Riding motorcycles is so enjoyable but can easily become dangerous if you're not prepared and focused. Blind turns are one thing you'll want to master in order to make your ride a safe one.
Blind turns are a natural part of riding motorcycles, especially if you love the scenic routes. The most important tip about blind turns is to go into the turn slowly, but we have more helpful tips below!
7 Great Tips on How to Navigate Blind Turns
#1 Assess the Turn
Before you reach the blind turn or corner, assess it so you can adjust your speed and balance. You may not be able to see the road beyond the corner so use roadside features like walls or lamp posts to help you make predictions about what's ahead - use what you see to adjust your speed.
#2 Keep an Eye on Your Speed
Slow down when entering the turn so that you can adjust to the curve of the road safely. A good rule to follow is to go even slower than you think you should. Going at a slower speed means that you can be in control in the event of unexpected obstacles.
#3 Be Aware of Traffic
It's important to remember that you're not the only one on the road - you may be going into blind turns cautiously but other vehicles may not. Some vehicles like transport trucks and buses require wide turns that can put you and your motorcycle in their path, so always be aware of where you are in your lane.
#4 Maintain a Wider Line
Enter the turn while maintaining a wider line because this allows you to give yourself more time to adapt to a decreasing radius. Wider lines allow for more visibility however, try to centre your motorcycle in the lane to ensure that your body remains in your lane during the turn. If you go too wide during right-hand turns, you risk getting injured from oncoming traffic.
#5 Your Lean is Important
Be sure that you are never leaning over the dividing line on the road. A wide line allows you to dive in to clip the apex if the turn is sharper than you thought, but staying in the centre of the lane should still allow enough room for correction.
#6 Look Ahead
It's important to look as far through the turn as possible. Ensure you are focused on the road ahead of you - by maintaining focus you can be prepared and make adjustments safely.
#7 Why Right-hand Turns Are More Challenging
You are naturally left with less of a visual when approaching right-hand turns so you might feel the need to go wider and closer to the division of the lanes. Even though right-hand turns can feel more challenging, approach them with all the same principles.
We hope these tips can help you better navigate blind turns. Stay safe and if you're planning a long trip read this!
Source: https://www.motorcycle.com
