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Difficulty: HardMotorcyclists

You are following a motorcyclist along a rural single carriageway. As the road approaches a sharp left-hand bend, the rider moves out towards the centre line rather than staying close to the left kerb. What is the primary reason for the rider adopting this road position?

  1. A
    To prepare for an immediate overtaking manoeuvre past vehicles travelling through the bend
  2. To extend their forward view around the bend and make themselves visible to oncoming traffic earlierAnswer
  3. C
    To eliminate the need for shoulder and blind spot checks before leaning into the turn
  4. D
    To allow the motorcycle to lean at a steeper angle to counter tyre skidding caused by road camber

Answer

To extend their forward view around the bend and make themselves visible to oncoming traffic earlier
According to the Highway Code and roadcraft principles, motorcyclists are vulnerable road users who often adjust their lane positioning to enhance their safety margins. Approaching a left-hand bend, positioning towards the centre line maximises the rider's forward view around the corner, helps them spot upcoming hazards or surface defects sooner, and allows oncoming drivers to see them earlier.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyse the physical constraints of a sharp left-hand bend on a single carriageway
Staying tight to the left kerb significantly restricts forward vision around the corner due to roadside vegetation, hedges, or embankments.
Sightlines are limited when hugging the inside edge of a curve.
2
Evaluate the benefits of moving towards the centre line prior to turning
A position towards the centre of the road opens up the angle of view further around the bend and presents the motorcycle's profile earlier to oncoming road users.
Motorcyclists actively manage their road positioning to see hazards earlier and ensure other road users see them.
3
Determine the safety implications for the following driver
Recognise that the rider's manoeuvre is a standard safety and visibility technique, requiring following drivers to maintain a safe following distance and avoid attempting to overtake.
Understanding vulnerable road user positioning prevents misinterpreting rider intentions as aggression or erratic riding.

Key Concept

Motorcyclist Road Positioning on Bends for Visibility and Safety (Highway Code Rule 213)
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Motorcyclists

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