While all road signs are important, some carry extra weight for motorcyclists. Your stability, visibility, and safety can depend on quickly recognizing and reacting to these specific signs. Here's a visual guide to the signs that demand your full attention during the RTT and on the road.
1. Slippery Road
What it means: The road surface ahead may be slippery due to rain, oil, or other factors.
For Riders: This sign is critical. A loss of traction on two wheels is far more dangerous than in a car. When you see this, reduce speed, avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and make your turns wider and more gentle.
2. Uneven Road / Road Hump
What it means: The road surface ahead is irregular, or there is a speed-reducing hump.
For Riders: Hitting an uneven patch or a hump at speed can unsettle your motorcycle's suspension, leading to a wobble or loss of control. Slow down before you reach it and rise slightly off your seat to use your legs as shock absorbers.
3. Road Narrows
What it means: The lane ahead will become narrower.
For Riders: This is a high-risk situation for being squeezed out by larger vehicles. Be assertive with your lane positioning. Ensure you are visible in the mirrors of the cars around you and be prepared to adjust your speed.
4. Side Road Junction
What it means: A road will join from the side ahead.
For Riders: This is a classic "Look But Fail to See" scenario. Drivers pulling out from side roads are often looking for cars, not motorcycles. Cover your brakes and be prepared for a vehicle to pull out in front of you unexpectedly.
5. Give Way / Stop Sign
What it means: You must give way to traffic on the major road ahead. For a stop sign, you must come to a complete stop first.
For Riders: Never assume the other driver will give way to you, even if you have the right of way. Your smaller profile makes you harder to see. Always make eye contact with drivers if possible and be prepared to stop.
6. No Overtaking
What it means: Overtaking is not permitted along this stretch of road.
For Riders: This rule applies to you too. It might be tempting to filter or squeeze past a slow-moving car, but this sign is often placed where visibility is poor or the road is narrow. Resist the temptation and stay in your lane.
Understanding these signs from a rider's perspective will help you anticipate dangers and make safer decisions. Practice identifying them in our theory test simulator.