Group Riding Page Four
Passing Large Vehicles
Beware of the gear you are in and be ready to accelerate out of the way if you are approached from the rear too fast.
Approaching and passing large vehicles like trucks, busses, and RV’s can place you in the high risk zone. Stay way back, or approach from the same lane, until you’re in mirror range to the vehicle, then move to the far side the passing lane and pass without delay. Flying debris, sand, gravel, pieces of tires, rocks, and anything on the road way can be lifted up and hit you from large vehicles. Flying objects tend to be out to the sides of the large vehicle.
On a two lane, if you have to pass, down shift to be in you power curve so you can use the motorcycle power to get around quickly and safely. Do not ride directly in front of a large vehicle, they cannot stop like you!
Riding in rain or on wet roads can be just as enjoyable if you are prepared for it. We have ridden hundreds of miles at a time and still enjoyed every minute of it. We had proper rain gear, helmets, goggles, gloves, and face protection on, so we could have cared less about the rain. Slow down and relax, it is not so bad. Brake gradually ahead of time. Think an extra quarter of a mile ahead and you will be fine. When turning, don’t lean so far, do it slowly and gradually. Remember with a passenger on back, you have extra weight to stop. Leave extra following space just in case. Stay in one lane, and not in the right lane. Center is best but left will do. Ride toward the crown of the road where you won’t hydroplane on puddles. You should follow in the tracks of the vehicle in front of you where the water was just splashed out, especially in hard rain, less risk.
Leave you bright lights on, you will be seen better. Use hand signals because they will be more visible. In other words, you don’t have to be a fair weather rider. Apply throttle after your turn, not in the middle of it!
Hazardous conditions exist at toll booths when you go through so be prepared for the oil spot you are going to put your foot on. Same applies at intersections, so watch it. Worn tires are going to spin when you start so be careful on the throttle. Discuss the tolls ahead and have a plan. One person should pay for all is the best thing whenever possible. This eliminates many risk factors! Have change ready, and let you passenger have the job.
Purchase a Sun-Pass for Florida Toll roads, it is the safest way through any toll booth.
Turning left at intersections should be done from the inside lane if at all possible to prevent a vehicle that might decide at the last moment to go straight and cut across in front of you.
I have listed the risk factors that can and will get you into trouble. Some of the methods may not meet your approval, however, I am only telling what has worked for my friends and my wife and I. These steps have become second nature to us and are preached to any one that might ride with us.