Riding Tips

[Cormanus]

When approaching an intersection facing a potential left turner, watch the front wheels. The vast majority of drivers will start cranking on the steering wheel just before starting the turn. If you see the front wheels begin to turn, chances are very good that this cage is about to turn in front of you. This will give you an extra 1-2 seconds to figure out an escape route.

This method has saved me from "Left Turn Larry" several times over the years.

Is this unorthodox?

I approach all intersections slowly, make eye contact to profile the oncoming driver, even aiming the headlight directly at him. My thumb is on the horn button and foot/hand at the brake. Once I feel confident everyone sees me, I accelerate to exit out.

Intersections must be the highest statistical risk of motorcycle/auto collisions.

I don't know about unorthodox. My point was that the front wheel movement will tip you off a few seconds early.

I don't know about unorthodox. My point was that the front wheel movement will tip you off a few seconds early.
Just to add to this, the instructor who took my advanced rider course told me to watch the front wheels. He made the point that even though you may think you've made eye contact, yo have no real way of knowing that you have. Movement of the front wheels is the best indication a car is about to take off.