You may have come across the acronym OSMPSL or Observation, Signal, Manoeuvre, Position, Speed and Look, which describes the approach to turning left or right. It's explained in a bit more detail below:
* Observation - Check your mirrors before you do anything. Making a turn will change your road position, speed and ultimately your direction, so it must be safe to perform the exercise.
* Signal - Indicate to other road users that you intend to turn.
* Manoeuvre & Position - Move and position your bike towards the turn, if turning left move to the left quarter of the lane, if turning right, the right.
* Speed - Start slowing down (Remember user your front brake followed by back) and changing down ready to take the corner. It is important to get the approach right, so you have plenty of time to look around and react to any oncoming danger.
* Look - Before it's too late to abort the turn perform a lifesaver to make sure nobody is squeezing up your outside (right turn) inside (left turn). Just before you get to the end of curb (approx. 10') is about the right time to check.
You should also perform rear observations once completing the turn and don't forget to cancel your signal!
Turnings can often have less space than you first anticipated, which may mean you have to go round slower than expected. Make sure you get into the right gear early, so that the bike will still pull you round if you need to slow down. This is particularly important on a heavy bike or when carrying a passenger.
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Motorcycle Training Hints, Tips and Frequently Asked Questions
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