Advice on shoulder checks and lifesavers

[The Old Geeza]

Sorry if I've posted this in the wrong area, but I ain't got a clue about this forum!

I'm a newcomer to biking. I've passed my CBT and Theory Test. I'm only a small bloke and, although I've got a pristine GPX250 on the front of my house, I can't ride it until I pass my Practical Test. I'm therefore taking the 125cc test (restricted for two years).

I have two training days to go before my Practical Test. But I'm just a little confused about shoulder checks and lifesavers. I know the first shoulder check is always to the right nomatter which direction you're going to move.

I know this might be a little difficult to explain in writing, but, could anyone please advise me on exactly what shoulder checks I should make, and where - such as speed changes and pelican crossings etc?

Sorry to seem 'thick'. but I'd welcome and respect all replies.
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Horse Power was safer when the Horses had it!

[Nath]

You always need to do a 'lifesaver' check before turning at a junction, in the direction that you're turning. eg If you're making a left turn you need to look over your left shoulder just before you start turning. You also need to do a lifesaver when pulling away from the side of the road(v important you don't forget this as it's one of the things they look out for on the test, as many times you will be asked to pull over).

The other a shoulder checks are less well defined, but you should always do one before changing lanes or overtaking, and do a left shoulder check before pulling back in to make sure you're 2seconds ahead of any other vehicles. You should also do shoulder checks when changing your position on the road, eg when preparing to turn right or left.

Also try to fit in shoulder checks before braking, and before accelerating when the speed limit changes.


I was taught to shoulder check before indicating to turn, but I do not believe this is required for the test. It's probably worth playing safe and always doing this(over your right shoulder).

[The Old Geeza]

Thanks for your advice, Nath.

I think my biggest problem is at roundabouts. Like I said before, I know the first shoulder check is always to the right.

But I'm not 100% sure of the sequence of shoulder checks and lifesavers I need to use when I approach and exit roundabouts.

Any help from any members is all appreciated.
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Horse Power was safer when the Horses had it!

[Nath]

[stinkwheel]

Just think about what direction you are about to move in, do a lifesaver before you do it. Anywhere.

So for say a right turn, you do the mirrors and a headcheck then indicate yeah? Now what you are going to do is move into the crown of the road to position yourself for turning right so do a lifesaver to the right to make sure there isn't a car alongside you just before you manouver. Once you are in the crown of the road and are indicating right, you wait for a gap then you are going to make your turn, again, you are going to move to the right so do another lifesaver to the right just before pulling away. It is common practice to check the mirrors again just as you cancel the indicator having completed the manouver.

Any time you are going to alter your road positioning, check the appropriate blindspot, you are unlikley to do it too often. A few lessons will refresh your memory.
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“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.