There are many motorcycle safety posts this time of year describing the hazards of the season. It’s good that we remind each other of those hazards and what to look for in leaves, frost, rain and cold. What may be better though is a discussion about the root cause and why these things are dangerous, describing the illness instead of the symptoms. The bottom line to all of this is traction, or more importantly, the decreased amount of traction associated with the season.
On a motorcycle traction is already decreased by the fact that there are only two tires gripping the surface. With just one tire slipping, the consequences can be devastating. Motorcycle tires are narrow compared to other vehicles and when traction is divided amongst the multiple forces created while accelerating, braking, and cornering – less traction is probable when seasonal factors are added like those previously highlighted.
It could take hours discussing how the different forces play on traction but we could never discuss every factor that could present itself. What probably is more reasonable is to discuss HOW to ride in hopes of preventing MORE loss of traction than necessary.
Ideal conditions are rarely present in day to day riding, so a rider should always consider their Safety Margins with that in mind. The Safety Margin is the time and space that a rider chooses to create; allowing for the factor of judgement errors, either by the rider or others. Safety Margins must also take into account the honest capabilities and limitations of the rider, the capabilities and limitations of the motorcycle, and in our seasonal environment the roadway and traffic conditions that may also affect traction.
Slippery conditions associated with the season demand more caution to deal with less traction – and In any case – greater Safety Margins are necessary and perhaps different riding methods may be helpful. Beyond greater attention, a technique to deal with slippery surfaces may include squeezing in the clutch lever and coasting when negotiating a slippery hazard. Speed must be enough to make it through the slick area from entry to exit, which should also be done without having to make significant steering inputs, trying not to upset the balance of the motorcycle.
Even seasoned riders must continually think about traction and all the factors that can change in a single moment. An honest assessment of individual skill level and Safety Margin could be enough to make a normal day of riding even better and SURVIVABLE.
Originally Published on
© 2017, Donald L. Green, Rider Choices
