Safety Tip: Lane Positioning

Safety tip from Paul Carroll

I am asked quite frequently, “what is the best lane positioning for riding one’s motorcycle?” The answer is, “that depends.” Keep in mind there are two parts of this decision making: lane selection and lane positioning.

Lane selection is utilized when you are traveling on a multiple lane roadway traveling the same direction, e.g. the interstate. The roadway could be two, three or more lanes. Traditionally, the more lanes, the closer you are going to be to a large metropolitan area. There are also going to be many more on-ramps onto the roadway.

Three key factors to consider is rider maximum visibility down the roadway, visibility of the rider to other motorists and the ability to maintain a steady speed without making multiple lane changes.

I have found that on two lane roadways traveling the same direction, it is best to stay in the right lane unless you need to pass.

On three or more lane interstate roadways, selecting the middle lanes will provide you with more maneuverability and less lane changes for traffic entering the roadway from on-ramps. When you are traveling in heavy traffic, motorists in the far-left lane tend to come to abrupt stops more frequently.

The next factor to consider is lane positioning. Motorcyclists tend to divide a travelled lane into thirds: left third, middle third and right third. The general rule here is that the best position within your lane is one that optimizes your space cushion, your view of traffic around you, and the visibility of you to other motorists. Most riders tend to ride in the left third of the lane. This lane position is basically in the left wheel track of cars and trucks. This lane position gives riders the best visibility of traffic ahead and keeps them away from oil and debris that tends to be in the middle third of the lane. The negative to this lane position is that it puts the motorcyclist closest to oncoming traffic. Middle lane positioning may be a better choice on roadways that are relatively flat and generally free of other motorists. Utilizing the right third lane position is best when approaching an intersection with traffic on your left. This allows you to see any oncoming traffic turning left in front of you much sooner. It also allows that same oncoming traffic to see you much sooner as you approach the intersection, thus minimizing the chances of motorists turning left in front of you at the last minute.

Remember, motorcycling is a dynamic form of transportation, and you can utilize this to your advantage. Always have an escape path. Maximizing time and space is the key to a safer ride.

Until next time. Ride Safe!