Dealing with Adverse Situations
- 1/35Riding on wet or icy roads
Slippery surfaces demand slow riding, smooth throttle control, and the use of both brakes gently to avoid skidding.
Riding over slippery surfaces
On oil, gravel, or paint lines, keep the bike upright, ease off the throttle, and steer smoothly without harsh braking.
Coping with strong side winds
In windy conditions, maintain firm grip, reduce speed, and keep distance from large or high-sided vehicles.
Dealing with sudden engine failure
The engine fails, signal, steer off the road, and stop safely. Use hazard lights and push the bike clear if needed.
Managing a tyre puncture or blowout
Avoid sudden braking. Let the motorcycle decelerate naturally while steering to a safe place off the road.
Performing emergency braking
In emergencies, apply both brakes while keeping the bike upright. Do not grab the brakes sharply to avoid skidding.
Reducing aquaplaning risk
Ride at lower speeds in heavy rain. Avoid puddles and sudden movements to maintain tyre contact with the road.
Encountering animals on the road
Animals are near or crossing, reduce speed gradually. Do not swerve and stop safely if needed.
Riding in fog or spray
Visibility is reduced, so use dipped headlights and slow down. Keep distance from vehicles ahead.
Riding in low sun conditions
Use a clear visor or goggles, wear high-vis clothing, and be aware that other drivers may be dazzled.
Breaking down on a motorway or road
Steer off the road, switch on hazard lights, and stand away from traffic. Use a warning triangle if safe to do so.
Experiencing brake failure
Brakes fail, downshift to slow the bike, use the rear brake if possible, and steer safely off the road.
Handling strong gusts on bridges
Slow down and keep a firm grip on handlebars. Anticipate side gusts and give space to other vehicles.
Losing visibility from visor fog
Pull over safely to clear or replace the visor. Use anti-fog treatments and ventilate when riding.
Encountering fallen debris
Stay calm, reduce speed, and steer around if clear. Do not brake or swerve suddenly.
Dealing with flooded roads
Avoid riding through deep or fast-moving water. Turn around if unsure of depth to prevent stalling or being swept away.
Handling skidding wheels
You skid, release the brake slightly and steer in the direction of the skid to regain control.
Riding through roadworks
Watch for uneven surfaces, loose gravel, or narrowed lanes. Follow signage and reduce speed appropriately.
Navigating through tunnels
Turn on dipped headlights, maintain lane discipline, and watch for slow-moving traffic and poor ventilation.
Avoiding panic in sudden danger
Stay focused and avoid overreacting. Smooth braking and steering can help manage the risk effectively.
Coping with poor road markings
In faded or missing road markings, ride slowly and look for kerb edges, signs, or other vehicles to guide your path.
Riding during heavy rain
Brake earlier and gently, increase your following distance, and avoid painted road surfaces which become slippery.
Spotting potholes early
Scan ahead and steer around potholes. Avoid hard braking when riding over one, and check tyres afterward.
Riding when visor or goggles are dirty
Keep eye protection clean for clear visibility. Stop if needed and use proper cloth or wipe to clean surfaces.
Avoiding white line hazards
Painted road lines are slippery in the wet. Cross them upright and avoid leaning or braking on them.
Managing visibility in spray from vehicles
Increase following distance and use dipped headlights. Avoid close riding behind lorries or large vehicles.
When traction is lost suddenly
Do not brake harshly. Keep the bike upright, ease off the throttle, and regain grip smoothly.
Riding with a pillion in bad weather
Ride slower, brake earlier, and take corners more gently to account for added weight and changed balance.
Reacting to loud vehicle horns or sirens
Stay focused, avoid panic, and make way safely without sudden moves. Check mirrors before manoeuvring.
Recovering from a wobble or weave
Do not fight the handlebars. Maintain a light grip, reduce speed gradually, and avoid sudden inputs.
Avoiding hydroplaning on bends
Slow down before wet bends. Avoid leaning too far and maintain smooth throttle through the turn.
Pulling over safely in emergencies
Signal early, reduce speed smoothly, and steer off the carriageway to a safe, visible spot.
Using hazard lights after a breakdown
Fitted, activate hazard lights after stopping safely to warn other road users of your breakdown.
Riding on metal road surfaces
Manhole covers, steel plates, and tram tracks can be slippery. Cross them upright and avoid braking or turning.
Dealing with restricted visibility at night
Wear reflective clothing, keep lights clean and on dipped beam, and ride slower to allow more reaction time.