Decide whether to overtake at all
Ask what you gain. A few seconds are rarely worth the risk. Never overtake when you cannot see far enough ahead, near junctions, bends, hill crests, level crossings or pedestrian crossings, or where the road markings or local rules forbid it.
Set it up
- Stay back far enough to see past the vehicle ahead. Moving slightly to the side of your lane often gives a better view.
- Check mirrors and the blind spot, and make sure nobody behind you is already overtaking.
- Signal early, and choose a gear that gives you quick acceleration without a big change in revs.
- Judge the closing speed of oncoming traffic. It is easy to underestimate.
Make the pass
- Accelerate decisively, pass in one smooth movement and do not linger alongside the vehicle.
- Keep your eyes on the space you are moving into, not on the vehicle you are passing.
- Return to your lane only when you can see the vehicle you passed in your mirror, with a safe gap.
- If the gap closes or something changes, be ready to brake and drop back instead of forcing it.
Be careful with long vehicles and groups
Passing a truck or a bus takes longer and the air turbulence can push the bike around. In a group, pass in the agreed order and do not pull out in a way that forces the next rider into a rushed decision. See group ride planning and riding on the highway.
If you are not sure, do not overtake. There will be another chance.