What is a defensive riding strategy?

A defensive riding strategy is all about being proactive and aware of your surroundings while riding a motorcycle. This involves anticipating potential risks, such as unpredictable movements from other drivers, road hazards, or changes in traffic conditions, and being prepared to react accordingly. By remaining alert and ready to respond, a rider can significantly reduce the chances of accidents and improve overall safety on the road.

Focusing solely on the road ahead can lead to missing critical information about what is happening around you, which is vital in a defensive riding mindset. Riding close to other vehicles increases the risk of collisions by reducing the available space to maneuver or stop suddenly. Speeding up in heavy traffic can lead to dangerous situations such as tailgating or the inability to react promptly to sudden stops, making it contrary to the essence of defensive riding. Thus, anticipating risks and preparing to react is the cornerstone of a defensive riding strategy, making it a crucial skill for all motorcyclists.