Motorcycles and mopeds share the road with larger vehicles and vulnerable road users. Understanding visibility, markings and cooperation helps everyone keep risk low.
Visibility and lane placement
| Situation | Recommended position | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Rural road without divider | Centre of the lane | Maximises sightlines and mirror visibility |
| Queue in city traffic | Use a sub-lane with an escape route | Keeps margins if cars change lane |
| Wet ruts | Avoid the wheel tracks | Better grip and less risk of aquaplaning |
| Behind bus or truck | Left part of the lane | Improves sight and mirror coverage |
Use reflective gear and correct lighting. See Use of lights and signals and Mandatory safety equipment.
Interaction in junctions and lane changes
- Signal early and add body language; eye contact builds predictability.
- Apply defensive techniques from Awareness and cooperation.
- When changing lanes, add distance because drivers often underestimate motorcycle speed. Read Speed and distance.
Roundabouts and junctions
| Scenario | Typical risk | Countermeasure |
|---|---|---|
| Car cuts across in a roundabout | Motorcycle hidden in blind spot | Hold a visible track and maintain clear speed |
| Poor visibility junction | Driver fails to detect two-wheelers | Reduce speed and use conspicuity lighting |
| Car turning right ahead | Driver clips the corner | Keep distance and use horn/high beam flash if needed. See Use of horn and headlight flash. |
Road markings and surfaces needing margins
| Surface | Potential issue | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Thermoplastic markings and metal grids | Low grip in rain | Cross at an angle and slow down |
| Tram tracks and white lines | Front wheel can slip | Cross with a steep angle and steady throttle |
| Gravel at the verge | Loss of grip while braking | Stay on firm tarmac and increase following distance |
| Speed cushions in series | Suspension gets unsettled | Moderate speed and keep a straight line. See Speed bumps. |
What car drivers should do
- Actively search for smaller vehicles before lane changes. See Blind-spot alerts and RCTA.
- Give generous space when overtaking; Overtaking cyclists offers distances that also protect motorcycles.
- Expect motorcycles to stop quicker in emergencies and stay well back.
- Let two-wheelers filter when legal; it often improves overall flow.
Training and preparation
- Practise braking and balance frequently. See Hill starts and engine braking.
- Use checklists from Practical risk assessment at the start of each season.
- Join rider training to rehearse emergency manoeuvres.
Comparison with larger vehicles
| Vehicle group | Vulnerability | Manoeuvrability | Typical risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle/moped | Minimal crash protection and small visual signature | Very high, yet surface dependent | Severe injury in collisions or loss of grip |
| Passenger car | Good passive safety | Moderate | May overlook smaller vehicles |
| Truck/bus | Excellent driver protection | Low agility and long stopping distances | Dangerous for MCs during lane changes and squeeze points |
Takeaway
Motorcycles and mopeds belong in the traffic system, but they need conscious positioning, clear communication and wide safety margins. When riders and drivers follow these guidelines, they keep Norwegian roads safe and efficient. Also read Large vehicles: give space.