Whenever you ear the bike it just jumpscares you... no time to react, it's useless to rely on sound. Even on a motorcycle, I get jumpscared by other riders even though I keep checking my mirrors... they come in so quick and just expect others to see them, those are the one that dont give others the time to react to them and die... allow traffic to notice you then use the bikes torque to go and take the space, dont just jump into spaces not letting others know that you are here.
@ethenjordan2010 I think loud pipes saving lives is undeniable... but only in certain situations... and it certainly can't be depended on. it probably applies more to pedestrians hearing you and not stepping out in front of you in some lower speed situations... than people in cars hearing you.... on the flip side it can also really irritate many people which might make them drive more aggressively near you.
I think blank statements loud pipes do or don't save lives are off the mark. I have had loud shorties on one of my bikes for awhile, I put the stock silencers back on my bike and within the first two days people were pulling out in front of me like I was invisible. So in my experience there was a difference, but you have to ride like you're invisible anyway. It's just nothing about a dynamic situation is simple. Even though people were looking for me because they could hear me, I actually don't like being on the obnoxious side of loud. Now I'm in stealth mode and having more fun. Using more of the bike without worrying about bothering folk.)
On the 3rd point, my goal is to stay away from cars whenever and however possible. Sometimes it means going slightly faster than other vehicles. Sometimes it's going slower and letting others pass me. Other times I will go the same speed as traffic as long as I have a clearing, or plenty of distance in front and behind me from other vehicles. Going faster than other vehicles isn't always the safest option. It all depends on traffic and road conditions, day or night, weather, etc.
100% I drive a work truck over 1000 miles a week. Riding a motorcycle has engrained a sort of timing that more often than not, I'm the lone wolf between the road packs. Sometimes I gun it to get away from people, other times when you acknowledge each other, let them pass.
Great video for beginners, thanks! I would add that the shoulder check you did is tough and dangerous for most beginners. Mastering, not swerving when you twist and turn your head, let go of bar, is a challenge for them. I recommend blindspot mirrors too. Practising a quick peak over the shoulder and back, without letting go of the bar, is good for beginners.
yah, im a newbie and just thinking of looking back makes me see myself steering away a straight line 😅 or maybe i could bump something on the road while looking away
@flippy5118 From what I've seen, it's damn easy to get your licence in the US (like a two days course) so you're sharing the road with many unskilled drivers and riders... Road deaths are so high compared to EU ! I'm French and in a way I'm glad the licence is hard to get. It better prepares you
Blind spot checking by turning your head right round should be part of all beginner motorcycle training! In the UK, you fail your test if you don’t do a “life saver” check before EVERY manoeuvre!
You are so right! I used to have 100 mile daily commute on my Street Triple, all highway. In order to get out of a trucks blind spot and slipstream one day I passed him. The truck was going 90 mph, remaining highway traffic about 80. Open bed pickup lost a metal switch box out the back that went flying past my full face helmet about 6 inches to my left at eye level. Highway riding is just another wonderful challenge. Good to have you back!
The way people drive in my area, I don’t trust them to be behind me. I would much rather have them in front so I can react to their stupidity and aggressive driving behaviors.
The only thing loud pipes do is let people hear you AFTER you past them. The sound waves are going back behind you not forward away from you. So a person in a car with the radio on inside in a vehicle designed to minimize sound from outside will not hear those “loud pipes” until you are past them.
I’m a beginner and getting ready to take the safety course. I’ve been riding a slow speeds just around my local neighborhood, which is in the country, so I don’t “have to worry” as much about people. Every intersection is visible (I’m in the flat parts of Texas) so I can see them coming. Im trying to soak of as much advice as I can, watching instructional videos, and trying to low speed maneuvers to prepare for the motorcycle safety course. Your 3 main points, I already do while I’m in my car. I do use the mirrors to a certain degree (even my dmv instructor said to use the mirrors a little more), but I usually rely on turning to see if a lane is clear and where everyone is. I try to be active in watching traffic and watch the traffic ahead of the car in front of me. Saved me numerous times doing that.
Most educational thing i learned is you go where you look. See a problem dont look there. Look at the solution not the problem. If you look at a tree youre going there. If you look at gravel in the road you’re driving over it
The point about “riding slightly faster than the general traffic” is a huge one. I shared it with the parliamentary road safety committee at a parliamentary inquiry in my state, and why that was beneficial, and stated that riders serve their safety first and the law second, and it blew minds. Non riders don’t have a clue.
My old driving instructor taught me to assess the traffic on the highway BEFORE entering, so while still in the curve entering the merge lane. Advantage being you only have to look slighty to the left (not all the way behind you) to get a feel for the situation and there's still time to adjust before even beginning to merge. The turning your head before actually switching lanes still applies of course.
Great tips! I would add lane positioning, always ride 3/4 to the left or to the right of the lane, first off there’s usually dirt oil fluids and debris un the center of the lanes, second there could be an object cars are going over and you won’t notice until you hit it and third it will make you more visible for the vehicles riding y that lane and the ones on the closest lane you’re in. Ride safe!
I remember this way, If I can't see the driver's face in THEIR side mirrors, I'm not in the correct position. so I adjust myself so I can see them and they could see me.
For the exact reasons given in this video and several other recent videos, i've always instinctively driven about 3-5mph faster than flow. Car, truck, minivan, motorcycle, whatever; It solves so many potential problems.
So do most people. Hence why no-one does the speed-limit anymore. Akin to an arms race, if everyone plays this game, the only winners are the biggest cars on the road.
Lol seems like you're really enjoying the new bike man. I feel like this bike rejuvenated you and your content :) I really liked your point about always being slightly faster than the flow of traffic. How it perfectly balances your goals of the ride + safety and visibility. I feel safest on an open highway, going however fast I please. It's when traffic backs up, and you're not taking new ground, everyone is going the speed limit on the dot and everyone is getting closer...closer...closer to each other and frustrated... and here you are in the mix of it. In Arizona we are finally legally allowed to filter/split (whichever one) at the red light, so long as the road is 45mph or less. So in town. HUGE help for safety. I don't have to deal with all that anymore, I just zoom up away from everyone from the get-go. I really hope motorcyclists in my state behave and this goes well overall and it gets opened up further to be like California. It's the only thing I wan't from CA lol (politically... you guys got some amazing roads around San Diego though!)... It would be amazing to not be paranoid to cut traffic on the highway.
One small hint on that topic, when changing lanes, open throttle a bit. Keeping throttle steady while switching lanes makes you actually slow down a bit, no bueno if there is a car close enough behind you.
Exactly! I think it's the safest way. If there is somebody behind you moving faster than you saw in the moment's glance (or suddenly started to accelerate) - you will run away, they will have time to slow down instead of crashing directly. I always add 10ish mph on a lane change in traffic, even if it means quickly accelerating towards the car in front and using brakes a bit immediately after.
I literally head check anytime I change lanes, merge, turn, I also try to stay in peoples mirrors. My bike is a DR650, going 75 miles an hour is the absolute limit for that bike while still handling well, so I generally avoid highways anyway.
Don't know about US, but in UK, and I guess entire Europe, lifesavers are being deeply ingrained into motorcyclists. There is no way you pass any exam if you don't do them judiciously.
Good advice. Long time daily commuter on some of the nation's busiest highways here in Los Angeles (25 years). In heavy to moderate traffic, I always ride as close to the lane lines as reasonable, giving me the best visibility to others sharing the road (and giving me the ability to see and avoid hazards up ahead). One thing to consider is when changing lanes, be setup close to the line and after monitoring your mirror and looking over your shoulder, drift across the line into the next lane and hug it momentarily to let things settle, in case someone was coming up super-fast behind or maybe someone from 2 lanes over was changing lanes into your spot simultaneously. If you're off to the side, hugging the line for a few beats, you've given yourself a bit of a temporary buffer zone in case a car suddenly appears in the same space. It's a little thing but it's something I'm cognizant of every time I ride.
As an Australian, "policing" of speed limits (and penalties) is ridiculous. For example, 12 mph over the speed limit is a $998.00 fine and 5 'demerit' points (12 within 3 years = loss of licence). Oh, they DOUBLE penalties during public holidays - 12 mph over the speed limit during Easter would be a $1,996.00 fine and 10 demerit points. 20 mph over the speed limit is "speed dangerous" - immediate disqualification of licence (I don't know the fine offhand). I haven't ridden a motorbike - ever - I'm just "doing some research" in preparation, with the idea of buying a Honda XR150L ($4,898 AUD). Thank you for posting videos which are a GREAT help to the newbies :)
Those fines vary wildly between states. I got caught with 8km/h over the speed limit in ACT and got a $450 fine. My wife got caught at 10km/h over the limit and only got a $120 fine in NSW. Guess what, whenever I'm in ACT I'm the slowest person on the road ...
Good stuff! I figured out the "ride faster than the cars else" many years ago. It's really good advice! And yes, the loud pipes thing is absurd as far as any sort of safety is concerned. Probably the opposite - it annoys people...and road rage is quite the thing nowadays! ;)
I do all three! Yay! I started riding a year and six months ago. I used to be scared to drive on the freeway, but now I prefer it way more than the streets. 😊
Me too, I used to take what amounts to a surface street to my cabin 100 miles away in MI, but switched to expressway all the way there and back and it really is safer, far fewer chances of T boning anyone.
You are absolutely right, but about loud pipes... in my opinion not so much. Of course, when everyone is driving fast, no one can hear you, but when you are standing at the intersection, they can. More than once I have seen people turn their heads and look for me because they suddenly realize that they hear my bike. And that's good.
Would be better off with extra/brighter lights & gear to have drivers see you well before you even get near them. Loud pipes saves lives has been debunked so many times...and fyi you can get your license if you're deaf and/or hearing impaired...another reason pipes are pointless for anything to do with safety.
Very good tips! Thank you for reminding us about this. Simple rules that save lives. Every car is a potential threat, never get to comfortable. Ride safe folks and keep loving the freedom on two wheels.
Totally agree with all the points here! Even in a car, I think one of the reasons I've never had a crash in my 20 years of driving is because I always try to remain visible by driving a bright car and going a bit faster than others so as not to be in their blind spots. I get speeding tickets sometimes because of it but it's worth it for safety. The claim that "speed kills" is the dumbest myth. Almost any speed can kill but speed alone is not the culprit and going slower than everyone else can be downright dangerous! It's drivers not paying attention, being stupid or reckless, and not having an escape route that causes accidents.
Checking behind you is called shoulder checking, that's the first thing i was taught when i started riding back in the seventies, i find it is the one most important thing to learn on a bike.
Eddie. Thanks for the great videos. I ride a Honda Shadow VTX on the highways. I think the last point you made about the muffler is absolutely true. Even on a Bike, I don't hear or see the sports bikes until they are already in front of me. The Doppler Effect is real. I'd rather be seen than heard when it comes to riding.
Agree the shoulder check (a life saver in uk) is a must. However, don’t forget to scan ahead for traffic flow and any road debris. I only make a quick glance keeping both hands on bars as I am much more interested in what is happening ahead. Your joining lane might have slowed considerably or an item may be in the road. Have a look at a recent post (in America) of a GS rider looking over his shoulder only to then hit a car battery that sent him flying through the air. My point exactly.
I agree with the go a little quicker than cars around us. Except in SoCal, I can usually find open spaces in between packs of cars on the highway, and I ride there.
1:18 here in Europe pretty much every new car for the past few years has as base equipment the blindspot indicator in the mirrors. It's a little triangle icon displayed in the upper corner on the mirror itself. You can clearly see it from your bike, and has made me aware of how often i place myself there. It has really been an eye opener for me.
Good point... I always avoid riding directly alongside cars. Either ahead of or a bike length or 2 behind in the next lane is always safer when doing the same speed... as I don't 100% trust them to always pay attention to their Blind spot indicator either.
Glad you got the comments back. You and the channel called Be your own boss of your motorcycle have given me so much knowledge and I apply it. I use your teachings every day and practice. thank you for giving me this information.
Greg, all points you made are 100% correct. These are the principles I followed from beginning riding motorcycles way back 60 years ago. And my R1 makes it so easy to stay safe.
Took a ride today on my Aprilia TUONO V4 1100 and I wanna THANK YOU for these tips. It was a whole new safe feeling today . THANK YOU. U REALLY MADE ME A BETTER RIDER
That was the moment when I first moved on highway (autobahn) and my bike was not fast enough to make easy take overs which is 200 cc.I realized, it was good decision to buy that bike for a beginner but not for long distances or else.I am still learning, practicing, will always keep your advices when I get a bigger bike and hit to the adventure rides.
Good video! I live in San Diego and have only been riding over a year, but still don't really feel comfortable on the freeways - maybe the 52 when it's empty. My bike is a naked so I get plenty of wind blast at 80-mph which I think doesn't help with being comfortable for long stretches.
If you get a windshield, you’ll use it 90-100% of the time. Personally once I put it on my bike I never looked back or road without it. So much better especially when on highway which I love riding on now. Be safe
I have an FZ09, and for me it works better to not have a windshield. It gives me a better sensation of the speed I'm going so I keep it down unless I really want to open it up. My last bike had a shield and I'd quite often glance down and see I was going faster than intended, it just never seemed fast. Have you been doing any of the twisties- like Otay Lakes Road out to the 94 to Dulzura, backroads up to Julian, or Mount Palomar? Nice rides, if you haven't done them just be sure to take it slow the first few times, find out where the decreasing raidus turns are etc.
I hear people tell me so many myths about riding. They say and that speed kills etc… someone said a guy was pressed against the guardrail by a semi. Don’t ride in the blind spot of a semi and use vision and lines escape paths practice fast braking counter steering. So thank you motojitsu for the reminders because you are helping save lives and us riders enjoy the ride. Nice Suzuki by the way I love mine. Can you do a video about driving different engine sizes for new riders because I started out on a 650 and would have probably killed myself on one bigger.
Great tips. As an older rider I can add to your first tip about checking your blind spot - stretch before riding. Do those neck and back stretches so you’re limbered up. That second tip is really important with 18 Wheelers. Hold back until the car in front of you is past it, then accelerate past the Semi as fast as you can. Stay safe everyone !
Even though i'm not a real biker ( riding a Yamaha Tricity with a car license ) i always look over the shoulder to make sure that it's safe for me to merge. Now there is also one thing because if you look over your shoulder and no car is there, i always check the mirror once again. It happend a couple of times that a car comes up with a lot of speed and suddenly was there in the spot i want to merge to. I also take the time to shift to another lane, using the blinkers every time. It sounds pretty lame and like "riding like an old man" but i don't want to crash. Just wanted to share this little thing. Thanks man for the great information and helpful tips.
Great video as always. All good and valid points. However, in Nigeria, traffic can be lawless and very intense; having a loud bike amplifies your presence. So, here, (I don't know about your place), here in Nigeria, loud pipes saves you. We take the course, we wear the gear, we ride defensively and we also have the loud pipes. As you go through traffic, you create a path for your bike using your loud exhaust almost like a horn. Even while in blind spots, the sound of your bike places you in the subconscious of other commuters. So, even if they don't see you, they become more weary that you are around.
Ok ... here's a couple more. When passing a car don't do so right up next to them as done here at 2:35! There is no margin for escape. Also, don't accelerate past a car while a car on your left is passing you as they won't see you when they change back to your lane as done here at 2:00.
2:35 there is all that damn margin you created for urself on the left side of your lane? If you positioned on the far left thats where there is literally no margin for escape cuz you are forcefully pushed out of the lane with no room to swerve and accelerate past or swerve nd brake. You make yourself visible in at 2:35, you are no longer visible if your on the left side of the lane. Your perception of what can be seen and where you should be is awful.
I actually happen to have the kind of mirrors on my current motorbike that when adjusted properly show cars that are next to me until they enter my peripheral vision, so my only blind spot is directly behind me. In my previous bikes I didn't have mirrors like that so I installed those little wide angle blind spot mirrors on their mirrors. I think it's better not having to turn your head when changing lanes because then you can simultaneously keep what's ahead of you within your vision, assuming you can see enough from your mirrors. I feel a bit paranoid whenever I'm not looking where I'm going.
Thank you about the loud pipes part. As a trucker with 2 million miles all it does is spook me. Because all the guys with loud pipes think they can drive however and everyone will notice them. So they pop out from behind my trailer on the right and stay there.
Totally agree- on my mc I’ve been spooked a couple times by other motorcycles with loud pipes flying by me which I didn’t hear until the moment they passed. Not a good feeling 😮
lol not many people who actually ride will say loud pipes save lives, whats going to save your life is your lane positioning. We put on full exhausts because we enjoy the sound not anymore of a secret than that. Its not the same as a car with a loud exhausts sitting in traffic forcing you to have to keep listening and hearing the rumble for miles on end, atleast we keep moving through traffic at all times so dont worry if the sound bothers you we will be gone in no time lol
The last tip was the most important, as a motorcyclist increasing your visibility is the best thing one can do. One thing I always do is check my mirrors before riding away. As a rule of thumb I adjust my right mirror to a location where I could see the border or my right arm at the left edge of mirror, that way I can see the traffic to my right better, similarly for the left side. However I am not a big fan of turning your head completely to look at traffic while merging. Instead I move a bit in my saddle tobthe opposite side to increase field of view of my motorcycle mirror without losing sight of what's in front. You must be aware of car drivers blind spots, and try to either avoid them or move past them quickly. This is more important for trucks and buses or large load carrying vehicles. Overall good suggestions.
As an older rider taking up riding again (Honda CB919), I like to filter where it's safe and that puts you in clear space when you take off from lights etc. Cars and lorries tend to group up and getting out in front of that group gives you space to be seen as Craig says.
My neighbors wouldn't appreciate it all since I leave for work at 5:30 am. So, the quiet ones probably keep my from getting killed in my garage some morning.
some great tips in the video, awesome job! for who ever reads this, its been said prob 1000 times i will say it again, treat every situation like its your responsibility, dont let others dictate your reaction but act before hand while anticipating that others will not adhere to the road signs or right of way or even common sense, cover your brakes, keep distance be aware of crossings esp if you are thinking of overtaking etc etc and repeat .. be safe & enjoy
Awesome tips that I've been living by for years...rode back from Phillip Island Superbikes weekend just gone and practiced all these techniques, great advice to add to our skillsets, cheers👍🇦🇺🏍
Glad to see comments again. Great points. One major problem I see with learning and using safety techniques is the increasing frustration in watching other riders not even attempt to use them. I made it a game to see if any cruiser rider in my area wears a helmet. Its a low number. You know if they are not even willing to wear a helmet, they certainly aren't thinking about the best way to navigate traffic or avoid obstacles.
Half of my family drive cruisers. And we all wear helmets. Although, I admit we seem to be an exception. Wearing a helmet more or less saved my one uncle's life. He went head on into a car. Only thing that seemingly didn't break on him was his skull. Even with a helmet he is lucky to be alive and without it he would undoubtedly not be here now.
Not true! I live in Pennsylvania and helmets aren’t mandatory and I know people who don’t wear them ALWAYS, but do practice safe riding in all other aspects.
I went one step further, high viz FTW! I sometimes see people point and smile but hey, they see me haha! I've even seen some Harley guys wear high viz around here. Kudos!
Here in the Netherlands we take lessons on the highway and have to do a exam after to get your license. But if i could give 1 more tip that we learn here is and is sort of extra for tip 3: always look for space, make sure you give yourself space and a escapepath when shit hits the fan. By that i mean if a car suddenly breaks in front of you, make sure you either brake or swerve to the left or right if you dont have enough time to brake.
I’ve only been riding for seven years, but I tell you what even when I’m in my car I don’t hear a fire engine until it’s within range and I’m pretty sure that’s louder than a motorcycle. I agree with the visibility.
I also frequently move around in the lane just so people behind me know that I'm not a car with one broken taillight. As for the blindspot, I'm on the inside then move away to the other edge of the lane as I'm overtaking; just in case the driver wants to merge. Most importantly, I always shift down and rev bomb the heck out of the bike as a goodwill gesture to the cop hiding under the bridge. 😅
Not even a rider yet but in about 6 months I will be, straight to the point, clear and upbeat personality AND doesn’t ask for a like. Got a like and a subscriber
Good tips that I lived on for years of riding. Also, along that I ride with my High Beams on in day light. I want them to see me being I have a small profile on the interstate and normal roads as well.
I actually did think a few times: I did not hear the bike. It was in a traffic jam, motorcycles were lanesplitting (which, good for them), but as one does in a traffic jam, I zoned out and got completely jumpscared by a motorcycle very close to my car. When lanesplitting in a traffic jam (with 20-50 km/h) it is actually useful I think to be able to hear the bike coming. I don't really think it saves life (if I wanted to change lanes, I always check my mirrors and blilndspot before changing), BUT, it does give car drivers the chance to move over a bit, make room, or not jumpscare them.
My favorite phrase in relation to #1 is "Mirrors can only say NO" Once you get its meaning, especially as a rider, actually using your eyes to confirm it is safe becomes a habit. On #3, I totally agree and what I recommend and do is always be noticeable. Status Quo riding is bad for the rider. This is why I had the most number of close calls when I was riding in the middle of the road at the same speed as the traffic around me. Be noticeable, stand out, lane sharing actually helps too but going a little faster and even weaving in the same lane couple of feet to left and right every 5-8 seconds help a lot too. Irregular moves/motion does stand out, and that is a good thing for the mc rider which also directly helps with #2 on his list.
I actually added blind spot mini mirrors on my aprilia rs660 and it works great, my airbag and helmet don't let me turn around that much, plus in case of emergency lane changes it helps a lot. Ive had people laugh at it but I don't care.
I have clearwater lights up front and a billie brake light in the rear with a white helmet....it helps big time. *this is all on my current bike, not the bike in this video
I still like a loud pipe though. I believe it does help to be seen as ive noticed drivers heads look up and rotate from their laptops on the steering wheel. Great video, great content, keep it up. Awesome. 😊❤
I agree. Whether I am in a truck, car, or motorcycle, I never like to be in a herd of other traffic. I maintain a bubble of space around me. You can create a space with deliberate lane placement and speed choices. I will also break any traffic law when necessary for my safety. Painted lines, lights, and signs cannot protect me from the dangerous actions of other drivers.
Hey Moto, I had a question about upgrade path for a sport bike after 1 year or 2 after progressing my msf courses and so on. I started on a 84 Honda Shadow vt500c despite wanting a sport bike like a r3 or cbr300 i chose to go used route vs buying new since i knew i would drop it whilst learning. What would you recommend i switch too ive been looking into the r7, cbr 650r, and zx6r.
So I bought my bike already without a stock exhaust (amazon slip on I believe) and I’ve been thinking of getting a quieter exhaust, but for an unrelated reason. I already have tinnitus and would prefer to not make it worse. I would also like to hear my music better that’s from my headset in my helmet. Granted I haven’t tried good earplugs that are made for motorcycles, or just earbud headphones for the music. I do love the exhaust sound regardless though, I’ve just been considering one that isn’t as loud since it may be more beneficial in the long run.
My problem on the highway- I used to have a 250CC cruiser and I could get it up to 120kph/75mph but it was a struggle because it was tiring to keep pushing it but other than that, it was cruisey...I upgraded to an 883 Sportster and now I'm cooking BUT...I keep being blown around by gusts of wind which stress me out. I know I'm sitting a little higher with this one, but it shouldn't matter that much after a few months, but I can't get used to the gusts of winds. 12 months on and I still can't get used to it so often I take the longer way which pisses me off... But then I see you riding with one hand whilst gesticulating at high speed, I'm hanging on for dear life...Whats the solution? Thanks!
I agree with everything except that if there is no traffic I sometimes will stick to speed limit and just chill, if traffic catches up behind me then I speed up to keep good distance between me and the cars. About 4 years ago I didn't check my blind spot and almost collided into a car that was in the lane next to me, luckily I saw it last second and swerved back into my lane, ever since that incident I'm super vigilant on my blind spots, head on a swivel lol.
The exhaust myth thing only works at low speed. Was on the highway in a convertible yesterday with the top down behind a truck with the muffler and cats cut off. Straight pipe was unbelievably loud. As soon as we were more than 2 car lengths in front of him, couldn't hear him at all. At speed, no one in front of you can hear your exhaust, no matter how loud it is. That truck was louder than any motorcycle I've ever heard. Illegal level of sound. Still couldn't hear it from the front
Thank you for your tutorials and tips riding for me is always a learning experience no matter how long or experienced rider you are. Please continue creating videos kudos to your channel I am not a Marine, but Semper Fidelis
QUESTION.... what are your GoPro settings? I just started recording my rides with a GoPro Hero 10, and I'm noticing when playing it back, that my field of view seems real narrow. Like the camera doesn't look past my handlebars. Your camera seems to cover 3 lanes on the highway. I thought I had the Wide/Max setting or whatever it is. I thought I had it right (following another riders suggested settings), unless the camera reset itself to default. Thanks
Its harder to see whats coming at you from behind than from in front. Going a little faster means that youre not backing through traffic. Strong advice.
An observation from a car driver in Germany. When on motorways, most bikers are often slower than the average traffic speed. Indeed - we don't have speed limit on motorways here (though about 50% of the total length is actually limited), but when there is no limit, most cars drive between 130 - 160 kmh and motorbikes often tend to travel at the bottom end of that. I guess purely for the comfort reasons.
My two cents; on fast two lane roads with passing zones, it’s not a bad idea to check behind you before passing someone in case there’s someone coming up fast from behind who also intends to pass.
Hey, I recently rode my Yamaha XT250 on the hiway and was almost blow off it! Isn't it just not recommended to ride a bike that small on the hiway?? Thanks 😮
Whats yalls takes on blind spot mirros? I do head checks but it always freaks me out to not be looking ahead just in case theres something i need to react to and that quick second is the second i needed to react in time. When im in my car, i can track even a small bike from rear view, to side mirror, to beside my front windows because i have my mirrors set way wider than most people (the way you should). Just wonding if anyone sees that as a viable thing to do on a bike by adding some form of blind spot mirrors so i have 360 vision while being able to always look forward
Never tried them, but I learned in car or on bike to always know what’s happening in all directions and never be in anyone’s blind spot. Just a matter of practicing and always do quick checks with mirrors. Ride safe.
hi motojitsu, ur videos are really great, i enjoy watching it. is it possible that u can do a vid on ur camera placements? that would be so nice. appreciate ur content! keep it up man!
I'm a truck driver and I also ride. Loud pipes have gotten my attention on more than one occasion, long before I've seen the bike. Consider, there are large blind spots on a big truck. I often ride faster than the flow of traffic, normally to get to that pocket I've spotted. I believe your techniques are sound but if I'm in that pocket, I'll go with the flow.
I agree about loud pipes. I don't care what the "science" says, when driving my 4x4 on the road I've had heaps of occasions when I've heard a loud bike coming from behind long before it's appeared in my mirrors, and I've been on the lookout for its approach. Cheers from Oz. 👍🇦🇺
The best way to become more visible is with riding gear and paint schemes that are contrasting, like a black and yellow or red and white barricade sign. Also, a slightly yellow front light has been known to stand out to older people as long as it is surrounded by a dark color.
If disciplined, going up through the rider modes...take courses etc...could the z900 be an OK starter bike? I'm 5' 10" 165lbs... CrossFit 5 days a week... Or would you just strongly recommend getting the 650?
"Nobody ever says I didn't hear the bike, people always say I didn't see the bike" - such a good way to think, pretend you're invisible.
This is true, however if there's a 1 percent chance a loud bike could save me, id take it.
Whenever you ear the bike it just jumpscares you... no time to react, it's useless to rely on sound. Even on a motorcycle, I get jumpscared by other riders even though I keep checking my mirrors... they come in so quick and just expect others to see them, those are the one that dont give others the time to react to them and die... allow traffic to notice you then use the bikes torque to go and take the space, dont just jump into spaces not letting others know that you are here.
@ethenjordan2010 I think loud pipes saving lives is undeniable... but only in certain situations... and it certainly can't be depended on.
it probably applies more to pedestrians hearing you and not stepping out in front of you in some lower speed situations... than people in cars hearing you.... on the flip side it can also really irritate many people which might make them drive more aggressively near you.
On the other hand if you hear the bike you look for it. Drivers never look for a quiet bike
I think blank statements loud pipes do or don't save lives are off the mark. I have had loud shorties on one of my bikes for awhile, I put the stock silencers back on my bike and within the first two days people were pulling out in front of me like I was invisible. So in my experience there was a difference, but you have to ride like you're invisible anyway. It's just nothing about a dynamic situation is simple. Even though people were looking for me because they could hear me, I actually don't like being on the obnoxious side of loud. Now I'm in stealth mode and having more fun. Using more of the bike without worrying about bothering folk.)
On the 3rd point, my goal is to stay away from cars whenever and however possible. Sometimes it means going slightly faster than other vehicles. Sometimes it's going slower and letting others pass me. Other times I will go the same speed as traffic as long as I have a clearing, or plenty of distance in front and behind me from other vehicles. Going faster than other vehicles isn't always the safest option. It all depends on traffic and road conditions, day or night, weather, etc.
Exactly my position on #3. We'll said
100% I drive a work truck over 1000 miles a week. Riding a motorcycle has engrained a sort of timing that more often than not, I'm the lone wolf between the road packs. Sometimes I gun it to get away from people, other times when you acknowledge each other, let them pass.
I agree 100%!
came here to say the same thing. this is what David Hough teaches
Your stating a fact that experienced riders know. That fact is stay far away from cars.
Great video for beginners, thanks! I would add that the shoulder check you did is tough and dangerous for most beginners. Mastering, not swerving when you twist and turn your head, let go of bar, is a challenge for them. I recommend blindspot mirrors too. Practising a quick peak over the shoulder and back, without letting go of the bar, is good for beginners.
I agree, it took me awhile to learn to ride with one hand.
You don't have to remove a hand to do a shoulder check.
yah, im a newbie and just thinking of looking back makes me see myself steering away a straight line 😅 or maybe i could bump something on the road while looking away
@flippy5118 From what I've seen, it's damn easy to get your licence in the US (like a two days course) so you're sharing the road with many unskilled drivers and riders... Road deaths are so high compared to EU ! I'm French and in a way I'm glad the licence is hard to get. It better prepares you
Blind spot checking by turning your head right round should be part of all beginner motorcycle training! In the UK, you fail your test if you don’t do a “life saver” check before EVERY manoeuvre!
You are so right! I used to have 100 mile daily commute on my Street Triple, all highway. In order to get out of a trucks blind spot and slipstream one day I passed him. The truck was going 90 mph, remaining highway traffic about 80. Open bed pickup lost a metal switch box out the back that went flying past my full face helmet about 6 inches to my left at eye level. Highway riding is just another wonderful challenge. Good to have you back!
In the uk looking over your shoulder is called a lifesaver for a reason.....and if you don't do these during your test you aren't passing your test
You can also "slow out" of bunch traffic or speed up to stay ahead of clumps. Ride for placement in the gaps because all freeway traffic has a pulse.
this is what I do. I have a TON a semi traffic all the time so this method seems to work best for me in my area at my skill level
Underrated comment.
Stay ahead stay alive
The way people drive in my area, I don’t trust them to be behind me. I would much rather have them in front so I can react to their stupidity and aggressive driving behaviors.
@@cjmars822😂🏆🏆
The only thing loud pipes do is let people hear you AFTER you past them. The sound waves are going back behind you not forward away from you. So a person in a car with the radio on inside in a vehicle designed to minimize sound from outside will not hear those “loud pipes” until you are past them.
I’m a beginner and getting ready to take the safety course. I’ve been riding a slow speeds just around my local neighborhood, which is in the country, so I don’t “have to worry” as much about people. Every intersection is visible (I’m in the flat parts of Texas) so I can see them coming. Im trying to soak of as much advice as I can, watching instructional videos, and trying to low speed maneuvers to prepare for the motorcycle safety course.
Your 3 main points, I already do while I’m in my car. I do use the mirrors to a certain degree (even my dmv instructor said to use the mirrors a little more), but I usually rely on turning to see if a lane is clear and where everyone is. I try to be active in watching traffic and watch the traffic ahead of the car in front of me. Saved me numerous times doing that.
Most educational thing i learned is you go where you look. See a problem dont look there. Look at the solution not the problem. If you look at a tree youre going there. If you look at gravel in the road you’re driving over it
The point about “riding slightly faster than the general traffic” is a huge one. I shared it with the parliamentary road safety committee at a parliamentary inquiry in my state, and why that was beneficial, and stated that riders serve their safety first and the law second, and it blew minds. Non riders don’t have a clue.
My old driving instructor taught me to assess the traffic on the highway BEFORE entering, so while still in the curve entering the merge lane. Advantage being you only have to look slighty to the left (not all the way behind you) to get a feel for the situation and there's still time to adjust before even beginning to merge. The turning your head before actually switching lanes still applies of course.
Your bike will go where you are looking. check those blinds spots!!!!!always some joker in it.
Great tips! I would add lane positioning, always ride 3/4 to the left or to the right of the lane, first off there’s usually dirt oil fluids and debris un the center of the lanes, second there could be an object cars are going over and you won’t notice until you hit it and third it will make you more visible for the vehicles riding y that lane and the ones on the closest lane you’re in.
Ride safe!
I remember this way, If I can't see the driver's face in THEIR side mirrors, I'm not in the correct position. so I adjust myself so I can see them and they could see me.
For the exact reasons given in this video and several other recent videos, i've always instinctively driven about 3-5mph faster than flow. Car, truck, minivan, motorcycle, whatever; It solves so many potential problems.
If I ever get pulled over for speeding, I will be going IMMEDIATELY to the “I’m staying safe by moving past traffic” excuse…
It works until you try to overtake someone who increases his speed to not let you merge, and all of a sudden you're in a drag race
@@ananass8030 - a drag race I will always win on my sportbike
So do most people. Hence why no-one does the speed-limit anymore. Akin to an arms race, if everyone plays this game, the only winners are the biggest cars on the road.
@@azzogathor - Slippery slope fallacy in action.
Lol seems like you're really enjoying the new bike man. I feel like this bike rejuvenated you and your content :) I really liked your point about always being slightly faster than the flow of traffic. How it perfectly balances your goals of the ride + safety and visibility. I feel safest on an open highway, going however fast I please. It's when traffic backs up, and you're not taking new ground, everyone is going the speed limit on the dot and everyone is getting closer...closer...closer to each other and frustrated... and here you are in the mix of it. In Arizona we are finally legally allowed to filter/split (whichever one) at the red light, so long as the road is 45mph or less. So in town. HUGE help for safety. I don't have to deal with all that anymore, I just zoom up away from everyone from the get-go. I really hope motorcyclists in my state behave and this goes well overall and it gets opened up further to be like California. It's the only thing I wan't from CA lol (politically... you guys got some amazing roads around San Diego though!)... It would be amazing to not be paranoid to cut traffic on the highway.
He sold it haha
One small hint on that topic, when changing lanes, open throttle a bit. Keeping throttle steady while switching lanes makes you actually slow down a bit, no bueno if there is a car close enough behind you.
By open you mean engage the throttle?
@@94D33MYes, always be opening the gap when changing lanes.
Closing gaps are where accidents begin.
@flippy5118 So opening the throttle = increase speed
Yes, add slight throttle in any turn. It's also true in airplanes, you will lose speed in a turn if you maintain a constant throttle setting.
Exactly! I think it's the safest way. If there is somebody behind you moving faster than you saw in the moment's glance (or suddenly started to accelerate) - you will run away, they will have time to slow down instead of crashing directly. I always add 10ish mph on a lane change in traffic, even if it means quickly accelerating towards the car in front and using brakes a bit immediately after.
I literally head check anytime I change lanes, merge, turn, I also try to stay in peoples mirrors. My bike is a DR650, going 75 miles an hour is the absolute limit for that bike while still handling well, so I generally avoid highways anyway.
Don't know about US, but in UK, and I guess entire Europe, lifesavers are being deeply ingrained into motorcyclists. There is no way you pass any exam if you don't do them judiciously.
Use your mirrors
@@slimfit767 in a straight line and before I head check sure.
@@slimfit767 the suit creates a blind spot in the mirror same as steering
No BS straight to the point and makes sense. Thanks
Good advice. Long time daily commuter on some of the nation's busiest highways here in Los Angeles (25 years). In heavy to moderate traffic, I always ride as close to the lane lines as reasonable, giving me the best visibility to others sharing the road (and giving me the ability to see and avoid hazards up ahead).
One thing to consider is when changing lanes, be setup close to the line and after monitoring your mirror and looking over your shoulder, drift across the line into the next lane and hug it momentarily to let things settle, in case someone was coming up super-fast behind or maybe someone from 2 lanes over was changing lanes into your spot simultaneously. If you're off to the side, hugging the line for a few beats, you've given yourself a bit of a temporary buffer zone in case a car suddenly appears in the same space. It's a little thing but it's something I'm cognizant of every time I ride.
As an Australian, "policing" of speed limits (and penalties) is ridiculous. For example, 12 mph over the speed limit is a $998.00 fine and 5 'demerit' points (12 within 3 years = loss of licence). Oh, they DOUBLE penalties during public holidays - 12 mph over the speed limit during Easter would be a $1,996.00 fine and 10 demerit points. 20 mph over the speed limit is "speed dangerous" - immediate disqualification of licence (I don't know the fine offhand). I haven't ridden a motorbike - ever - I'm just "doing some research" in preparation, with the idea of buying a Honda XR150L ($4,898 AUD). Thank you for posting videos which are a GREAT help to the newbies :)
Those fines vary wildly between states. I got caught with 8km/h over the speed limit in ACT and got a $450 fine. My wife got caught at 10km/h over the limit and only got a $120 fine in NSW. Guess what, whenever I'm in ACT I'm the slowest person on the road ...
Good stuff! I figured out the "ride faster than the cars else" many years ago. It's really good advice! And yes, the loud pipes thing is absurd as far as any sort of safety is concerned. Probably the opposite - it annoys people...and road rage is quite the thing nowadays! ;)
I do all three! Yay! I started riding a year and six months ago. I used to be scared to drive on the freeway, but now I prefer it way more than the streets. 😊
Me too, I used to take what amounts to a surface street to my cabin 100 miles away in MI, but switched to expressway all the way there and back and it really is safer, far fewer chances of T boning anyone.
You are absolutely right, but about loud pipes... in my opinion not so much. Of course, when everyone is driving fast, no one can hear you, but when you are standing at the intersection, they can. More than once I have seen people turn their heads and look for me because they suddenly realize that they hear my bike. And that's good.
Would be better off with extra/brighter lights & gear to have drivers see you well before you even get near them. Loud pipes saves lives has been debunked so many times...and fyi you can get your license if you're deaf and/or hearing impaired...another reason pipes are pointless for anything to do with safety.
Thanks
Very good tips! Thank you for reminding us about this. Simple rules that save lives. Every car is a potential threat, never get to comfortable. Ride safe folks and keep loving the freedom on two wheels.
Totally agree with all the points here! Even in a car, I think one of the reasons I've never had a crash in my 20 years of driving is because I always try to remain visible by driving a bright car and going a bit faster than others so as not to be in their blind spots. I get speeding tickets sometimes because of it but it's worth it for safety. The claim that "speed kills" is the dumbest myth. Almost any speed can kill but speed alone is not the culprit and going slower than everyone else can be downright dangerous! It's drivers not paying attention, being stupid or reckless, and not having an escape route that causes accidents.
Checking behind you is called shoulder checking, that's the first thing i was taught when i started riding back in the seventies, i find it is the one most important thing to learn on a bike.
Eddie. Thanks for the great videos. I ride a Honda Shadow VTX on the highways. I think the last point you made about the muffler is absolutely true. Even on a Bike, I don't hear or see the sports bikes until they are already in front of me. The Doppler Effect is real. I'd rather be seen than heard when it comes to riding.
Agree the shoulder check (a life saver in uk) is a must. However, don’t forget to scan ahead for traffic flow and any road debris. I only make a quick glance keeping both hands on bars as I am much more interested in what is happening ahead. Your joining lane might have slowed considerably or an item may be in the road. Have a look at a recent post (in America) of a GS rider looking over his shoulder only to then hit a car battery that sent him flying through the air. My point exactly.
I agree with the go a little quicker than cars around us. Except in SoCal, I can usually find open spaces in between packs of cars on the highway, and I ride there.
1:18 here in Europe pretty much every new car for the past few years has as base equipment the blindspot indicator in the mirrors. It's a little triangle icon displayed in the upper corner on the mirror itself. You can clearly see it from your bike, and has made me aware of how often i place myself there. It has really been an eye opener for me.
Good point... I always avoid riding directly alongside cars. Either ahead of or a bike length or 2 behind in the next lane is always safer when doing the same speed... as I don't 100% trust them to always pay attention to their Blind spot indicator either.
Glad you got the comments back. You and the channel called Be your own boss of your motorcycle have given me so much knowledge and I apply it. I use your teachings every day and practice. thank you for giving me this information.
One of the best vids yet for people that ride on the highway. I've heard these tips before and use them. They have saved my life.
Greg, all points you made are 100% correct. These are the principles I followed from beginning riding motorcycles way back 60 years ago. And my R1 makes it so easy to stay safe.
Well said!
Took a ride today on my Aprilia TUONO V4 1100 and I wanna THANK YOU for these tips. It was a whole new safe feeling today
. THANK YOU. U REALLY MADE ME A BETTER RIDER
That was the moment when I first moved on highway (autobahn) and my bike was not fast enough to make easy take overs which is 200 cc.I realized, it was good decision to buy that bike for a beginner but not for long distances or else.I am still learning, practicing, will always keep your advices when I get a bigger bike and hit to the adventure rides.
Good video! I live in San Diego and have only been riding over a year, but still don't really feel comfortable on the freeways - maybe the 52 when it's empty. My bike is a naked so I get plenty of wind blast at 80-mph which I think doesn't help with being comfortable for long stretches.
If you get a windshield, you’ll use it 90-100% of the time. Personally once I put it on my bike I never looked back or road without it. So much better especially when on highway which I love riding on now. Be safe
I have an FZ09, and for me it works better to not have a windshield. It gives me a better sensation of the speed I'm going so I keep it down unless I really want to open it up. My last bike had a shield and I'd quite often glance down and see I was going faster than intended, it just never seemed fast. Have you been doing any of the twisties- like Otay Lakes Road out to the 94 to Dulzura, backroads up to Julian, or Mount Palomar? Nice rides, if you haven't done them just be sure to take it slow the first few times, find out where the decreasing raidus turns are etc.
Biggest thing for me, if you are just going with the flow, sit in a position that you can see them in their own mirror.
Works on group rides also
I hear people tell me so many myths about riding. They say and that speed kills etc… someone said a guy was pressed against the guardrail by a semi. Don’t ride in the blind spot of a semi and use vision and lines escape paths practice fast braking counter steering. So thank you motojitsu for the reminders because you are helping save lives and us riders enjoy the ride. Nice Suzuki by the way I love mine. Can you do a video about driving different engine sizes for new riders because I started out on a 650 and would have probably killed myself on one bigger.
Great tips. As an older rider I can add to your first tip about checking your blind spot - stretch before riding. Do those neck and back stretches so you’re limbered up. That second tip is really important with 18 Wheelers. Hold back until the car in front of you is past it, then accelerate past the Semi as fast as you can. Stay safe everyone !
Best bike tips on RUclips...love MotoJitsu's videos.
Even though i'm not a real biker ( riding a Yamaha Tricity with a car license ) i always look over the shoulder to make sure that it's safe for me to merge. Now there is also one thing because if you look over your shoulder and no car is there, i always check the mirror once again. It happend a couple of times that a car comes up with a lot of speed and suddenly was there in the spot i want to merge to. I also take the time to shift to another lane, using the blinkers every time. It sounds pretty lame and like "riding like an old man" but i don't want to crash. Just wanted to share this little thing. Thanks man for the great information and helpful tips.
Great video as always. All good and valid points. However, in Nigeria, traffic can be lawless and very intense; having a loud bike amplifies your presence.
So, here, (I don't know about your place), here in Nigeria, loud pipes saves you. We take the course, we wear the gear, we ride defensively and we also have the loud pipes.
As you go through traffic, you create a path for your bike using your loud exhaust almost like a horn. Even while in blind spots, the sound of your bike places you in the subconscious of other commuters. So, even if they don't see you, they become more weary that you are around.
Ok ... here's a couple more. When passing a car don't do so right up next to them as done here at 2:35! There is no margin for escape. Also, don't accelerate past a car while a car on your left is passing you as they won't see you when they change back to your lane as done here at 2:00.
There is margin for escape if you have average reaction times, and by being in that position you are visible in the mirrors.
Lol
2:35 there is all that damn margin you created for urself on the left side of your lane? If you positioned on the far left thats where there is literally no margin for escape cuz you are forcefully pushed out of the lane with no room to swerve and accelerate past or swerve nd brake. You make yourself visible in at 2:35, you are no longer visible if your on the left side of the lane. Your perception of what can be seen and where you should be is awful.
I actually happen to have the kind of mirrors on my current motorbike that when adjusted properly show cars that are next to me until they enter my peripheral vision, so my only blind spot is directly behind me. In my previous bikes I didn't have mirrors like that so I installed those little wide angle blind spot mirrors on their mirrors. I think it's better not having to turn your head when changing lanes because then you can simultaneously keep what's ahead of you within your vision, assuming you can see enough from your mirrors. I feel a bit paranoid whenever I'm not looking where I'm going.
Wow! Thank you. Under 6 minutes, very direct. Love it & give me more bite size safety stuff.
Thank you about the loud pipes part. As a trucker with 2 million miles all it does is spook me. Because all the guys with loud pipes think they can drive however and everyone will notice them. So they pop out from behind my trailer on the right and stay there.
Totally agree- on my mc I’ve been spooked a couple times by other motorcycles with loud pipes flying by me which I didn’t hear until the moment they passed. Not a good feeling 😮
lol not many people who actually ride will say loud pipes save lives, whats going to save your life is your lane positioning. We put on full exhausts because we enjoy the sound not anymore of a secret than that. Its not the same as a car with a loud exhausts sitting in traffic forcing you to have to keep listening and hearing the rumble for miles on end, atleast we keep moving through traffic at all times so dont worry if the sound bothers you we will be gone in no time lol
The last tip was the most important, as a motorcyclist increasing your visibility is the best thing one can do.
One thing I always do is check my mirrors before riding away. As a rule of thumb I adjust my right mirror to a location where I could see the border or my right arm at the left edge of mirror, that way I can see the traffic to my right better, similarly for the left side. However I am not a big fan of turning your head completely to look at traffic while merging. Instead I move a bit in my saddle tobthe opposite side to increase field of view of my motorcycle mirror without losing sight of what's in front.
You must be aware of car drivers blind spots, and try to either avoid them or move past them quickly. This is more important for trucks and buses or large load carrying vehicles. Overall good suggestions.
As an older rider taking up riding again (Honda CB919), I like to filter where it's safe and that puts you in clear space when you take off from lights etc. Cars and lorries tend to group up and getting out in front of that group gives you space to be seen as Craig says.
I've been riding motorcycles since 1980, and I agree with everything you said!!! Loud pipes are sure to see you labeled as annoyance.
My neighbors wouldn't appreciate it all since I leave for work at 5:30 am. So, the quiet ones probably keep my from getting killed in my garage some morning.
Great advice for beginners; good reinforcement for veteran riders.
some great tips in the video, awesome job!
for who ever reads this, its been said prob 1000 times i will say it again, treat every situation like its your responsibility, dont let others dictate your reaction but act before hand while anticipating that others will not adhere to the road signs or right of way or even common sense, cover your brakes, keep distance be aware of crossings esp if you are thinking of overtaking etc etc and repeat .. be safe & enjoy
Awesome tips that I've been living by for years...rode back from Phillip Island Superbikes weekend just gone and practiced all these techniques, great advice to add to our skillsets, cheers👍🇦🇺🏍
Sounds great!
Glad to see comments again. Great points. One major problem I see with learning and using safety techniques is the increasing frustration in watching other riders not even attempt to use them. I made it a game to see if any cruiser rider in my area wears a helmet. Its a low number. You know if they are not even willing to wear a helmet, they certainly aren't thinking about the best way to navigate traffic or avoid obstacles.
Half of my family drive cruisers. And we all wear helmets. Although, I admit we seem to be an exception.
Wearing a helmet more or less saved my one uncle's life. He went head on into a car. Only thing that seemingly didn't break on him was his skull. Even with a helmet he is lucky to be alive and without it he would undoubtedly not be here now.
Not true! I live in Pennsylvania and helmets aren’t mandatory and I know people who don’t wear them ALWAYS, but do practice safe riding in all other aspects.
Winter in Michigan so my training is limited to videos. But some training is better than no training. Semper Fi
I went one step further, high viz FTW! I sometimes see people point and smile but hey, they see me haha! I've even seen some Harley guys wear high viz around here. Kudos!
All true, especially visibility with the helmet, bike and lights. If the freeway especially is pushing 85 +, I tend to get out of the way if possible.
Here in the Netherlands we take lessons on the highway and have to do a exam after to get your license. But if i could give 1 more tip that we learn here is and is sort of extra for tip 3: always look for space, make sure you give yourself space and a escapepath when shit hits the fan. By that i mean if a car suddenly breaks in front of you, make sure you either brake or swerve to the left or right if you dont have enough time to brake.
I’ve only been riding for seven years, but I tell you what even when I’m in my car I don’t hear a fire engine until it’s within range and I’m pretty sure that’s louder than a motorcycle. I agree with the visibility.
Once again, good advice! I'm always a bit nervous when riding but that keeps me awake and aware.
I also frequently move around in the lane just so people behind me know that I'm not a car with one broken taillight.
As for the blindspot, I'm on the inside then move away to the other edge of the lane as I'm overtaking; just in case the driver wants to merge.
Most importantly, I always shift down and rev bomb the heck out of the bike as a goodwill gesture to the cop hiding under the bridge. 😅
Not even a rider yet but in about 6 months I will be, straight to the point, clear and upbeat personality AND doesn’t ask for a like. Got a like and a subscriber
Thanks
Loving your recent uploads. Short, sharp and informative
Man the gixxer sounds great! Thanks for the video
Good tips that I lived on for years of riding. Also, along that I ride with my High Beams on in day light. I want them to see me being I have a small profile on the interstate and normal roads as well.
I actually did think a few times: I did not hear the bike. It was in a traffic jam, motorcycles were lanesplitting (which, good for them), but as one does in a traffic jam, I zoned out and got completely jumpscared by a motorcycle very close to my car. When lanesplitting in a traffic jam (with 20-50 km/h) it is actually useful I think to be able to hear the bike coming. I don't really think it saves life (if I wanted to change lanes, I always check my mirrors and blilndspot before changing), BUT, it does give car drivers the chance to move over a bit, make room, or not jumpscare them.
Thanks for the advice! Very important! I need this one I am a beginner rider and thanks again!
My favorite phrase in relation to #1 is "Mirrors can only say NO" Once you get its meaning, especially as a rider, actually using your eyes to confirm it is safe becomes a habit.
On #3, I totally agree and what I recommend and do is always be noticeable. Status Quo riding is bad for the rider. This is why I had the most number of close calls when I was riding in the middle of the road at the same speed as the traffic around me. Be noticeable, stand out, lane sharing actually helps too but going a little faster and even weaving in the same lane couple of feet to left and right every 5-8 seconds help a lot too. Irregular moves/motion does stand out, and that is a good thing for the mc rider which also directly helps with #2 on his list.
love these vids man , even though i’ve been riding for 3 years i almost always learn something new watching these
I actually added blind spot mini mirrors on my aprilia rs660 and it works great, my airbag and helmet don't let me turn around that much, plus in case of emergency lane changes it helps a lot. Ive had people laugh at it but I don't care.
Great advise, really good.... Loud pipes just distract drivers, bright jacket for me. Even though I'm invisable
I have clearwater lights up front and a billie brake light in the rear with a white helmet....it helps big time. *this is all on my current bike, not the bike in this video
I still like a loud pipe though. I believe it does help to be seen as ive noticed drivers heads look up and rotate from their laptops on the steering wheel.
Great video, great content, keep it up. Awesome. 😊❤
I agree. Whether I am in a truck, car, or motorcycle, I never like to be in a herd of other traffic. I maintain a bubble of space around me. You can create a space with deliberate lane placement and speed choices. I will also break any traffic law when necessary for my safety. Painted lines, lights, and signs cannot protect me from the dangerous actions of other drivers.
Hey Moto, I had a question about upgrade path for a sport bike after 1 year or 2 after progressing my msf courses and so on. I started on a 84 Honda Shadow vt500c despite wanting a sport bike like a r3 or cbr300 i chose to go used route vs buying new since i knew i would drop it whilst learning. What would you recommend i switch too ive been looking into the r7, cbr 650r, and zx6r.
With thanks all the way from UK, all make sense 👍
So I bought my bike already without a stock exhaust (amazon slip on I believe) and I’ve been thinking of getting a quieter exhaust, but for an unrelated reason. I already have tinnitus and would prefer to not make it worse. I would also like to hear my music better that’s from my headset in my helmet.
Granted I haven’t tried good earplugs that are made for motorcycles, or just earbud headphones for the music.
I do love the exhaust sound regardless though, I’ve just been considering one that isn’t as loud since it may be more beneficial in the long run.
I'd get a stock one put back on.
instagram.com/motojitsuclub/
My problem on the highway- I used to have a 250CC cruiser and I could get it up to 120kph/75mph but it was a struggle because it was tiring to keep pushing it but other than that, it was cruisey...I upgraded to an 883 Sportster and now I'm cooking BUT...I keep being blown around by gusts of wind which stress me out. I know I'm sitting a little higher with this one, but it shouldn't matter that much after a few months, but I can't get used to the gusts of winds. 12 months on and I still can't get used to it so often I take the longer way which pisses me off...
But then I see you riding with one hand whilst gesticulating at high speed, I'm hanging on for dear life...Whats the solution? Thanks!
I agree with everything except that if there is no traffic I sometimes will stick to speed limit and just chill, if traffic catches up behind me then I speed up to keep good distance between me and the cars. About 4 years ago I didn't check my blind spot and almost collided into a car that was in the lane next to me, luckily I saw it last second and swerved back into my lane, ever since that incident I'm super vigilant on my blind spots, head on a swivel lol.
Thank you for the tips ❤
The exhaust myth thing only works at low speed. Was on the highway in a convertible yesterday with the top down behind a truck with the muffler and cats cut off. Straight pipe was unbelievably loud. As soon as we were more than 2 car lengths in front of him, couldn't hear him at all. At speed, no one in front of you can hear your exhaust, no matter how loud it is. That truck was louder than any motorcycle I've ever heard. Illegal level of sound. Still couldn't hear it from the front
All excellent tips, great advice & love the 750!
Thank you for your tutorials and tips riding for me is always a learning experience no matter how long or experienced rider you are. Please continue creating videos kudos to your channel I am not a Marine, but Semper Fidelis
QUESTION.... what are your GoPro settings? I just started recording my rides with a GoPro Hero 10, and I'm noticing when playing it back, that my field of view seems real narrow. Like the camera doesn't look past my handlebars. Your camera seems to cover 3 lanes on the highway.
I thought I had the Wide/Max setting or whatever it is. I thought I had it right (following another riders suggested settings), unless the camera reset itself to default.
Thanks
Don’t remember, I have Insta360 AcePro now
Ok thank you.
Its harder to see whats coming at you from behind than from in front. Going a little faster means that youre not backing through traffic. Strong advice.
An observation from a car driver in Germany. When on motorways, most bikers are often slower than the average traffic speed. Indeed - we don't have speed limit on motorways here (though about 50% of the total length is actually limited), but when there is no limit, most cars drive between 130 - 160 kmh and motorbikes often tend to travel at the bottom end of that. I guess purely for the comfort reasons.
My all time fav picked up from driving a car is that you'll see the wheel of a car turning 'way' before its body follows.
What the ruling about mounting a go pro on your helment I get a mixed of stuff for answers here in socal
My two cents; on fast two lane roads with passing zones, it’s not a bad idea to check behind you before passing someone in case there’s someone coming up fast from behind who also intends to pass.
you used to wear 6D helmets, i personally use shoei like you (the x-spr pro aka x15) what made you switch?
Hey, I recently rode my Yamaha XT250 on the hiway and was almost blow off it! Isn't it just not recommended to ride a bike that small on the hiway?? Thanks 😮
Every bike has pros and cons
excellent advice much thanks!👍
Nice MotoJitsu, Got some Ideas, on Riding on a Highway.👍
Early in the video is that IH5 south in San Diego?
Whats yalls takes on blind spot mirros? I do head checks but it always freaks me out to not be looking ahead just in case theres something i need to react to and that quick second is the second i needed to react in time. When im in my car, i can track even a small bike from rear view, to side mirror, to beside my front windows because i have my mirrors set way wider than most people (the way you should). Just wonding if anyone sees that as a viable thing to do on a bike by adding some form of blind spot mirrors so i have 360 vision while being able to always look forward
Never tried them, but I learned in car or on bike to always know what’s happening in all directions and never be in anyone’s blind spot. Just a matter of practicing and always do quick checks with mirrors. Ride safe.
You need to adjust lane position and speed to find clear road....like flying vfr.
hi motojitsu, ur videos are really great, i enjoy watching it.
is it possible that u can do a vid on ur camera placements? that would be so nice. appreciate ur content!
keep it up man!
Any reccs for riding classes in CO? Thanks man, you're crushing it.
I'm a truck driver and I also ride. Loud pipes have gotten my attention on more than one occasion,
long before I've seen the bike. Consider, there are large blind spots on a big truck. I often ride faster than the flow of traffic, normally to get to that pocket I've spotted. I believe your techniques are sound but if I'm in that pocket, I'll go with the flow.
I agree about loud pipes. I don't care what the "science" says, when driving my 4x4 on the road I've had heaps of occasions when I've heard a loud bike coming from behind long before it's appeared in my mirrors, and I've been on the lookout for its approach. Cheers from Oz. 👍🇦🇺
Good advice. Have always ridden faster then the trafic. Riding now for over 50 years and have not had or caused an accident.👍
The best way to become more visible is with riding gear and paint schemes that are contrasting, like a black and yellow or red and white barricade sign. Also, a slightly yellow front light has been known to stand out to older people as long as it is surrounded by a dark color.
Great video! Your advice is always spot on.
If disciplined, going up through the rider modes...take courses etc...could the z900 be an OK starter bike? I'm 5' 10" 165lbs... CrossFit 5 days a week... Or would you just strongly recommend getting the 650?
no. don't matter who you are or what you do, starting on something too big and powerful is the number 1 mistake new riders make.