What does the "cushion of space" allow a rider to do?

The "cushion of space" refers to the area around a motorcycle that a rider maintains for safety and maneuverability. This buffer zone is crucial because it provides the rider with the necessary time and distance to react to potential hazards on the road. By having this cushion, a rider can make quicker and more effective decisions in situations that might require sudden stops, evasive actions, or adjustments in their path.

For instance, if a vehicle suddenly stops in front of the motorcycle or a pedestrian steps onto the road, having that extra space allows for a better response. It equips the rider to either swerve or brake without the risk of losing control or colliding with obstacles.

While merging with traffic and taking sharper turns are also important skills for motorcyclists, they do not inherently provide the same level of safety or reaction capability as maintaining a cushion of space. Speed is generally not increased simply due to the presence of this cushion, as it focuses more on safety and control rather than acceleration.