Motorcycle couriers are in demand right around the UK with businesses opting for the fast method of delivering small parcels and letters. While the bigger industries such as air and sea freight can do the big jobs well, motorcycle couriers get the job done on a much smaller scale but with just as big an impact.
The ability to weave through the traffic to meet deadlines is just one reason that businesses love them, getting important files to offices before 5pm on a Friday or getting that important parcel to Mrs. Jones in Peterborough in time for her fancy dress party that night. Bike couriers deliver a wide variety of items, but are faced by just as wide a range of problems in doing their jobs.
This career seriously tests all areas of your riding ability, making good quality motorbike clothing an absolute essential. Many riders are forced to negotiate narrow streets with cobbled surfaces which could throw inexperienced riders over the handlebars, while even the most experienced face tricky manoeuvres through inner city traffic so you really do get a thorough test of your skills.
Safe filtering through stationary traffic is a useful skill to have, but something many are intimidated by. It forces riders to use their observation skills and also their balance, weaving through the often narrow gaps presented to get everything delivered on time. By looking straight ahead into the distance you are able to judge just how far you are able to progress, helping you to make an early decision over whether or not the filtering is a worthwhile idea. It also makes it easier to spot potential hazards, such as zebra crossings that may dissect the traffic, or temporary traffic lights, which could be the cause of the queuing in the first place.
When filtering it is essential that you consider all possible hazards, including other motorcyclists looking for similar gaps as you. If you have to filter between the two lanes of traffic, it is entirely possible that road users on the opposite side may choose to turn around and go the other way, so be aware that cars may poke out of obscure areas.
The slower you travel as a courier filtering through the traffic, the more beneficial it will be. Moving your body and reducing the amount of front brake you use will help you to stay balanced, while travelling at a slow speed will allow you to react suddenly if a hazard presents itself.
