Every time a rider throws a leg over a street motorcycle, they acknowledge the risk that comes with the territory. From road hazards to distracted drivers, there’s no shortage of danger on modern roadways. To help motorcyclists navigate the treacherous streets, England’s Bournemouth University studied just how drivers and riders process visual information on public roads.
Bournemouth University Ph.D. Researcher (and BMW rider) Shel Silva led the study, utilizing eye-track technology and interviews to assess the cognitive and neurological influences of both parties. While motorists and riders certainly see the road differently, they both view larger objects as threats. That means that car drivers and motorcycle pilots notice big rigs and commercial vehicles on an equal basis, but motorcycles don’t command the same amount of attention.
