Riding a motorcycle offers an unrivalled sense of freedom and excitement, but of course, it comes with its risks. Hazards can appear suddenly and put your safety in jeopardy, no matter whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer.

While you can’t eliminate every risk, understanding common dangers and knowing how to react will significantly improve your chances of staying safe on the road. Accidents are still possible, even for the most cautious riders. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, understanding your rights and seeking legal advice can help you navigate the claims process.

Wet and slippery roads

Rain can drastically alter road conditions, making them slippery and dangerous. The first few hours after a rainfall are particularly risky, as oils from vehicles rise to the surface. When riding in wet conditions, reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Your bike’s tyres will have less grip on the wet road, so give yourself more time to react if you need to brake or manoeuvre.

If you come across puddles, slow down and steer smoothly over them without trying to swerve or accelerate through. Sudden movements could cause you to lose control. Always ensure your tyres are in good condition and properly inflated to help maintain traction.

Hazardous surfaces

Loose gravel, potholes, and other road surface irregularities can be challenging for motorcyclists, as your tyres don’t provide as much grip as car tyres. Potholes can be dangerous and unpredictable, especially when riding at higher speeds. To deal with these hazards, stay alert and scan the road ahead. Spotting dangers early gives you more time to respond. Ride smoothly, and avoid sudden shifts in weight, particularly when passing over gravel or potholes. If you can’t avoid them, try to ride over it as straight as possible at a slow speed. When encountering gravel, ease off the throttle and avoid sharp braking. Ensure your tyres are up to the task by checking their condition regularly.

Unexpected behaviour from other drivers

It’s frustrating when other drivers fail to notice you on the road, but it’s important to remember that other motorists might not always see you, even when you’re in their line of sight. Drivers pulling out in front of you or changing lanes without indicating can leave you with little time to react.

To avoid such situations, try to always position yourself where other drivers can see you clearly. Avoid lingering in blind spots, especially next to larger vehicles like lorries. In heavy traffic, anticipate the behaviour of other drivers and keep your distance. Ride defensively and always assume that a driver might make an unpredictable move.

Reduced visibility

Riding at night or in fog presents unique challenges. Lower visibility makes it harder to spot hazards, and glare from oncoming headlights can impair your ability to react. Fatigue is also more common at night, reducing your focus on the road. If you’re riding in the dark, ensure your bike’s headlights are functioning properly and clean. Wear high-visibility clothing to make yourself more noticeable, especially around intersections. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react to obstacles. Night riding can be thrilling but requires more attention and caution. Motorcycle News offers practical advice for night riding.

Weather conditions

We know our weather in the UK can be unpredictable, and temperature extremes can affect both your bike’s performance and your comfort. Dress appropriately for the weather, layering up in colder conditions and choosing breathable gear during warmer months. Stay hydrated by carrying water on long rides. In colder weather, road surfaces can freeze, especially early in the morning or late at night, so keep an eye out for patches of ice. Invest in thermal and cooling layers that can adapt to changing conditions.