Motorcycle riding around pedestrians and cyclists
SPF Riding Theory Booklet advice on motorcycle clearance from pedestrians, passing cyclists, turning across cycle paths and avoiding splashes.
Primary source: https://www.police.gov.sg/-/media/SPF/Advisories/RTTEN24.pdf
Passing pedestrians
On a road without a pavement or pedestrian footpath, SPF’s Riding Theory Booklet advises riders not to ride too close to pedestrians. It gives a gap of at least 1 metre when pedestrians face traffic and at least 1.5 metres when they face away from traffic (SPF, Riding Theory Booklet, paras. 227–229).
When riding through puddles, the booklet advises slowing down to avoid splashing nearby pedestrians. It also says not to obstruct pedestrians by stopping on a pedestrian crossing (SPF, Riding Theory Booklet, para. 230).
Passing and turning near cyclists
The booklet advises giving cyclists and power-assisted bicycle users plenty of room, slowing down and being ready to stop if a cyclist looks behind, since the cyclist may change lanes. It gives 1.5 metres as the minimum passing distance where practicable. When overtaking, do not cut sharply in front of the cyclist (SPF, Riding Theory Booklet, paras. 231 and 233).
Before turning, check mirrors and blind spots for cyclists between the motorcycle and the kerb. Avoid a sharp turn; slow down and give way if it is not safe to turn (SPF, Riding Theory Booklet, para. 232).
These distances are SPF handbook safety guidance. This article does not present them as statutory minimum clearances.
Coverage debt
- The cited handbook gives these examples and advice; this article does not enumerate every statutory duty that may apply to a specific manoeuvre.