Everything you just said applies to cars too. So many accidents can be avoided by just simply having situational awareness. I ride my bike the same way I drive my car. I don't sit in pockets of slow moving traffic. Not sitting in blind spots. Space is king. Find a good, wide open spot in the traffic pattern and stay there in the right most possible lane unless passing or if someone is broke down on the side of the road. You always teach a valuable lesson. Thank you!
Absolutely! I drove a delivery truck for many years, and everything thing you are saying applies to all vehicles. I have seen some crazy stuff by people either not paying attention, or trying to shave a few seconds off their drive. Stay safe everyone!
@@FomeyMustashtdi if you ride like you drive, you are semi sonambulistic, focussed on the vehicle head or seeing the road 3secs ahead, not predicting or allowing for emerging vehicles from side roads, not reading road condition or traffic conditions, not factoring in whether you’ve been observed, assuming you’ve been seen, assuming other drivers will give way, not thinking about road positioning, not thinking about what gear you need to be in and not doing a whole bunch of other stuff that defines good riding road craft. So yeh, don’t *%#@!* ride the way you drive if you want to ride to a ripe old age.
My sister-in-law had a bumper sticker "If you don't like this speed you'd really not like my slow speed" and never a turn signal and always in the left lane. She was a danger and a hazard everywhere she went. I refused to ride with her or drive separately. I see so many others with this mentality. Share the road is not in their vocabulary. Thanks for making these points and all the other things that prompt a video from you.
That was my late dear mother. She likely killed a few people but never had a clue of the carnage behind her. She drove one foot on brake and one on the gas many times applying both, she never came to a smooth stop in her life is my guess you just wanted OUT if you were her passenger. She was a nurse with wild hours but my dad insisted on driving her to and from work if it was snowing or raining a lot because she was just that awful of a driver....part of the trouble was really bad eyesight which was only surgically corrected finally in her 70s I think when she had cataracts removed and new lenses installed ....I noticed an immediate improvement in her driving after that
Sadly that happens everywhere but i feel like if its possible, its our job to try and educate these people. When i got my license back in the day i used to drive very fast into corners and then when i almost didnt make the turn i learned and started going in the turn in lower speeds that i could handle, i was lucky that nothing ever happened but thats probably 1 in million chance, maybe more. All it takes is one person who doesnt pay attention.
One of the best tips I got from you was when you said “you’re probably a 3 when you think you’re a 10.” I remember going out on the twisties that day, trying to re-approach corners I thought I mastered, and trying broaden my thinking when it comes out outrageous hazards that could come from anywhere. Thanks
This is all really good advice. As a longtime rider, I learned long ago to take full responsibility for my choice to ride a motorcycle. That means to realize that others on the road are going to do silly things with their cars. So yes, like you say, use the entrance ramp or acceleration lane to merge easily into the flow of traffic. Also, New Jersey is one of those states that has traffic laws governing the use of the "passing lane". That's right, the left lane is not the fast lane, it's the passing lane. Our former governor, Chris Christie, realized that it was those self appointed speed enforcers who planted themselves in the left lane who were actually more dangerous than those who were driving above the speed limit. He raised a campaign to enforce the passing lane law. Unfortunately, this enforcement faded away after he left office. One other thing that I do is that when I am entering a traffic situation where people are entering the roadway or looking to cross lanes, I maintain a consistent speed. These other drivers are trying to gauge my speed and time their crossing. It's not the time to start changing my speed and creating an unpredictable situation. This has served me pretty well. It's a constant effort though, to shrug off the idiots and not let them get to me. Ride smart and be safe!
And some ppl really like to slow down to change lanes. I wish I was joking but here in the left coast of Canada roundabouts, merging, rain and snow are considered to be white knuckle zones. Everything Greg said is done opposite, consistently by all
Greg, thank you for speaking Truth! I am back riding after 30 years, took the beginner class got you first book. I practice in my work parking lot and now deciding on my next class. You are saving lives
Very wise! I found that one does loose valuable muscle memory needed to ride a motorcycle safely after decades out of the saddle I started riding again pacing my brother in the twisties a pace that quickly overwhelmed my muscle memory for countersteering and I found myself all the way over into oncoming traffc side.....SO SO luckly there was nothing coming or it would have been head on lights OUT. One needs to review things and PRACTICE somewhere safe no matter how good a rider one had been years ago .....yes the basics come back same as riding a bicycle as far the controls and simple balance etc but many things need to be relearned and practiced to return it all to unconscious muscle memory and absolutely life and death in fast paced twisty road riding
I agree with all the things.. and I would like to add on to it - for the blinkers I think it's much better if it's given a 4-5 seconds gap before we change lanes or turn. As it helps other drivers to understand and react to our intentions. Otherwise they might not process it properly if I show an indicator and switch immediately.
Yeah, just saw a video where the guy in front got put at fault because he turned at the same time as he signaled. The guy recording was overtaking and was already in the other lane when guy in front started to turn.
Yea, I always signal a bit early, I have noticed it takes about 2 seconds for people to react to a turn signal at all, and 99% of the time they leave more space for me. Once and a while someone will try to block the space but I just let em do it, and I pull into the gap they left behind em. I want those type of selfish, impatient asshats in front of me anyway.
Impeding the flow of traffic is a real thing. If you're doing the speed limit and others are trying to move faster, you're 100% correct, just moved outta the way. And this also works if you get pulled over. As long as you're going with the flow of the traffic and not being a "hero" trying to jump in front of everyone else, you can fight that in court and win. Edited at this point: I love the content your bring to us and not just posting max wrist bulshit. Thank you!
Amen to all your points!! Additional point to make on the last issue of being in far right lane early to take exit: If you discover that this is the case because you're in unfamiliar territory....too bad for you. Accept the fact that you need to safely get over to the right lane after the exit and take the next one to backtrack. **Special note: If this happens to you in Spokane...keep going for miles until you see an exit with an actual overpass that you know you can backtrack from or you'll be hopelessly lost!
These things apply to all vehicles, not specifically bikes. You forgot don't talk with your hands while riding a bike at 80+ especially after seeing all that trash on the road. I would also add that while scanning you should be constantly aware of what if anything is going on behind you.
THANK GOD YOU POSTED THIS! Left lane campers and idiots that try to merge into 75 mph traffic doing 45 are two of my top pet peeves. Thanks for calling them out. You also point out the importance of thinking ahead. It is so important, especially for motorcycles. Fortunately I earned a commercial pilots license years ago. thinking ahead is a must when you are doing 300mph! If you're not 100 miles ahead of the airplane, you're begging for trouble so that part came naturally to me. Another one of my pet peeves is riders that think the number of years they have been riding is a direct indicator of their riding skill. I have 2 friends that have been riding for over 20 years and thought they were expert riders. Both crashed because they grabbed the front brake in a panic situation. Neither of them has had any additional training after taking the basic course decade's ago. (But they do have loud pipes to make them safer LOL) I am 65 years young and my first bike was a 2hp minibike at age 13. I rode a little Motocross in my 20's and now ride a 1250gs and for fun in the woods a Kawasaki klx250. Even after all those years of riding I'm not kidding myself. Riding, like flying require perishable skills. With time compitance fades and bad habits develop. The weather here in Florida is miserable this time of year and parking lots are the most uncomfortable place imaginable but that won't stop me from taking refresher courses at least every 2 years. This time it will be with a training facility you are familiar with as you took the same course with the "motorman" Thank you so much for all you do to make motorcycling safer. I also want to thank you for your service to our Country! Keep up the good work and stay safe! Jeff
Greg speaks the whole truth and nothing but the truth. One of the top points is don’t ride in the car’s blind spot and if you do, don’t act all indignant by rev bombing and giving the one finger salute and waving your damn fists at drivers who honestly can’t see you. It’s OUR responsibility to keep ourselves safe while riding, not others.
Preach it! I drive truck and try to give courtesy to merging vehicles when possible b ut I certainly do not have to And a lot of times hold my speed and hold my lane. I see people almost wreck on the side of me all the time or go flying to the left of me and come around and then flip me the bird. Wish I could have a sign on the back of my truck that says what you said, "Speed up or slow down it's your job to merge" In other States the law is keep right except to pass.
Exactly. Too many people dawdle down the merge lane and expect all the traffic to brake for them. FFS speed up and slot into the traffic at their speed!
I love this guy…!!! I already think like you…!!! I wish I could share this video with EVERYONE…!!! Everything he says is right on the money…!!! I hate when they put their blinker on…. and change lanes without checking first.. Then cut you off…and they are thinking… well.. I put my Signal on…!!
I’ve been riding for 50+ years. You have many valid and important points that people often forget. I would like to add two more. When following or beside other vehicles make sure you can see the other drivers face in their mirrors. If you can’t you’re in their blind spot. Also avoid passing on the right, people aren’t expecting a faster vehicle coming up on that side and the blind spot is much larger on the right of a vehicle. Ride safe, keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down. 😊😊😊
so tired of the "no passing on the right" bs. i've only been driving for about 35 yrs, but in that time i've never had ONE single issue with passing on the right. i would say that the only way it would be a problem is if you arent paying attention.......and if thats the case, you have more issues than passing on the right.
@@1369Stiles No need to be rude. I was just pointing out facts on the situation. You ride how ever you want. I’ve been riding for 50+ years and have taught rider safety courses. The problem is not the rider paying attention but the other drivers not paying attention. They are not expecting someone to pass on the right. How many times have we seen someone miss their turn off and dive for the off-ramp from the middle lane? Don’t get me wrong, I have passed on the right but that is when a slower driver in the fast lane refuses to move over, I know I’m taking a risk. In many states it’s illegal to pass on the right. So no harm no foul. Ride safe, keep the shiney side up and the rubber side down. 😊😊
Wow those were amazing tips! The only one I would change is that the left lane isn't for speeding, it's for passing. I don't care how fast you're going, you had better be passing a car, otherwise you're holding up traffic. It is *your* responsibility to get out of the passing lane, if the guy you were passing suddenly matches your speed, that's your problem and you need to resolve it. Don't just sit there and go "oh well, nothing I can do, guess I'll force everybody to swerve two lanes over to pass me"
Most of this advice applies to car drivers as well, but unfortunately most will never see it. Drivers who apply their turn signal only AS THEY ARE TURNING are defeating the entire purpose of a turn signal (this goes for lane changes too). And “looking ahead” would certainly reduce the number of rear-ender accidents. Fixating on just the back of the vehicle in front of you is definitely a recipe for trouble. Thanks for all the info you share, just discovered your channel a few days ago and it’s a goldmine.
You have no idea how much I enjoyed watching someone who encourages taking responsibility instead of blaming others for their own shortsightedness. Well done and a big, fat LIKE!
One way I look at the lane of travel is this: In most areas, anything to the left (swap left and right for places where people drive on the left) is meant for passing. It's not so much a "fast" versus "slow" lane as if each lane has a speed limit. Technically, people should (yeah, we all know they don't lol) only be to the left of another lane to overtake a slower driver, or in cases such as giving space to police or stopped vehicles on the shoulder. I really don't care if someone is cruising in whatever lane, really, except when someone is traveling at a higher speed, and the passing lane is blocked. And I can't quite fathom why there are people who choose to tailgate in a middle or right lane when the passing lane is wide open, as if they expect people to speed up and accommodate them.
Decades ago (I’m an old fart) the state troopers in Florida enforced “keep right except to pass” on the Florida Turnpike. If you drove/rode mile after mile in the leftmost lane, you were asking to get a ticket. Now, not so much unfortunately.
@@lexboegen some years back, Louisiana tried the same, traveling two miles in the left lane without actively passing. Legally enforced or not, I just wish people could learn a bit of courtesy and road etiquette.
I agree with most of the advice, except the bit where you signal and pass cars on their right. My thought is that all motorists rely on a shared set of driving rules. If everyone passes on the left, stops at stop signs, red lights, etc, then riding at high speed in traffic can be predictable and relatively safe. Break the rules and a pleasant ride can turn into a series of confusing challenges to driving defensively. Drive safe, be predictable and treat other drivers/riders like they members of your family.
sooo, if im driving in the left lane and come up to a left lane camper.......i guess i just sit behind them for the rest of the trip? i mean, according to your logic, i cant pass on the right, so im just stuck. i bring this up because its stupid. i drive multiple lane highways every day, and i pass on whatever side has the clear lane in it........and there is NOTHING wrong or dangerous about it. i've been driving this way for more than 30 yrs, and NEVER had one incident or even close call because i passed on the right.
@@1369Stiles As I said I think this is illegal in most countries, so you risk getting a ticket. Honking your horn to get the left lane camper to move over is legal though. But as I said, I do not know how this is in the US. (Though I think the rule is the same, maybe less enforced though. Al least I remember seeing many more left lane campers when I have been in the US. Also multiple lanes are more common.)
@@1369Stiles Since the rule is that it is illegal to pass on the right doing so makes it dangerous. It is an unexpected behavior. A thing about rules is that it is expected that most people obey them. If the rule where you live is different, the expectations will also be different.
@@hallvardpaulsen lmao.....seriously? the "rule" as well is that you dont go over the speed limit......or camp out in the left lane.....or roll through a stop sign......or a hundred other things that WE ALL IGNORE. grow the fuck up. also, if someone passing on the right "surprises" you, you dont need to be on the fucking road. YOU are the dangerous one, not the person doing a simple lane change
good advice, Greg! "Look ahead and always have an escape route". Especially in SoCal, Texas, and St Louis, MO. People speed to a stop light/stop sign! "You know you're in Texas when you're 20 mph over the limit and drivers pass you like you're standing still!" "You know you're in St Louis when you gotta dodge potholes as big as your bike and Red lights mean to go". "You know you're in SoCal when drivers collide with you intentionally". Drivers tend to be assholes toward us! My fellow bikers, take heed. Greg knows what he is talking about!
Great video, thanks for the info! A couple things to add. Don't tailgate, leave some space between you and the car in front of you. You never know when somebody's going to have to brake really fast, or there might be something in the road that you don't want to drive over, and I'm from Chicago we have tons of pot holes especially early in the riding season that you need to avoid. The second thing, I'm not sure if it applies to everywhere, but definitely in the whole Chicago land Northern Illinois area, car drivers love love love to drive way over the speed limit. I'm talking people like to do close to 100 miles an hour. One thing I always try and remind myself to do is keep an eye on what's going on behind me, check those mirrors every 15-20 seconds or so see what's going on behind you.
Really appreciating your brutal honestly MotoJitsu and your videos. I am in my 50s and booked for learners motorcycle licence. Although many aspects your talk about is directly related to riders it can also be applied to drivers. A lot of commonsense and awareness and constant alertness. People are so quick to blame others on the road when they also need to consider their actions as well. However there certainly are lots of idiots on the road!
The left lane is for passing only. I see so many unsafe passes and tons of tailgating because someone is in the left lane matching speed with the vehicle to their right.
Like fishing cast your view out far and reel your vision back close,also when you look far away things will appear to slow down allowing you to react better.
I just now stumbled across this channel and realized that your cruising the roadways of San Diego. Used to live there in the 80's and still have an aunt in IB. Brought back memories when riding around Balboa Park because my Jr. High school was right next to the zoo on Park Ave. Rode my Street Glide down there in '17 from Sacramento via highway 395. Totally awesome ride.
I agree with all of these! In Oregon where I live a driver by law must assist you getting on the highway/freeway. However that doesn't mean they are going to and to assume so is stupid. I consider myself as a fighter pilot in enemy territory. I have your book and I do my basic drills. Million thanks.
@@indianftrtard7899it is not absurd. It is the same in Canada where neither vehicle in a merge zone has the right of way. so be courteous and speed up or slow down depending upon your position relative to the other vehicle. OR where possible, if you are not merging then move out of the lane altogether.
In Germany it's illegal to pass cars on the right but the flip side is the drivers know to be in the right most lane according to their speed. That would be great if American drivers were this courteous, the traffic flow would be so much smoother and safer.
Great advice. Same advice could be given to car drivers. I learned two things even before riding a motorcycle: 1. Learn what the accelerating lane is for. 2. If you think even for a moment whether it's time to switch lanes, because you don't have a hall pass for the left lane - that means that you should have been in the right lane HOURS AGO. And a good driver always knows who is in front of them and who is behind,. Even if a red Honda is in my blindspot, I know that I passed a red Honda and I know they are around somewhere, even if they don't show in the mirror.
Thanks, interesting stuff as usual... One more: you should position the bike within your line in a way to give yourself the best view ahead (between the left, middle and right side of your line). It is important in heavy traffic where the distance between vehicles in reduced. This will give you more time to see eventual obsticals on the road. In addition, you will be better positioned in case you need an escape path ahead of you.
it's cool how the 5 things you've said are basically how to drive :D not only ride! EDIT: yes in EU you have to drive on right AWAYS even if in the road has 3 or 4 lanes. You always have to be on the rightest most lane unless your overtaking.
in europe you also have to let people merge onto the motorway, obstructing mergers is an offence the speed limit also is the speed limit, you might be able to go faster but you have absolutely no right to
Driving from Fresno to Sacramento most of it has only 2 lanes in each direction and both lanes are nearly bumper-to-bumper every day of the week all day. The right lane has most of the big trucks. Get stuck behind a truck and you'll be there 30 miles before you can pass.
#1on your video. I have come across so many drivers who think the on ramp to the expressway is in a school zone for some reason 🤬 Thanks for the info it confirmed i pretty much do these things almost 100% of the time. I am still human and have to remember every time i ride to practice these items.
Fully agree with your observations. Sthg additional I do when I'm on left of a 3 bands highway if there is many traffic and I pass a car , I try to see with the mirror of the car if the driver notice me just in case he suddenly decided to swerve for passing another one. And I never stay behind a car with black smoked window on the rear because I loose visibility , I like to scan all around me. You're helping a lot of riders thanks to your videos.
I have an addition to the blinkers. I Agree to use them always when changing lanes, BUT always turn on the blinkers in good time. Let the blinker light up one or two times before making the lane change. Give people a chance to see, react and adapt to the new situation.
@3:40, I'd say that's risky. People often change their minds about taking an exit at the last second. He easily could have cut back to the left and left you with no good out.
You’re preaching to the choir. Those rules are spot on and people should abide by them always. I commute mostly on the freeway and have to deal with idiots every commute
Hey mate you said don't be in someone's blind spot which I totally agree with you but what you forgot to mention is where the blind spot is for cars. When you're riding a bike you have like 3 spots in your lane you can use. Left side, middle and right side. Please tell all your subscribers which of these 3 would be The Blind Spot. Cheers mate you always give valuable info.
The ‘fast lane’ in the California vehicle code is designated for passing. If you are not passing the cars to the right, you are breaking the law. General rule is if you aren’t passing vehicles in the lane to the right, you can be in that lane.
It's pretty well posted all over the state as well. "Slower traffic keep right." You can also think of it as anyone who is getting passed on their right is a criminal.
I like he’s preaching on his high horse (or motorcycle as it may be) to not do this, that and the other while going 85 miles an hour in a 65 and weaving in and out of traffic…
As the group grows, space, time and life shrink. Starting with my buddy Andy who claims that he rides the speed limit. That is he goes 60 everywhere and anywhere
I wish a lot of people would learn those lessons and use them no matter what they are driving, especially bikes. I'm a trucker as well as a fellow rider so I see it all the time.
As a professional driver you take your driving seriously. It must be terribly frustrating to see so many users of the road who are oblivious to Traffic Regulations or even common sense, or who choose to flaunt the rules at the risk of the safety of others. There really should be better Drivers Ed, and mandatory periodic re-testing for those who get traffic tickets or have caused a collision.
Hey different point of view here: Your #2 Riding in the blind spot - I would argue that if you're approaching a car while you're in the right side of the lane, the car is more likely to see you (headlight) in their side mirror as opposed to being over in the left side of the lane. Also, you can't pass a vehicle and avoid the blind spot. No matter where you are in the lane, you must pass through it.
Well said . Although I am used to driving on th opposite side of the road (! in the UK ) , your pointers are relevant , 100% . But if you come over here and drive , do not overtake any vehicle on their 'slow ' side , or in other words undertake . The only time you are allowed to undertake , and even in this situation with great caution , is in very slow multi lane traffic ; what we call a traffic jam . My pet hate with driving on our motorways . that is multi lane (usually 3 lanes ) one direction traffic with usually 70mph limits , you will constantly find people driving in the middle lane . They will not budge into the 'slower' , lefthand , lane where everyone is meant to drive if it is available to use . I have seen this even at night with no other vehicles , just mine and their's , in sight . Remember , do not undertake as our nice police person will book you , not them .... crazy ? I agree , but Brits do not expect anyone undertaking and probably don't have a passenger side 'door' or wing mirror . If they have that mirror they probably don't use it ! Beware Peps . I drive bikes and cars , so I check what is behind as much as what is ahead and I am still alive and kicking , well as a result ! ATB
All good advice one thing is clover leafs stay on the inside IV hit diesel fuel and gone down on my duelsport in sandiego my brother did the same on his harley truckers sometimes forget to put they're fuel caps on and some spills out on tight corners truck n trailer combination is around 70f so the cab is on the outside of the clover leaf dumping fuel up there inside is your best bet but ya keep a good eye on what's coming up behind you All so be safe ride hard
Literally all of these apply to driving in general and I wish more people knew this stuff. As a rider and professional truck driver, this is all mandatory knowledge.
Thank you for mentioning to get out of the left lane. As a cage driver and motorcyclist for 40+ yrs, motorcyclists need to realize that you are not always the fastest thing on the road. The left lane is intended for passing, not cruising.
Great channel! Good advises. I know this is an older video, but living in Europe I wanted to ask, are you allowed to pass/overtake from the right on a highway? It is considered dangerous here and the one should not count on someone comming from their right.
That’s great 5 out of 5. I get a 100%. That I don’t do, that is. In fact, even when I go “Faster” than most vehicles, as soon as I pass a slower car in the “slow” lane I go back to the right lane. There is always that moron that drives 100 mph on the left and wants you to move because that lane is for fast traffic!! WRONG!! The “Fast” lane is for passing and then you must move to the right. In some states, and counties, they enforce the left lane as passing lane. You might get a ticket for driving in the passing lane. Great video Sensei!
when merging onto the highway atleast in my state every merge lane has a yield sign so if you’re coming on and you’re even with a car in the right lane IMO it’s better for everyone involved if you just slow down and tuck in behind it rather than accelerating racing to the end of the merge lane and cutting them off.
Totally agree! Especially about the people going slow in the passing lane! Or there usually going right with the car next to them same speed blocking the whole road. They do it purpose most of time.. you can tell that when you finally go around them in the wrong lane to pass and they'll speed up!? Or wanna race? Wtf
Official NZ advice to getting on a motorway is 'merge like a zip". In practice many motorists get onto the motorway with the motto "don't look, don't adjust speed, all forward and trust in the Lord"! Whenever I approach an intersection and I'm with the main traffic I move over a lane and let them in!
I just got off the highway in Oklahoma it's about 1 a.m. I'm very tired and I think I just did three or four things you mentioned and I've been writing for 30 plus years practice my friend and be careful
Absolutely would agree with the addition of paying close attention to "following time & space" to this list. In fact, I would probably place it at number 1. Excellent note on merging, though. It is a common misconception that it is the other folks' duty to let you in when you're entering the highway. It is not. It is your duty to merge with the flow of traffic. If someone moves over or slows to let you in, kudos to them. They are a kind, considerate, cooperative driver, but it is not required by law. Lastly, I would certainly add to ride as little as possible with only one hand on the bars, and to never do so in traffic, and certainly not when passing. Holy moly.
And everything you said applies to everyone, regardless of how many wheels your vehicle has. It’s a good thing that I’m not in charge of the world or I would set fire to the driver’s license of everyone who drives to the end of an acceleration lane and stops, waiting until it’s clear to the horizon before they pull out. Nothing lights me up more than that.
In the UK it is stated in the Highway Code, that you should drive in the inside lane, unless you are overtaking. So, you pull to an outside lane, overtake and then move Back into the inside lane. Yet all the time we see people in the centre lane poodling along, annoying other derivers and potentially causing hazards. We even see people in the fast outside lane just poodling along. Sometimes the traffic police will stop them and "educate them" but not enough times to be honest. Some drivers mistakenly believe the inside lane is for up to 50mph, the middle lane 60mph and outside lane for 70mph or thereabouts.
These are the best tips for keeping safe on the road. If everyone practiced these lessons all the time everyone on the road would be a lot safer, but humans will be humans!
5 things that must be done before riding on the highway. Purchase a motorcycle before getting a motorcycle license endorsement. Do not take a motorcycle safety course. Do not read the DMV manual for taking the test. Practice your Moto GP skills downtown. Always ride with slick tires for a better grip.
Hmm, I can tell these were some wise advices and experience-based thoughts here. I hope many riders, especially the starting-fresh ones shall listen and act accordingly, as it may save their health a/o lives. Thumbs up, man.
Went from an instructional video to a well needed rant. Can't stand slow drivers in the fast lane. Sometimes you have 2 drivers going the same speed, side by side, blocking both lanes
Absolutely, the left lane is for passing. Arkansas has a law for impeding traffic, and can and will pull you over for going too slow in the passing lane.
Yes, Greg... all good points that have allowed me to survive since 1969 as a MC and auto driver... without an accident. But I would add three more rules for your personal longevity: 1.) keep both hands on the handlebars 2.) maybe don't hit 90 mph passing autos on the freeway 3.) don't make videos on your MC ;-) enjoy your ride!
Showed this vid to my 15yr old who just got her Ls(car) in australia,its relative to bikes,cars,all road users, good stuff man,thanks👍(except had to tell her..leftside leffttside haha)
All really relatable advice and I am in the UK. Especially showing your intentions with indicators (blinkers) and the 3 lane thing......you're either overtaking or you're not overtaking, please don't sit in middle lane! :) Of course I have done all these "don't do" points so I am guilty but I think awareness helps. Cheers and great content as always.
@@benquilter113 not sure what you mean. i speaking specifically about 3 lane highways.......in the us. i dont have experience with driving in other countries; if thats relevant to your comment. so let me explain a little more. i commute to work......38 miles one way. i drive that distance on three major highways; lanes vary from two to four. when im driving on the 3 or 4 lane roads, i try to stick to the center lanes......though i will use whatever lanes gets me through traffic that im going faster than. i do this to stay out of the left lane as much as possible, and to stay out of the right lane, because i know that there is a strong chance that cars will be trying to come onto the highway, and i dont want to have to change my own driving to accommodate them. there are some left lane merging points along this drive as well. now im fully.....and painfully.....aware that only about 50% of the drivers on the road with me think the same way; this is why im constantly having to get around what i call "cluster fucks".....groups of cars, blocking every lane, and all going the same speed. so im aware that my actions are an incredibly small part of the whole, but i do it anyway, because i understand that im not alone on the road.
I love your videos and I love that your voice is still easy to understand even when you're hitting over 100mph and the video quality is 4k, I need to know what equipment you are using please.
I have a #6 that relates to your #1 -- When you are the one on the highway and you see a car or two or three on the on ramp, then move over to the left if it's possible. Granted, it is their responsibility to speed up and merge, but you can go ahead and make it easier for them. If you sit in the right lane just because you have a "right" to, you make it more difficult for the poor guy trying to get out onto the highway. And...he's going a lot going on, looking behind him, trying to match the cars he sees...he might not see you to his left.
One thing that's kept me alive all these years: Assume the other drivers don't see you, and if they do, they hate motorcycles and will try to run you over. So when merging, make your own space - nobody will make space for you. And so on...
While on the list of things, perhaps add not driving 85+ in a 65 and passing everything in sight. It makes sense to get by a car when you need to pass, but driving way faster than normal traffic has its own risks. Plus, you are looking at increased stopping distance, time, and injury when you do go down.
I would add that the left lane is actually the passing lane, not the fast lane. If you are not passing, then get out of it. I also always keep an eye on the traffic behind me so I know if someone is trying to overtake me, and if I need to make an emergency lane change, I already know if the spot is open by knowing what is going on behind.
One point of clarity: when driving in some jurisdictions MERGE means that both vehicles legally have to accommodate for the other, ie the highway traveller must adjust speed or lane of travel to allow the onramp traveller to enter. Of course on a motorcycle we have to assume that everyone is out there trying to kill us in one way or another anyway. It's not hard to speed up and find an open space.
Spot on. I notice you did a lot of undertaking. That's illegal in the UK, because most people only generally check their offside mirrors. Its also its an offence to hog the middle lane of a three lane motorway. They are members of CLOC = Centre Lane Owner's Club.
I’m genuinely curious. How is the middle lane being hogged in this case? If a car can ride the middle lane, why can’t the bike? Are they expected to ride side by side with a car? And how would you ride it in a 3 lane highway in the UK?
@@cleopatrajones7096 you drive on the outer most lane and pass on the inner lane on a six lane motorway the outer most lanes are pretty much reserved for lorries
The “Zipper” concept, required by State law, for merging traffic has successfully been effective for decades in California. Lower stress, fewer accidents. As they say, planning a simple merging remains being in a “Happy Place”.
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Everything you just said applies to cars too. So many accidents can be avoided by just simply having situational awareness. I ride my bike the same way I drive my car. I don't sit in pockets of slow moving traffic. Not sitting in blind spots. Space is king. Find a good, wide open spot in the traffic pattern and stay there in the right most possible lane unless passing or if someone is broke down on the side of the road. You always teach a valuable lesson. Thank you!
Absolutely! I drove a delivery truck for many years, and everything thing you are saying applies to all vehicles. I have seen some crazy stuff by people either not paying attention, or trying to shave a few seconds off their drive. Stay safe everyone!
Don’t you mean you drive your car like you ride your bike?
@@robsalvv5853 Lol! Good one.😮
@@FomeyMustashtdi if you ride like you drive, you are semi sonambulistic, focussed on the vehicle head or seeing the road 3secs ahead, not predicting or allowing for emerging vehicles from side roads, not reading road condition or traffic conditions, not factoring in whether you’ve been observed, assuming you’ve been seen, assuming other drivers will give way, not thinking about road positioning, not thinking about what gear you need to be in and not doing a whole bunch of other stuff that defines good riding road craft. So yeh, don’t *%#@!* ride the way you drive if you want to ride to a ripe old age.
@@robsalvv5853 I was a truck driver and I do ride the way I drive. I drive like I am in a truck, defensive. I ride like I am in a truck, defensive.
My sister-in-law had a bumper sticker "If you don't like this speed you'd really not like my slow speed" and never a turn signal and always in the left lane. She was a danger and a hazard everywhere she went. I refused to ride with her or drive separately. I see so many others with this mentality. Share the road is not in their vocabulary.
Thanks for making these points and all the other things that prompt a video from you.
That was my late dear mother. She likely killed a few people but never had a clue of the carnage behind her. She drove one foot on brake and one on the gas many times applying both, she never came to a smooth stop in her life is my guess you just wanted OUT if you were her passenger. She was a nurse with wild hours but my dad insisted on driving her to and from work if it was snowing or raining a lot because she was just that awful of a driver....part of the trouble was really bad eyesight which was only surgically corrected finally in her 70s I think when she had cataracts removed and new lenses installed ....I noticed an immediate improvement in her driving after that
Sadly that happens everywhere but i feel like if its possible, its our job to try and educate these people. When i got my license back in the day i used to drive very fast into corners and then when i almost didnt make the turn i learned and started going in the turn in lower speeds that i could handle, i was lucky that nothing ever happened but thats probably 1 in million chance, maybe more. All it takes is one person who doesnt pay attention.
Great bumper sticker: Camp in the mountains, not the passing lane!
Do you mean lane spitting and motorcycle in a blind gets hit it’s the motorcycle’s fault 🤔
One of the best tips I got from you was when you said “you’re probably a 3 when you think you’re a 10.” I remember going out on the twisties that day, trying to re-approach corners I thought I mastered, and trying broaden my thinking when it comes out outrageous hazards that could come from anywhere. Thanks
I call it the “pass lane”, not the “fast lane”. If you’re not passing, you shouldn’t be in the left lane. Period.
This is all really good advice. As a longtime rider, I learned long ago to take full responsibility for my choice to ride a motorcycle. That means to realize that others on the road are going to do silly things with their cars. So yes, like you say, use the entrance ramp or acceleration lane to merge easily into the flow of traffic. Also, New Jersey is one of those states that has traffic laws governing the use of the "passing lane". That's right, the left lane is not the fast lane, it's the passing lane. Our former governor, Chris Christie, realized that it was those self appointed speed enforcers who planted themselves in the left lane who were actually more dangerous than those who were driving above the speed limit. He raised a campaign to enforce the passing lane law. Unfortunately, this enforcement faded away after he left office. One other thing that I do is that when I am entering a traffic situation where people are entering the roadway or looking to cross lanes, I maintain a consistent speed. These other drivers are trying to gauge my speed and time their crossing. It's not the time to start changing my speed and creating an unpredictable situation. This has served me pretty well. It's a constant effort though, to shrug off the idiots and not let them get to me. Ride smart and be safe!
And some ppl really like to slow down to change lanes. I wish I was joking but here in the left coast of Canada roundabouts, merging, rain and snow are considered to be white knuckle zones. Everything Greg said is done opposite, consistently by all
Greg, thank you for speaking Truth! I am back riding after 30 years, took the beginner class got you first book. I practice in my work parking lot and now deciding on my next class. You are saving lives
Very wise! I found that one does loose valuable muscle memory needed to ride a motorcycle safely after decades out of the saddle I started riding again pacing my brother in the twisties a pace that quickly overwhelmed my muscle memory for countersteering and I found myself all the way over into oncoming traffc side.....SO SO luckly there was nothing coming or it would have been head on lights OUT. One needs to review things and PRACTICE somewhere safe no matter how good a rider one had been years ago .....yes the basics come back same as riding a bicycle as far the controls and simple balance etc but many things need to be relearned and practiced to return it all to unconscious muscle memory and absolutely life and death in fast paced twisty road riding
These are the top 5 thing to never do for anyone driving! Not just motorcycles !
Great video ..
I agree with all the things.. and I would like to add on to it - for the blinkers I think it's much better if it's given a 4-5 seconds gap before we change lanes or turn. As it helps other drivers to understand and react to our intentions. Otherwise they might not process it properly if I show an indicator and switch immediately.
Yeah, just saw a video where the guy in front got put at fault because he turned at the same time as he signaled. The guy recording was overtaking and was already in the other lane when guy in front started to turn.
Yea, I always signal a bit early, I have noticed it takes about 2 seconds for people to react to a turn signal at all, and 99% of the time they leave more space for me. Once and a while someone will try to block the space but I just let em do it, and I pull into the gap they left behind em. I want those type of selfish, impatient asshats in front of me anyway.
Impeding the flow of traffic is a real thing. If you're doing the speed limit and others are trying to move faster, you're 100% correct, just moved outta the way. And this also works if you get pulled over. As long as you're going with the flow of the traffic and not being a "hero" trying to jump in front of everyone else, you can fight that in court and win. Edited at this point: I love the content your bring to us and not just posting max wrist bulshit. Thank you!
Love this video you are saying what cars need to know as well no differnce than if you are in a car they all need to hear this, LOVE IT!!!!!!
Amen to all your points!! Additional point to make on the last issue of being in far right lane early to take exit: If you discover that this is the case because you're in unfamiliar territory....too bad for you. Accept the fact that you need to safely get over to the right lane after the exit and take the next one to backtrack. **Special note: If this happens to you in Spokane...keep going for miles until you see an exit with an actual overpass that you know you can backtrack from or you'll be hopelessly lost!
These things apply to all vehicles, not specifically bikes. You forgot don't talk with your hands while riding a bike at 80+ especially after seeing all that trash on the road. I would also add that while scanning you should be constantly aware of what if anything is going on behind you.
THANK GOD YOU POSTED THIS!
Left lane campers and idiots that try to merge into 75 mph traffic doing 45 are two of my top pet peeves. Thanks for calling them out.
You also point out the importance of thinking ahead. It is so important, especially for motorcycles. Fortunately I earned a commercial pilots license years ago. thinking ahead is a must when you are doing 300mph! If you're not 100 miles ahead of the airplane, you're begging for trouble so that part came naturally to me.
Another one of my pet peeves is riders that think the number of years they have been riding is a direct indicator of their riding skill. I have 2 friends that have been riding for over 20 years and thought they were expert riders. Both crashed because they grabbed the front brake in a panic situation. Neither of them has had any additional training after taking the basic course decade's ago. (But they do have loud pipes to make them safer LOL)
I am 65 years young and my first bike was a 2hp minibike at age 13. I rode a little Motocross in my 20's and now ride a 1250gs and for fun in the woods a Kawasaki klx250. Even after all those years of riding I'm not kidding myself. Riding, like flying require perishable skills. With time compitance fades and bad habits develop. The weather here in Florida is miserable this time of year and parking lots are the most uncomfortable place imaginable but that won't stop me from taking refresher courses at least every 2 years. This time it will be with a training facility you are familiar with as you took the same course with the "motorman"
Thank you so much for all you do to make motorcycling safer. I also want to thank you for your service to our Country!
Keep up the good work and stay safe!
Jeff
Greg speaks the whole truth and nothing but the truth. One of the top points is don’t ride in the car’s blind spot and if you do, don’t act all indignant by rev bombing and giving the one finger salute and waving your damn fists at drivers who honestly can’t see you. It’s OUR responsibility to keep ourselves safe while riding, not others.
Preach it! I drive truck and try to give courtesy to merging vehicles when possible b
ut I certainly do not have to And a lot of times hold my speed and hold my lane. I see people almost wreck on the side of me all the time or go flying to the left of me and come around and then flip me the bird. Wish I could have a sign on the back of my truck that says what you said, "Speed up or slow down it's your job to merge"
In other States the law is keep right except to pass.
This!
Exactly. Too many people dawdle down the merge lane and expect all the traffic to brake for them. FFS speed up and slot into the traffic at their speed!
Amen
I love this guy…!!!
I already think like you…!!!
I wish I could share this video with EVERYONE…!!!
Everything he says is right on the money…!!!
I hate when they put their blinker on…. and change lanes without checking first.. Then cut you off…and they are thinking… well.. I put my Signal on…!!
I’ve been riding for 50+ years. You have many valid and important points that people often forget. I would like to add two more. When following or beside other vehicles make sure you can see the other drivers face in their mirrors. If you can’t you’re in their blind spot. Also avoid passing on the right, people aren’t expecting a faster vehicle coming up on that side and the blind spot is much larger on the right of a vehicle. Ride safe, keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down. 😊😊😊
so tired of the "no passing on the right" bs. i've only been driving for about 35 yrs, but in that time i've never had ONE single issue with passing on the right. i would say that the only way it would be a problem is if you arent paying attention.......and if thats the case, you have more issues than passing on the right.
@@1369Stiles No need to be rude. I was just pointing out facts on the situation. You ride how ever you want. I’ve been riding for 50+ years and have taught rider safety courses. The problem is not the rider paying attention but the other drivers not paying attention. They are not expecting someone to pass on the right. How many times have we seen someone miss their turn off and dive for the off-ramp from the middle lane? Don’t get me wrong, I have passed on the right but that is when a slower driver in the fast lane refuses to move over, I know I’m taking a risk. In many states it’s illegal to pass on the right. So no harm no foul. Ride safe, keep the shiney side up and the rubber side down. 😊😊
Wow those were amazing tips!
The only one I would change is that the left lane isn't for speeding, it's for passing. I don't care how fast you're going, you had better be passing a car, otherwise you're holding up traffic. It is *your* responsibility to get out of the passing lane, if the guy you were passing suddenly matches your speed, that's your problem and you need to resolve it. Don't just sit there and go "oh well, nothing I can do, guess I'll force everybody to swerve two lanes over to pass me"
Most of this advice applies to car drivers as well, but unfortunately most will never see it. Drivers who apply their turn signal only AS THEY ARE TURNING are defeating the entire purpose of a turn signal (this goes for lane changes too). And “looking ahead” would certainly reduce the number of rear-ender accidents. Fixating on just the back of the vehicle in front of you is definitely a recipe for trouble. Thanks for all the info you share, just discovered your channel a few days ago and it’s a goldmine.
You have no idea how much I enjoyed watching someone who encourages taking responsibility instead of blaming others for their own shortsightedness. Well done and a big, fat LIKE!
One way I look at the lane of travel is this: In most areas, anything to the left (swap left and right for places where people drive on the left) is meant for passing. It's not so much a "fast" versus "slow" lane as if each lane has a speed limit. Technically, people should (yeah, we all know they don't lol) only be to the left of another lane to overtake a slower driver, or in cases such as giving space to police or stopped vehicles on the shoulder. I really don't care if someone is cruising in whatever lane, really, except when someone is traveling at a higher speed, and the passing lane is blocked. And I can't quite fathom why there are people who choose to tailgate in a middle or right lane when the passing lane is wide open, as if they expect people to speed up and accommodate them.
Decades ago (I’m an old fart) the state troopers in Florida enforced “keep right except to pass” on the Florida Turnpike. If you drove/rode mile after mile in the leftmost lane, you were asking to get a ticket. Now, not so much unfortunately.
@@lexboegen some years back, Louisiana tried the same, traveling two miles in the left lane without actively passing.
Legally enforced or not, I just wish people could learn a bit of courtesy and road etiquette.
I agree with most of the advice, except the bit where you signal and pass cars on their right. My thought is that all motorists rely on a shared set of driving rules. If everyone passes on the left, stops at stop signs, red lights, etc, then riding at high speed in traffic can be predictable and relatively safe. Break the rules and a pleasant ride can turn into a series of confusing challenges to driving defensively. Drive safe, be predictable and treat other drivers/riders like they members of your family.
In fact I think passing on the right is illegal in most countries.. Maybe not in the US?
sooo, if im driving in the left lane and come up to a left lane camper.......i guess i just sit behind them for the rest of the trip? i mean, according to your logic, i cant pass on the right, so im just stuck.
i bring this up because its stupid. i drive multiple lane highways every day, and i pass on whatever side has the clear lane in it........and there is NOTHING wrong or dangerous about it. i've been driving this way for more than 30 yrs, and NEVER had one incident or even close call because i passed on the right.
@@1369Stiles As I said I think this is illegal in most countries, so you risk getting a ticket.
Honking your horn to get the left lane camper to move over is legal though.
But as I said, I do not know how this is in the US. (Though I think the rule is the same, maybe less enforced though. Al least I remember seeing many more left lane campers when I have been in the US. Also multiple lanes are more common.)
@@1369Stiles Since the rule is that it is illegal to pass on the right doing so makes it dangerous. It is an unexpected behavior.
A thing about rules is that it is expected that most people obey them.
If the rule where you live is different, the expectations will also be different.
@@hallvardpaulsen lmao.....seriously? the "rule" as well is that you dont go over the speed limit......or camp out in the left lane.....or roll through a stop sign......or a hundred other things that WE ALL IGNORE.
grow the fuck up.
also, if someone passing on the right "surprises" you, you dont need to be on the fucking road. YOU are the dangerous one, not the person doing a simple lane change
All great advice that can easily be forgotten once you think you know it all. Stick with the basics and stay safe. Excellent video.
finally a man is telling you about REAL freeway safety . . . this is even good for cars . . . thanks!
good advice, Greg! "Look ahead and always have an escape route". Especially in SoCal, Texas, and St Louis, MO. People speed to a stop light/stop sign!
"You know you're in Texas when you're 20 mph over the limit and drivers pass you like you're standing still!"
"You know you're in St Louis when you gotta dodge potholes as big as your bike and Red lights mean to go".
"You know you're in SoCal when drivers collide with you intentionally". Drivers tend to be assholes toward us!
My fellow bikers, take heed. Greg knows what he is talking about!
Great video, thanks for the info! A couple things to add. Don't tailgate, leave some space between you and the car in front of you. You never know when somebody's going to have to brake really fast, or there might be something in the road that you don't want to drive over, and I'm from Chicago we have tons of pot holes especially early in the riding season that you need to avoid. The second thing, I'm not sure if it applies to everywhere, but definitely in the whole Chicago land Northern Illinois area, car drivers love love love to drive way over the speed limit. I'm talking people like to do close to 100 miles an hour. One thing I always try and remind myself to do is keep an eye on what's going on behind me, check those mirrors every 15-20 seconds or so see what's going on behind you.
welcome!
instagram.com/motojitsuclub/
Really appreciating your brutal honestly MotoJitsu and your videos. I am in my 50s and booked for learners motorcycle licence. Although many aspects your talk about is directly related to riders it can also be applied to drivers. A lot of commonsense and awareness and constant alertness. People are so quick to blame others on the road when they also need to consider their actions as well. However there certainly are lots of idiots on the road!
As a new rider and never been on the highway. I found your video very informative. Thank you.
One of the best nuggets you mention, always know where your escape route is. Always, always...always.
Good tips! I'd like to add one. Always head check. Never assume there are no cars when switching lanes.
The left lane is for passing only.
I see so many unsafe passes and tons of tailgating because someone is in the left lane matching speed with the vehicle to their right.
Like fishing cast your view out far and reel your vision back close,also when you look far away things will appear to slow down allowing you to react better.
Weather driving a car or a bike, great advice!
Thank you!!!! So many people don't seem to understand these rules! Great job explaining!
Thanks for sharing your experience and expertise with the rest of us. I'm certain your instruction has kept many riders out of bad situations. 👋
Sure has!
sure enough!!
This channel is a great example of someone trying to bring up others to their level!
I just now stumbled across this channel and realized that your cruising the roadways of San Diego.
Used to live there in the 80's and still have an aunt in IB.
Brought back memories when riding around Balboa Park because my Jr. High school was right next to the zoo on Park Ave.
Rode my Street Glide down there in '17 from Sacramento via highway 395.
Totally awesome ride.
I agree with all of these! In Oregon where I live a driver by law must assist you getting on the highway/freeway. However that doesn't mean they are going to and to assume so is stupid. I consider myself as a fighter pilot in enemy territory.
I have your book and I do my basic drills. Million thanks.
Thats fn absurd and must create many dangerous situations
@@indianftrtard7899it is not absurd. It is the same in Canada where neither vehicle in a merge zone has the right of way. so be courteous and speed up or slow down depending upon your position relative to the other vehicle. OR where possible, if you are not merging then move out of the lane altogether.
In Germany it's illegal to pass cars on the right but the flip side is the drivers know to be in the right most lane according to their speed. That would be great if American drivers were this courteous, the traffic flow would be so much smoother and safer.
It’s rare to find a courteous American driver 😂
Great advice. Same advice could be given to car drivers. I learned two things even before riding a motorcycle:
1. Learn what the accelerating lane is for.
2. If you think even for a moment whether it's time to switch lanes, because you don't have a hall pass for the left lane - that means that you should have been in the right lane HOURS AGO.
And a good driver always knows who is in front of them and who is behind,. Even if a red Honda is in my blindspot, I know that I passed a red Honda and I know they are around somewhere, even if they don't show in the mirror.
just came across this vid. Very true to all the above. DMV across the nation should have this on the written AND MOST CERTAINLY ON THE ROAD TEST.
Thanks, interesting stuff as usual... One more: you should position the bike within your line in a way to give yourself the best view ahead (between the left, middle and right side of your line). It is important in heavy traffic where the distance between vehicles in reduced. This will give you more time to see eventual obsticals on the road. In addition, you will be better positioned in case you need an escape path ahead of you.
it's cool how the 5 things you've said are basically how to drive :D not only ride!
EDIT: yes in EU you have to drive on right AWAYS even if in the road has 3 or 4 lanes. You always have to be on the rightest most lane unless your overtaking.
in europe you also have to let people merge onto the motorway, obstructing mergers is an offence
the speed limit also is the speed limit, you might be able to go faster but you have absolutely no right to
Driving from Fresno to Sacramento most of it has only 2 lanes in each direction and both lanes are nearly bumper-to-bumper every day of the week all day. The right lane has most of the big trucks. Get stuck behind a truck and you'll be there 30 miles before you can pass.
#1on your video. I have come across so many drivers who think the on ramp to the expressway is in a school zone for some reason 🤬
Thanks for the info it confirmed i pretty much do these things almost 100% of the time. I am still human and have to remember every time i ride to practice these items.
Fully agree with your observations. Sthg additional I do when I'm on left of a 3 bands highway if there is many traffic and I pass a car , I try to see with the mirror of the car if the driver notice me just in case he suddenly decided to swerve for passing another one. And I never stay behind a car with black smoked window on the rear because I loose visibility , I like to scan all around me. You're helping a lot of riders thanks to your videos.
!! didnt think about tint always assumed it was lighter on inside. but also never assume lol! thanks smart guy
If you already have your license and drive regularly, you should already know all of this. This is a great video for learners.
I have an addition to the blinkers. I Agree to use them always when changing lanes, BUT always turn on the blinkers in good time. Let the blinker light up one or two times before making the lane change. Give people a chance to see, react and adapt to the new situation.
@3:40, I'd say that's risky. People often change their minds about taking an exit at the last second. He easily could have cut back to the left and left you with no good out.
This something i expect everytime. ive seen it so often people will swerve hard rather be taken off on the wrong exit.
You’re preaching to the choir. Those rules are spot on and people should abide by them always.
I commute mostly on the freeway and have to deal with idiots every commute
Hey mate you said don't be in someone's blind spot which I totally agree with you but what you forgot to mention is where the blind spot is for cars. When you're riding a bike you have like 3 spots in your lane you can use. Left side, middle and right side. Please tell all your subscribers which of these 3 would be The Blind Spot. Cheers mate you always give valuable info.
The ‘fast lane’ in the California vehicle code is designated for passing. If you are not passing the cars to the right, you are breaking the law.
General rule is if you aren’t passing vehicles in the lane to the right, you can be in that lane.
It's pretty well posted all over the state as well. "Slower traffic keep right." You can also think of it as anyone who is getting passed on their right is a criminal.
I like he’s preaching on his high horse (or motorcycle as it may be) to not do this, that and the other while going 85 miles an hour in a 65 and weaving in and out of traffic…
I do like riding with buddies but the 5 reasons you mentioned to NEVER do on the highway is mainly why I ride alone 95% of the time.
As the group grows, space, time and life shrink. Starting with my buddy Andy who claims that he rides the speed limit. That is he goes 60 everywhere and anywhere
this guys is literally the voice in my head and i didn't even know it! love the vid man!
I wish a lot of people would learn those lessons and use them no matter what they are driving, especially bikes. I'm a trucker as well as a fellow rider so I see it all the time.
As a professional driver you take your driving seriously. It must be terribly frustrating to see so many users of the road who are oblivious to Traffic Regulations or even common sense, or who choose to flaunt the rules at the risk of the safety of others. There really should be better Drivers Ed, and mandatory periodic re-testing for those who get traffic tickets or have caused a collision.
Hey different point of view here: Your #2 Riding in the blind spot - I would argue that if you're approaching a car while you're in the right side of the lane, the car is more likely to see you (headlight) in their side mirror as opposed to being over in the left side of the lane. Also, you can't pass a vehicle and avoid the blind spot. No matter where you are in the lane, you must pass through it.
Good advice, not just for motorcycles, but also for driving in general.
All of this used to be common sense. Thank you for spreading good advice.
Well said . Although I am used to driving on th opposite side of the road (! in the UK ) , your pointers are relevant , 100% . But if you come over here and drive , do not overtake any vehicle on their 'slow ' side , or in other words undertake . The only time you are allowed to undertake , and even in this situation with great caution , is in very slow multi lane traffic ; what we call a traffic jam .
My pet hate with driving on our motorways . that is multi lane (usually 3 lanes ) one direction traffic with usually 70mph limits , you will constantly find people driving in the middle lane . They will not budge into the 'slower' , lefthand , lane where everyone is meant to drive if it is available to use . I have seen this even at night with no other vehicles , just mine and their's , in sight . Remember , do not undertake as our nice police person will book you , not them .... crazy ? I agree , but Brits do not expect anyone undertaking and probably don't have a passenger side 'door' or wing mirror . If they have that mirror they probably don't use it ! Beware Peps . I drive bikes and cars , so I check what is behind as much as what is ahead and I am still alive and kicking , well as a result ! ATB
All good advice one thing is clover leafs stay on the inside IV hit diesel fuel and gone down on my duelsport in sandiego my brother did the same on his harley truckers sometimes forget to put they're fuel caps on and some spills out on tight corners truck n trailer combination is around 70f so the cab is on the outside of the clover leaf dumping fuel up there inside is your best bet but ya keep a good eye on what's coming up behind you All so be safe ride hard
Literally all of these apply to driving in general and I wish more people knew this stuff. As a rider and professional truck driver, this is all mandatory knowledge.
Thank you for mentioning to get out of the left lane. As a cage driver and motorcyclist for 40+ yrs, motorcyclists need to realize that you are not always the fastest thing on the road. The left lane is intended for passing, not cruising.
Very good advice!! If people just practiced those thing there would be less crashes and anger on the roads!!!
Great channel! Good advises.
I know this is an older video, but living in Europe I wanted to ask, are you allowed to pass/overtake from the right on a highway? It is considered dangerous here and the one should not count on someone comming from their right.
Sadly here in the US they pass from both sides. I miss driving in Europe.
Thank you for very valuable advice on riding a motorcycle on freeway.
That’s great 5 out of 5. I get a 100%. That I don’t do, that is. In fact, even when I go “Faster” than most vehicles, as soon as I pass a slower car in the “slow” lane I go back to the right lane. There is always that moron that drives 100 mph on the left and wants you to move because that lane is for fast traffic!! WRONG!! The “Fast” lane is for passing and then you must move to the right. In some states, and counties, they enforce the left lane as passing lane. You might get a ticket for driving in the passing lane. Great video Sensei!
He’s is San Diego in this video definitely happy to see you in thha hometown hopefully we can go riding soon
when merging onto the highway atleast in my state every merge lane has a yield sign so if you’re coming on and you’re even with a car in the right lane IMO it’s better for everyone involved if you just slow down and tuck in behind it rather than accelerating racing to the end of the merge lane and cutting them off.
Totally agree! Especially about the people going slow in the passing lane! Or there usually going right with the car next to them same speed blocking the whole road. They do it purpose most of time.. you can tell that when you finally go around them in the wrong lane to pass and they'll speed up!? Or wanna race? Wtf
Official NZ advice to getting on a motorway is 'merge like a zip". In practice many motorists get onto the motorway with the motto "don't look, don't adjust speed, all forward and trust in the Lord"! Whenever I approach an intersection and I'm with the main traffic I move over a lane and let them in!
You got a like purely for 2:23 but the rest is pretty good as well
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I just got off the highway in Oklahoma it's about 1 a.m. I'm very tired and I think I just did three or four things you mentioned and I've been writing for 30 plus years practice my friend and be careful
Absolutely would agree with the addition of paying close attention to "following time & space" to this list. In fact, I would probably place it at number 1. Excellent note on merging, though. It is a common misconception that it is the other folks' duty to let you in when you're entering the highway. It is not. It is your duty to merge with the flow of traffic. If someone moves over or slows to let you in, kudos to them. They are a kind, considerate, cooperative driver, but it is not required by law. Lastly, I would certainly add to ride as little as possible with only one hand on the bars, and to never do so in traffic, and certainly not when passing. Holy moly.
And everything you said applies to everyone, regardless of how many wheels your vehicle has. It’s a good thing that I’m not in charge of the world or I would set fire to the driver’s license of everyone who drives to the end of an acceleration lane and stops, waiting until it’s clear to the horizon before they pull out. Nothing lights me up more than that.
What you talked about is the Smith System of Driving. The only thing you didn't mention is following distance. But not a bad explanation.
Great advice... and, here's a 6th thing never to do on the freeway while riding your bike. "Don't talk with your hands" 😁
In the UK it is stated in the Highway Code, that you should drive in the inside lane, unless you are overtaking. So, you pull to an outside lane, overtake and then move Back into the inside lane.
Yet all the time we see people in the centre lane poodling along, annoying other derivers and potentially causing hazards. We even see people in the fast outside lane just poodling along. Sometimes the traffic police will stop them and "educate them" but not enough times to be honest.
Some drivers mistakenly believe the inside lane is for up to 50mph, the middle lane 60mph and outside lane for 70mph or thereabouts.
These are the best tips for keeping safe on the road. If everyone practiced these lessons all the time everyone on the road would be a lot safer, but humans will be humans!
#3 YES!!!, #4 YES!!! ….all of it, YES!! Very well said! 👍🏾
5 things that must be done before riding on the highway.
Purchase a motorcycle before getting a motorcycle license endorsement.
Do not take a motorcycle safety course.
Do not read the DMV manual for taking the test.
Practice your Moto GP skills downtown.
Always ride with slick tires for a better grip.
Hmm, I can tell these were some wise advices and experience-based thoughts here. I hope many riders, especially the starting-fresh ones shall listen and act accordingly, as it may save their health a/o lives. Thumbs up, man.
Went from an instructional video to a well needed rant. Can't stand slow drivers in the fast lane. Sometimes you have 2 drivers going the same speed, side by side, blocking both lanes
Absolutely, the left lane is for passing. Arkansas has a law for impeding traffic, and can and will pull you over for going too slow in the passing lane.
Yes, Greg... all good points that have allowed me to survive since 1969 as a MC and auto driver... without an accident.
But I would add three more rules for your personal longevity:
1.) keep both hands on the handlebars
2.) maybe don't hit 90 mph passing autos on the freeway
3.) don't make videos on your MC
;-) enjoy your ride!
Showed this vid to my 15yr old who just got her Ls(car) in australia,its relative to bikes,cars,all road users, good stuff man,thanks👍(except had to tell her..leftside leffttside haha)
All really relatable advice and I am in the UK. Especially showing your intentions with indicators (blinkers) and the 3 lane thing......you're either overtaking or you're not overtaking, please don't sit in middle lane! :) Of course I have done all these "don't do" points so I am guilty but I think awareness helps. Cheers and great content as always.
i drive the middle lane so that i dont have to move over for merging traffic. (im one of those people who actually wants to help other people merge)
@@1369Stiles sure, on slip roads yes, courtesy is a good thing 👍 and helps drivers make decisions. But if there's no slip road.......
@@benquilter113 not sure what you mean. i speaking specifically about 3 lane highways.......in the us. i dont have experience with driving in other countries; if thats relevant to your comment.
so let me explain a little more. i commute to work......38 miles one way. i drive that distance on three major highways; lanes vary from two to four.
when im driving on the 3 or 4 lane roads, i try to stick to the center lanes......though i will use whatever lanes gets me through traffic that im going faster than. i do this to stay out of the left lane as much as possible, and to stay out of the right lane, because i know that there is a strong chance that cars will be trying to come onto the highway, and i dont want to have to change my own driving to accommodate them. there are some left lane merging points along this drive as well.
now im fully.....and painfully.....aware that only about 50% of the drivers on the road with me think the same way; this is why im constantly having to get around what i call "cluster fucks".....groups of cars, blocking every lane, and all going the same speed. so im aware that my actions are an incredibly small part of the whole, but i do it anyway, because i understand that im not alone on the road.
@@1369Stiles all sounds good mate.
I love your videos and I love that your voice is still easy to understand even when you're hitting over 100mph and the video quality is 4k, I need to know what equipment you are using please.
In the Netherlands the fast line is for take over ... when done you need to go back to the middle lane or further right.
I have a #6 that relates to your #1 -- When you are the one on the highway and you see a car or two or three on the on ramp, then move over to the left if it's possible. Granted, it is their responsibility to speed up and merge, but you can go ahead and make it easier for them. If you sit in the right lane just because you have a "right" to, you make it more difficult for the poor guy trying to get out onto the highway. And...he's going a lot going on, looking behind him, trying to match the cars he sees...he might not see you to his left.
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One thing that's kept me alive all these years: Assume the other drivers don't see you, and if they do, they hate motorcycles and will try to run you over. So when merging, make your own space - nobody will make space for you.
And so on...
Every driver/rider should watch this, and they don’t teach this kinda stuff any longer; it’s about respect.
Common sense, obvious and almost boring but this advice is so vital.
Thanks for posting 👍
People need to hear it . Where I'm at I don't think anyone knows how to drive!? It's nuts! Especially the young people.
While on the list of things, perhaps add not driving 85+ in a 65 and passing everything in sight. It makes sense to get by a car when you need to pass, but driving way faster than normal traffic has its own risks. Plus, you are looking at increased stopping distance, time, and injury when you do go down.
I would add that the left lane is actually the passing lane, not the fast lane. If you are not passing, then get out of it. I also always keep an eye on the traffic behind me so I know if someone is trying to overtake me, and if I need to make an emergency lane change, I already know if the spot is open by knowing what is going on behind.
One point of clarity: when driving in some jurisdictions MERGE means that both vehicles legally have to accommodate for the other, ie the highway traveller must adjust speed or lane of travel to allow the onramp traveller to enter.
Of course on a motorcycle we have to assume that everyone is out there trying to kill us in one way or another anyway. It's not hard to speed up and find an open space.
Spot on. I notice you did a lot of undertaking. That's illegal in the UK, because most people only generally check their offside mirrors. Its also its an offence to hog the middle lane of a three lane motorway. They are members of CLOC = Centre Lane Owner's Club.
I’m genuinely curious. How is the middle lane being hogged in this case? If a car can ride the middle lane, why can’t the bike? Are they expected to ride side by side with a car? And how would you ride it in a 3 lane highway in the UK?
@@cleopatrajones7096 you drive on the outer most lane and pass on the inner lane
on a six lane motorway the outer most lanes are pretty much reserved for lorries
The “Zipper” concept, required by State law, for merging traffic has successfully been effective for decades in California. Lower stress, fewer accidents. As they say, planning a simple merging remains being in a “Happy Place”.
Sounds like a detailed explanation of situational awareness. Good vid
You're in my neighborhood! I kept thinking this highway looks familiar.