What is one way to increase your reaction time while riding?

Staying alert and aware of your surroundings is a crucial way to increase your reaction time while riding. When you maintain a high level of awareness, you can better anticipate potential hazards, such as vehicles making sudden stops, pedestrians crossing the road, or obstacles in your path. This heightened state of alertness allows you to react more quickly and effectively to any changes in your environment or unexpected situations, ultimately enhancing your safety on the road.

In contrast, listening to music can be distracting and may impair your ability to hear important sounds, such as sirens or horns, that could alert you to danger. Following closely behind other vehicles diminishes your reaction time since it reduces the space you have to maneuver in case the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or swerves. Riding with one hand can also compromise your balance and control, limiting your ability to respond rapidly in critical situations. Therefore, maintaining vigilance by being alert and aware is the best strategy for improving reaction time while riding.