OVERTAKING MULTIPLE VEHICLES 

During your Module Two motorcycle training, you are advised to use the driving lane, which is the left hand lane. Most of your normal riding is in this lane and you will move to the right hand lane to overtake.  This lane is often referred to as the overtaking lane and should only be used to overtake. Whichever lane you are in, you should aim to ride in a central position. Overtaking multiple vehicles on a motorcycle requires you to look as far ahead as possible. You should be aware of their speed and the amount of time you may be in the overtaking lane. Other complications involve vehicles moving out to overtake when you are and causing you to slow down. Also if there are larger vehicles there may be a downdraft or surface spray if it is wet.

IT MIGHT TAKE A WHILE TO OVERTAKE

When you are in the overtaking lane, you should adopt a central position for your own safety. This is a dominating position and gives you margin for error should you drift out of position. When you make the decision that you are going to overtake, use your mirrors to check there are no faster moving vehicles coming up behind. When you start the process, indicate early and let it flash at least 5-6 times. This is to make other vehicles aware of your intention to move lanes.  When it is safe, carry out a right lifesaver to move out, cancel the signal and continue with the overtake. Once the overtake is complete and when it is clear, take a left mirror check and lifesaver and move back into the centre of the driving lane.

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER - Overtaking multiple vehicles

• Maintain the 2 second rule
• Signal early, and let it flash at least 5-6 times
• Take effective mirror checks
• Have a right hand lifesaver before moving out
• Cancel signal in the overtaking lane
• Complete the overtake
• Maintain awareness of the situation
• Once clear carry out a left lifesaver to move back in