Good defensive driving isn’t just a matter of what you do, it’s about anticipating what everyone else on the road does too. Be ready to brake. Don’t weave in and out of fast, heavy traffic. And if someone else catches MotoGP fever, pull over to let them pass.
Before you start salivating at the prospect of long, sweeping left-handers and empty straights, consider the downsides:
Then, when you get back to town, change tempo quickly. The busy urgency of city dwellers can catch you unawares, especially at intersections and roundabouts.
Use indicators even when there doesn't appear to be any other traffic around.
It’s also a good idea to check your indicators work when, and only when, you want them to. If you don't cancel a signal, motorists may turn in front of you believing you're about to give way (especially likely after failing to cancel a left turn).
So always double-check, even on bikes with self-cancelling indicators, as their delay may be longer than is safe.
If you find your indicator is flashing faster than usual, one bulb has probably failed.
Before you stop, take note of the road camber. Highway bends often have a large degree of camber that can make reaching the ground a stretch if you lower the wrong foot. As you come to a stop:
