This page will become, hopefully, a repository of information about all manner of riding tips and tricks. Over many years I’ve learned some myself and I’ve picked up heaps from reading and from talking to other riders as well.
So, here we go.
1. Look Ahead. How many times have you come upon the classic nose-to-tail accident on the road? So often. And, in almost every case, the accident could have been avoided, as the solution is so easy. The answer is, “Look Ahead”. The majority of riders and drivers only ever watch the car immediately in front of them when driving in traffic. And this is fine, but it’s not enough. When riding in traffic, watch the vehicle that is 4 or 5 vehicles in front of you. That way, if he has to stop quickly, you’ll have heaps more time to react and brake, rather than waiting till the guy infront of you does, which could often be too late. Make it a practice to do this all the time and you will avoid being involved in the nose-to-tail incident.
In urban areas this is vital. Looking ahead can help you detect a car indicator flashing, suggesting that the driver is about to pull out into your lane; a road sign that suggests thare are roadworks up ahead; a flashing light of an emergency vehicle; and a host of other things.
Also, looking ahead provides you with a host of other visual clues. When riding in rural areas, you can often see a puff of dust on the side of the road, a tractor pulling out of a farmyard, a farmer moving some sheep on the side of the road, etc.
Knowing what’s ahead will give you time to plan, devise an “escape strategy” and avoid being part of a potential accident.