Why do motorcycles often appear farther away and slower than they actually are?

Motorcycles often appear farther away and slower than they actually are because of how the human brain perceives size and distance. Due to their smaller size compared to larger vehicles like cars, people have a tendency to misjudge the speed and distance of motorcycles. This phenomenon is primarily rooted in size perception; since the motorcycle occupies less space visually, it can create an optical illusion that makes them appear to be farther away and moving more slowly than they truly are. This misjudgment can lead to dangerous situations on the road, as drivers may underestimate the approach speed of an oncoming motorcycle. Understanding this perception is crucial for safe driving, particularly when checking for oncoming traffic or attempting to make turns.