31. Urban riding

TAKE CARE ON URBAN ROADS

Urban riding is fairly high risk for novice riders, three quarter of accidents happen on urban roads. You must have your wits about you as a new or novice rider, as there are many instances where other road users fail to see you. This is more likely to happen around congested and busy areas such as junctions, crossroads and roundabouts. Urban riding conditions can vary dramatically at different times of the day, with the heaviest traffic occurring at rush hour in the morning and late afternoon. School closing times are usually very busy and congested for a short period of time mid afternoon, especially around school entrances. 

YOU BECOME INVISIBLE

Road users are usually in a hurry around these times, concentrating more on themselves than others. You must be aware of this and aware of their ineffective observations as you become invisible to them.  Poor car driver observations are made worse by vehicle blind spots, thick stanchion posts in modern cars, pedestrian traffic and obstructions such as street furniture that can obscure a driver’s view. You must have your wits about you at all times and should use high-visibility motorcycle clothing.  

MOTORCYCLISTS CAN BE VULNERABLE

If you are riding a 50cc moped, you have the added vulnerability of your speed being restricted to less than 30mph. Virtually all other traffic is capable of higher speeds, as you are riding on L-plates, you can be viewed as a hindrance to impatient drivers who want to overtake as quickly as possible.  You must be more aware of your surroundings, when riding in heavy traffic or riding through a town centre. Having a small profile makes you less visible, your road position will help you be seen but you must take responsibility for your own actions too. Be especially careful around built up areas when riding around houses, cars are often parked on the road causing more obstructions and tighter space to drive through. Even if you have the right of way you must always be prepared to give way.

TAKE CONTROL

• Be aware of side roads
• Car drivers might not have seen you
• Always take observations and lifesavers before moving position
• Be vigilant in built up areas 
• Don’t rush at junctions
• Always give adequate clearance when overtaking
• Take your time and observe properly
• Don’t take risks