Motorcycle Training Forum

[peanutclub]

Hi everyone,

When I ride I basically never use the mirrors - I always look behind me at any point where it is necessary to do rear observation. I feel comfortable doing this and it feels safer than using mirrors.

Apparently when doing my test I could actually fail for this as the examiner might think I'm not watching the road ahead enough (doing restricted licence).

My understanding is you are 'supposed' to use mirrors before indicating / speeding up / slowing down , and to actually look around before changing position.

What about changing position within a lane, say to turn right?

Any advice on whether I have got this right / whether it matters would be much appreciated!

Thanks

Dave

[yorkie 1200]

i was told to look in my mirrors every 10 seconds or so
you need to know whats going on behind you at all times
in case something happens in front of you
or you are going to make a manuvere of somesort

[Rjhmt]

Hi Peanutclub and welcome to the forum.

If you ride without looking in your mirrors, I'm suprised you are still riding!!

How can looking in your mirrors not feel safe?

Who did you take your CBT with?

Frequent mirrors, I advise every 6 seconds, more specific times, before the following : Direction change, Overtake, Signal's Speed change, also approaching hazards and pedestrian crossings.

Yes you could have faults against you for not looking in the mirrors enough, or at the right times.

Changing position within a lane mirrors should be sufficient, however don't outrule a lifesaver to change position within a lane, How wide is the lane?

It does matter when riding, and I suppose the easiest way to grasp the mirror checks, is to ask the question, why do I need to look in the mirrors before D O S S and why frequently?

Your CBT Instructor should be able to help/advise on this very important subject.

Hope these tips help

[peanutclub]

Hi guys,

I think my post was a bit misleading - I do use my mirrors! Don't worry - what I meant was I dont ever rely on them.

For example, before indicating I will check the mirrors but then look behind me as well.

The same for changing position within a lane.

I suppose my question is really will the examiner be concerned that I am looking behind me TOO MUCH? ie not keeping my eyes on the road ahead.

Did my CBT with Lightning in Oxford but I don't want to give them a bad name as my memory is not 100%!

Really appreciate your help on this,

Dave

[Rjhmt]

Hi,

What I teach at RJH is the following!

Mirror-Signal-Manouvre Position-Speed-Look

General rule is Mirrors before signal is sufficient, a lifesaver as well as mirrors prior to indicating could take your eye off the road ahead at a crucial time, so be cautious if you are implimenting this approach!

However you could benifit from a lifesaver before your position change within a lane, for instance a major road where the width of the lane is quite wide and the blind spot could be hiding something you need to be aware of.

You are right to think what the examiner will be thinking, and yes he could think you are looking around too much, or at the wrong time, however try and be natural with what you do.

Hope this helps.