How Motorcycle Cops Stay Alive

Published on April 29, 2014
Duration: 27:13

This guide synthesizes motorcycle safety training principles from a course taught by retired law enforcement instructors. It emphasizes five key skill categories: evaluating traction, planning, visibility, braking, and maneuvering. The instruction highlights the importance of constant hazard assessment, looking far ahead ('High Horizon'), understanding driver behavior, maintaining escape routes, mastering low-speed control, and optimizing braking techniques, including the benefits of ABS.

Quick Summary

Master motorcycle safety with five essential pillars: evaluating traction, planning your ride, ensuring visibility, effective braking, and precise maneuvering. Learn techniques like the 'High Horizon' (looking 600ft ahead) and proper threshold braking using both brakes to anticipate hazards and react safely.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Motorcycle Riding
  2. 01:34Tactical Context and Safety Course
  3. 03:36Five Key Skill Categories
  4. 05:01Evaluating Traction
  5. 07:11Planning and 'High Horizon'
  6. 08:28Visibility and Driver Cues
  7. 10:22Maneuverability and Low-Speed Handling
  8. 15:20Emergency and Threshold Braking
  9. 18:17ABS and Final Safety Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the five key pillars of motorcycle safety emphasized in the training?

The five key pillars of motorcycle safety are: 1) Evaluating Traction, 2) Planning, 3) Visibility, 4) Braking, and 5) Maneuvering. Mastering these skills is crucial for street survival and staying alive on the road.

How does the 'High Horizon' technique improve motorcycle safety?

The 'High Horizon' technique involves looking approximately 600 feet ahead, rather than just 60 feet. This extended visual range allows riders to anticipate hazards like stalled vehicles, wildlife, or oncoming traffic much earlier, providing ample time to react safely.

Why is evaluating traction so important for motorcyclists?

Motorcycles have only two wheels, making them inherently less stable than cars. Constant evaluation of road surfaces for hazards like gravel, oil, wet leaves, and painted lines is vital for safe braking and turning, as these can easily cause a loss of traction.

What is the recommended approach for maximizing motorcycle braking?

To maximize braking potential, riders should utilize both the front and rear brakes. While the front brake provides most of the stopping power at speed, proper application of both is essential for threshold braking, and understanding how to manage rear-wheel lock-up is also critical.

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