Road Surface Hazards

Since a motorcycle only has surface contact on two wheels it’s even more important than in a car to constantly assess the condition of the road in front of you. The condition on the road surface will influence the handling of the scooter and the time it will take you to stop. Be aware of these road surface hazards!


Leaves on the road
During autumn falling leaves mixed with moisture can create a very slippery surface.


Black Ice
Even in the early autumn and late spring watch out for any black patches on the road. Ground frost at night can transform a damp area on the tarmac into a slippery hazard.


Petrol/Diesel/Oil Spills
Around petrol stations, roundabouts and generally where there is a lot of HGV traffic be on the lookout for spills. When it’s wet these areas can be even more dangerous. Petrol can be seen on wet ground as the patches are rainbow coloured. Unfortunately diesel does not have these properties


Road Markings, metal studs on pedestrian crossings and man-hole covers
In dry conditions they’re not really an issue, but as soon it starts raining road markings, metal studs and man-hole covers get very slippery.


Pot-Holes and uneven road surfaces
Even if you’ve driven a car along the same roads where you now ride a scooter, watch out for potholes and uneven road surfaces. Cars tyres are positioned to the edge of the lane whereas you will probably ride more towards the middle. So, just because you have not noticed anything in the car, that doesn’t mean you wouldn’t on the scooter either. The width of the scooter tyres and less sophisticated suspension systems could add to the problem.