Why Overtaking Matters

Overtaking is one of the most demanding manoeuvres in advanced riding because it involves exposure to risk, interaction with multiple road users and a commitment that must be carried through safely.

It is important to understand that overtaking is optional, not essential. It should only be carried out when it is clearly safe, legal and necessary. There will be many situations where the correct decision is not to overtake at all, but to remain in position and wait for a better opportunity.

Good overtaking is not about speed or impatience. It is about judgement, planning and control. Riders should use the power of their brain to overtake and not the power of the motorcycle’s engine!

The Decision Not to Overtake

One of the most important aspects of overtaking is knowing when not to do it.

If the view is limited, the road layout is uncertain or the behaviour of other road users is unclear, the safest decision is often to hold back. A rider who feels pressured to overtake may create unnecessary risk for themselves and others.

There is also a wider consideration. Riding significantly below the appropriate speed for the road can, in some situations, influence other road users and create frustration or unsafe behaviour behind. However, this should never force a rider into an overtake that is not properly planned.

A Structured Approach Using IPSGA

Overtaking should always follow a structured approach using IPSGA. Information is gathered to assess the road ahead, traffic behaviour and potential hazards. Position is adjusted to improve view and prepare for the manoeuvre. 

Speed and gear are selected to ensure the motorcycle is responsive and controlled. Only when all elements are in place should the rider consider committing to the overtake.

This structure allows the rider to plan effectively and reduces the likelihood of rushed or reactive decisions.

Single Stage and Three Stage Overtakes

There are different styles of overtaking, but they should always be guided by safety and control.

A single stage overtake, often referred to as a momentum overtake, is typically used where there is a clear and open road ahead. In these situations, the rider uses timing and existing speed to pass smoothly without the need for a prolonged setup.

A three stage overtake is more structured and is commonly used on roads with bends. The rider first closes to a safe following distance, then moves into an overtaking position to improve view and assess the situation, before finally committing to the manoeuvre if it is safe to do so.

The three stage approach encourages planning and observation, making it the more controlled and reliable method for most situations.

Planning the Overtake

Effective overtaking relies on a clear and deliberate plan. The rider must be able to see that the road ahead is clear of hazards such as junctions, bends, brows or changes in road layout. The behaviour of the vehicle being overtaken should also be considered, as it may change speed or position unexpectedly.

Equally important is the safe return gap. This is the space into which the rider will safely return after completing the overtake. It must be sufficient to avoid compromising the braking distance of the vehicle being passed.

Following traffic should not be ignored. Other vehicles may also be preparing to overtake, and their behaviour must be taken into account before committing. 

A well-planned overtake considers all of these elements before any movement is made.

Commitment and Control

Once an overtake is committed to, it should be carried out positively and smoothly. The rider should use appropriate acceleration, within legal limits, to complete the manoeuvre efficiently. Prolonged time in the opposing lane increases exposure to risk and should be avoided.

At the same time, the rider must always be prepared to abort the overtake if conditions change. This may involve returning to the nearside position and re-establishing a safe following distance.

Control must be maintained throughout. The manoeuvre should feel deliberate and measured, not rushed or forced. If in doubt – bottle out!

Judgement and Oncoming Traffic

A critical part of overtaking is judging whether there is sufficient time and space to complete the manoeuvre safely.

Rather than relying on assumptions, the rider should only proceed when it is clear that the overtake can be completed without conflict. This means having a full understanding of the distance available, the speed of oncoming traffic and the time required to pass and return safely.

If there is any risk, the correct decision is to wait. Good judgement is often demonstrated by restraint rather than action. A good way to develop restraint is to practise aborting the overtake.

Common Faults Riders Make

There are several common faults that increase risk when overtaking. It is a very dynamic and different experience for every overtake. Learning a structured way to execute the overtake takes time and patience.

Overtaking Without a Clear Plan

Attempting to overtake without fully assessing the situation often leads to rushed decisions and reduced safety margins. The situation can very quickly change if the rider misses anything out in the planning phase.

Committing When the Overtake Is Not Viable

Some riders continue with an overtake even when conditions change, rather than aborting early and safely. They often use the power of the bike to get the overtake done, but the power can also introduce unwanted risk.

Failing to Consider Other Road Users

Ignoring vehicles ahead, behind or approaching can lead to conflict and dangerous situations. Not all road users will understand the process a rider takes to overtake. Be aware of innocent road users who may be hindered or spooked by your decisions.

Each of these faults undermines the structured approach required for safe overtaking.

Overtaking Within a Structured Approach

Overtaking is a clear example of how advanced riding principles are applied in practice. It requires observation, anticipation, planning and control to work together. 

When these elements are in place, overtaking becomes a controlled and confident manoeuvre. When they are not, it quickly becomes unpredictable and high risk. The difference lies in preparation and judgement.

(H2) Focus for Your Next Ride

On your next ride, reflect on how you approach overtaking and ask yourself:

1. Am I only overtaking when it is clearly safe, legal and necessary?
2. Am I creating a clear plan before committing?
3. Am I identifying a safe and sufficient return gap?
4. Am I prepared to abort if conditions change?
5. Am I using judgement, or relying on speed?

Improving these areas will have a direct impact on your safety, your planning and your overall control of the motorcycle.