Lane Positioning, Following Distance, and Visibility
Lane Positioning, Following Distance, and Visibility
This domain tests where to put the motorcycle in a lane, how much space to keep, and how to be seen. The exam often asks for the lane position that creates the best escape path and the minimum following gap.
Lane positions
- The left third usually gives the best view of oncoming traffic and oncoming left-turners, and it makes you more visible in a driver's mirror.
- The center of the lane can collect oil, chain lube, and coolant, especially at intersections. Avoid it in wet weather.
- The right third can be useful when preparing for a right turn, but it puts you closer to parked cars and driveways.
- Change position as conditions change; there is no single correct position all the time.
Following distance
- Keep at least a 2-second gap in good conditions. Increase to 3 or more seconds at night, in rain, or on gravel.
- Add more space behind trucks and vehicles that block your view.
Visibility
- Ride with the headlight on, wear bright or retroreflective gear, signal early, and check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
- Avoid riding directly beside a car; move into the driver's mirror view or drop back.
Worked example
At 40 mph, pick a fixed object ahead. When the vehicle ahead passes it, count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two." If you reach the object before the count ends, you are too close. At 40 mph, 2 seconds is about 117 feet; in rain, aim for 3 seconds.
Traps
- Always riding the center of the lane.
- Counting only one second because traffic is light.
- Assuming a car's mirror check means the driver saw you.
- Forgetting to cancel a turn signal.