Tips for Cagers

cag⋅er  /ˈkey jer/
–noun
1. Informal. automobile driver

This post is meant to bring awareness to motorcycles on the road. It is very near and dear to me because my husband rides a Yamaha R6. There have been many times when he will take his motorcycle while Aubry and I take the car. Naturally we are on the road at the same time and I am typically the one following him. In the few times I have been behind him on the road, I have witnessed drivers making careless lane changes, tailgaiting, pulling up too close while at a stop light, attempting to cut the rider off that is trying to pass, etc. The list goes on. So, on behalf of my hubby and other riders, I thought I would take to my blog and post some safety/awareness tips for "cagers".

- Cagers should be aware that a riders will often slow down their motorcycle by downshifting. What this means is that the brake light is not activated. With this knowledge, Drivers should allow more following distance to give Riders (and you) more room to maneuver.

- A Rider will often adjust their position within their lane. This is mainly for better visibility, to avoid debris, and to minimize affects of the weather and other vehicles. This should not be interpreted as reckless driving. If anything, it will help you, the Cager, be more aware of the Rider.

- Obviously, a motorcyle is smaller than an automobile and because of its size, it may seem to be moving faster than it actually is. Also because of its small size, a motorcycle may look farther away than it actually is. When checking traffic to turn at an intersection, always predict that a motorcycle is closer than it looks.


*The number one cause of motorcycle and automobile accidents is when a Driver misjudges the distance of the Rider and makes a left hand turn in front of that rider.

- Even thought A motorcycle’s stopping distance is almost the same as it is for a car, rider skill level may affect stopping distance. As always, allow for more following distance when behind a motorcycle. Keeping a safe following distance when you are behind a Rider cannot be stressed enough.

- When a Rider is carrying a passenger, this will complicate all of the Riders riding responsibilities. Stopping distance, handling, maneuverability and balance are all affected by the passenger. When you see two on a motorcycle, give the Rider plenty of room.

- When the weather turns warmer, start to look for Riders. They will be out in full. Guaranteed.

For your sake and Riders everywhere, start looking. There are more Riders on the road than you realize.