Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Turn signals and four-way flashers on sportsbikes, hand signals, emergency flasher

Question
Greetings. I am a new rider and will be buying a new sportsbike here in Canada near future, but there are some things that i want to ask you about before i buy one.

First of all I've noticed that some sportsbikes have their turn signals integrated into the brakelight, i just don't feel safe about those. I mean do you recommend sportsbikes that have an external turn signals? and should it support a four-way emergency flash light? Whats your opinion?

Thanks for anwering my question. I appreciate you being here.

Answer
It would seem that the integrated turn signals are less effective, but the ones I've seen in use on the road are pretty clear and obvious turn indicators. If you're leery of them from a visibility standpoint, you can always opt to add aftermarket turn signals that stick out farther--when it comes to getting attention, more is better. Also consider using hand signals in addition to electric turn signals for added visibility/communication.

There should be a four-way emergency flasher switch, but I don't think they're really effective no matter what style (integrated or not) they are. They're a convenience item, don't rely too heavily on them getting you noticed.

I realize I've just said two completely different things. This is based on my experiences with my own bikes and with seeing others on the road.

Good luck and happy shopping!

Pat