DMV hanDbook 2015 MotorcyclE

DMV handbook English
2015
Motorcycle

(172)027259 Edmund G. Brown Jr., Governor
'(3$570 State of California
,$
Brian P. Kelly, Secretary
® California State Transportation Agency
(+,&/(6
6 Jean Shiomoto, Director
<($56 California Department of Motor Vehicles

7$7(2)&$/,)251

Page left
intentionally

blank

Table of Contents

New Laws 2015..................................ii Being Followed............................. 18
Passing and Being Passed........... 19
Disclaimer........................................ii Passing.......................................... 19
Being Passed................................ 19
Where to Write ...............................ii Lane Splitting................................ 19
Merging Vehicles........................... 20
DMV INFORMATION............................iii Vehicles Alongside........................ 20
Search, Evaluate, and
INTRODUCTION.................................... 1 Execute (SEE).................................. 21

TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE OPERATION........1 Search........................................... 21
Motorcycles........................................ 1 Evaluate......................................... 21
Motor-Driven Cycles........................... 2 Execute.......................................... 22
Motorized Bicycles............................. 2 Intersections..................................... 22
Motorized Scooter.............................. 2
Motorcycle License Type Chart.......... 3 Blind Intersections......................... 23
Passing Parked Vehicles............... 23
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS.....................4 Parking at the Roadside................ 26
Earning Your License......................... 4 Increasing Visibility........................... 26
Applying for a Motorcycle Permit........ 5
Motorcycle Safety Training Course..... 6 Clothing......................................... 27
Cheating............................................. 6 Headlight....................................... 27
Motorcycle Skills Test......................... 6 Turn Signals................................... 27
Brake Light.................................... 28
PREPARING TO RIDE............................8 Using Your Mirrors......................... 28
Wear the Right Gear.......................... 8 Head Checks................................. 29
Helmet Use...................................... 8 Horn............................................... 29
Helmet Selection............................. 9 Riding at Night.............................. 30
Face, Eye, and Ear Protection.......... 9 Collision Avoidance.......................... 30
Clothing......................................... 10
Know Your Motorcycle...................... 10 Quick Stops................................... 31
The Right Motorcycle.................... 11 Swerving or Turning Quickly.......... 31
Get Familiar With the Motorcycle Cornering....................................... 32
Controls......................................... 11 Handling Dangerous Surfaces......... 33
Check Your Motorcycle.................. 11
Know Your Responsibilities.............. 12 Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles.....33
Slippery Surfaces.......................... 34
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES............ 13 Railroad or Trolley Tracks and
Basic Vehicle Control....................... 13 Pavement Seams.......................... 35
Body Position................................ 13 Grooves and Gratings................... 35
Shifting Gears................................ 14 Mechanical Problems....................... 36
Braking.......................................... 14
Turning........................................... 15 Tire Failure..................................... 36
U-turns........................................... 15 Stuck Throttle................................. 36
Keeping Your Distance..................... 16 Wobble.......................................... 37
Lane Positions............................... 16 Chain Problems............................. 37
Carpool/High-Occupancy Vehicle Engine Seizure.............................. 38
(HOV) Lanes.................................. 17 Animals............................................ 38
Toll Highways and Vehicle
Crossings: Using Transponders or Flying Objects.................................. 38
Electronic Payment Devices.......... 17
Following Another Vehicle............. 17 Getting Off the Road........................ 38

Carrying Passengers and Cargo...... 38

Equipment..................................... 39

-i-

Motorcycles Towing Trailers........... 39 Get a DUI – Lose Your License!...... 44
Instructing Passengers.................. 39 Alcohol and the Law......................... 45
Riding With Passengers................ 40 Minimize the Risks........................... 45
Child Passengers.......................... 40 Fatigue............................................. 45
Carrying Loads.............................. 40
Group Riding.................................... 41 MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE FACTS....... 45

Keep the Group Small................... 41 EVADING A PEACE OFFICER................ 46
Keep the Group Together.............. 41
Keep Your Distance....................... 42 TREAD LIGHTLY!................................ 46

BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE................... 43 knowledge test sample 1............. 49
Blood Alcohol Concentration............ 43
knowledge test sample 2............. 51

New Laws 2015

Effective January 1, 2015

Vehicles: Motorized Bicycles

The definition of motorized bicycles or "moped" has increased the
maximum gross brake horsepower from less than two gross brake to less
than four gross brake horsepower. The full definition of this vehicle's
description can be found in California Vehicle Code (CVC) §406.

Disclaimer

This handbook is only a summary of laws and regulations. DMV, law
enforcement, and courts follow the full and exact language of the law
contained in the California Vehicle Code. You may buy a copy of the
California Vehicle Code at any DMV office or visit our website at www.
dmv.ca.gov.

Where to Write

If you have any comments or suggestions regarding this publication,
please send them to:

Department of Motor Vehicles
Customer Communications Section MS H165
PO Box 932345
Sacramento, CA 94232-3450

© Copyright, Department Of Motor Vehicles 2015
All rights reserved.

This work is protected by U. S. Copyright Law. DMV owns the copyright of this work.
Copyright law prohibits the following: (1) reproduction of the copyrighted work; (2)
distribution of copies of the copyrighted work; (3) preparation of derivative works based
upon the copyrighted work; (4) displaying the copyrighted work publicly; or (5) performing
the copyrighted work publicly. All requests for permission to make copies of all or any part
of this publication should be addressed to:

Department of Motor Vehicles - ii -
Legal Office MS C128
PO Box 932382
Sacramento, CA 94232-3820

DMV INFORMATION

Most DMV offices are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday,
Thursday, and Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Some
field offices have extended hours (open earlier), and a few offices offer
only driver license or vehicle registration services. To find out if your
local field office has extended hours, or to find a field office location
and service options, go online or call the toll-free number.

Make sure to have your driver license or identification card number,

motorcycle plate number, and/or vehicle identification number (VIN)

available.
Go online at www.dmv.ca.gov Call 1-800-777-0133 during nor-

for (to): mal business hours to:

• Field office locations, hours, • Obtain/request driver license

directions, and phone numbers. and vehicle registration informa-

• Make appointments to visit a tion, forms, and publications.
field office or take a driving test • Find office locations and hours.

(except for commercial driving • Make a driving test appoint-
tests).
ment.

• Order personalized plates. • Speak to a DMV representative

• Driver license and identification or request a call back during

card information. business hours.

• Vehicle/vessel registration infor- Call 1-800-777-0133 for automated

mation. service 24 hours a day, 7 days a

• Downloadable forms. week to:

• Publications—handbooks, bro- • Renew your driver license or

chures, and sample tests. vehicle registration with the

• Senior driver information. renewal identification number

• Teen driver information. (RIN) provided on your billing

• Links to other state and federal notice. You can pay with a credit

agencies. card or e-check.

• Renew your driver license or • Make an office appointment.
vehicle registration.

Persons with speech or hearing impairments can call toll free, 1-800-

368-4327 for assistance with DMV services. Only typed messages from

another TTY are received and responded to at this number.

Advertising sponsorship helps defray the printing costs of this publication. The products
and services provided by the advertising sponsors are not promoted or endorsed by
DMV, but the significant contribution by the advertising sponsors is most appreciated.
If you would like to advertise in this publication, please call the Office of State
Publishing Advertising Department at 1-866-824-0603.

- iii -

Page left
intentionally

blank

INTRODUCTION TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE
OPERATION
This handbook supplements the
California Driver Handbook con- The basic rules of the road con-
cerning traffic laws, safe driving tained in the California Vehicle
rules, and driver licenses. Study Code apply to all two-wheel vehi-
the California Driver Handbook cles which include motorcycles,
as well as this supplement. motor-driven cycles, mopeds, or
bicycles with a motor attached.
This supplement provides infor- Minibikes, tote-goats, trail bikes,
mation for both novice and and similar vehicles may fall with-
experienced drivers of two-wheel in the definition of motorcycle,
vehicles. Portions of this handbook motor-driven cycle, or motorized
which deal with safe driving prac- bicycle. If any of these vehicles are
tices (rather than traffic laws) were operated on a highway, they must
developed initially by the National meet applicable equipment, reg-
Public Services Research Institute istration, licensing, and operation
in cooperation with the Motorcycle requirements, if appropriate. Any
Safety Foundation (MSF). person registering a two-wheel
motorcycle is required to obtain
The MSF, California Highway a Class M1 or M2 driver license
Patrol (CHP), California prior to operating the vehicle.
Motorcyclist Safety Program
(CMSP), various motorcyclist It is illegal to ride a moped on a
enthusiast groups, and the freeway. Additionally, it is illegal
Department of Motor Vehicles to ride a moped on a bicycle path
(DMV) all agree that improved or trail, equestrian (horse) trail,
licensing, along with quality hiking trail, or recreational trail
motorcycle rider education and unless that path or trail is on or
increased public awareness, has the next to a road, or permission to
potential to reduce the number and use the trail or roadway is granted
severity of motorcycle collisions. by local law.

When using this handbook, Motorcycles
remember that it is only a summary
of laws and regulations. DMV, law A motorcycle has a seat or saddle
enforcement, and courts follow the for the rider and is designed to
full and exact language of the law travel on not more than three
contained in the California Vehicle wheels.
Code (CVC).

-1-

Motor-Driven Cycles • Must be 16 years of age or
older.
A motor-driven cycle is a motor-
cycle with a 149 cc or less engine • Must wear a bicycle safety
size. helmet.

NOTE: You may not operate a • Are exempt from the motor
motor-driven cycle on a freeway vehicle financial responsibility,
if signs are posted to prohibit driver license, and moped plate
motor-driven cycle operation. requirements (CVC §12804.9).

Motorized Bicycles • May ride a moped in a bicycle
lane at a reasonable speed. Be
There are two definitions for careful of bicyclists using the
motorized bicycles (mopeds). A lane.
motorized bicycle is:
Motorized Scooter
• A two-or three-wheeled device,
capable of no more than 30 mph A motorized scooter is defined as
on level ground, and equipped any two-wheeled “device” with:
with:
• A motor, handlebars, and a
––Fully operative pedals for floorboard for standing on
human propulsion. when riding, and

––A motor producing less than • The options of having:
four gross brake horsepower ––A driver seat which cannot
and an automatic transmis- interfere with the operator’s
sion. ability to stand and ride.

––An electric motor, with or ––The ability to be powered by
without pedals for human human propulsion.
propulsion (CVC §406(a)).
NOTE: A motorized scooter may
• A vehicle with pedals and an be driven with any class driver
electric motor (not more than license. A motorized scooter may
1,000 watts) which cannot be not be used to take a Class M1 or
driven at speeds of more than M2 skills test.
20 mph on level ground even if
assisted by human power (CVC The motorized scooter’s exhaust
§406(b)). system must not be modified or
altered.
If you operate a motorized
bicycle which meets the defini-
tion of CVC §406(b), you:

-2-

Motorcycle License Type Chart

Type of Vehicle California Type of Description
Vehicle
Code license

Motorcycle License Type Chart

-3-
Motorcycle CVC § 400 M1 A motorcycle has a seat or saddle for the rider and is designed to
travel on not more than three wheels.

Motor driven CVC § 405 M1* A motor-driven cycle is a motorcycle with a 149 cc or less engine

cycle size.

Motorized CVC § M1 (with A two- or three-wheeled device, capable of no more than 30 mph on
bicycle (Moped) 406(a) restric- level ground, and equipped with fully operative pedals for human
(capable of no tion) or propulsion, a motor producing less than four gross brake horsepower
M2* and an automatic transmission or an electric motor, with or without
more than 30 pedals for human propulsion.
mph)

Motorized CVC § Not A vehicle with pedals and an electric motor (not more than 1,000
bicycle* (capa- 406(b) required watts) which cannot be driven at speeds of more than 20 mph on
ble of no more level ground even if assisted by human power.
than 20 mph)

Motorized CVC § Any class A motorized scooter is defined as any two-wheeled “device” with a
scooter 407.5 of motor, handlebars, and a floorboard for standing on when riding, and
the options of having a driver seat which cannot interfere with the
license
operator’s ability to stand and ride and/or the ability to be powered by

human propulsion.

*Vehicles under 150 cc do not have the engine capability to be safely driven on a freeway.

LICENSE which provides driver license
REQUIREMENTS services. To obtain your license,
you must pass a knowledge test
California issues the following and pass a motorcycle skills
license classes for two-wheel test or obtain a Certificate
vehicle operation: of Completion of Motorcycle
Training (DL 389) as defined in
• Class M1—You may operate the Motorcycle Safety Training
any two-wheel motorcycle, Course section below.
motor-driven cycle, or motor-
ized scooter and all vehicles To locate a field office that offers
listed under Class M2. the motorcycle skills test and/or
to schedule an appointment, call
NOTE: The permit and license 1-800-777-0133 or visit www.
requirements in this handbook dmv.ca.gov.
pertain to two-wheel vehicles
and are referenced in Section Knowledge test questions are
12804.9 of the California based on information, practices,
Vehicle Code. and ideas from this handbook and
the California Driver Handbook.
• Class  M2—You may operate
any motorized bicycle, moped, The motorcycle skills test is con-
or a bicycle with an attached ducted in either an actual traffic
motor, or a motorized scooter. environment or in a controlled
off-street area.
NOTE: Class C licensees may
operate a motorcycle with a side
car attached or a three-wheel
motorcycle.

Earning Your License

Safe riding requires knowledge
and skill. Testing two-wheel
vehicle operators is the best
measurement of the skills neces-
sary to operate safely in traffic
because people often overesti-
mate their own abilities. DMV’s
licensing exams are designed to
be scored objectively.

You may apply for a Class M1 or
M2 license at any DMV office

-4-

Applying for a Motorcycle Permit

TO OBTAIN A PERMIT

Requirements Adults Adults Minors age
age age
15½ To 17
21 And 18 To 20 (Requires parent or
over guardian signature)

Complete a DMV application   
(DL44 or DL44C) form

Pay required fees  

Meet DMV vision standards   

Have fingerprint captured   

Have photo taken  

Provide required signature(s)   

Have had instruction permit —  
for at least 6 months

Pass applicable knowledge   
exams

Provide Certificate of —  
Completion of Motorcycle
Training (DL389)

NOTE: While not required, motorcycle applicants age 21 and older are

encouraged to enroll in the motorcycle safety training course.

The Class M1/M2 permit includes the following restrictions:

• No carrying passengers.
• No freeway driving.
• No nighttime driving.

NOTE: Minors age 15½–17 must bring proof of completion of both
driver education and driver training or be currently licensed.

-5-

Motorcycle Safety or electronic communication
Training Course devices such as a cell phone,
computer, tablet, etc. If any
Motorcycle applicants under 21 testing aid(s) are used during the
years of age are required to knowledge test, the knowledge
complete a motorcycle safety test will be marked as a “failure.”
training course before receiving An action may also be taken
a motorcycle instruction permit. by DMV against your driving
privilege or the driving privilege
Motorcycle applicants 21 years of anyone else who assists you in
of age and older are encouraged the examination process.
to enroll in the motorcycle safety
training course. The motorcycle Motorcycle Skills Test
safety training course offered
by the California Motorcyclist Basic vehicle control skills are
Safety Program (CMSP) provides included in the motorcycle skills
hands-on motorcycle knowledge test to determine your ability
and skill training for novice and to maneuver in normal traffic
experienced riders. CMSP has situations. The skills test may be
trained thousands of riders over waived for a person presenting a
the past several years. The DMV valid Certificate of Completion
motorcycle skills test may be of Motorcycle Training (DL 389);
waived upon completion of the however, you may be required to
motorcycle safety training course perform an observation test when
and submission of the Certificate applying for a motorcycle only
of Completion of Motorcycle (Class M1/M2) license. The DL
Training (DL 389). For more 389 is valid for 12 months from
information you may contact the issue date.
CMSP at 1-877-RIDE-411 or visit
www.californiamotorcyclist. The motorcycle skills test allows
com. the rider to demonstrate his or her
ability to control the motorcycle
NOTE: The DL 389 is valid for through several skills. Applicants
12 months from the issue date. taking the motorcycle skills test
should consider the size of the
Cheating motorcycle they plan to operate.
The motorcycle skills test is a
The use of testing aids is strictly pass/fail test.
prohibited. This includes, but
is not limited to: the California The motorcycle skills test
Motorcycle Handbook, California includes the following:
Driver Handbook, cheat sheets,

-6-

Pre-trip Inspection - You will be and return to the starting point,
asked to identify items on your weaving once more through the
motorcycle. The items you will row of five cones.
be asked to identify are the:
• Slow Ride – Ride slowly
• Starter between two parallel lines
• Kill switch keeping the front tire within
• Clutch (if equipped) the tracking path. At the end
• Throttle of the tracking path, begin the
• Gear selector circle ride twice in a counter-
• Dimmer switch clockwise direction.
• Brakes
• Turn signals • Gear Shift Ride – Ride in a
• Horn straight path, shifting gears up,
then down, complete a U-turn
You will be asked to demon- and return, shifting gears up,
strate the following skills, which then down and end in a smooth
include tracking paths (the area stop at the starting point. This is
within and including the tracking only performed on motorcycles
lines): with a clutch and gears.

• Serpentine Ride – Beginning A. The width inside of the
on the right of the first cone, parallel ride lane is one foot.
you will weave through a row
of five traffic cones. At the end B. The width inside the circle
of the row of cones you will ride lane is two feet.
begin the circle ride.
C. The diameter of the outside
• Circle Ride – Ride around circle is twenty-four feet.
the circle twice in a clockwise
direction keeping the front D. The cones are spaced twelve
wheel within the tracking path, feet apart. The wideth of the
area for the cones is eight
feet.

B A
C

D

-7-

Observation Test (if applying motorcycle safety helmet must
for a motorcycle-only license) be certified by the manufacturer
– The examiner will observe that the helmet complies with the
your driving from a preselected Department of Transportation
vantage point, usually on the (DOT), Federal Motor Vehicle
corner, near the office. They will Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218.
instruct you to follow a route that Research shows that head injuries
will keep you in view for the account for a majority of serious
longest period of time. and fatal motorcyclist injuries
and that with few exceptions,
PREPARING TO RIDE head injuries are reduced by
properly wearing a motorcycle
Wear the Right Gear safety helmet. Here are some
facts to consider:
When you ride, your gear is
“right” if it protects you. In any • A motorcycle safety helmet
collision, you have a far better allows you to see as far to the
chance of avoiding serious injury sides as necessary.
when you wear:
• Most collisions happen on
• A motorcycle safety helmet short trips (less than five miles
that is U.S. Department of long) just a few minutes after
Transportation (DOT) compli- starting out.
ant.
• Most riders are riding slower
• Face or eye protection. than 30 mph when a collision
• Protective clothing; for exam- occurs. At these speeds, a
motorcycle safety helmet can
ple, a leather or long sleeve cut both the number and the
jacket, long heavy pants over severity of head injuries by
ankle boots, full-fingered half.
leather gloves.
No matter what your speed in a
More information on wearing collision, if you are wearing a
the right gear is covered in the motorcycle safety helmet you are
following pages. three times more likely to survive
a head injury than if you aren’t
Helmet Use wearing one.

All operators and passengers
are required by law to wear a
motorcycle safety helmet when
riding a motorcycle, motor-driven
cycle, or motorized bicycle. The

-8-

Helmet Selection it may come off your head before
it gets a chance to protect you.
There are four types of helmets
to consider: A half shell, three- Face, Eye, and Ear
quarters, modular, or full-face Protection
helmet. However, a full-face
helmet with a lock-in visor, offers A plastic shatter-resistant face
the best coverage and protection shield can help protect your whole
to the back and sides of your head. face in a collision. It also protects
Whichever style you choose, you from wind, dust, dirt, rain,
you get the most protection by insects, and pebbles thrown up
making sure the helmet: from the vehicles ahead.
• Meets DOT safety standards
Goggles protect your eyes, but
and has the manufacturer- they don’t protect the rest of
applied DOT lettering on the your face as a face shield does.
back of the helmet. A windshield is not a substitute
NOTE: DOT lettering should for a face shield or goggles. Most
not be a stick-on label or easily windshields will not protect your
removed. eyes from the wind, nor will
• Fits snugly, all the way around. eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses
• Has no obvious defects such won’t keep your eyes from water-
as cracks, loose padding, or ing, and they might blow off when
frayed straps. you turn your head.
Keep your motorcycle safety
helmet securely fastened on your To be effective, eye or face shield
head when you ride. Otherwise, protection must:
if you are involved in a collision,
• Be free of scratches.
• Be resistant to punctures.
• Give a clear view to either side.
• Fasten securely, so it does not

blow off or up.
• Permit air to pass through, to

reduce fogging.
• Permit enough room for eye-

glasses or sunglasses, if needed.

Tinted eye protection should not
be worn at night or any other time
when little light is available.

-9-

To protect against the elements and support your ankles. Soles
of nature, such as wind, which should be made of hard, dura-
can cause hearing loss, you ble, slip-resistant material. The
may want to use ear protection. heels should be short so they
CVC §27400 states that a person do not catch on rough surfaces.
may not wear a headset covering Tuck in laces so they won’t
or earplugs in both ears, unless catch on your motorcycle.
the protectors (earplugs or molds)
are specifically designed to • Gloves allow a better grip
reduce harmful (injurious) noise and help protect your hands.
levels. They shall be designed Your gloves should be made
not to inhibit the wearer's ability of leather or similar durable
to hear a siren or horn from an material.
emergency vehicle or another
motor vehicle. Riding for long periods in cold
weather can cause severe chill
Clothing and fatigue. Numbness can make
it difficult to control a motor-
The right clothing protects you in cycle. In cold or wet weather,
a collision. It also provides com- layer clothes to keep yourself
fort, as well as protection from warm and dry, as well as protect
heat, cold, debris, and the hot and you from injury. A winter jacket
moving parts of the motorcycle. should resist wind and fit snugly
at the neck, wrists, and waist.
• Jacket and pants should cover Good quality rain suits designed
arms and legs completely. for motorcycle riding resist tear-
They should fit snugly enough ing apart or ballooning up at high
to keep from flapping in the speeds.
wind, but still allow you to
move freely. Leather or a sturdy Know Your Motorcycle
synthetic material offers the
most protection. Wear a jacket There are many things on the
even in warm weather to pre- highway that can cause you
vent dehydration. Many jackets trouble. Your motorcycle should
are designed to protect without not be one of them. To make sure
getting you overheated, even on that your motorcycle won’t let
summer days. you down:

• Boots or shoes should be high • Start with the right motorcycle
and sturdy enough to cover for you.

• Read the owner’s manual first.

- 10 -

• Be familiar with the motorcycle cut-off switch. You should be
controls. able to find them without hav-
ing to look for them.
• Check the motorcycle before
every ride. • Know the gear pattern. Work
the throttle, clutch, and brakes
• Keep it in safe riding condition a few times before you start
between rides. riding. All controls react a little
differently.
• Avoid add-ons and modifica-
tions that make your motorcycle • Ride very cautiously and be
harder to handle. aware of your surroundings.
Accelerate gently, take turns
The Right Motorcycle more slowly, and leave extra
room for stopping.
First, make sure your motorcycle
“fits” you. Your feet should reach Check Your Motorcycle
the ground while you are seated
on the motorcycle. At minimum, A motorcycle needs more fre-
your street-legal motorcycle must quent attention than a car. If
have: something is wrong with the
motorcycle, you’ll want to find
• Tires with sufficient tread for out about it before you get in traf-
safe operation. fic. Make the following checks
before every ride:
• A headlight, taillight, brake
light, and turn signals. • Tires—Check the air pressure,
general wear, and tread.
• Front and rear brakes.
• A horn and two mirrors. • Fluids—Oil and fluid levels.
At a minimum, check hydraulic
Get Familiar With the fluids and coolants weekly.
Motorcycle Controls Look under the motorcycle for
signs of an oil or gas leak.
Be completely familiar with the
motorcycle before you take it • Headlights and Taillight—
out on the street. If you use an Check them both. Test your
unfamiliar motorcycle: switch to make sure both high
and low beams work.
• Make all the safety and main-
tenance checks you would on • Turn Signals—Turn on both
your own motorcycle. right and left turn signals.
Make sure all lights work
• Find out where everything properly.
is, particularly the turn sig-
nals, horn, headlight switch,
fuel-supply valve, and engine

- 11 -

• Battery—Check the battery • Horn—Make sure the horn
condition and electrolyte level; works.
ensure the terminals are clean
and tight, and that the battery In addition to the checks before
is fastened securely. every trip, check the follow-
ing items at least once a week:
• Brake Light—Try both brake wheels, cables, fasteners, and
controls and make sure each fluids. Follow the manufacturer’s
one turns on the brake light. recommendations.

• Chain or Belt—Check the ten- Collisions are fairly common
sion, lubrication, and sprockets. among new riders. Riding an
unfamiliar motorcycle adds to
• Kick-Stand—Check the kick- the problem. Get familiar with
stand for cracks, bent springs, any motorcycle that is new to you,
and tension to hold position. preferably in a controlled area.
(No matter how experienced
Once you are on the motorcycle, you may be, ride extra carefully
complete the following checks on any motorcycle that is new or
before starting out: unfamiliar to you.) Remember
that more than half of all col-
• Clutch and Throttle—Make lisions occur on motorcycles
sure they work smoothly. The ridden by riders with less than
throttle should snap back when six months experience.
you let go. The clutch should
feel tight and smooth. Know Your
Responsibilities
• Mirrors—Clean and adjust
both mirrors before starting. “Accident” implies an unfore-
Adjust each mirror so you can seen event that occurs without
see the lane behind and as much anyone’s fault or negligence.
as possible of the lane next to Most often in traffic, that is not
you. When properly adjusted, the case. In fact, most people
a mirror may show the edge of involved in a collision can usu-
your arm or shoulder—but it’s ally claim some responsibility for
the road behind and to the side what takes place.
that is most important.
Blame doesn’t matter when
• Brakes—Try the front and rear someone is injured in a collision.
brake levers one at a time. Make There is rarely a single cause of
sure each one feels firm and any collision. The ability to be
holds the motorcycle when the aware, make critical decisions,
brake is fully applied.

- 12 -

and carry them out separates RIDE WITHIN YOUR
responsible riders from all the ABILITIES
rest. It is up to you to keep
from being the cause of, or an This handbook cannot teach you
unprepared participant in, any how to control direction, speed,
collision. or balance. You learn this only
through practice and by knowing
As a rider, you can’t be sure your abilities and riding within
that others will see you or yield them.
the right of way. To reduce the
chances of a collision: Basic Vehicle Control

• Be visible. Wear proper cloth- Body Position
ing, use your headlight, and
ride in the best lane position To control a motorcycle well:
to see and be seen.
• Posture—Sit so you can use
• Communicate your inten- your arms to steer the motorcy-
tions. Use the proper signals, cle rather than to hold yourself
brake light, and lane position. up.

• Maintain an adequate space • Seat—Sit far enough forward
cushion. Allow yourself so your arms are slightly bent
enough space when following, when holding the handlegrips.
being followed, lane splitting, Bending your arms permits
passing, and being passed. you to press on the handlebars
without having to stretch.
• Be aware. Monitor vehicle
traffic in front of you and • Hands—Hold the handlegrips
approaching traffic from firmly. Start with your right
behind and maintain an escape wrist flat so you won’t acci-
route. dentally use too much throttle.
Also, adjust the handlebars so
• Scan your path of travel. Look your hands are even with or
at least 10 to 15 seconds ahead. below your elbows. This allows
you to use the proper muscles
• Identify and separate mul- for precision steering.
tiple hazards.
• Knees—Keep your knees
• Be prepared to act. Remain against the gas tank to help
alert and know how to carry with your balance as you turn
out proper collision-avoidance the motorcycle.
skills.
• Feet—Keep your feet firmly on
the footpegs for balance. Don’t

- 13 -

drag your feet or you could be Braking
injured and lose control of the
motorcycle. Keep your feet Your motorcycle has two brakes:
near the controls. Also, don’t one each for the front and rear
point your toes downward— wheel. Use both brakes at the
they may get caught between same time. The front brake is
the road and the footpegs. more powerful and can provide
at least three-quarters of your
Shifting Gears total stopping power. The front
brake is safe to use when you use
There is more to shifting gears it properly.
than simply getting the motor-
cycle to pick up speed smoothly. REMEMBER:
Learning to use the gears when
downshifting, turning, or start- • Use both brakes every time you
ing on hills is important for safe slow or stop. Using both brakes
motorcycle operation. for “normal” stops permits you
to develop the proper habit
Shift down through the gears and skill of using both brakes
with the clutch as you slow or properly, which you may need
stop. Remain in first gear while in an emergency. Squeeze the
stopped so you can move out front brake and press down on
quickly, if needed. the rear brake. Grabbing at the
front brake or jamming down
Ride slowly enough when you on the rear brake can cause
shift into a lower gear or the the brakes to lock and result
motorcycle will lurch and the in control problems.
rear wheel may skid. When
riding downhill or shifting into • If you know the technique,
first gear you may need to slow using both brakes in a turn is
to downshift safely. Work toward possible, although it should
a smooth, even clutch release be done very carefully. When
especially when downshifting. you lean the motorcycle, some
of the traction is used for
It is best to change gears before cornering and less traction is
starting a turn. However, some- available for stopping. A skid
times you may need to shift can occur if you apply too much
while in the turn. Remember to brake. Also, using the front
shift smoothly because a sudden brake incorrectly on a slippery
change in power to the rear wheel surface may be hazardous. Use
can cause a skid.

- 14 -

caution and gently squeeze the require the motorcycle to
brake lever, never “grab” it. lean more.
• Some motorcycles have inte-
grated braking systems that 4. Roll—Roll on the throttle
link the front and rear brakes through the turn to stabilize
together when you apply the suspension. Maintain steady
rear brake pedal. (Consult your speed or accelerate gradually
owner’s manual.) through the turn. This will
help keep the motorcycle
Turning stable.

Riders often try to take curves or In normal turns, the rider and the
turns too fast. When they can’t motorcycle should lean together
hold the turn, they end up cross- at the same angle.
ing into another lane of traffic
or going off the road. In some In slow tight turns, the rider should
cases, riders overreact and brake keep his or her body straight and
too hard causing a skid and loss only lean the motorcycle.
of control. Approach turns and
curves with caution. U-turns

Use four steps for better control: Completing U-turns on a motor-
cycle requires more effort than an
1. Slow—Reduce your speed automobile. You need to maintain
before the turn by rolling off control and balance to maneuver
the throttle and, if necessary, a motorcycle through a tight
applying both brakes. U-turn. Here are some tips for
completing U-turns successfully:
2. Look—Look through the turn
to where you want to go. Turn • Look­—Look through the
only your head, not your turn to where you want to go.
shoulders, and keep your Turn only your head, not your
eyes level with the horizon. shoulders, and keep your eyes
level with the horizon.
3. Press—To turn, the motor-
cycle must lean. To lean the • Friction Zone—The friction
motorcycle, press on the zone is the area of the clutch
handlegrip in the direction between completely engaged
of the turn. Press left—lean and completely released.
left—go left. Press right— Riding within the friction
lean right—go right. Higher zone will give you more control
speeds and/or tighter turns through the turn.

- 15 -

• Dragging the Rear Brake— advantage. Each traffic lane gives
Dragging the rear brake is the a motorcycle three paths of travel,
practice of utilizing the rear as indicated in the illustration.
brake to control the bike speed
and maintain stability, such as LANE POSITIONS
in a U-turn. The front brake
should not be used as it could Your lane position should:
cause the bike to tip over. • Increase your ability to see and

• Centralize Weight—A motor- be seen.
cycle will be easier to maneuver • Avoid others’ blind spots.
when the weight is kept close to • Protect your lane from other
the bike. Keep your feet on the
pegs and, if necessary, apply drivers.
weight to the outside peg to • Communicate your intentions.
equalize balance. • Help you avoid wind blasts

• Practice—Practice executing from other vehicles.
U-turns in an empty open • Provide an escape route.
parking lot. Start with wide Select the appropriate lane posi-
U-turns and gradually tighten tion to maximize your space
the turning radius. Also prac- cushion and make yourself more
tice U-turns in both directions visible to others on the road.
by riding in figure (8) patterns In general, there is no “best lane
until you are comfortable with position” for riders in which to
U-turns in both right and left be seen and to maintain a space
directions. cushion around the motorcycle.
Position yourself in the lane that
Keeping Your Distance allows the most visibility and
space around you. Change your
The best protection you can lane position as traffic situa-
have is distance—a “cushion of tions change. Ride in paths 2 or
space”—all around your motor-
cycle. If someone else makes a
mistake, distance gives you:

• Time to react.
• Space to maneuver.

Lane Positions

In some ways the size of the
motorcycle can work to your

- 16 -

3 if vehicles and other potential are used in heavily traveled areas
problems are on your left side. If to relieve traffic congestion.
vehicles are on both sides of you,
the center of the lane (path 2) is Commuters traveling on toll
usually the best option. highways or using HOT lanes
may purchase transponders,
The oily strip in the center por- which track their vehicle's usage
tion of the lane is usually no more of these roadways. Transponders
than two feet wide. You can ride allow drivers to pay toll fees
just to the left or right of the oily through electronic billing.
strip and still be within the center
portion of the traffic lane. Avoid When using a transponder or
riding on oil and grease buildups. other electronic payment device
while driving on a toll highway,
Carpool/High-Occupancy HOT lane, or toll bridge, motor-
Vehicle (HOV) Lanes cyclists are allowed to place the
payment device in five locations
A carpool lane is a special free- (on the motorcycle or carried by
way lane used only for carpools, the driver), as long as the toll
buses, motorcycles, or decaled reader can detect the device.
low-emission vehicles. The pave-
ment in this lane is marked with a The locations are:
diamond symbol ◊ and the words
“Carpool Lane.” These lanes are • In the motorcyclist’s pocket.
also known as high-occupancy • Inside a cycle net draped across
vehicle (HOV) lanes. Do not
cross over double parallel lines the gas tank of the motorcycle.
to enter or exit any carpool lane • On the license plate device, if
except at designated entry or
exit places. Motorcyclists are the toll operator provides such
allowed to use Carpool/HOV a device.
lanes, unless otherwise posted. • In a storage compartment on
the motorcycle.
Toll Highways and • On the windshield of the
Vehicle Crossings: Using motorcycle.
Transponders or Electronic
Payment Devices Following Another Vehicle

In California, high-occupancy “Following too closely” (tailgat-
toll (HOT) lanes and toll high- ing) could be a factor in collisions
ways are fee-paid roadways that involving motorcyclists. In traf-
fic, motorcycles need as much
distance to stop as other vehicles.

- 17 -

Normally, you should maintain a of you. This will make it easier
two-second following distance. to get out of the way if a driver
behind you is traveling too
To gauge your following distance: quickly or the vehicle ahead
starts to back up.
• Ahead of you, pick out a marker
such as a pavement marking or • When behind a vehicle, ride
lamp post. where the driver can see you
in his or her rearview mirror.
• When the rear bumper of the
vehicle ahead of you passes If you ride in the left or right por-
the marker, count off the tion of the lane, the driver may
seconds: “one-thousand-one, see you in his or her side view
one-thousand-two.” If you mirror. If the traffic situation
reach the marker before you allows, the center lane position is
reach “one-thousand-two,” you usually the best place for you to
are following too closely. be seen by the driver in his or her
rearview mirror and to prevent
• A two-second following dis- lane splitting by others.
tance gives you a minimum
amount of space to stop or Being Followed
swerve, if the driver ahead
stops suddenly. It also gives When you speed up to lose a
you a better view of potholes tailgater, you only end up with
and other road hazards. someone tailgating you at a
higher speed.
• Increase following distance
when the motorcycle is towing A better way to handle tailgaters
a trailer as increased stopping is to allow them to pass you. If
distance is required. you can’t do this, slow down and
open up extra space ahead of you.
• You will need a larger space This will allow space for both you
cushion if your motorcycle and the tailgater to stop. This will
takes longer than normal to also encourage the tailgater to
stop. Open up a three-second or pass. But if the tailgater doesn’t
more following distance when pass, you have at least given
the pavement is slippery, or you yourself and the tailgater more
cannot see through the vehicle time and space to react in case
ahead, or traffic is heavy, or an emergency develops.
someone may squeeze in front
of you.

• When you are stopped, keep
well behind the vehicle ahead

- 18 -

Passing and Being Passed vehicle, stay in the center portion
of your lane. Riding any closer
Passing and being passed by a could put you in a hazardous
larger vehicle is not much differ- situation.
ent than with a smaller passenger
vehicle. However, visibility is Avoid being hit by:
more critical. Be sure other
drivers see you and that you see • The other vehicle—A slight
potential hazards. mistake by you or the passing
driver could cause a sideswipe.
Passing
• Extended mirrors—Some
1. Ride in the left portion of drivers forget that their mir-
your lane at a safe following rors hang out farther than their
distance to increase your line fenders.
of sight and make you more
visible. Signal and check for • Objects thrown from win-
oncoming traffic. Use your dows—Even if the driver
mirrors and turn your head to knows you are there, a pas-
look for traffic behind. senger may not see you and
might toss something on you
2. When safe, move into the left or the road ahead of you.
lane and accelerate. Select
a lane position that doesn’t • Blasts of wind from larger
crowd the vehicle you are vehicles—They can affect your
passing and provides space control. You have more room
to avoid hazards in your lane. for error if you are in the middle
portion of the lane when hit
3. Ride through the driver’s blind by this blast than if you are on
spot as quickly as possible. either the left or right portions
of the lane.
4. Signal again and complete
mirror and head checks before Do not move into the portion of
returning to your original the lane farthest from the passing
lane. Then cancel your turn vehicle. It might invite the other
signal. driver to move back into your
lane too early.
Remember, passing must be
completed within posted speed Lane Splitting
limits, and only where permitted.
The term lane splitting, also
Being Passed known as lane sharing, filter-
ing, or white-lining refers to the
When you are being passed process of a motorcyclist riding
from behind or by an oncoming

- 19 -

between lanes of stopped or MERGING
slower-moving traffic or mov-
ing between lanes to the front Vehicles Alongside
of traffic stopped at a traffic Do not ride next to passenger
light. Vehicles and motorcycles vehicles or trucks in other lanes
each need a full lane to operate if you don’t have to because you
safely and riding between rows might be in the driver’s blind
of stopped or moving vehicles spot. The driver could change
in the same lane can leave you lanes without warning.
vulnerable. A vehicle could turn Also, vehicles in the next lane
suddenly or change lanes, a door can block your escape if you
could open, or a hand could come come upon danger in your own
out the window. lane. Speed up or drop back to
find a place clear of traffic on
Merging Vehicles both sides.

Drivers on an entrance ramp may
not see you on the highway. Give
them plenty of room. Change
to another lane if one is open.
If there is no room for a lane
change, adjust your speed to open
up space for the merging driver.

- 20 -

BLIND SPOTS areas, or school and construction
zones.
Search, Evaluate, and
Execute (SEE) Search for factors such as:

Experienced riders remain aware • Oncoming traffic that may turn
of what is going on around them. left in front of you.
They improve their riding strat-
egy by using SEE, a three-step • Traffic coming from either the
process for making appropriate left, right, or behind.
judgments and applying them
correctly in different traffic situ- • Hazardous road conditions.
ations. SEE stands for: Search,
Evaluate, and Execute. Evaluate
Search
Actively search ahead, to the Think about how hazards can
sides, and behind to help you create risks for you. Anticipate
avoid potential hazards. How you potential problems and have a
search and how much time and plan to reduce risks.
space you have, can eliminate or
reduce harm. Focus even more on • Road and surface charac-
finding potential escape routes in teristics such as potholes,
or around intersections, shopping guardrails, bridges, telephone
poles, and trees won’t move
into your path but may influ-
ence your riding strategy.

• Traffic control devices such
as traffic signals, regulatory
signs, warning signs, and pave-
ment markings will help you
evaluate circumstances ahead.

• Vehicles and other traffic
may move into your path and
increase the likelihood of a
collision.

Think about your time and space
requirements in order to maintain
a margin of safety. You must
leave yourself time to react if an
emergency arises.

- 21 -

Execute entering a rider’s right-of-way.
Vehicles that turn left in front
Carry out your decision. To create of you, including those illegally
more space and minimize harm turning left from the wrong lane,
from any hazard: and vehicles on side streets that
pull into your lane, are the biggest
• Communicate your presence dangers. Your use of the SEE
with lights and/or your horn. process at intersections is critical
(see page 21).
• Adjust your speed by accelerat- There are no guarantees that
ing, stopping, or slowing. others will see you. Never count
on “eye contact” as a sign that
• Adjust your lane position and/ a driver will yield to you. Too
or direction of travel. often, a driver can look right at
a motorcyclist and still fail to
Apply the old saying “one step “see” him or her. The only eyes
at a time” to handle two or more that you can count on are your
hazards. Adjust your speed so own. If a vehicle can enter your
you can deal with each hazard path, assume that it will. Good
separately. Then deal with them riders are always “looking for
one at a time as single hazards. trouble”—not to get into it, but
Decision-making becomes more to stay out of it.
complex with three or more haz-
ards. Weigh the consequences of LARGE INTERSECTIONS
each and give equal distance to
the hazards. Increase your chances of being
seen at intersections. Ride with
In high-risk areas, such as inter- your headlight on in a lane posi-
sections, shopping areas, or tion that provides you with the
school and construction zones, best view of oncoming traffic.
cover the clutch and both brakes Maintain a space cushion around
to reduce your reaction time.

Intersections

The greatest potential for conflict
between you and other traffic is at
intersections. An intersection is
anywhere traffic may cross your
path. It can be in the middle of an
urban area or at a driveway on a
residential street. Over one-half
of motorcycle/passenger vehicle
collisions are caused by drivers

- 22 -

your motorcycle that permits you cross lane of travel while you are
to take evasive action. looking.

As you approach an intersec- BLIND INTERSECTION
tion, select a lane position that
increases your visibility to the Passing Parked Vehicles
driver. Cover the clutch and both When passing parked vehicles,
brakes to reduce reaction time. stay toward the left portion of
your lane. This way, you can
Reduce your speed as you avoid problems caused by doors
approach an intersection. After opening, drivers getting out of
entering the intersection, move vehicles, or people stepping from
away from vehicles preparing between vehicles. If oncoming
to turn. Do not change speed traffic is present, it is usually best
or position radically. The driver to remain in the center portion of
might think that you are prepar- the lane to maximize your space
ing to turn. cushion.

Blind Intersections

When you approach a blind
intersection, move to the portion
of the lane that brings you into
another driver’s field of vision at
the earliest possible moment. In
this picture the rider has moved to
the left portion of the lane—away
from the parked vehicle—so the
driver on the cross street can see
him or her as soon as possible.

If you have a stop sign or stop
line, stop there first. Then edge
forward and stop again, just short
of where the cross-traffic lane
meets your lane. From that posi-
tion, lean your body forward and
look around buildings, parked
vehicles, or bushes to see if
anything is coming. Make sure
your front wheel stays out of the

- 23 -

blindIt is not only trucks that have
spotS

All vehicles have them. Where
are your vehicles’ blind spots?

www.dmv.ca.gov
1-800-777-0133

TE OF CALIFOR
STANIA

®



A bigger problem can occur if a attention. Sound your horn and
driver pulls away from the curb continue with caution.
without checking for traffic from
behind. Even if the driver looks, Parking at the Roadside
he or she may fail to see you. Park at an angle of 45 to 90
degrees to the curb with a wheel
In either event, the driver might or fender touching the curb.
enter your path. Slow down or
change lanes to make room for PARKING AT CURBS
someone to enter.

PARKED VEHICLES

Vehicles making a sudden U-turn Increasing Visibility
are the most dangerous. They
may cut you off entirely, blocking In collisions with motorcyclists,
the whole roadway and leaving drivers often say that they never
you with no place to go. Since saw the motorcycle. From ahead
you can’t tell what a driver will or behind, a motorcycle’s outline
do, slow down and get the driver’s is much smaller than a passenger
vehicle’s. Also, it’s hard to see
something you are not looking
for, and most drivers are not look-
ing for motorcycles. More likely,
they are looking through the
skinny, two-wheeled silhouette
in search of vehicles that may
pose a problem to them.

Even if a driver does see you com-
ing, you aren’t necessarily safe.

- 26 -

Smaller vehicles appear farther night increases the chances that
away and seem to be traveling oncoming drivers will see you.
slower than they actually are. It Use your high beam when it is
is common for drivers to pull out legal and safe to do so. When it
in front of motorcyclists, think- is foggy, use the low beam.
ing they have plenty of time. Too
often, they are wrong. Turn Signals

However, you can do many things The turn signals on a motorcycle
to make it easier for others to rec- are similar to those on a vehicle.
ognize you and your motorcycle. They tell others what you plan
to do.
Clothing
LEFT RIGHT
Most collisions occur in broad TURN TURN
daylight. Wear brightly-colored
clothing to increase your chances SLOW or
of being seen. Remember, your STOP
body is half of the visible surface
area of the rider/motorcycle unit. However, due to a rider’s added
vulnerability, turn signals are
Bright orange, red, yellow, or even more important. Use them
green jackets or vests are the best anytime you plan to change
for being seen. Brightly-colored lanes or turn. Signal your left
helmets can also help others see or right turn during the last 100
you. feet before reaching the turning
point. At highway speeds, it is
Reflective material on a vest and best to signal at least five seconds
on the sides of the helmet will before changing lanes. Use your
help drivers see you from the turn signals even when you think
side. Reflective material can also no one else is around. Your turn
be a big help for drivers coming signals also make you easier to
toward you or from behind. see. If bright sunlight makes your

Headlight

The best way to help others see
your motorcycle is to always keep
the headlight on. Studies show
that during the day, a motorcycle
with its light on is twice as likely
to be noticed. Using your high
beam during the day and at

- 27 -

turn signal lights hard to see, use you slow down. It is especially
hand signals. important to flash your brake
When you enter a freeway, driv- light before you slow:
ers approaching from behind
are more likely to see your turn • For a tight, fast turn off a high-
signal blinking and make room speed highway.
for you.
• Where others may not expect
SIGNALS it (in the middle of a block or
at an alley).
Using your turn signals before
each turn reduces confusion and If you are being tailgated, it’s
frustration for the traffic around a good idea to flash your brake
you. Once you turn, be sure to light before you slow.
turn them off or a driver may pull
directly into your path, thinking Using Your Mirrors
you plan to turn again.
Brake Light While it’s most important to
Your motorcycle’s brake light know what’s happening ahead,
is usually not as noticeable as a you can’t ignore situations behind
vehicle’s—especially when the you. Traffic conditions change
taillight is on. If the situation quickly. To make safe decisions
permits, help others notice you by about how to handle trouble
flashing your brake light before ahead, you must know what is
going on behind you.

Frequent mirror checks should
be part of your normal searching
routine. Make a special point of
using your mirrors:

• When you are stopped at an
intersection. Watch vehicles
coming up from behind. If the
driver isn’t paying attention, he
could be on top of you before
he sees you.

• Before you change lanes.
Make sure no one is about to
pass you.

• Before you slow down. The
driver behind you may not
expect you to slow, or may be

- 28 -

unsure about where you will to you. A driver in the distant lane
slow. For example, you signal may drive into the same space
a turn and the driver thinks you plan to take.
you plan to turn at a distant Frequent head checks should be
intersection, rather than at a part of your normal scanning
nearer driveway. routine. Only by knowing what
is happening all around, can you
Some motorcycles have rounded be fully prepared to deal with it.
(convex) mirrors. These mirrors
provide a wider view of the road BLIND SPOTS
behind than flat mirrors. They
also make vehicles seem farther Horn
away than they really are. If you Be ready to use your horn to get
are not used to convex mirrors, someone’s attention quickly.
you can get familiar with them It is a good idea to give a quick
by: beep before passing anyone that
may move into your lane.
• Picking out a parked vehicle Here are some situations:
in your mirror (while you are • A driver in the lane next to you
stopped).
is driving too closely to the
• Forming a mental image of how vehicle ahead and may want
far away it is. to pass.
• A driver is seated in a parked
• Then, turning around and look- vehicle ahead.
ing to see how close you came.

• Practicing with your mirrors
until you become a good judge
of distance.

• Allowing extra distance before
you change lanes.

Head Checks

Checking your mirrors is not
enough. Motorcycles have “blind
spots” just like other vehicles.
Before you change lanes, turn
your head and check that lane for
other vehicles.

On a road with several lanes,
check the far lane and the one next

- 29 -

• Someone is in the street riding • Use the vehicle ahead. The
a bicycle or walking. headlights of the vehicle ahead
can give you a better view of
In an emergency, press the horn the road than your high beam.
button loud and long. Be ready Taillights bouncing up and
to stop or swerve away from the down can alert you to bumps
danger. or rough pavement.

Remember that a motorcycle’s • Use your high beam. Get all
horn isn’t as loud as other vehi- the light you can. Use your
cles’, so use it, but don’t rely high beam whenever you are
on it. Other strategies may be not following or approaching
appropriate along with the horn. another vehicle. Be visible.
Wear reflective materials when
Riding at Night riding at night.

At night it is harder for you to • Be flexible about lane posi-
see and be seen. Picking your tion. Change to the portion of
motorcycle’s headlight or taillight the lane that helps you see, be
out of the other lights is not easy seen, and keep an adequate
for drivers. To make up for this, space cushion.
you should:
Collision Avoidance
• Reduce your speed. Ride
even slower than you would No matter how careful you are,
during the day—particularly there will be times when you
on roads you don’t know well. find yourself in a tight spot. Your
This increases your chances of chances of getting out safely
avoiding a hazard. depend on your ability to react
quickly and properly. Often, a
• Increase distance. Distances collision occurs because a rider
are harder to judge at night is not prepared or skilled in
than during the day. Your eyes collision-avoidance maneuvers.
rely upon shadows and light
contrasts to determine how far Two skills critical in avoiding a
away an object is and how fast collision are knowing when and
it is coming. These contrasts how to stop or swerve. You can’t
are missing or distorted at always stop quickly to avoid an
night. Open up a three-second obstacle. You must also be able
or more following distance. to swerve around an obstacle.
Allow more distance to pass
and be passed. Studies show that most collisions
involve riders who:

- 30 -

• Underbrake the front tire and possible to straighten the motor-
overbrake the rear. cycle and then stop. If you must
brake while leaning, apply the
• Did not separate braking from brakes lightly and reduce the
swerving or did not choose to throttle. As you slow, reduce your
swerve when it was appropri- lean angle and apply more brake
ate. pressure until the motorcycle is
straight and maximum brake
Quick Stops pressure is possible. Then in the
last few feet of stopping, you
To stop quickly, apply both should “straighten” the handle-
brakes at the same time. Don’t bars. The motorcycle should now
be shy about using the front be straight up and in balance.
brake, but don’t “grab” it either.
Squeeze the brake lever firmly Swerving or Turning Quickly
with continuing steady pressure.
If the front wheel locks, release Sometimes you may not have
the front brake immediately and enough room to stop, even if
then reapply it firmly. At the you use both brakes properly. An
same time, press down on the object might appear suddenly in
rear brake. If you accidentally your path or the vehicle ahead
lock the rear brake on a good might stop abruptly. The only
traction surface, you can keep it way to avoid a collision may be to
locked until you have completely turn quickly or swerve around it.
stopped.
A swerve is any sudden change
NOTE: Even with a locked in direction. It can be two quick
rear wheel, you can control the turns, or a rapid shift to the side.
motorcycle on a straightaway To swerve, apply a small amount
if it is upright and going in a of hand pressure to the handle-
straight line. grip on the side of your intended
direction of escape. This causes
Always use both brakes at the the motorcycle to lean quickly.
same time to stop. The front The sharper the turn(s), the more
brake can provide almost three- the motorcycle must lean.
quarters of your stopping power.

If you must stop quickly while
turning or riding a curve, the
best technique is to straighten the
motorcycle first and then brake.
However, it may not always be

- 31 -

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE direction of travel. To swerve to
the left, press the left handlegrip,
BRAKE, THEN SWERVE then press the right to recover. To
swerve to the right, press right,
Keep your body upright and then left.
allow the motorcycle to lean in
the direction of the turn. Keep If braking is required, separate
your knees against the tank and it from swerving. Brake before
your feet solidly on the pegs. Let or after—never while swerving.
the motorcycle move underneath
you. Make your escape route Cornering
the target of your vision. Press
on the opposite handlegrip once A primary cause of single-vehicle
you clear the obstacle and are collisions is motorcyclists run-
ready to return to your original ning wide in a curve or turn and
colliding with the roadway or a
fixed object.

Every curve is different. Be
alert to whether a curve remains
constant, gradually widens, gets
tighter, or involves multiple
turns.

Ride within your skill level and
posted speed limits. Your best
path may not always follow the
curve of the road.

Change your lane position based
on traffic, road conditions, and
curve of the road. If there is no
traffic, start at the outside of a
curve to increase your line of
sight and the effective radius
of the turn. As you turn, move
toward the inside of the curve,
and as you pass the center, move
to the outside to exit.

Another choice is to move to
the center of your lane before
entering a curve and stay there

- 32 -

CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES

DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES

until you exit. This allows you to • Slippery surfaces
see approaching traffic as soon • Railroad tracks or pavement
as possible. You can also adjust
for traffic “crowding” the center seams
line or debris blocking part of • Grooves and gratings
your lane.
Uneven Surfaces and
Handling Dangerous Obstacles
Surfaces
Watch for uneven road surfaces
Your chance of falling or being such as bumps, broken pavement,
involved in a collision increases potholes, or trash on the highway.
whenever you ride across:
Avoid obstacles by slowing or
• Uneven surfaces or obstacles going around them. However, if
you must go over the obstacle,

- 33 -

first determine if it’s possible. • Gravel roads or where sand
Approach it at as close to a and gravel collect.
90-degree angle as possible.
Look where you want to go to • Mud, snow, and ice.
control your path of travel. If you • Lane markings, steel plates,
have to ride over the obstacle,
you should: and manhole covers, especially
when wet.
• Slow down as much as possible
before contact. To ride safely on slipper y
surfaces:
• Make sure the motorcycle is
straight. • Reduce speed. Slow down
before you get to a slippery
• Rise slightly off the seat with surface to reduce your chances
your weight on the footpegs of skidding. When slippery,
to absorb the shock with your your motorcycle needs more
knees and elbows and avoid distance to stop. It is especially
being thrown off the motor- important to reduce speed
cycle. before entering wet curves.

• Just before contact, roll on the • Avoid sudden moves. Any
throttle slightly to lighten the sudden change in speed or
front end. direction can cause a skid. Be
as smooth as possible when
If you ride over an object, pull off you speed up, shift gears, turn,
the road and check your tires and or brake.
rims for damage before riding
any farther. • Use both brakes. The front
brake is still effective, even
Slippery Surfaces on a slippery surface. Squeeze
the brake lever gradually to
Motorcycles handle better on avoid locking the front wheel.
surfaces with good traction. Remember to use gentle pres-
Motorcyclists may find it chal- sure on the rear brake.
lenging to maintain safe control
on surfaces with poor traction • Remember that the center
such as: of a lane can be hazardous
when wet. When it starts to
• Wet pavement, particularly rain, ride in a vehicle’s tire
just after it starts to rain and tracks. Often, the left tire track
before surface oil washes to will be the best lane position,
the side of the road. depending on traffic and other
road conditions as well.

- 34 -

• Watch for oil spots when you Railroad or Trolley Tracks
put your foot down to stop or and Pavement Seams
park. You may slip and fall. Usually it is safer to ride straight
within your lane to cross tracks.
• Be cautious of the edge of the Turning to take tracks head-on
road. Dirt and gravel collect (at a 90-degree angle) can be
along the sides of the road, more dangerous because your
especially on curves and ramps path may carry you into another
leading to and from highways. lane of traffic.
For track and road seams that run
• Remember rain dries and parallel to your course, move far
snow melts faster on some enough away from tracks, ruts,
sections of a road than on or pavement seams to cross at
others. Patches of ice tend to an angle of at least 45 degrees.
develop in low or shaded areas Then, make a quick, sharp turn.
and on bridges and overpasses. Edging across could catch your
Wet leaves are just as slippery tires and throw you off balance.
as wet road surfaces. Ride on
the least slippery portion of the CROSSING TRACKS-RIGHT
lane and reduce your speed.
CROSSING TRACKS-WRONG
Cautious riders steer clear of
roads covered with ice or snow. Grooves and Gratings
If you can’t avoid an icy or snowy Riding over rain grooves or
surface, keep your motorcycle bridge gratings may cause
straight up and proceed as slowly your motorcycle to weave. This
as possible. If you encounter a uneasy, “wandering” feeling is
large surface so slippery that you generally not hazardous. Relax
must coast, or travel at a walking and maintain a steady speed and
pace, consider letting your feet
skim along the surface. If the
motorcycle starts to fall, you can
catch yourself. Be sure to keep off
the brakes. If possible, squeeze
the clutch and coast. Attempting
this maneuver at anything other
than the slowest of speeds could
prove hazardous.

- 35 -

ride straight across. Crossing at reacts if you have tire failure. If
an angle forces riders to zigzag one of your tires suddenly loses
to stay in the lane. The zigzag air, react quickly to keep your
is far more hazardous than the balance. Stop riding and check
wandering feeling. the tires as soon as possible.

GRATE CROSSING-WRONG If the front tire goes flat, the
steering will feel “heavy.” A
GRATE CROSSING-RIGHT front-wheel flat is particularly
hazardous because it affects your
Mechanical Problems steering. You have to steer well
to keep your balance.
You can find yourself in an
emergency the moment some- If the rear tire goes flat, the back
thing goes wrong with your of the motorcycle may jerk or
motorcycle. In dealing with any sway from side to side.
mechanical problem, take into
account the road and traffic If either tire goes flat while
conditions you face. Here are riding:
some guidelines that can help
you handle mechanical problems • Hold the handlegrips firmly,
safely. ease off the throttle, and keep
Tire Failure a straight course.
You will seldom hear a tire go
flat. If the motorcycle starts • If braking is required, gradu-
handling differently, it may be a ally apply the brake of the tire
tire failure. You must be able to that isn’t flat, if you are sure
tell from the way the motorcycle which one it is.

• When the motorcycle slows,
ride to the side of the road,
squeeze the clutch, and stop.

Stuck Throttle

Twist the throttle back and forth
several times. If the throttle cable
is stuck, this may free it. If the
throttle stays stuck, immedi-
ately operate the engine cut-off
switch and pull in the clutch at
the same time. This will remove

- 36 -

power from the rear wheel, thoroughly checked by a quali-
though engine noise may not fied professional.
immediately decline. Once the
motorcycle is “under control,” Trying to “accelerate out of a
leave the road and stop. wobble” will only make the
motorcycle more unstable.
After you have stopped, check Instead:
the throttle cable carefully to
find the trouble. Make certain • Grip the handlebars firmly, but
the throttle works freely before don’t fight the wobble.
you start riding again.
• Close the throttle gradually to
Wobble slow down. Do not apply the
brakes; braking could make
A “wobble” occurs when the the wobble worse.
front wheel and handlebars sud-
denly start to shake from side to • Move your weight as far for-
side at any speed. Most wobbles ward and down as possible.
can be traced to improper load-
ing, unsuitable accessories, • Leave the road as soon as you
or incorrect tire pressure. If can to fix the problem.
you are carrying a heavy load,
lighten it. If you can’t lighten the Chain Problems
load, shift it. Center the weight
lower and farther forward on A drive belt or chain that slips or
the motorcycle. Make sure the breaks while you’re riding could
tire pressure, spring preload, air lock the rear wheel and cause
shocks, and dampers are at the your motorcycle to skid. Belt or
recommended settings for that chain slippage or breakage can be
much weight. Make sure wind- avoided by proper maintenance.
shields and fairings are mounted
properly. • Slippage — If the belt/chain
slips when you try to speed
Check for poorly adjusted steer- up or ride uphill, pull off the
ing, worn steering parts, a front road. Check the belt/chain and
wheel that is bent, misaligned, sprockets. Tightening the belt/
or out of balance, loose wheel chain may help. Replace the
bearings or spokes, and swing belt/chain, sprockets, or both
arm bearings. If none of these are before riding again, if needed.
the cause, have the motorcycle
• Breakage — You’ll notice an
instant loss of power to the rear
wheel. Close the throttle and
brake to a stop.

- 37 -

Engine Seizure pull off the road and repair the
damage.
When the engine “locks” or
“freezes” it is usually low on Getting Off the Road
oil. If the engine’s moving parts
can’t move smoothly against each If you need to leave the road to
other, the engine overheats. The check the motorcycle (or just to
first sign may be a loss of engine rest for a while), be sure you:
power or a change in the engine’s
sound. Squeeze the clutch lever • Check the roadside. Make sure
to disengage the engine from the the roadside is firm enough to
rear wheel. Pull off the road and ride on. If it is soft grass, loose
stop. Check the oil. If needed, sand, or if you’re just not sure
add oil as soon as possible or about it, slow way down before
the engine will seize. When this you turn onto it.
happens, the effect is the same
as a locked rear wheel. Let the • Signal. Drivers behind might
engine cool before restarting. not expect you to slow down.
Give a clear signal that you
Animals will be slowing and changing
direction. Check your mirror
Do everything you safely can do and make a head check before
to avoid hitting an animal. If you you take any action.
are in traffic; however, remain in
your lane. • Pull off the road. Get as far off
the road as you can. It can be
Flying Objects very hard to see a motorcycle
by the side of the road. You
From time to time riders are don’t want someone else leav-
struck by insects, cigarettes ing the road at the same place
thrown from vehicles, or pebbles you are.
kicked up by the tires of the
vehicle ahead. If you are wear- • Park carefully. Loose or
ing face protection, it might get sloped shoulders, as well as soft
smeared or cracked, making it ground, can make setting the
difficult to see. Without face side or center stand difficult.
protection, an object could hit
you in the eye, face, or mouth. Carrying Passengers
Whatever happens, keep your and Cargo
eyes on the road and your hands
on the handlebars. When safe, Only experienced riders should
carry passengers or large loads.
The extra weight changes the way
the motorcycle handles, balances,

- 38 -

speeds up, and slows down. Motorcycles Towing Trailers
Before taking a passenger or a
heavy load on the street, practice Motorcycles towing trailers:
away from traffic.
• Must not exceed 55 mph.
Equipment • Must remain in the right lane

To carry passengers safely: unless it is a four lane highway,
then the right two lanes, except
• Equip and adjust your motor- when passing.
cycle to carry passengers. • Are not allowed in carpool
lanes.
• Instruct the passenger before
you start. For more information, see the
RecreationalVehiclesandTrailers
• Adjust your riding technique Handbook available online at
for the added weight. www.dmv.ca.gov or you may
obtain a copy at your local DMV
Equipment should include: office.

• A proper seat large enough Instructing Passengers
to hold both of you without
crowding. You should not sit Even if your passenger is a motor-
any farther forward than you cycle rider, provide complete
usually do. instructions before you start. Tell
your passenger to:
• Footrests for the passenger.
Firm footing prevents your • Get on the motorcycle only
passenger from falling off and after you start the engine.
pulling you off, too.
• Sit as far forward as possible
• Protective equipment should without crowding you.
be the same protective gear
recommended for operators. • Hold firmly to your waist, hips,
or belt.
Adjust the suspension to handle
the additional weight. You will • Keep both feet on the pegs,
probably need to add a few even when stopped.
pounds of pressure to the tires
if you carry a passenger. (Check • Keep legs away from the
your owner’s manual for appro- muffler(s), belts, chains, or
priate settings.) While your moving parts.
passenger sits on the seat with
you, adjust the mirror and head- • Stay directly behind you lean-
light according to the change in ing as you lean.
the motorcycle’s angle.
• Avoid unnecessary talk or
motion.

- 39 -

Also, tell your passenger to motorcycle should be equipped
tighten his or her hold when you: with passenger foot-pegs and
the child's feet must be able to
• Approach surface problems. reach them.
• Are about to start from a stop.
• Warn that you will make a Children should wear a full-
faced, DOT compliant, properly
sudden move. fitted helmet. It should fit snugly
so, in the event of an accident, it
Riding With Passengers does not come off.

Your motorcycle will respond Children should wear appropriate
more slowly with a passenger. clothing, such as pants, a jacket
The heavier your passenger, the made from a heavy material,
longer it will take to slow down, and protective gloves that aid
stop, and speed up—especially in the child's protection in an
on a light-duty motorcycle. Your accident or fall. Shoes should also
braking distance will increase be durable, and fastened tight
due to the added weight. enough so that they will not come
off in the event of a fall.
• Ride a little slower, especially
when taking curves, corners, Restraint systems are available
or bumps. that secure a child passenger to
the rider by means of a belt or
• Begin slowing sooner as you harness. In the event of a fall,
approach a stop. the child passenger will remain
secured to the rider instead of
• Open up a larger cushion of being thrown free.
space ahead and to the sides.
Carrying Loads
• Wait for larger gaps to cross,
enter, or merge with traffic. Most motorcycles are not
designed to carry much cargo.
Warn your passenger of these Small loads can be carried
special conditions: starting, stop- safely, if positioned and fastened
ping quickly, turning sharply, or properly.
riding over bumps. Turn your
head slightly to make yourself • Keep the load low. Fasten
understood, but keep your eyes loads securely, or put them
on the road ahead. in saddlebags. Stacking loads
against a sissybar or frame on
Child Passengers the back of the seat raises the

Riding with child passengers
should only be done when the
proper precautions are taken. The

- 40 -

motorcycle’s center of gravity doesn’t interfere with the flow of
and shifts its balance. traffic. Assign a lead and a drag
(tail) rider. Both riders should be
• Keep the load forward. Place experienced and familiar with
the load over, or in front of, the group riding.
rear axle. Tank bags keep loads
forward, but use caution when Keep the Group Small
loading hard or sharp objects.
Make sure the tank bag does Small groups make it easier and
not interfere with handlebars safer for other drivers to get
or controls. Mounting a load around them. A small number
behind the rear axle affects isn’t separated as easily by traffic
how the motorcycle turns and or red lights. Some riders won’t
brakes. It can also cause a always be hurrying to catch up.
wobble. If your group is larger than four
or five riders, divide it into two
• Distribute the load evenly. or more smaller groups.
Load saddlebags with about
the same weight. An uneven Keep the Group Together
load can cause the motorcycle
to drift to one side. • Plan. The leader should look
ahead for changes and signal
• Secure the load. Fasten the early so there is plenty of time
load securely with elastic cords for everyone to follow. Start
(bungee cords or nets). Elastic lane changes early to permit
cords with more than one everyone to complete the lane
attachment point per side are change safely.
more secure. A tight load won’t
catch in the wheel or chain, • Put beginners up front. Place
causing it to lock up and skid. inexperienced riders behind the
Ropes tend to stretch and knots leader so the more experienced
can come loose, permitting the riders can watch them.
load to shift or fall.
• Monitor those behind. Let the
• Check the load. Stop and last rider set the pace. Use your
check the load often to make mirrors to keep an eye on the
sure it has not worked loose person behind. If a rider falls
or moved. behind, everyone should slow
down a little to stay together.
Group Riding
• Know the route. Make sure
If you ride with others, do it in everyone knows the route.
a way that promotes safety and Then, if someone is separated

- 41 -

he or she won’t have to hurry to STAGGERED FORMATION
keep from getting lost or taking
a wrong turn. Plan frequent ––Passing in formation. Riders
stops on long rides. in a staggered formation
should pass one at a time.
Keep Your Distance
––First, the lead rider pulls out
Maintain close ranks but at the and passes when safe. After
same time keep a safe distance to passing, the leader returns
allow each rider in the group time to the left portion of the
and space to react to hazards. A lane and continues riding
close group takes up less space at “passing speed” to open
on the highway, is easier to see, room for the next rider.
and is less likely to be separated.
However, this formation must be ––After the first rider passes
done properly. safely, the second rider
moves up to the left portion
• Don’t pair up. Never operate of the lane and watches for
directly alongside another a safe chance to pass. After
rider. There is no place to go passing, this rider returns to
to avoid a vehicle or a hazard the right portion of the lane
on the road. To talk, wait until and opens up room for the
you are both stopped. next rider.

• Staggered formation. This is
the best way to keep ranks close
yet maintain an adequate space
cushion. The leader rides in the
left portion of the lane while the
second rider stays one second
behind in the right portion of
the lane. A third rider rides
in the left portion of the lane
two seconds behind the first
rider. The fourth rider keeps a
two-second distance behind the
second rider. This formation
keeps the group close and per-
mits each rider a safe distance
from others ahead, behind, and
to the sides.

- 42 -

––Some people suggest that can have a significant effect on
the leader should move to your performance.
the right portion of the lane
after passing a vehicle. This Blood Alcohol
is not a good idea. It encour- Concentration
ages the second rider to pass
and return to the lane before Blood alcohol concentration
there is a large enough (BAC) is the amount of alcohol
space cushion in front of the in relation to blood in the body.
passed vehicle. It’s simpler Generally, alcohol can be elimi-
and safer to wait until there nated in the body at the rate of
is enough room ahead of the almost one drink per hour. But a
passed vehicle to allow each variety of other factors may also
rider to move into the same influence the level of alcohol
position held before the pass. retained. The more alcohol in
your blood, the greater the degree
• Single-file formation. Move of impairment.
into a single-file formation
when riding curves, turning, or Three factors play a major part
entering or leaving a highway. in determining BAC:

BEING IN SHAPE TO • The amount of alcohol you
RIDE consume.

Riding a motorcycle is a demand- • How fast you drink.
ing and complex task. Skilled • Your body weight.
riders pay attention to their riding “One drink” is a 11/2-ounce shot
environment and to operating of 80-proof liquor (even if mixed
the motorcycle, identifying with nonalcoholic drinks), a
potential hazards, making good 5-ounce glass of 12% wine, or a
judgments, and executing deci- 12-ounce glass of 5% beer. These
sions quickly and skillfully. Your “one drink” equivalents change
ability to perform and respond if you drink ale, malt liquors, or
to changing road and traffic fortified wines or if you drink on
conditions is influenced by how an empty stomach, are tired, sick,
fit and alert you are. Alcohol upset, or have taken medicines
and other drugs, more than any or drugs.
other factor, affect your ability to
think clearly and to ride safely. The faster you drink, the more
As little as one alcoholic drink alcohol accumulates in your
body. If you drink two drinks in
an hour, at the end of that hour,

- 43 -

Get a DUI – Lose Your License!

It is illegal to drive with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08% or more (.04% for commercial vehicle
drivers and .01% if under 21). Other factors, such as fatigue, medications or food may affect your
ability to legally operate a vehicle. The table below gives an estimate of blood alcohol levels based
on the number of drinks consumed, gender and body weight. REMEMBER: Even one drink is likely
to affect your ability to drive safely!

BLOOD ALCOHOL CONTENT (BAC)
Table for Male (M) / Female (F)

Number of Body Weight in Pounds Driving
Drinks 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240 Condition

- 44 - 0 M .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Only Safe
F
.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Driving Limit

1 M .06 .05 .04 .04 .03 .03 .03 .02
F
.07 .06 .05 .04 .04 .03 .03 .03 Driving Skills
2 M .12 .10 .09 .07 .07 .06 .05 .05 Impaired
F .13 .11 .09 .08 .07 .07 .06 .06

3 M .18 .15 .13 .11 .10 .09 .08 .07
F
.20 .17 .14 .12 .11 .10 .09 .08

4 M .24 .20 .17 .15 .13 .12 .11 .10 Legally
F .26 .22 .19 .17 .15 .13 .12 .11 Intoxicated
.30 .25 .21 .19 .17 .15 .14 .12
5 M
F .33 .28 .24 .21 .18 .17 .15 .14

Subtract .01% for each 40 minutes of drinking.
1 drink = 1.5 oz. 80 proof liquor, 12 oz. 5% beer, or 5 oz. 12% wine.

Fewer than 5 persons out of 100 will exceed these values.