Why is riding directly alongside another vehicle potentially dangerous?

Riding directly alongside another vehicle is potentially dangerous because it can make you invisible to other drivers. This scenario increases the risk of accidents, as other motorists may not see you in their blind spots or may misjudge your speed and distance. Visibility is crucial when riding a motorcycle, and being next to another vehicle diminishes your chances of being noticed, especially if the other driver tries to change lanes or maneuvers unexpectedly. Engaging in this behavior reduces your ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions and can lead to serious collisions.

In contrast, other factors like maintaining balance on the motorcycle, engine overheating, or veering off are less directly associated with the immediate danger of riding alongside another vehicle. While those factors can also play a role in safe riding, the risk of invisibility to other drivers makes that particular choice the most significant concern when it comes to riding behavior.