It’s legal to filter through slow moving traffic in the UK on a motorcycle. Motorcycle filtering rules make it faster to get from A to B. And it keeps traffic moving. The freedom of two-wheels is second to none. It’s not just the finesse of taking turns smoothly or powering along undulating straights with the rumble of your engine beneath you that makes this true. It’s also because motorcycle riding rules in the UK are different from cars.

It makes sense – motorcycles are smaller and more vulnerable than cars. So the rules guiding safe riding, and more efficient road use, need to be different. Three of the best road rules for motorcyclists make it easier to get where you’re going and to park up when you arrive. 

There are a few caveats and precautions you’ll need to take when filtering. Let’s dive into these so you know your exact position when it comes to two-wheeled freedom.

Where does it say motorcycles are allowed to filter in the UK?

Rule 88 of the Highway Code addresses filtering on a motorcycle. You should already be familiar with your Observation Signal Manoeuvre (OSM) sequence from the CBT course you took to start riding and further training for your motorcycle licence.

OSM is put to the test when you are filtering through traffic. There is a LOT you need to be aware of and on the lookout for. Here’s what the Highway Code has to say about filtering:

“You should be aware of what is behind and to the sides before manoeuvring. Look behind you; use mirrors if they are fitted. When in traffic queues look out for pedestrians crossing between vehicles and vehicles emerging from junctions or changing lanes. Position yourself so that drivers in front can see you in their mirrors. Additionally, when filtering in slow-moving traffic, take care and keep your speed low.

Remember: Observation – Signal – Manoeuvre”

It’s important to note that filtering is meant for slow moving traffic. Filtering on the motorway when traffic is at a clip is not covered and it’s not necessarily legal. That type of manoeuvre can come under the heading of ‘Dangerous Riding’. So avoid a fine or putting your life at risk by following motorcycle filtering rules for slow or stationary traffic.

Is splitting lanes in the UK dangerous?

There is a definite knack to filtering through traffic on a motorcycle. Getting it right gets you to your destination faster. Getting it wrong can end in higher insurance premiums and damage to your bike, or worse.

While motorcycle filtering rules in the UK are legit, you should be super careful when making this manoeuvre. Why? Because…

• Filtering increases the risk of accidents because motorcyclists aren’t in their usual position on the road. Other motorists may not be looking for you. Some may actively try to obstruct your path through traffic.
• Filtering can cause damage to your motorcycle or other vehicles if you are not careful.
• Riders are more likely to be liable for damage caused when filtering rather than other motorists. That’s because when riders are filtering, other traffic is either at a standstill or moving at a snail’s pace.
• Filtering should be done at a low and steady speed, this can make it harder to balance because there’s less help from inertia and gyroscopic forces.
• Filtering is legal, but not always. That leaves grey areas to the motorcycle filtering rules, so you need to use your discernment and choose filtering situations wisely.

How can I safely filter through traffic in the UK?

Filtering comes with its own risks, but as a motorcyclist, you can minimise these. By following the road rules and choosing situations where it is safe to filter, you’ll reduce your chance of a mishap.

Keeping these points in mind will enhance your safety when filtering through UK traffic.

Tips for safe filtering on a motorcycle

• Consider the conditions on the road. Filtering in wet weather is trickier. White lines are slippery when wet so take extra care or avoid crossing them while riding.

• Car and truck blindspots render other road users invisible, particularly motorcyclists. Be aware of other motorists’ blindspots when splitting lanes and stay out of them wherever possible to minimise accidents.

• Use a low gear with plenty of braking when using the motorcycle filtering rules.

• Take extra care on motorways when traffic speed starts to pick up again. Once traffic flow reaches 40 mph or above, it’s usually safer to rejoin the flow of other motorists.

• You should be continuously on the lookout for hazards when riding. But when filtering this needs to be turned up a few notches. Pedestrians walking between cars, turning traffic joining the main flow of cars and vehicles changing lane become additional potential hazards. Rule 160 of the Highway Code covers this aspect of motorcycle overtaking rules in the UK and explicitly mentions filtering:
  • “be aware of other road users, especially cycles and motorcycles who may be filtering through the traffic. These are more difficult to see than larger vehicles and their riders are particularly vulnerable. Give them plenty of room, especially if you are driving a long vehicle or towing a trailer. You should give way to cyclists when you are changing direction or lane – do not cut across them.”
• Be courteous to other riders who are filtering. If another rider is moving at a higher speed than you, let them pass by moving into a lane and then continue your lane splitting manoeuvre after OSM at a pace that’s comfortable for you.
• Never squeeze through a closing gap. That’s asking for trouble. Be patient and avoid making overly confident or pushy moves—there could be a hazard ahead you are unaware of.

Learn to filter through traffic on a motorcycle

Learning to filter through traffic isn’t a usual part of all training for a motorcycle licence or your CBT. That’s because not all areas of the UK require regular filtering to get from A to B. If you train for your CBT or motorcycle licence in a high traffic area that is often congested, learning to filter is more likely to be part of your training days.

That’s not to say you can’t learn how to use the UK motorcycle filtering rules—you can. We have a few advanced rider courses that will teach you how to filter safely along with a host of other skills.

The Enhanced Rider Scheme is one of our advanced rider courses. It’s perfect for new licence holders or riders who are returning to two wheels after a break. You’ll learn all about the  motorcycle overtaking rules in the UK, including safe filtering techniques.

For London riders, or riders in other cities who are keen to learn about filtering our Beyond CBT course is ideal. It’s free if you live, work or study in one of London’s Boroughs and have proof of this. This course is perfect for riders with their CBT who regularly use their motorbike or scooter in congested areas.
Motorcycle filtering rules in the UK are legit but also come with a few grey areas. Use them with caution and care. If you’re ready to get from A to B faster on two wheels by filtering, get in touch. We love teaching riders how to take the freedom of two wheels safely, confidently and competently.