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rider control

Speeding

RideSMART Florida reminds motorcyclists that the road is not  a racetrack. On a motorcycle, performance is what it’s all about, but almost one quarter of all motorcycle fatalities in Florida involve speeding. Give yourself time to react to whatever comes your way. Speed matters – your decision to speed could be the difference between life and death. Riding the speed limit may allow other drivers to gauge your speed and distance properly. Give them a chance to see you—give yourself a chance to ride another day. 

Racetracks are designed for races and for crashes. Public streets are not designed for speed. There are obstacles such cars, trees, barriers, curbs and more. Speed limits aren’t just random numbers—they’re like a safety “recipe” determined by our state’s traffic engineers. Factors such as how the road is built, what you can see around curves, and how much traffic is present all factor into the determination of the road’s speed limit. When you see a speed limit sign, keep in mind it’s a carefully calculated number that helps keep everyone cruising safely and smoothly.  

Motorcycle riding behind cars on the road towards the sun

Leave enough time and space between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Ride in control and within your limits.

The fines for exceeding the speed limit by more than 50mph…

for the first offense
$ 0 k
for the second
$ 0 k
days without a license
0

Stopping Distance

Stopping Distance – speed is a critical factor in all road crashes and fatalities. Riding a motorcycle is unpredictable, and if something unexpected happens on the road ahead, it’s your speed that will determine whether you can stop in time. Become aware of the distances needed to brake at certain speeds. Are you aware of the distances needed to brake at certain speeds?

Infographic titled "Distance Needed to Stop a Motorcycle" by FDOT and Ride Smart Florida, showing the total stopping distance for three different speeds. Each distance is broken down into Reaction Distance (grey) and Braking Distance (orange). 60 MPH: 66 ft reaction + 128.92 ft braking = 194.92 ft total distance to stop. 70 MPH: 77 ft reaction + 175.82 ft braking = 252.62 ft total distance to stop. 80 MPH: 88 ft reaction + 229.32 ft braking = 317.32 ft total distance to stop. The graphic features a motorcycle icon moving across a bar toward a stop sign to visually represent the increasing distance required as speed increases.

Training

Train regularly and get endorsed

Reacting safely and efficiently to hazards on the road requires practice and muscle memory. Training courses are an exciting way for you to practice crash-avoidance techniques, and to enhance your overall riding experience.