersection rather than a fourway. It scared the crap outta the person making the left thru the fresh green when I went flying thru in front of them then a pickup truck. Luckily nobody was injured. Ride safe all and keep the rubber side down

[@barrytimmins862]

It’s true. I see red light runners everyday… You’d never see that in NZ or Australia

[@MrChrisRic17]

Another Tip I would add onto the lane positioning at intersections is beware of the left turning cars. If there is a vehicle/vehicles in the left turn lane in your direction of travel you are IMPOSSIBLE to see for the left turning driver in front of you until you are nearly past that car and into the intersection. I always positioned myself as far right as possible in my lane so that the person turning left in front of me had the highest chance of seeing me. I also positioned my hands/feet over the levers to be ready to brake faster than if I was in a cruising position.

[@kadenzxc]

bump

[@jodyozmckay1265]

I've been riding for 38 years and these are all great tips that have become natural to me over the years.. One thing i would like to add is that I Always try to stay out of a cars blind spots. He did mention not staying the same speed when traffic, but out of blind spots is a tip that will help keep you noticed more.

[@michaelcaldwell7107]

It may be considered 'dorky', but I added quite a bit of highly reflective tape on various parts on the front sides and back of the bike. The tape is not only reflective at night but quite noticeable during the day, I could care less what other riders think, if it helps save my life someday.

[@BeeArtful]

I've done the same and added 1" reflective yellow to the side tabs of my jacket and outer pants. I also wear a reflective vest.

[@Angelo80907]

Me stopping far left/far right of my lane. The car behind me moving in thinking I’m letting them pass in front. Bruh.

[@denniss5845]

Glad I watched this video I've been riding for about 11 years but sometimes you pick up bad habits and forget to do your part thanks for the Refresher and 100% correct about the front tire I do that often in my vehicle as well

[@DarthScosha]

I disagree somewhat with the first point. You should not push the speed limit just to be "active". Speed limits are in place for a reason, yes most people will break the limit, but this brings me to my point, if everyone is already breaking the speed limit (say by 5 to 10 mph), and you are doing 5 mph faster than them to avoid being passive, you are potentially doing 45 in a 30 zone, that's crazy, think about it. Maintain a good separation distance according to road conditions, don't ride in blind spots, and don't cruise next to someone. If you are at the maximum speed and find yourself riding next to a vehicle, slow down, let it get ahead of you and then bring your speed back up.

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

I couldn't agree with you more. This is certainly the way that I was taught, many, many years ago. The only exception was that we were taught to pass vehicles quickly, without regard for the prescribed speed limit. But you can certainly make your presence felt in traffic by slowing down as much as you can by speeding. Lane position and space are better friends than any other that you're likely to meet.

[@ajc-ff5cm]

​@davidbrayshaw3529 this is what I do. People in my area routinely drive 10 over the speed limit. I keep my head on a swivel, don't stay next to a car for too long, and ride defensively. I'll let the cagers get all of the speeding tickets.

[@WaitWhatsMyName]

Puhoozy

[@nearlypastit2385]

Although not stated I think that Chase was referring to riding on major A-roads or freeways / motorways, not driving at 40 on 30 mph roads (that was his riding example anyway) . A motorcycle being so (relatively) small can easily be unoticed by a 'late for work rush-hour motorist or mobile phone medler or Teslar control screen fidler'. I saw an explanation of how a human's vision works sometime ago, and it is similar (although faster) than a 30 frames per second video. Our brain stitches multiple images together to make a 'movie'. This process can sometimes explain the "Sorry, I didn't see you" excuse after an accident for a driver/rider who takes a very quick glance to check for approaching traffic. Because of our natural (but over centuries now degraded) survival mechanism of noticing things in our peripheral vision, we humans are very likely to notice an object moving in a different plane to ourselves and in our peripheral vision. (I try to avoid motorways, as my riding is for pleasure, but I generally adhere to maximum speed limits but do bear in mind the theory of 'active movement. On slower roads I use controlled lateral movement in my traffic lane rather than the 'speed' method ). : - }

[@TheAl2kas]

The way people drive today, i think i will prefer being proactive. You can dumb yourself down and be defensive but thats not the motocycle way. Anytime i try to be just like car drivers, they start treating me like one, which is fundamentally wrong.

[@blipco5]

We were all beginners at one point but even after riding thirty years we can ACT like a beginner by being lax or forgetting these rules. The consequences are the same.

[@jeffersonmetzen9866]

I've been riding for 14 years now and I've been doing all of these things except for hitting the rear brake when engine braking. Most of these tips saved my ass a lot. Great tips for new riders.

[@BaileyABerry]

Day one of riding I panicked hard and went into oncoming traffic while turning, being a victim target fixation. Luckily the driver was paying attention and did not hit me, but I was totally the one at fault. If you’re a beginner rider, ALWAYS remember to LOOK THROUGH THE TURN and to COUNTER STEER!!!

[@LeeTillbury]

When you're waiting in traffic to the side of the car like Chase says. Check your mirrors whilst still in gear until you're sure the vehicle behind is aware and is gonna stop. If not, you're ready to get out its way and miss being hit.

[@drhkleinert8241]

I agree, even the car behind you stands its possible that THIS will get rammed from behind. I saw it often when a few bikers stands behind cars...really close to the car in front, close together...

[@stanleyhache1626]

I'm terrified every time I go out. I'm still alive at 81 because I practice every one of your safety points. My motorcycle habits have certainly contributed to my never having had a car accident. Thanks again.

[@Jason32Bourne]

-Keep your eyes always scanning. -Accept that each time you go out, something's gonna happen. -You ARE invisible. NOONE will see you. -Know how to break. -Have proper functioning breaks. -Throttle control. -Ride it like you stole it. -Be proactive. -Loud pipes save lives. -Wear eye catching clothing and gear. -Don't squid. -Take things at your pace when you start. You don't have to go straight to the busy part of town or highway. -DO NOT EVER DRINK AND RIDE! -Be in a good mindset before you go out. -Enjoy yourself! You got a freakin motorcycle! My thoughts from my experience.

[@df3yt]

Dunno about the loud pipes argument, for most the part cars only hear it when you are right there and it tends to give drivers a fright and more prone to "sudden" swerving and...swearing.

[@wileecoyote5749]

How do you "break"?

[@Jason32Bourne]

@@wileecoyote5749 Calm even pressure until full break is pressed both front and rear at same time. I also engine break and rev match.

[@pauloconnor7951]

You think like I do. Predict.

[@chrisgoldammer6415]

One trend that I am grateful to see in my hometown, is people stooping at red light with enough distance that if they got hit from behind they would not skid into the bike in front. Thanks for the tips

[@harutokazuki8481]

Thank you for the tips bro. I've been driving my bike for many years and I have made mistake no. 2, 3, and 5 many times. Now I will use the knowledge you gave me(us) for my(our) next ride.

[@timothyantrimcarter]

Great video! Top five motorcycle risk factors according to one study. By no means exhaustive but certainly helpful to consider each time you go out: 1) First 6 weeks on a new/different bike, 2) Traffic, 3) Bad weather, 4) Night, 5) Passenger. The risk is cumulative so try your best to combine as few as possible. Also thanks for the great video.

[@daniellewilliams2080]

I always Watch the tires instead of the cars.I'm glad to hear that advice because it's so true. Even once parked at intersections if they start moving i'm paying attention. Thanks for this video as a new rider myself, I am going to take each one of those suggestions and use it in real life.

[@Jaron22]

Good info. Been riding a while and it took me a couple years to really learn all this. Might add a tip; get a loud exhaust! Sometimes when you aren't seen by other drivers, being heard is VERY important.

[@joelhunt5206]

Great tips! I also have an aftermarket taillight that gives a little extra pulse when braking in addition it has a small white light in the center that does a couple very quick flashes. I like it and I usually give it a few extra taps when sitting at a light and see traffic coming up behind. It’s not obnoxious but it is noticeable.

[@adriannarobeson4758]

Great advice,, my husband who has been riding since the 70s and me who has only been riding for 3 years has told me riding out in traffic is a whole lot different than on a riding course at the Harley academy right after I got my motorcycle license and yes he was so right!!

[@KaylaC-s5n]

Been riding for years, but tips will always keep coming. Predetermining cars movement by tire direction is very clever.

[@rallyrex]

Solid video; Been riding about 7 years here in Northern CA. Whenever I am coming to a stop at a light and I am the last car I always keep checking my mirrors to see if the car behind me is also slowing down. I do this whether I am in MC or my car. Have avoided being rear ended a couple of times because I got out of the way. Also use Brakefreetech helmet brake light that comes on whenever I am slowing down. It has a gyroscope so no wiring required. Highly recommended if you ride and especially commute.

[@kkingquad]

I learned most of this in my motorcycle safety course. I learned the wheel thing in driving courses I’ve taken for different companies. It’s helpful to watch the front tire when a car is wanting to pull out in front of you from a side road. It’ll show you their potential intentions. Good stuff !

[@EricWoelk]

Even after 17 years on a bike, these tips are diamond to me. Cheers so much ❤

[@clograsso1]

I’ve ridden for decades and this is an awesome video with GREAT tips! Only addition is to position your bike away from potential issues-if you have 2 lanes and light traffic, move to the right lane if there is an oncoming car in the left-turn lane (gives you more time to react). Same for all potential issues, give space. Again, awesome video. thanks!

[@denniswilliams2385]

The key is to be vigilant and constantly watch out for cars because the fact is that nine times out of ten, they aren’t watching out for you. Terrific video by the way!

[@LyndaMelroseSmith]

Thanks so much for the tips! I got my licence when I was 17 yrs old, rode for years then stopped 20 yrs ago! I’m now 58 and just bought a Virago 250 to get me back in the rd, yea I’m a little nervous , but also excited! 😊

[@mariannechristensen5047]

This is fantastic! I just got my first motor scooter and I've never driven any two-wheeled anything beyond a bicycle! I'll take all the tips I can get - this was wicked helpful! Thank you!

[@amkrtchyan13]

These are so helpful! I've been actively using the tire on & avoiding staying the in same space since watching this. Thank you so much! 🙏

[@steveduffy272]

new to the bike world. i’m happy to hear someone say to focus on only the front wheel, i’ve been doing that for years. good video, hopefully it’ll help some folks out

[@beezzygirl]

I recently had a lone accident. I am a new rider, only 3K miles under my belt. I was changing lanes in heavy traffic, looking back to make sure the vehicle behind me was giving me some space but I did not realize the vehicle in front was making a turn into a parking lot. When I looked to the front the vehicle was almost stopped. I hit my breaks hard and the bike threw me. I was only traveling at about 15+ mph. I did not hit the car in front and thankfully the car behind did not run over me. Dressing for the slide, I always ride with full armored gear, no matter how hot it gets. I walked away with a broken elbow and a hard lesson learned. Thank you for these tips, especially the stopping behind a car.

[@dmpslc]

As a long time bicycle commuter I was excited to see you talk about the front tire! Crystal ball is right!!

[@KRColson]

All of these tips are great advise. I personally do the tap the rear brake as I gear down, however, the tip of stopping over to the right of left is very good practice and I will try to remember that in the future. Thank you.

[@DatOldeBiker]

Thank you for your "words of wisdom" which may save people from a lot of pain. I have been biking for about 50 years in the UK and have never had a RTA but the closest always seems to be the car or truck that tries to turn into the lane I am in. What I do is speed up as you suggest or sometimes slow down to let the parallel vehicle move away. Have fun and stay safe. :>)

[@outbackdiecast6730]

I couldn't agree more with all of these! Well put all new riders should watch this video and study it over and over again I do every one of these things especially tap my brakes constantly when downshifting

[@JeffTanko]

I've been riding for decades and these are all great tips! One thing I will add to your front tire awareness, If/when a car is stopped at an intersection, you'll be able to see the wheels move before you see the car move and it can give you an early warning if someone is going to pull out in front of you.

[@kepamurray1845]

About 20 years ago lane filtering was allowed in our state in Australia. I have never felt like I was going to get squished since. Best thing I have seen introduced.

[@timothystanleyjafo8503]

Also long time rider 65yrs young and still love it. #1 Rule I tell new riders at a stop light KEEP the Bike in gear ....it will give you a split second faster take off if something was to happen. Do Not think RED lights are a place to streech if you need to streech get Off the Dam bike for a few moments...

[@tim9516]

Got my first bike last weekend. It didnt occur to me that being directly behind cars at stoplight was inherently dangerous because of rear ending, great tip. I like the one about the flow of traffic too, ill def be using those 2.

[@stevedullum6777]

All great tips. Best advice I've learned recently is "side of a vehicle". Anytime you see the side of a vehicle, that is most likely a vehicle that is waiting to pull out. Now I'm constantly scanning left and right looking for the side of a vehicle, and slow down and pay close attention when I see one. I would also add just slow down. The faster you go, the less time you have to react to other traffic and the less time they have to react to you. And leave ample space between you and other vehicles on the road. Situational awareness is so important. Never let your eyes fixate, always be scanning left and right, forward and back. Know your own skill level and ride accordingly.

[@dh1163]

As a side note to number 3, when stopping at an intersection, always check your six just in case you have to get out of the way. You want to make sure the vehicle(s) behind you actually come to a stop. While you'd rather be hit from behind and not sandwiched between cars, it's preferable to not get hit at all. And while good lane position while stopped lowers one probability, watchfulness is a quantifiable added benefit.

[@bluesdoggg]

Great tips! And at least two that I haven’t heard. From riding on the road since the mid 80s, one thing I would add is: When moving in traffic, claim your lane and by that I mean don’t cruise near the lines. If you don’t “claim your lane” other vehicles will try to push you out of it.

[@RajPatel-rj2ff]

In some places thats officially called “lane blocking”.