What should a rider do to prepare for unexpected obstacles on the road?

Remaining alert and cautious is essential for a rider to prepare for unexpected obstacles on the road. This means being fully aware of the surroundings, including road conditions, other vehicles, and any potential hazards that could appear suddenly. By maintaining a high level of awareness, the rider can better anticipate and react to surprises, like a pothole, an animal crossing the road, or sudden stops by other vehicles.

Staying alert also involves scanning the road ahead and using peripheral vision to pick up on movements and signals from the environment. This proactive approach helps in making quick decisions that contribute to safety, allowing the rider to navigate around obstacles effectively rather than relying on reactionary measures or speed adjustments after encountering a hazard. In contrast, speeding up or maintaining a constant speed could limit the rider's ability to respond adequately to sudden changes, while practicing emergency stops, although a good skill to have, does not directly address the need for awareness and caution in everyday riding situations.