Mastering Road Positioning :
A Guide to Rule 72
Position 1 :
Center of the Lane
Position 2 :
Moving to the Left
The Visibility Position
Use on Quiet Roads or Streets
Maintain the center but move to the left only if a faster vehicle approaches and it is safe to enable them to overtake .
The Overtaking Position
Maintain a 0.5 Metre Buffer
When riding on the left , keep at least 0.5 metres ( and further if safer ) away from the kerb edge to avoid road debris and maintain balance .
Navigating Slower- Moving Traffic
Stay central while traffic is slow ; once flow increases and becomes free - flowing , move left if safe to allow faster vehicles to pass .
Protect Your Space at Hazards
Always take the center at the approach to junctions or road narrowings where it would be unsafe for drivers to attempt an overtake .
Fast - Moving Traffic Awareness
Be aware that traffic on dual carriageways moves significantly faster than on standard roads .
Critical Safety Zones
Dual Carriageway Caution
High - speed environments require heightened awareness of vehicle approach speeds .
Slip Road Crossings
Take extra care when crossing slip roads , as these are high - risk areas for merging traffic .