How to ride more safely

Safer riding the Honda way begins with classroom instructions.

MANILA, Philippines–HSDC’s riding instructors imparted some concrete tips on how to ride more safely. The most important ones are:

1. Never ride when physically impaired, such as when intoxicated or tired.

2. Drive within your abilities. Scan for vehicle flow, identify dangers ahead, predict potentially dangerous outcomes and decide on a safe course to avoid danger, then execute.

3. Use ABC when crossing intersections. Approach with reduced speed. Beware of changes in the traffic light. Confirm if safe, then proceed with care.

4. Keep a safe distance from the car in front. Follow the three-second rule. Pick a stationary object—sign or lamppost—and start counting the number of seconds after the car in front passes it. You should reach the same object after three seconds.

For rainy days or at night, count to six, and in heavy rain or thick fog, count to nine.

5. Inspect your bike before riding. Pay attention to the general appearance, oil, tires, tension of chain, operation of controls, brakes, engine, side mirror, alignment of steering, fuel and electricals (Acronym: GOT TO BE SAFE).