AN MSF MANUAL - Arizona Department of Transportation

AN MSF MANUAL

MOTORCYCLE
OPERATOR
MANUAL

With Supplementary Information
for Three-Wheel Motorcycles

i

Dear Motorcycle Enthusiast:
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), in partnership with the
Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and the Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory
Council, is pleased to provide this Motorcycle Operator Manual.
When it comes to riding a motorcycle, training and safety gear are critical. Whether
someone is new to riding or has years of experience, ADOT encourages all riders to
take a state-authorized safety training course.
A knowledgeable rider is a safer rider.
By attending a state-authorized rider training course, motorcyclists of all skill levels
not only have the chance to obtain professional instruction to become safer riders,
they are also able to acquire their motorcycle endorsement easily and conveniently.
By completing one of these authorized programs and receiving a card from the
school, new riders can immediately apply for their motorcycle license or motorcycle
endorsement without further testing. For additional information, please visit our
website at www.azdot.gov/DrivingSchools.
Wishing you safe riding!

Eric R. Jorgensen
Director, Motor Vehicle Division
Arizona Department of Transportation
www.azdot.gov

Funding for this manual is provided by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and the Arizona
Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council through the Motorcycle Safety Fund, A.R.S. §28-2010(C).
Information contained in this manual has been reprinted, with permission, from the Seventeenth
Revision of the Motorcycle Operator Manual provided by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

ii

ARIZONA LICENSING INFORMATION

Operating a motorcycle requires Types of Licenses
special skills in addition to a thorough Licenses are issued by "class": M for
knowledge of traffic laws, registration motorcycle, G for graduated, D for operator,
and licensing requirements. This manual and A, B, C for commercial. If the class M
supplements information contained in license is combined with any other class of
the Arizona Driver License Manual and license, it will be added as an "endorsement"
Customer Service Guide and provides on the back of the current license.
useful information for all motorcyclists Instruction Permits
regardless of riding experience. It If you are at least 15 years and 6 months
presents safe driving practices and of age, you may be issued a motorcycle
techniques developed by the Motorcycle instruction permit.
Safety Foundation and provides With a permit you are prohibited from
information to help you obtain an carrying passengers or operating a
Arizona motorcycle license or motorcycle motorcycle on freeways or interstate
endorsement. It is not intended as an highways or between sunset and sunrise,
official reference. or at any time when there is not enough
The Arizona Driver License Manual and light to clearly see persons or vehicles at a
Customer Service Guide is available online distance of 500 feet. A motorcycle permit is
at www.azdot.gov or may be requested valid for 7 months and can be renewed only
by phone: one time within a 24-month period. You will
be required to retake the written test when
Phoenix: (602) 255-0072 renewing an expired motorcycle permit.
Tucson: (520) 629-9808 Class M
elsewhere in AZ: (800) 251-5866 A motorcycle license or endorsement
TDD Hearing and Speech Impaired: is required to operate a motorcycle or
(602) 712-3222. motor-driven cycle. You must be at least
Changes may have been made to the 16 years of age to apply for a motorcycle
information contained in this publication license or endorsement.
since it was last revised. Please check An applicant for a motorcycle license or
the Motor Vehicle Division's What's New endorsement who is under 18 must have
page at held an Arizona instruction permit for at
www.azdot.gov for updates. least 6 months. The permit must be valid
at the time of application. An applicant
Arizona's Driver License must also have satisfactorily completed a
motorcycle driver education program that is
Arizona issues a driver license that does approved by MVD, or the parent or guardian
not expire until age 65. However, your must certify in writing that the applicant has
photo and vision test will need to be completed at least 30 hours of motorcycle
updated every 12 years. Drivers 60 and driving practice.
over will receive a 5-year license. An applicant who is 16 years old or older
Temporary residents such as out-of-state and is holding an out-of-state motorcycle
students and their family members, license or endorsement is exempt from
or military personnel and their family the driver education/driving practice and
members may apply for a 5-year license instruction permit requirements.
regardless of age.

iii

Class G with an Endorsement Restrictions
A graduated driver license with a If you test with a 100cc or less
motorcycle endorsement is issued to an motorcycle, you will receive a “J”
applicant who is at least 16, but less than restriction. You must test with a
18 years of age and is valid to operate motorcycle greater than 100cc to obtain
any vehicle that does not require a an unrestricted license.
commercial license. Tests
The applicant must have held both an MVD is responsible for screening and
Arizona graduated instruction permit testing driver license applicants. This
and an Arizona motorcycle instruction helps the ensure that Arizona drivers
permit for at least 6 months. The permits have the necessary knowledge and
must be valid at the time of application. ability to safely handle the vehicles they
An applicant must also have satisfactorily will be driving.
completed both a graduated and a Medical Screening
motorcycle driver education program Assisted by the Arizona Medical Advisory
approved by MVD or the parent or Board, MVD has established medical
guardian must certify in writing that the standards for driver licensing. Several
applicant has either completed at least questions regarding your medical
30 hours of supervised driving practice, condition are included on the driver
or has successfully completed a certified license application.
motorcycle safety course.

Class D with an Endorsement You must report to MVD any medical
An operator license with a motorcycle conditions that develop or worsen that
endorsement allows you to drive may affect your ability to safely operate
any vehicle that does not require a a motor vehicle. This must be done
commercial license. You must be at least within five days of a change or as soon
18 years of age to apply for an operator as the condition allows. The written
license. report must include: full name, address,
Class A, B or C with an date of birth, description of condition
Endorsement and signature. The report must be sent
A commercial license (CDL), with a to: Mail Drop 818Z, Medical Review
motorcycle endorsement allows you to Program, PO Box 2100, Phoenix, AZ
drive heavy-weight vehicles, 26,001 lbs. 85001-2100;
or more gross vehicle weight (GVW), phone: 602.771.2460
vehicles capable of carrying 16 or more fax: 623.925.9323
passengers (including the driver), or Vision Screening
vehicles required to be placarded for You will be given a vision exam. If you
hazardous material. The minimum age wear prescription glasses or contact
for a commercial driver license is 21. If lenses for distance vision, be sure to wear
you are at least 18, you may apply for an them. You must have uncorrected vision
intrastate commercial driver license that of 20/40 or better in at least one eye in
is valid only in Arizona. order to obtain an unrestricted license.
For additional information, see the If you cannot meet this requirement
Commercial Driver License Manual, without glasses or contact lenses, you will
available online at www.azdot.gov. be given a license with an “A” restriction. An
“A” restriction means you must always wear
your glasses or contact lenses when driving.

iv

A test of visual field will also be given to 3&4
check how far you can see to the side while 2
keeping your eyes straight ahead. 1
In addition, drivers who visit an MVD
office for vehicle title and registration
services may be required to update this
vision exam.

Written Tests
When applying for your first Arizona
driver license or instruction permit with a
motorcycle endorsement, you must pass
a written motorcycle test based on the
information contained in this manual,
and a separate driver license test based
on the information in the Arizona Driver
License Manual and Customer Service
Guide.

The written motorcycle license
examination is available in English and
Spanish. If you cannot take a written
test, arrangements can be made for
an oral examination. If you need an
interpreter, you must provide one.

Exercises for Two Wheel Ride to the right of the first cone, to the
Motorcycles left of the second, and so on. Weave
past all five cones without touching or
The motorcycle skills test is a 10-15 skipping a cone or putting a foot down.
minute demonstration of your riding Turn left and ride toward that side of the
ability that consists of performing course. Make a smooth, non-skidding
maneuvers on an off-street, 30’ x 125’ stop with your front tire inside the box.
closed track as described in the following When stopped your front tire must not
instructions. touch the painted lines. Remain stopped.
If you have a current out-of-state Cones are placed 12 feet apart.
motorcycle license in your possession,
and the state that issued the license
requires a motorcycle skills test similar
to that given by Arizona, then you
normally will not be required to take the
test. However, you may be required to
take a test anytime that you apply for an
Arizona license.

Exercise 1
Cone Weave, Normal Stop:

v

Exercise 2 (Left front tire on vehicles with two front
Turn from a stop, U-Turn: tires.) When stopped, your front tire
Make a right turn between the boundary must not touch the painted lines.
lines. Do not touch either line or put Exercise 2
a foot down. Diagonally, cross to the Cone Weave, Turn from a Stop:
opposite side of the range and make a Ride to the left of the first cone, to the
left u-turn inside the painted box at the right of the second, and to the left of the
far end of the range. Do not touch the third. Weave past all three cones without
solid line (motorcycles 600cc or more) or touching or skipping any of the cones.
the dashed line (motorcycles less than Turn right at the end of the course and
600cc) or put a foot down. Stop with stop at the Start “T” facing the other
your front tire inside that box and wait side of the course. Upon signal, make
for further instructions. a right hand turn between the outside
Exercise 3 boundary line and the cone. Do not
Quick Stop:
From a full stop, accelerate in a straight 3&4
line through the timing zone. Stabilize
your speed between 12-18 mph by the
time you reach the first line. Maintain
a steady speed. When your front tire
crosses the second line, stop as fast as
you safely can. You will not lose points
if you skid. Once stopped, do not
allow your motorcycle to roll in either
direction.

Exercise 4
Obstacle Swerve:
From a full stop, ride through the timing
zone at 12-18 mph. When your front tire
passes the second line, swerve right or
left, as instructed. Avoid the obstacle
line but stay inside the boundary line.
Do not touch either line. Stop smoothly
and wait for further instructions.

Exercises for Three-Wheel
Motorcycles:

Exercise 1 2 1
Left Turn, Normal Stop:
Accelerate straight ahead and make
a sharp left turn between the outside
boundary line and the cone marker. Do
not touch the outside line or the cone.
Ride toward the end of the course, as
instructed. Make a smooth, non-skidding
stop with your front tire inside the box.

vi

touch the outside boundary line or the • Inclement weather, including
cone. Make a smooth, non-skidding stop temperatures 105˚ and above.
with your front tire inside the box and
wait for further instructions. The motorcycle that you use for this test
must be in good mechanical condition,
Exercise 3 be properly registered and have all
Quick Stop: equipment required by Arizona law.
From a full stop, accelerate in a straight Protective Gear
line. Stabilize your speed between 12-18 Must be worn during testing:
mph by the time you reach the first line. Helmet - U.S. Department of
Maintain a steady speed. When your Transportation (USDOT) approved
front tire/overhang crosses the second motorcycle helmet in good condition
line, stop as fast as you safely can. You properly fastened (may waive if 18 or
will not lose points if you skid. older.)
Gloves - Designed for use when
Exercise 4 operating a motorcycle or other gloves
Obstacle Swerve: that permit freedom to operate controls.
From a full stop, accelerate in a straight Clothing - Long pants and a jacket or
line. Stabilize your speed between 12-18 long sleeve shirt.
mph by the time you reach the first Footwear - Boots or shoes that cover
line. Maintain a steady speed. When the ankle made of sturdy material
your front tire/overhang passes the that do not interfere with operation of
second line swerve to the (right/left), as motorcycle controls.
instructed. Avoid the obstacle line and Eye Protection - Face shield, goggles,
stay to the inside of the sideline. Do not safety glasses or protective windshield.
touch either line. Stop smoothly.
Testing Locations & Hours
General Instructions
For the nearest testing location, visit
You have the right to stop the test at www.azdot.gov/mvd or call:
any time. Inform the examiner that you Phoenix: (602) 255-0072
do not want to continue the test. The Tucson: (520) 629-9808
examiner will tell you the conditions for elsewhere in AZ: (800) 251-5866
taking the test at a later date. TDD Hearing and Speech Impaired:
(602) 712-3222
The examiner may stop the test if any of
the following occurs:

• You fail to demonstrate basic control
skills.

• You accumulate more than the
maximum number of points.

• You commit an unsafe act.

• You fail to understand or follow
directions.

• You fall or drop the motorcycle
while on the test track.

• Mechanical failure.

vii

Safety Equipment Motorcycle Safety Courses

• Arizona law requires operators and As an alternative to the motorcycle
passengers under 18 to wear a skills test, you may take a Motorcycle
helmet that is safely secured. Rider Course® offered by MVD authorized
schools at several locations throughout
• You are encouraged to use your Arizona. The Certificate of Completion
headlight, on high beams, during you will receive when you successfully
the daylight hours to maximize your complete the course eliminates the
visibility. You may use a modulating requirement to take the knowledge and
headlight during the day, if the light skills tests at MVD.
modulates at least 200 cycles per Beginning Riders
minute. Motorcycle Rider Course® - Riding and
Street Skills: For beginning riders of
• You must have at least one horn all ages. This is a “hands on” training
capable of emitting sound for at program in a controlled, off-street
least 200 feet. environment. Each instructor is certified
by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
• A minimum of one rearview mirror and MVD. The course is approximately 20
is required. hours long and most often scheduled on
weekends. The course fee includes the
• Riders are encouraged to equip the costs of motorcycle rental, helmet rental,
motorcycle with both hand and foot insurance and classroom materials.
brakes, but Arizona law requires at Experienced Riders
least one brake. Experienced Rider Course® - This course
gives participants an opportunity to
• Fuel tanks must be properly closed increase their riding skills on their own
by a cap or cover. motorcycle while examining defensive
driving strategies. Advanced riding
• Motorcycle operators are required techniques in cornering, braking and
to wear protective glasses, goggles swerving are presented and practiced.
or a transparent face shield, unless Emphasis is placed on accident
the motorcycle is equipped with a avoidance techniques.
protective windshield. Windscreens Locate a Course
on sport-style motorcycles are not Locate the motorcycle safety course
considered protective windshields. nearest you online at
www.azdot.gov/mvd, click on Driver
• Seat and footrests are required Services
for motorcycle operators. Seat,
footrests and handrails are required ________________________________
for the passenger. Passengers must Funding for this manual provided by
be able to rest their feet on the foot the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
pegs. and Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory
Council Fund, A.R.S. 28-2010(C).
• Handlebars must be positioned so
that the hands of the operator are
not above the operator’s shoulder
height, when the operator is sitting
astride the seat and the operator’s
hands are on the handlebar grip.

viii

Notes:
ix

2 PREFACE

Operating a motorcycle safely These revisions reflect:
in traffic requires special skills and
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety • The latest finding of motorcycle-
Foundation (MSF) has made this manual safety research.
available to help novice motorcyclists
reduce their risk of having a crash. The • Comments and guidance provided
manual conveys essential safe riding by the motorcycling, licensing and
information and has been designed traffic safety communities.
for use in licensing programs. While
designed for the novice, all motorcyclists • Supplementary information for
can benefit from the information this Three-Wheel vehicles
manual contains.
In promoting improved licensing
The original Motorcycle Operator programs, the MSF works closely with
Manual was developed by the National state licensing agencies. The Foundation
Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI) has helped more than half the states
under contract to the National Highway in the nation adopt the Motorcycle
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Operator Manual for use in their
and within the terms of a cooperative licensing systems.
agreement between NHTSA and the
MSF. The manual and related tests Improved licensing, along with high-
were used in a multi-year study of quality motorcycle rider education and
improved motorcycle operator licensing increased public awareness, has the
procedures, conducted by the California potential to reduce crashes. Staff at the
Department of Motor Vehicles under Foundation are available to assist state,
contract to NHTSA. private and governmental agencies in
efforts to improve motorcycle safety.
The purpose of this manual is to
educate the reader to help avoid crashes Tim Buche
while safely operating a motorcycle. For President,
this edition, the MSF has updated and Motorcycle Safety Foundation
expanded the content of the original
manual.

2 Jenner, Suite 150
Irvine, CA 92618-3806

www.msf-usa.org

CONTENTS 3

PREPARING TO RIDE BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Wear the Right Gear ����������������������������4 Why This Information Is
Know Your Motorcycle ������������������������6 Important ���������������������������������������36
Know Your Responsibilities �����������������9
Alcohol and Other Drugs in
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES Motorcycle Operation �������������������36

Basic Vehicle Control ��������������������������10 Alcohol in the Body ����������������������������37
Keeping Your Distance �����������������������12 Alcohol and the Law ��������������������������38
SEE �������������������������������������������������������17 Minimize the Risks �����������������������������38
Intersections ���������������������������������������18 Step in to Protect Friends ������������������39
Increasing Conspicuity �����������������������21 Fatigue ������������������������������������������������39
Crash Avoidance ���������������������������������24
Handling Dangerous Surfaces �����������27 EARNING YOUR LICENSE40
Mechanical Problems �������������������������30
Animals �����������������������������������������������31 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
Flying Objects �������������������������������������32
Getting Off the Road �������������������������32 Supplementary Information
Carrying Passengers for Three-Wheel Vehicles���������������42

and Cargo ���������������������������������������32 Know Your Vehicle������������������������������42
Group Riding ���������������������������������������34 Basic Vehicle Control���������������������������44
Carrying Passengers and Cargo����������47

4 PREPARING TO RIDE

What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining
whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on
any trip, a safe rider makes a point to:

1. Wear the right gear.

2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.

3. Check the motorcycle equipment.

4. Be a responsible rider.

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR • A DOT compliant helmet lets
you see as far to the sides as
When you ride, your gear is “right” necessary. A study of more than
if it protects you. In any crash, you have 900 motorcycle crashes, where
a far better chance of avoiding serious 40% of the riders wore helmets,
injury if you wear: did not find even one case in which
a helmet kept a rider from spotting
• A DOT compliant helmet. danger.

• Face or eye protection. • Most crashes happen on short
trips (less than five miles long), just
• Protective clothing. a few minutes after starting out.

Helmet Use • Most riders are riding slower than
30 mph when a crash occurs. At
Crashes can occur — particularly these speeds, helmets can cut both
among untrained, beginning riders. the number and the severity of head
And one out of every five motorcycle injuries by half.
crashes results in head or neck injuries.
Head injuries are just as severe as neck No matter what the speed, helmeted
injuries — and far more common. Crash riders are three times more likely to
analyses show that head and neck survive head injuries than those not
injuries account for a majority of serious wearing helmets at the time of the
and fatal injuries to motorcyclists. crash. The single most important thing
Research also shows that, with few you can do to improve your chances of
exceptions, head and neck injuries are surviving a crash is to wear a securely-
reduced by properly wearing a quality fastened, quality helmet.
helmet.
Helmet Selection
Some riders don’t wear helmets
because they think helmets will limit There are two primary types of
their view to the sides. Others wear helmets, providing two different levels
helmets only on long trips or when of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
riding at high speeds. But, here are
some facts to consider: Whichever style you choose, you can
get the most protection by making sure
that the helmet:

5

HELMETS

• Is designed to meet U.S. Goggles protect your eyes, though
Department of Transportation they won’t protect the rest of your face
(DOT) and state standards. Helmets like a faceshield does. A windshield
with a label from the Snell Memorial is not a substitute for a faceshield or
Foundation also give you an goggles. Most windshields will not
assurance of quality. protect your eyes from the wind. Neither
will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses
• Fits snugly, all the way around. won’t keep your eyes from watering,
and they might blow off when you turn
• Has no obvious defects such as your head while riding.
cracks, loose padding or frayed
straps. To be effective, eye or faceshield
protection must:
Whatever helmet you decide on, keep
it securely fastened on your head when • Be free of scratches.
you ride. Otherwise, if you are involved
in a crash, it’s likely to fly off your head • Be resistant to penetration.
before it gets a chance to protect you.
• Give a clear view to either side.
Eye and Face Protection
• Fasten securely, so it does not
A plastic shatter-resistant faceshield blow off.
can help protect your whole face in a
crash. It also protects you from wind, • Permit air to pass through, to
dust, dirt, rain, insects and pebbles reduce fogging.
thrown up from cars ahead. These
problems are distracting and can be • Permit enough room for
painful. If you have to deal with them, eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed.
you can’t devote your full attention to
the road. Tinted eye protection should not be
worn at night or any other time when
little light is available.

6 PREPARING TO RIDE

Clothing KNOW YOUR
MOTORCYCLE
The right clothing protects you in
a collision. It also provides comfort, There are plenty of things on the
as well as protection from heat, cold, highway that can cause you trouble.
debris and hot and moving parts of the Your motorcycle should not be one
motorcycle. It can also make you more of them. To make sure that your
visible to others. motorcycle won’t let you down:

• Jacket and pants should cover • Read the owner’s manual first.
arms and legs completely. They
should fit snugly enough to keep • Start with the right motorcycle for
from flapping in the wind, yet you.
loosely enough to move freely.
Leather offers the most protection. • Be familiar with the motorcycle
Sturdy synthetic material provides controls.
a lot of protection as well. Wear
a jacket even in warm weather to • Check the motorcycle before every
prevent dehydration. Many are ride.
designed to protect without getting
you overheated, even on summer • Keep it in safe riding condition
days. between rides.

• Boots or shoes should be high • Avoid add-ons and modifications
and sturdy enough to cover your that make your motorcycle harder
ankles and give them support. Soles to handle.
should be made of hard, durable,
slip-resistant material. Keep heels The Right Motorcycle For You
short so they do not catch on rough
surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t First, make sure your motorcycle is
catch on your motorcycle. right for you. It should “fit” you. Your
feet should reach the ground while
• Gloves allow a better grip and help you are seated on the motorcycle, and
protect your hands in a crash. Your the controls should be easy to operate.
gloves should be made of leather or Smaller motorcycles are usually easier
similar durable material. for beginners to operate.

In cold or wet weather, your clothes TEST YOURSELF 1
should keep you warm and dry, as
well as protect you from injury. You A plastic shatter-resistant face
cannot control a motorcycle well if shield:
you are numb. Riding for long periods A. Is not necessary if you have a
in cold weather can cause severe chill
and fatigue. A winter jacket should windshield.
resist wind and fit snugly at the neck, B. Only protects your eyes.
wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits C. Helps protect your whole face.
designed for motorcycle riding resist D. Does not protect your face as well
tearing apart or ballooning up at high
speeds. as goggles.

Answer - page 41

7

At a minimum, your street-legal know how to ride before allowing them
motorcycle should have: out into traffic.

• Headlight, taillight and No matter how experienced you
brakelight. may be, ride extra carefully on any
motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar
• Front and rear brakes. to you. More than half of all crashes
involve riders with less than five months
• Turn signals. of experience on their motorcycle.

• Horn. Get Familiar with the
Motorcycle Controls
• Two mirrors.
Make sure you are completely familiar
Borrowing and Lending with the motorcycle before you take
it out on the street. Be sure to review
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, the owner’s manual. This is particularly
beware. Crashes are fairly common important if you are riding a borrowed
among beginning riders — especially motorcycle.
in the first months of riding. Riding
an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the If you are going to use an unfamiliar
problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, motorcycle:
get familiar with it in a controlled area.
And if you lend your motorcycle to MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
friends, make sure they are licensed and

Light Switch (high/low) Engine Cut-Off
Switch
Choke (varies) Electric

Turn-Signal Start
Switch Button
Ignition Key
(varies)

Horn Button Throttle
Front Brake Lever
Clutch Lever Speedometer Tachometer
& Odometer (if equipped)

Fuel Supply Valve Rear Brake Pedal
(if equipped) Kick Starter
Gear-Change Lever (if equipped)

8 PREPARING TO RIDE

• Make all the checks you would on lights are working properly.
your own motorcycle.
• Brake Light — Try both brake
• Find out where everything is, controls, and make sure each one
particularly the turn signals, horn, turns on the brake light.
headlight switch, fuel-supply valve
and engine cut-off switch. Find and Once you have mounted the
operate these items without having motorcycle, complete the following
to look for them. checks before starting out:

• Know the gear pattern. Work the • Clutch and Throttle — Make sure
throttle, clutch and brakes a few they work smoothly. The throttle
times before you start riding. All should snap back when you let go.
controls react a little differently. The clutch should feel tight and
smooth.
• Ride very cautiously and be aware
of surroundings. Accelerate gently, • Mirrors — Clean and adjust both
take turns more slowly and leave mirrors before starting. It’s difficult
extra room for stopping. to ride with one hand while you
try to adjust a mirror. Adjust each
Check Your Motorcycle mirror so you can see the lane
behind and as much as possible of
A motorcycle needs more frequent the lane next to you. When properly
attention than a car. A minor technical adjusted, a mirror may show the
failure in a car seldom leads to anything edge of your arm or shoulder—but
more than an inconvenience for the it’s the road behind and to the side
driver. that’s most important.

If something’s wrong with the • Brakes — Try the front and rear
motorcycle, you’ll want to find out brake levers one at a time. Make
about it before you get in traffic. Make sure each one feels firm and holds
a complete check of your motorcycle the motorcycle when the brake is
before every ride. fully applied.

Before mounting the motorcycle, • Horn — Try the horn. Make sure it
make the following checks: works.

• Tires — Check the air pressure, • Fuel Supply Valve — Make sure
general wear and tread. the valve is open. Your motorcycle
may start with fuel still in the lines,
• Fluids — Oil and fluid levels. At a but it will stall once the lines are
minimum, check hydraulic fluids empty.
and coolants weekly. Look under
the motorcycle for signs of an oil or In addition to the checks you should
gas leak. make before every trip, check the
following items at least once a week:
• Headlights and Taillight — Check Wheels, cables, fasteners and fluid
them both. Test your switch to levels. Follow your owner’s manual to
make sure both high and low get recommendations.
beams are working.

• Turn Signals — Turn on both right
and left turn signals. Make sure all

9

KNOW YOUR • Be visible — wear proper clothing,
RESPONSIBILITIES use your headlight, ride in the best
lane position to see and be seen.
“Accident” implies an unforeseen
event that occurs without anyone’s fault • Communicate your intentions —
or negligence. Most often in traffic, that use the proper signals, brake light
is not the case. In fact, most people and lane position.
involved in a crash can usually claim
some responsibility for what takes place. • Maintain an adequate space
cushion — when following, being
Consider a situation where someone followed, lane sharing, passing and
decides to try to squeeze through an being passed.
intersection on a yellow light turning
red. Your light turns green. You pull into • Search your path of travel 12
the intersection without checking for seconds ahead.
possible latecomers. That is all it takes
for the two of you to tangle. It was the • Identify and separate multiple
driver’s responsibility to stop. And it was hazards.
your responsibility to look before pulling
out. Neither of you held up your end • Be prepared to act — remain alert
of the deal. Just because someone else and know how to carry out proper
is the first to start the chain of events crash-avoidance skills.
leading to a crash, it doesn’t leave any
of us free of responsibility. Blame doesn’t matter when someone
is injured in a crash. There is rarely a
As a rider you can’t be sure that other single cause of any crash. The ability to
operators will see you or yield the right ride aware, make critical decisions and
of way. To lessen your chances of a carry them out separates responsible
crash occurring: riders from all the rest. Remember, it is
up to you to keep from being the cause
of, or an unprepared participant in, any
crash.

TEST YOURSELF 2

More than half of all crashes:
A. Occur at speeds greater than 35 mph.
B. Happen at night.
C. Are caused by worn tires.
D. Involve riders who have less than

five months of experience on their
motorcycle.

Answer - page 41

10 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance.
That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal
course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing
your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules
of the road.

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL • Knees — Keep your knees against
Body Position the gas tank to help you keep your
balance as the motorcycle turns.
To control a motorcycle well:
• Posture — Sit so you can use your • Feet — Keep your feet firmly on the
footrests to maintain balance. Don’t
arms to steer the motorcycle rather drag your feet. If your foot catches
than to hold yourself up. on something, you could be injured
• Seat — Sit far enough forward so and it could affect your control of
that arms are slightly bent when the motorcycle. Keep your feet near
you hold the handlegrips. Bending the controls so you can get to them
your arms permits you to press on fast if needed. Also, don’t let your
the handlebars without having to toes point downward — they may
stretch. get caught between the road and
• Hands — Hold the handgrips the footrests.
firmly to keep your grip over rough
surfaces. Start with your right Shifting Gears
wrist flat. This will help you keep
from accidentally using too much There is more to shifting gears than
throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars simply getting the motorcycle to pick
so your hands are even with or up speed smoothly. Learning to use the
below your elbows. This permits gears when downshifting, turning or
you to use the proper muscles for starting on hills is important for safe
precision steering. motorcycle operation.

HOLDING HANDGRIPS Shift down through the gears with
the clutch as you slow or stop. Remain
RIGHT in first gear while you are stopped so
that you can move out quickly if you
WRONG need to.

Make certain you are riding slowly
enough when you shift into a lower
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch,
and the rear wheel may skid. When
riding downhill or shifting into first gear
you may need to use the brakes to slow
enough before downshifting safely.
Work toward a smooth, even clutch
release, especially when downshifting.

11

It is best to change gears before • Some motorcycles have integrated
entering a turn. However, sometimes braking systems that activate the
shifting while in the turn is necessary. front and rear brakes together
If so, remember to do so smoothly. A when applying the rear brake
sudden change in power to the rear pedal. (Consult the owner’s manual
wheel can cause a skid. for a detailed explanation on the
operation and effective use of these
Braking systems.)

Your motorcycle has two brakes: one Turning
each for the front and rear wheel. Use
both of them at the same time. The Riders often try to take curves or turns
front brake is more powerful and can too fast. When they can’t hold the turn,
provide at least three-quarters of your they end up crossing into another lane
total stopping power. The front brake is of traffic or going off the road. Or, they
safe to use if you use it properly. overreact and brake too hard, causing a
skid and loss of control. Approach turns
Remember: and curves with caution.

• Use both brakes every time you Use four steps for better control:
slow or stop. Using both brakes for
even “normal” stops will permit • SLOW — Reduce speed before the
you to develop the proper habit or turn by closing the throttle and, if
skill of using both brakes properly necessary, applying both brakes.
in an emergency. Squeeze the
front brake and press down on the • LOOK — Look through the turn
rear. Grabbing at the front brake to where you want to go. Turn
or jamming down on the rear can just your head, not your shoulders,
cause the brakes to lock, resulting in and keep your eyes level with the
control problems. horizon.

• If you know the technique, • PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
using both brakes in a turn is must lean. To lean the motor-
possible, although it should be done cycle, press on the handgrip in
very carefully. When leaning the the direction of the turn. Press left
motorcycle some of the traction is handgrip — lean left — go left.
used for cornering. Less traction Press right handgrip — lean right —
is available for stopping. A skid go right. The higher the speed in a
can occur if you apply too much turn, the greater the lean angle.
brake. Also, using the front brake
incorrectly on a slippery surface • ROLL — Roll on the throttle to
may be hazardous. Use caution maintain or slightly increase speed.
and squeeze the brake lever, never This helps stabilize the motorcycle.
grab.

12 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

In normal turns, the rider and the TEST YOURSELF 3
motorcycle should lean together at the
same angle. When riding, you should:

NORMAL TURNS A. Turn your head and shoulders
to look through turns.

B. Keep your arms straight.

C. Keep your knees away from
the gas tank.

D. Turn just your head and eyes
to look where you are going.

Answer - page 41

In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE
leaning the motorcycle only and keeping
your body straight. The best protection you can have is
distance — a “cushion of space” — all
SLOW, TIGHT TURNS around your motorcycle. If someone else
makes a mistake, distance permits you:

• Time to react.

• Space to maneuver.

Lane Positions

In some ways the size of the
motorcycle can work to your advantage.
Each traffic lane gives a motorcycle
three paths of travel, as indicated in the
illustration.

Your lane position should:

• Increase your ability to see and be
seen.

• Avoid others’ blind spots.

• Avoid surface hazards.

• Protect your lane from other
drivers.

• Communicate your intentions.

• Avoid wind blast from other
vehicles.

• Provide an escape route.

Select the appropriate path to
maximize your space cushion and make
yourself more easily seen by others on
the road.

13

LANE POSITIONS

In general, there is no single best Following Another Vehicle
position for riders to be seen and to
maintain a space cushion around the “Following too closely” could be a
motorcycle. No portion of the lane need factor in crashes involving motorcyclists.
be avoided — including the center. In traffic, motorcycles need as much
distance to stop as cars. Normally, a
Position yourself in the portion of minimum of two seconds distance
the lane where you are most likely to should be maintained behind the vehicle
be seen and you can maintain a space ahead.
cushion around you. Change position
as traffic situations change. Ride in path To gauge your following distance:
2 or 3 if vehicles and other potential • Pick out a marker, such as a
problems are on your left only. Remain
in path 1 or 2 if hazards are on your pavement marking or lamppost, on
right only. If vehicles are being operated or near the road ahead.
on both sides of you, the center of the • When the rear bumper of the
lane, path 2, is usually your best option. vehicle ahead passes the marker,
count off the seconds: “one-
The oily strip in the center portion thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”
that collects drippings from cars is • If you reach the marker before
usually no more than two feet wide. you reach “two,” you are following
Unless the road is wet, the average too closely.
center strip permits adequate traction A two-second following distance
to ride on safely. You can operate to leaves a minimum amount of space to
the left or right of the grease strip and stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops
still be within the center portion of the suddenly. It also permits a better view of
traffic lane. Avoid riding on big buildups potholes and other hazards in the road.
of oil and grease usually found at busy A larger cushion of space is needed
intersections or toll booths. if your motorcycle will take longer

​

14 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

FOLLOWING

than normal to stop. If the pavement Being Followed
is slippery, if you cannot see through
the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy Speeding up to lose someone
and someone may squeeze in front of following too closely only ends up with
you, open up a three-second or more someone tailgating you at a higher
following distance. speed.

Keep well behind the vehicle ahead A better way to handle tailgaters
even when you are stopped. This will is to get them in front of you. When
make it easier to get out of the way someone is following too closely,
if someone bears down on you from change lanes and let them pass. If you
behind. It will also give you a cushion of can’t do this, slow down and open up
space if the vehicle ahead starts to back extra space ahead of you to allow room
up for some reason. for both you and the tailgater to stop.
This will also encourage them to pass.
When behind a car, ride where the If they don’t pass, you will have given
driver can see you in the rearview mirror. yourself and the tailgater more time and
Riding in the center portion of the lane space to react in case an emergency
should put your image in the middle of does develop ahead.
the rearview mirror — where a driver is
most likely to see you. Passing and Being Passed

Riding at the far side of a lane may Passing and being passed by another
permit a driver to see you in a sideview vehicle is not much different than with a
mirror. But remember that most drivers car. However, visibility is more critical. Be
don’t look at their sideview mirrors sure other drivers see you, and that you
nearly as often as they check the see potential hazards.
rearview mirror. If the traffic situation
allows, the center portion of the lane is
usually the best place for you to be seen
by the drivers ahead and to prevent lane
sharing by others.

15

Passing Being Passed

1. Ride in the left portion of the When you are being passed from
lane at a safe following distance behind or by an oncoming vehicle,
to increase your line of sight and stay in the center portion of your lane.
make you more visible. Signal Riding any closer to them could put you
and check for oncoming traffic. in a hazardous situation.
Use your mirrors and turn your
head to look for traffic behind. Avoid being hit by:
• The other vehicle — A slight
2. When safe, move into the left
lane and accelerate. Select a lane mistake by you or the passing driver
position that doesn’t crowd the could cause a sideswipe.
car you are passing and provides • Extended mirrors — Some drivers
space to avoid hazards in your forget that their mirrors hang out
lane. farther than their fenders.
• Objects thrown from windows
3. Ride through the blind spot as — Even if the driver knows you’re
quickly as possible. there, a passenger may not see you
and might toss something on you or
4. Signal again, and complete the road ahead of you.
mirror and headchecks before • Blasts of wind from larger
returning to your original lane vehicles — They can affect your
and then cancel the signal. control. You have more room for
error if you are in the middle portion
Remember, passes must be when hit by this blast than if you
completed within posted speed are on either side ofthe lane.
limits, and only where permitted. Do not move into the portion of the
Know your signs and road markings! lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It
might invite the other driver to cut back
into your lane too early.

PASSING BEING PASSED

16 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Lane Sharing plenty of room. Change to another lane
if one is open. If there is no room for a
Cars and motorcycles need a full lane lane change, adjust speed to open up
to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually space for the merging driver.
prohibited.
Cars Alongside
Riding between rows of stopped or
moving cars in the same lane can leave Do not ride next to cars or trucks in
you vulnerable to the unexpected. A other lanes if you do not have to. You
hand could come out of a window; might be in the blind spot of a car in the
a door could open; a car could turn next lane, which could switch into your
suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by lane without warning. Cars in the next
others. Keep a center-portion position lane also block your escape if you come
whenever drivers might be tempted upon danger in your own lane. Speed
to squeeze by you. Drivers are most up or drop back to find a place clear of
tempted to do this: traffic on both sides.

• In heavy, bumper-to-bumper BLIND SPOTS
traffic.

• When they want to pass you.

• When you are preparing to turn at
an intersection.

• When you are moving into an exit
lane or leaving a highway.

Merging Cars

Drivers on an entrance ramp may
not see you on the highway. Give them

MERGING

TEST YOURSELF 4

Usually, a good way to handle
tailgaters is to:

A. Change lanes and let them pass.

B. Use your horn and make
obscene gestures.

C. Speed up to put distance
between you and the tailgater.

D. Ignore them.

Answer - page 41

17

SEE • Road and surface characteristics
— Potholes, guardrails, bridges,
Good experienced riders remain telephone poles and trees won’t
aware of what is going on around them. move into your path but may
They improve their riding strategy by influence your riding strategy.
using MSF’s SEESM strategy, a three-
step process used to make appropriate • Traffic control devices — Look for
judgments, and apply them correctly in traffic signals, including regulatory
different traffic situations: signs, warning signs, and pavement
markings, to help you evaluate
• Search circumstances ahead.

• Evaluate • Vehicles and other traffic — May
move into your path and increase
• Execute the likelihood of a crash.

Let’s examine each of these steps. Think about your time and space
requirements in order to maintain
Search a margin of safety. You must leave
yourself time to react if an emergency
Search aggressively ahead, to the arises.
sides and behind to avoid potential
hazards even before they arise. How Execute
assertively you search, and how much
time and space you have, can eliminate Carry out your decision.
or reduce harm. Focus even more on
finding potential escape routes in or To create more space and minimize
around intersections, shopping areas harm from any hazard:
and school and construction zones.
• Communicate your presence with
Search for factors such as: lights and/or horn.

• Oncoming traffic that may turn • Adjust your speed by accelerating,
left in front of you. stopping or slowing.

• Traffic coming from the left and • Adjust your position and/or
right. direction.

• Traffic approaching from behind. Apply the old adage “one step at a
time” to handle two or more hazards.
• Hazardous road conditions. Adjust speed to permit two hazards
to separate. Then deal with them one
Be especially alert in areas with limited at a time as single hazards. Decision-
visibility. Visually “busy” surroundings making becomes more complex with
could hide you and your motorcycle three or more hazards. Evaluate the
from others. consequences of each and give equal
distance to the hazards.
Evaluate

Think about how hazards can interact
to create risks for you. Anticipate
potential problems and have a plan to
reduce risks.

18 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

In potential high-risk areas, such as INTERSECTIONS
intersections, shopping areas and school
and construction zones, cover the clutch The greatest potential for conflict
and both brakes to reduce the time you between you and other traffic is at
need to react. intersections. An intersection can be
in the middle of an urban area or at
TEST YOURSELF 5 a driveway on a residential street —
anywhere traffic may cross your path of
To reduce your reaction time, you travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car
should: crashes are caused by drivers entering a
A. Ride slower than the speed rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in
front of you, including cars turning left
limit. from the lane to your right, and cars on
B. Cover the clutch and the brakes. side streets that pull into your lane, are
C. Shift into neutral when slowing. the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE
D. Pull in the clutch when turning. [p. 17] at intersections is critical.

Answer - page 41 There are no guarantees that
others see you. Never count on “eye
contact” as a sign that a driver will
yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a
motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him
or her. The only eyes that you can count
on are your own. If a car can enter your
path, assume that it will. Good riders
are always “looking for trouble” — not
to get into it, but to stay out of it.

Increase your chances of being
seen at intersections. Ride with your
headlight on and in a lane position that
provides the best view of oncoming
traffic. Provide a space cushion around
the motorcycle that permits you to take
evasive action.

SMALL INTERSECTIONS

19

LARGE INTERSECTIONS

When approaching an intersection In this picture, the rider has moved to
where a vehicle driver is preparing to the left portion of the lane — away
cross your path, slow down and select from the parked car — so the driver on
a lane position to increase your visibiity the cross street can see him as soon as
to that driver. Cover the clutch lever and possible.
both brakes to reduce reaction time. As
you enter the intersection, move away Remember, the key is to see as much
from the vehicle. Do not change speed as possible and remain visible to others
or position radically, as drivers might while protecting your space.
think you are preparing to turn. Be
prepared to brake hard and hold your BLIND INTERSECTIONS
position if an oncoming vehicle turns in
front of you, especially if there is other
traffic around you. This strategy should
also be used whenever a vehicle in the
oncoming lane of traffic is signaling for
a left turn, whether at an intersection
or not.

Blind Intersections

If you approach a blind intersection,
move to the portion of the lane that will
bring you into another driver’s field of
vision at the earliest possible moment.

20 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

STOP SIGNS PARKED CARS

If you have a stop sign or stop line, checking for traffic behind. Even if he
stop there first. Then edge forward does look, he may fail to see you.
and stop again, just short of where the
cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From In either event, the driver might cut
that position, lean your body forward into your path. Slow down or change
and look around buildings, parked cars lanes to make room for someone
or bushes to see if anything is coming. cutting in.
Just make sure your front wheel stays
out of the cross lane of travel while Cars making a sudden U-turn are
you’re looking. the most dangerous. They may cut
you off entirely, blocking the whole
Passing Parked Cars roadway and leaving you with no
place to go. Since you can’t tell what a
When passing parked cars, stay driver will do, slow down and get the
toward the left of your lane. You driver’s attention. Sound your horn and
can avoid problems caused by doors continue with caution.
opening, drivers getting out of cars
or people stepping from between Parking at the Roadside
cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it
is usually best to remain in the center- If parking in a parallel parking space
lane position to maximize your space next to a curb, position the motorcycle
cushion. at an angle with the rear wheel to the
curb. (Note: Some cities have ordinances
A bigger problem can occur if the that require motorcycles to park parallel
driver pulls away from the curb without to the curb.)

PARKING AT CURBS

TEST YOURSELF 6

Making eye contact with other
drivers:
A. Is a good sign they see you.
B. Is not worth the effort it takes.
C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will yield.
D. Guarantees that the other driver will

yield to you.

Answer - page 41

21

INCREASING coming from the side to spot you.
CONSPICUITY Reflective material can also be a big help
for drivers coming toward you or from
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers behind.
often say that they never saw the
motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a Headlight
motorcycle’s outline is much smaller
than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see The best way to help others see your
something you are not looking for, motorcycle is to keep the headlight on
and most drivers are not looking for — at all times (new motorcycles sold
motorcycles. More likely, they are in the USA since 1978 automatically
looking through the skinny, two- have the headlights on when running).
wheeled silhouette in search of cars that Studies show that, during the day, a
may pose a problem to them. motorcycle with its light on is twice as
likely to be noticed. Use low beam at
Even if a driver does see you coming, night and in fog.
you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller
vehicles appear farther away and seem Signals
to be traveling slower than they actually
are. It is common for drivers to pull out The signals on a motorcycle are similar
in front of motorcyclists, thinking they to those on a car. They tell others what
have plenty of time. Too often, they are you plan to do.
wrong.
SIGNALING
However, you can do many things to
make it easier for others to recognize
you and your motorcycle.

Clothing

Most crashes occur in broad daylight.
Wear bright-colored clothing to increase
your chances of being seen. Remember,
your body is half of the visible surface
area of the rider/motorcycle unit.

Bright orange, red, yellow or green
jackets or vests are your best bets for
being seen. Your helmet can do more
than protect you in a crash. Brightly
colored helmets can also help others see
you.

Any bright color is better than drab
or dark colors. Reflective, bright-colored
clothing (helmet and jacket or vest) is
best.

Reflective material on a vest and on
the sides of the helmet will help drivers

22 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

However, due to a rider’s added • You slow where others may not
vulnerability, signals are even more expect it (in the middle of a block or
important. Use them anytime you plan at an alley).
to change lanes or turn. Use them even
when you think no one else is around. If you are being followed closely, it’s
It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to a good idea to flash your brake light
give you the most trouble. Your signal before you slow. The tailgater may be
lights also make you easier to spot. watching you and not see something
That’s why it’s a good idea to use your ahead that will make you slow down.
turn signals even when what you plan This will hopefully discourage them from
to do is obvious. tailgating and warn them of hazards
ahead they may not see.
When you enter a freeway, drivers
approaching from behind are more likely Using Your Mirrors
to see your signal blinking and make
room for you. While it’s most important to keep
track of what’s happening ahead, you
Turning your signal light on before can’t afford to ignore situations behind.
each turn reduces confusion and Traffic conditions change quickly.
frustration for the traffic around you. Knowing what’s going on behind is
Once you turn, make sure your signal is essential for you to make a safe decision
off or a driver may pull directly into your about how to handle trouble ahead.
path, thinking you plan to turn again.
Use your signals at every turn so drivers Frequent mirror checks should be part
can react accordingly. Don’t make them of your normal searching routine. Make
guess what you intend to do. a special point of using your mirrors:

Brake Light • When you are stopped at an
intersection. Watch cars coming up
Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually from behind. If the drivers aren’t
not as noticeable as the brake lights on paying attention, they could be on
a car — particularly when your taillight top of you before they see you.
is on. (It goes on with the headlight.)
If the situation will permit, help others • Before you change lanes. Make
notice you by flashing your brake light sure no one is about to pass you.
before you slow down. It is especially
important to flash your brake light • Before you slow down. The driver
before: behind may not expect you to slow,
or may be unsure about where you
• You slow more quickly than will slow. For example, you signal a
others might expect (turning off a turn and the driver thinks you plan
high-speed highway). to turn at a distant intersection,
rather than at a nearer driveway.

23

USING MIRRORS Head Checks

Some motorcycles have rounded Checking your mirrors is not enough.
(convex) mirrors. These provide a wider Motorcycles have “blind spots” like
view of the road behind than do flat cars. Before you change lanes, turn your
mirrors. They also make cars seem head, and look to the side for other
farther away than they really are. If vehicles.
you are not used to convex mirrors,
get familiar with them. (While you are On a road with several lanes, check
stopped, pick out a parked car in your the far lane and the one next to you. A
mirror. Form a mental image of how driver in the distant lane may head for
far away it is. Then, turn around and the same space you plan to take.
look at it to see how close you came.)
Practice with your mirrors until you Frequent head checks should be
become a good judge of distance. Even your normal scanning routine, also.
then, allow extra distance before you Only by knowing what is happening
change lanes. all around you are you fully prepared
to deal with it.

Horn

Be ready to use your horn to get
someone’s attention quickly.

It is a good idea to give a quick beep
before passing anyone that may move
into your lane.

Here are some situations:

• A driver in the lane next to you
is driving too closely to the vehicle
ahead and may want to pass.

• A parked car has someone in the
driver’s seat.

• Someone is in the street, riding a
bicycle or walking.

In an emergency, press the horn
button loud and long. Be ready to stop
or swerve away from the danger.

Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn
isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use
it, but don’t rely on it. Other strategies,
like having time and space to maneuver,
may be appropriate along with the
horn.

24 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Riding at Night CRASH AVOIDANCE

At night it is harder for you to see No matter how careful you are, there
and be seen. Picking your headlight will be times when you find yourself in a
or taillight out of the car lights around tight spot. Your chances of getting out
you is not easy for other drivers. To safely depend on your ability to react
compensate, you should: quickly and properly. Often, a crash
occurs because a rider is not prepared or
• Reduce Your Speed — Ride even skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers.
slower than you would during the
day — particularly on roads you Know when and how to stop or
don’t know well. This will increase swerve, two skills critical in avoiding
your chances of avoiding a hazard. a crash. It is not always desirable or
possible to stop quickly to avoid an
• Increase Distance — Distances obstacle. Riders must also be able to
are harder to judge at night than swerve around an obstacle. Deter-
during the day. Your eyes rely upon mining which skill is necessary for the
shadows and light contrasts to situation is important as well.
determine how far away an object
is and how fast it is coming. These Studies show that most crash-
contrasts are missing or distorted involved riders:
under artificial lights at night.
Open up a three-second foll­owing • Underbrake the front tire and
distance or more. And allow more overbrake the rear.
distance to pass and be passed.
• Did not separate braking from
• Use the Car Ahead — The swerving or did not choose
headlights of the car ahead can give swerving when it was appropriate.
you a better view of the road than
even your high beam can. Taillights The following information offers
bouncing up and down can alert some good advice.
you to bumps or rough pavement.
Quick Stops
• Use Your High Beam — Get all the
light you can. Use your high beam To stop quickly, apply both brakes
whenever you are not following at the same time. Don’t be shy about
or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear using the front brake, but don’t “grab”
reflective materials when riding at it, either. Squeeze the brake lever
night. firmly and progressively. If the front
wheel locks, release the front brake
• Be Flexible About Lane Position. immediately then reapply it firmly. At
Change to whatever portion of the the same time, press down on the
lane is best able to help you see, be rear brake. If you accidentally lock the
seen and keep an adequate space rear brake on a good traction surface,
cushion. you can keep it locked until you have
completely stopped; but, even with a
TEST YOURSELF 7 locked rear wheel, you can control the
motorcycle on a straightaway if it is
Reflective clothing should: upright and going in a straight line.
A. Be worn at night.
B. Be worn during the day.
C. Not be worn.
D. Be worn day and night

Answer - page 41

25

STOPPING DISTANCE straight and maximum brake pressure
is possible. You should “straighten”
Always use both brakes at the same the handlebars in the last few feet of
time to stop. The front brake can stopping. The motorcycle should then
provide 70% or more of the potential be straight up and in balance.
stopping power.
Swerving or Turning Quickly
If you must stop quickly while turning
or riding a curve, the best technique is Sometimes you may not have enough
to straighten the bike upright first and room to stop, even if you use both
then brake. However, it may not always brakes properly. An object might appear
be possible to straighten the motorcycle suddenly in your path. Or the car ahead
and then stop. If you must brake while might squeal to a stop. The only way to
leaning, apply light brakes and reduce avoid a crash may be to turn quickly, or
the throttle. As you slow, you can swerve around it.
reduce your lean angle and apply more
brake pressure until the motorcycle is A swerve is any sudden change in
direction. It can be two quick turns, or
a rapid shift to the side. Apply a small
amount of pressure to the handgrip
located on the side of your intended
direction of escape. This will cause the
motorcycle to lean quickly. The sharper
the turn(s), the more the motorcycle
must lean.

Keep your body upright and allow
the motorcycle to lean in the direction
of the turn while keeping your knees

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

26 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

against the tank and your feet solidly on Cornering
the footrests. Let the motorcycle move
underneath you. Make your escape A primary cause of single-vehicle
route the target of your vision. Press crashes is motorcyclists running wide in
on the opposite handgrip once you a curve or turn and colliding with the
clear the obstacle to return you to your roadway or a fixed object.
original direction of travel. To swerve to
the left, press the left handgrip, then Every curve is different. Be alert to
press the right to recover. To swerve to whether a curve remains constant,
the right, press right, then left. gradually widens, gets tighter or
involves multiple turns.
IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, SEPARATE
IT FROM SWERVING. Brake before or Ride within your skill level and posted
after — never while swerving. speed limits.

Your best path may not always follow
the curve of the road.

CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES

DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES

(TIGHTER TURNS)

27

Change lane position depending on HANDLING DANGEROUS
traffic, road conditions and curve of SURFACES
the road. If no traffic is present, start at
the outside of a curve to increase your Your chance of falling or being
line of sight and the effective radius of involved in a crash increases whenever
the turn. As you turn, move toward the you ride across:
inside of the curve, and as you pass the
center, move to the outside to exit. • Uneven surfaces or obstacles.

Another alternative is to move to the • Slippery surfaces.
center of your lane before entering a
curve — and stay there until you exit. • Railroad tracks.
This permits you to spot approaching
traffic as soon as possible. You can also • Grooves and gratings.
adjust for traffic “crowding” the center
line, or debris blocking part of your lane. Uneven Surfaces and
Obstacles
TEST YOURSELF 8
Watch for uneven surfaces such as
The best way to stop quickly is to: bumps, broken pavement, potholes or
A. Use the front brake only. small pieces of highway trash.
B. Use the rear brake first.
C. Throttle down and use the front Try to avoid obstacles by slowing or
going around them. If you must go
brake. over the obstacle, first determine if it is
D. Use both brakes at the same time. possible. Approach it at as close to a 90˚
angle as possible. Look where you want
Answer - page 41 to go to control your path of travel. If
you have to ride over the obstacle, you
should:

• Slow down as much as possible
before contact.

• Make sure the motorcycle is
straight.

OBSTACLES

28 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

• Rise slightly off the seat with your lever gradually to avoid locking the
weight on the footrests to absorb front wheel. Remember, gentle
the shock with your knees and pressure on the rear brake.
elbows, and avoid being thrown off
the motorcycle. • The center of a lane can be
hazardous when wet. When it starts
• Just before contact, roll on the to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by
throttle slightly to lighten the front cars. Often, the left tire track will
end. be the best position, depending on
traffic and other road conditions as
If you ride over an object on the well.
street, pull off the road and check your
tires and rims for damage before riding • Watch for oil spots when you put
any farther. your foot down to stop or park. You
may slip and fall.
Slippery Surfaces
• Dirt and gravel collect along the
Motorcycles handle better when sides of the road — especially on
ridden on surfaces that permit good curves and ramps leading to and
traction. Surfaces that provide poor from highways. Be aware of what’s
traction include: on the edge of the road, particularly
when making sharp turns and
• Wet pavement, particularly just getting on or off freeways at high
after it starts to rain and before speeds.
surface oil washes to the side of the
road. • Rain dries and snow melts faster
on some sections of a road than
• Gravel roads, or where sand and on others. Patches of ice tend to
gravel collect. develop in low or shaded areas and
on bridges and overpasses. Wet
• Mud, leaves, snow, and ice. surfaces or wet leaves are just as
slippery. Ride on the least slippery
• Lane markings (painted lines), portion of the lane and reduce
steel plates and manhole covers, speed.
especially when wet.
Cautious riders steer clear of roads
To ride safely on slippery surfaces: covered with ice or snow. If you can’t
avoid a slippery surface, keep your
• Reduce Speed — Slow down motorcycle straight up and proceed
before you get to a slippery as slowly as possible. If you encounter
surface to lessen your chances of a large surface so slippery that you
skidding. Your motorcycle needs must coast, or travel at a walking pace,
more distance to stop. And it is consider letting your feet skim along
particularly important to reduce the surface. If the motorcycle starts to
speed before entering wet curves. fall, you can catch yourself. Be sure to
keep off the brakes. If possible, squeeze
• Avoid Sudden Moves — Any the clutch and coast. Attempting this
sudden change in speed or direction maneuver at anything other than
can cause a skid. Be as smooth as the slowest of speeds could prove
possible when you speed up, shift hazardous.
gears, turn or brake.

• Use Both Brakes — The front
brake is still effective, even on a
slippery surface. Squeeze the brake

29

CROSSTRACKS—RIGHT For track and road seams that run
CROSSTRACKS—WRONG parallel to your course, move far enough
away from tracks, ruts, or pavement
seams to cross at an angle of at least
45˚. Then, make a deliberate turn.
Edging across could catch your tires and
throw you off balance.

Grooves and Gratings

Riding over rain grooves or bridge
gratings may cause a motorcycle to
weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling is
generally not hazardous. Relax, maintain
a steady speed and ride straight across.
Crossing at an angle forces riders to
zigzag to stay in the lane. The zigzag is
far more hazardous than the wandering
feeling.

Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks GRATE CROSSINGS—RIGHT
and Pavement Seams

Usually it is safer to ride straight within
your lane to cross tracks. Turning to take
tracks head-on (at a 90˚ angle) can be
more dangerous — your path may carry
you into another lane of traffic.

PARALLEL TRACKS—RIGHT GRATE CROSSINGS—WRONG

PARALLEL TRACKS—WRONG TEST YOURSELF 9

When it starts to rain it is usually
best to:

A. Ride in the center of the lane.

B. Pull off to the side until the rain
stops.

C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars.

D. Increase your speed. Answer - page 41

30 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

MECHANICAL PROBLEMS Stuck Throttle

You can find yourself in an emergency Twist the throttle back and forth
the moment something goes wrong several times. If the throttle cable is
with your motorcycle. In dealing with stuck, this may free it. If the throttle
any mechanical problem, take into stays stuck, immediately operate the
account the road and traffic conditions engine cut-off switch and pull in the
you face. Here are some guidelines clutch at the same time. This will remove
that can help you handle mechanical power from the rear wheel, though
problems safely. engine sound may not immediately
decline. Once the motorcycle is “under
Tire Failure control,” pull off and stop.

You will seldom hear a tire go flat. After you have stopped, check the
If the motorcycle starts handling throttle cable carefully to find the source
differently, it may be a tire failure. This of the trouble. Make certain the throttle
can be dangerous. You must be able to works freely before you start to ride
tell from the way the motorcycle reacts. again.
If one of your tires suddenly loses air,
react quickly to keep your balance. Pull Wobble
off and check the tires.
A “wobble” occurs when the front
If the front tire goes flat, the steering wheel and handlebars suddenly start
will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel flat is to shake from side to side at any
particularly hazardous because it affects speed. Most wobbles can be traced to
your steering. You have to steer well to improper loading, unsuitable accessories
keep your balance. or incorrect tire pressure. If you are
carrying a heavy load, lighten it. If you
If the rear tire goes flat, the back of can’t, shift it. Center the weight lower
the motorcycle may jerk or sway from and farther forward on the motorcycle.
side to side. Make sure tire pressure, spring pre-
load, air shocks and dampers are at the
If either tire goes flat while riding: settings recommended for that much
weight. Make sure windshields and
• Hold handgrips firmly, ease off the fairings are mounted properly.
throttle, and keep a straight course.
Check for poorly adjusted steering;
• If braking is required, however, worn steering parts; a front wheel that
gradually apply the brake of the tire is bent, misaligned, or out of balance;
that isn’t flat, if you are sure which loose wheel bearings or spokes; and
one it is. worn swingarm bearings. If none of
these is determined to be the cause,
• When the motorcycle slows, have the motorcycle checked out
edge to the side of the road, thoroughly by a qualified professional.
squeeze the clutch and stop.

31

Trying to “accelerate out of a Engine Seizure
wobble” will only make the motorcycle
more unstable. Instead: When the engine “locks” or
“freezes” it is usually low on oil. The
• Grip the handlebars firmly, but engine’s moving parts can’t move
don’t fight the wobble. smoothly against each other, and the
engine overheats. The first sign may be
• Close the throttle gradually a loss of engine power or a change in
to slow down. Do not apply the the engine’s sound. Squeeze the clutch
brakes; braking could make the lever to disengage the engine from the
wobble worse. rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop.
Check the oil. If needed, oil should be
• Move your weight as far forward added as soon as possible or the engine
and down as possible. will seize. When this happens, the effect
is the same as a locked rear wheel. Let
• Pull off the road as soon as you the engine cool before restarting.
can to fix the problem.
ANIMALS
TEST YOURSELF 10
Naturally, you should do everything
If your motorcycle starts to wobble: you safely can to avoid hitting an
A. Accelerate out of the wobble. animal. If you are in traffic, however,
B. Use the brakes gradually. remain in your lane. Hitting something
C. Grip the handlebars firmly and close small is less dangerous to you than
hitting something big — like a car.
the throttle gradually.
D. Downshift. Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If
you are chased, downshift and approach
Answer - page 41 the animal slowly. As you approach it,
accelerate away and leave the animal
Drive Train Problems behind. Don’t kick at an animal. Keep
control of your motorcycle and look to
The drive train for a motorcycle uses where you want to go.
either a chain, belt, or drive shaft to
transfer power from the engine to For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle)
the rear wheel. Routine inspection, brake and prepare to stop — they are
adjustment, and maintenance makes unpredictable.
failure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt
that slips or breaks while you’re riding TEST YOURSELF 11
could lock the rear wheel and cause
your motorcycle to skid. If you are chased by a dog:
A. Kick it away.
If the chain or belt breaks, you’ll B. Stop until the animal loses interest.
notice an instant loss of power to the C. Swerve around the animal.
rear wheel. Close the throttle and brake D. Approach the animal slowly, then
to a stop in a safe area.
speed up.
On models with a drive shaft, loss of Answer - page 41
oil in the rear differential can cause the
rear wheel to lock, and you may not be
able to prevent a skid.

32 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

FLYING OBJECTS CARRYING PASSENGERS
AND CARGO
From time to time riders are struck
by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars Only experienced riders should carry
or pebbles kicked up by the tires of passengers or large loads. The extra
the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing weight changes the way the motorcycle
face protection, it might get smeared handles, balances, speeds up and slows
or cracked, making it difficult to see. down. Before taking a passenger or a
Without face protection, an object heavy load on the street, practice away
could hit you in the eye, face or mouth. from traffic.
Whatever happens, keep your eyes
on the road and your hands on the Equipment
handlebars. When safe, pull off the road
and repair the damage. To carry passengers safely:

GETTING OFF THE ROAD • Equip and adjust your motorcycle
to carry passengers.
If you need to leave the road to check
the motorcycle (or just to rest for a • Instruct the passenger before you
while), be sure you: start.

• Check the roadside — Make sure • Adjust your riding technique for
the surface of the roadside is firm the added weight.
enough to ride on. If it is soft grass,
loose sand or if you’re just not sure Equipment should include:
about it, slow way down before you
turn onto it. • A proper seat — large enough to
hold both of you without crowding.
• Signal — Drivers behind might not You should not sit any farther
expect you to slow down. Give a forward than you usually do.
clear signal that you will be slowing
down and changing direction. • Footrests — for the passenger.
Check your mirror and make a head Firm footing prevents your
check before you take any action. passenger from falling off and
pulling you off, too.
• Pull off the road — Get as far off
the road as you can. It can be very • Protective equipment — the same
hard to spot a motorcycle by the protective gear recommended for
side of the road. You don’t want operators.
someone else pulling off at the
same place you are. Adjust the suspension to handle the
additional weight. You will probably
• Park carefully — Loose and sloped need to add a few pounds of pressure
shoulders can make setting the side to the tires if you carry a passenger.
or center stand difficult. (Check your owner’s manual for
appropriate settings.) While your
passenger sits on the seat with you,
adjust the mirrors and headlight
according to the change in the
motorcycle’s angle.

33

Instructing Passengers • Ride a little slower, especially
when taking curves, corners or
Even if your passenger is a motorcycle bumps.
rider, provide complete instructions
before you start. Tell your passenger to: • Start slowing earlier as you
approach a stop.
• Get on the motorcycle only after
you have started the engine. • Open up a larger cushion of
space ahead and to the sides.
• Sit as far forward as possible
without crowding you. • Wait for larger gaps to cross,
enter or merge in traffic.
• Hold firmly to your waist, hips,
belt, or to the bike’s passenger Warn your passenger of special
handholds. conditions — when you will pull out,
stop quickly, turn sharply or ride over a
• Keep both feet on the footrests, bump. Turn your head slightly to make
even when stopped. yourself understood, but keep your eyes
on the road ahead.
• Keep legs away from the
muffler(s), chains or moving parts. Carrying Loads

• Stay directly behind you, leaning Most motorcycles are not designed
as you lean. to carry much cargo. Small loads can be
carried safely if positioned and fastened
• Avoid unnecessary talk or motion. properly.

Also, tell your passenger to tighten his • Keep the Load Low — Fasten
or her hold when you: loads securely, or put them in
saddlebags. Piling loads against a
• Approach surface problems. sissybar or frame on the back of the
seat raises the motorcycle’s center
• Are about to start from a stop. of gravity and disturbs its balance.

• Warn that you will make a sudden • Keep the Load Forward — Place
move. the load over, or in front of, the rear
axle. Tankbags keep loads forward,
Riding With Passengers but use caution when loading hard
or sharp objects. Make sure the
Your motorcycle will respond more tankbag does not interfere with
slowly with a passenger on board. The handlebars or controls. Mounting
heavier your passenger, the longer it loads behind the rear axle can affect
may take to slow down and speed up — how the motorcycle turns and
especially on a light motorcycle. brakes. It can also cause a wobble.

TEST YOURSELF 12 • Distribute the Load Evenly —
Load saddlebags with about the
Passengers should: same weight. An uneven load can
cause the motorcycle to drift to one
A. Lean as you lean. side.

B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat.

C. Sit as far back as possible.

D. Never hold onto you. Answer - page 41

34 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

• Secure the Load — Fasten the load • Know the Route — Make sure
securely with elastic cords (bungee everyone knows the route. Then, if
cords or nets). Elastic cords with someone is separated they won’t
more than one attachment point have to hurry to keep from getting
per side are more secure. A tight lost or taking a wrong turn. Plan
load won’t catch in the wheel or frequent stops on long rides.
chain, causing it to lock up and skid.
Rope tends to stretch and knots Keep Your Distance
come loose, permitting the load to
shift or fall. Maintain close ranks but at the same
time keep a safe distance to allow each
• Check the Load — Stop and check rider in the group time and space to
the load every so often to make react to hazards. A close group takes
sure it has not worked loose or up less space on the highway, is easier
moved. to see and is less likely to be separated.
However, it must be done properly.
GROUP RIDING
Don’t Pair Up — Never operate
If you ride with others, do it in a directly alongside another rider. There is
way that promotes safety and doesn’t no place to go if you have to avoid a car
interfere with the flow of traffic. or something on the road. To talk, wait
until you are both stopped.
Keep the Group Small
Staggered Formation — This is
Small groups make it easier and safer the best way to keep ranks close yet
for car drivers who need to get around maintain an adequate space cushion. The
them. A small number isn’t separated leader rides in the left side of the lane,
as easily by traffic or red lights. Riders while the second rider stays one second
won’t always be hurrying to catch up. behind in the right side of the lane.
If your group is larger than four or five
riders, divide it up into two or more STAGGERED FORMATION
smaller groups.

Keep the Group Together

• Plan — The leader should look
ahead for changes and signal early
so “the word gets back” in plenty
of time. Start lane changes early to
permit everyone to complete the
change.

• Put Beginners Up Front — Place
inexperienced riders just behind
the leader. That way the more
experienced riders can watch them
from the back.

• Follow Those Behind — Let
the tailender set the pace. Use
your mirrors to keep an eye on
the person behind. If a rider falls
behind, everyone should slow down
a little to stay with the tailender.

35

A third rider maintains in the left Some people suggest that the leader
position, two seconds behind the first should move to the right side after
rider. The fourth rider would keep a passing a vehicle. This is not a good
two-second distance behind the second idea. It encourages the second rider
rider. This formation keeps the group to pass and cut back in before there
close and permits each rider a safe is a large enough space cushion in
distance from others ahead, behind and front of the passed vehicle. It’s simpler
to the sides. and safer to wait until there is enough
room ahead of the passed vehicle to
• Passing in Formation — Riders in allow each rider to move into the same
a staggered formation should pass position held before the pass.
one at a time.
Single-File Formation — It is best
• First, the lead rider should pull to move into a single-file formation
out and pass when it is safe. After when riding curves, turning, entering or
passing, the leader should return to leaving a highway.
the left position and continue riding
at passing speed to open room for TEST YOURSELF 13
the next rider.
When riding in a group,
• After the first rider passes safely, inexperienced riders should position
the second rider should move up themselves:
to the left position and watch for a
safe chance to pass. After passing, A. Just behind the leader.
this rider should return to the right
position and open up room for the B. In front of the group.
next rider.
C. At the tail end of the group.

D. Beside the leader. Answer - page 41

GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1) GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2)

36 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders
pay attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle,
identifying potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions
quickly and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road
and traffic conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and
other drugs, more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly
and to ride safely. As little as one drink can have a significant effect on your
performance.

Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What to
do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined.

WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND OTHER
IS IMPORTANT DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE
OPERATION
Alcohol is a major contributor to
motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal No one is immune to the effects of
crashes. Studies show that nearly 40% alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag
of all riders killed in motorcycle crashes about their ability to hold their liquor
had been drinking. The rest had only a or perform better on drugs, but alcohol
few drinks in their systems — enough or drugs make them less able to think
to impair riding skills. In the past, drug clearly and perform physical tasks
levels have been harder to distinguish or skillfully. Judgment and the decision-
have not been separated from drinking making processes needed for vehicle
violations for the traffic records. But operation are affected long before legal
riding “under the influence” of either limitations are reached.
alcohol or drugs poses physical and legal
hazards for every rider. Many over-the-counter, prescription
and illegal drugs have side effects that
Drinking and drug use is as big increase the risk of riding. It is difficult to
a problem among motorcyclists accurately measure the involvement of
as it is among automobile drivers. particular drugs in motorcycle crashes.
Motorcyclists, however, are more likely But we do know what effects various
to be killed or severely injured in a crash. drugs have on the processes involved in
Injuries occur in 90% of motorcycle riding a motorcycle. We also know that
crashes and 33% of automobile crashes the combined effects of alcohol and
that involve abuse of substances. On other drugs are more dangerous than
a yearly basis, 2,000 motorcyclists either is alone.
are killed and about 50,000 seriously
injured in this same type of crash. These ALCOHOL IN THE BODY
statistics are too overwhelming to
ignore. Alcohol enters the bloodstream
quickly. Unlike most foods and
By becoming knowledgeable about beverages, it does not need to be
the effects of alcohol and other drugs digested. Within minutes after being
you will see that riding and substance consumed, it reaches the brain and
abuse don’t mix. Take positive steps to begins to affect the drinker. The major
protect yourself and prevent others from effect alcohol has is to slow down and
injuring themselves. impair bodily functions — both mental
and physical. Whatever you do, you do
less well after consuming alcohol.

37

Blood Alcohol Concentration A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed drink
with one shot (1.5 ounces) of liquor,
Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC and a 5- ounce glass of wine all contain
is the amount of alcohol in relation to the same amount of alcohol.
blood in the body. Generally, alcohol can
be eliminated in the body at the rate of The faster you drink, the more alcohol
almost one drink per hour. But a variety accumulates in your body. If you drink
of other factors may also influence two drinks in an hour, at the end of that
the level of alcohol retained. The more hour, at least one drink will remain in
alcohol in your blood, the greater the your bloodstream.
degree of impairment.
Without taking into account any
Three factors play a major part in other factors, these examples illustrate
determining BAC: why time is a critical factor when a rider
decides to drink.
• The amount of alcohol you
consume. A person drinking:
– Seven drinks over the span of three
• How fast you drink. hours would have at least four (7 – 3
• Your body weight. = 4) drinks remaining in their system
Other factors also contribute to the at the end of the three hours. They
way alcohol affects your system. would need at least another four hours
Your sex, physical condition and to eliminate the four remaining drinks
food intake are just a few that may before they consider riding.
cause your BAC level to be even higher.
But the full effects of these are not
completely known. Alcohol may still
accumulate in your body even if you
are drinking at a rate of one drink
per hour. Abilities and judgment can be
affected by that one drink.

ALCOHOL CONTENT

38 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

– Four drinks over the span of two If you are convicted of riding under
hours would have at least two (4 – 2 = the influence of alcohol or drugs,
2) drinks remaining in their system at you may receive any of the following
the end of the two hours. They would penalties:
need at least another two hours to
eliminate the two remaining drinks • License Suspension — Mandatory
before they consider riding. suspension for conviction, arrest or
refusal to submit to a breath test.
There are times when a larger
person may not accumulate as high • Fines — Severe fines are another
a concentration of alcohol for each aspect of a conviction, usually levied
drink consumed. They have more with a license suspension.
blood and other bodily fluids. But
because of individual differences it • Community Service — Performing
is better not to take the chance that tasks such as picking up litter along
abilities and judgment have not been the highway, washing cars in the
affected. Whether or not you are motor-vehicle pool or working at an
legally intoxicated is not the real issue. emergency ward.
Impairment of judgment and skills
begins well below the legal limit. • Costs — Additional lawyer’s fees to
pay, lost work time spent in court or
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW alcohol-education programs, public
transportation costs (while your
In all states, an adult with a BAC license is suspended) and the added
of 0.08% or above is considered psychological costs of being tagged
intoxicated. For operators under the age a “drunk driver.”
of 21, lower BAC limits (0.00 to 0.02%,
depending on state) apply. It doesn’t MINIMIZE THE RISKS
matter how sober you may look or act.
The breath or urine test is what usually Your ability to judge how well you
determines whether you are riding are riding is affected first. Although
legally or illegally. you may be performing more and more
poorly, you think you are doing better
Your chances of being stopped for and better. The result is that you ride
riding under the influence of alcohol are confidently, taking greater and greater
increasing. Law enforcement is being risks. Minimize the risks of drinking and
stepped up across the country in response riding by taking steps before you drink.
to the senseless deaths and injuries caused Control your drinking or control your
by drinking drivers and riders. riding.

Consequences of Conviction Make an Intelligent Choice

Years ago, first offenders had a good Don’t Drink — Once you start, your
chance of getting off with a small fine resistance becomes weaker.
and participation in alcohol-abuse
classes. Today the laws of most states Setting a limit or pacing yourself are
impose stiff penalties on drinking poor alternatives at best. Your ability to
operators. And those penalties are exercise good judgment is one of the
mandatory, meaning that judges must first things affected by alcohol. Even if
impose them. you have tried to drink in moderation,
you may not realize to what extent
your skills have suffered from alcohol’s
fatiguing effects.

39

Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t firm and the harder it is for the rider to
controlled your drinking, you must resist. While you may not be thanked at
control your riding. the time, you will never have to say, “If
only I had ...”
• Leave the motorcycle — so you
won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange FATIGUE
another way to get home.
Riding a motorcycle is more tiring
• Wait — If you exceed your limit, than driving a car. On a long trip, you’ll
wait until your system eliminates the tire sooner than you would in a car.
alcohol and its fatiguing effects. Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can
affect your control of the motorcycle.
STEP IN TO PROTECT
FRIENDS • Protect yourself from the elements
— Wind, cold, and rain make
People who have had too much to you tire quickly. Dress warmly. A
drink are unable to make a responsible windshield is worth its cost if you
decision. It is up to others to step in plan to ride long distances.
and keep them from taking too great
a risk. No one wants to do this — it’s • Limit your distance — Experi­
uncomfortable, embarrassing and enced riders seldom try to ride more
thankless. You are rarely thanked than about six hours a day.
for your efforts at the time. But the
alternatives are often worse. • Take frequent rest breaks — Stop
and get off the motorcycle at least
There are several ways to keep friends every two hours.
from hurting themselves:
• Don’t drink or use drugs —
• Arrange a safe ride — Provide Artificial stimulants often result in
alternative ways for them to get extreme fatigue or depression when
home. they start to wear off. Riders are
unable to concentrate on the task at
• Slow the pace of drinking — hand.
Involve them in other activities.
TEST YOURSELF 14
• Keep them there — Use any
excuse to keep them from getting If you wait one hour per drink for
on their motorcycle. Serve them the alcohol to be eliminated from
food and coffee to pass the time. your body before riding:
Explain your concerns for their
risks of getting arrested or hurt or A. You cannot be arrested for drinking
hurting someone else. Take their and riding.
key, if you can.
B. Your riding skills will not be affected.
• Get friends involved — Use peer
pressure from a group of friends to C. Side effects from the drinking may
intervene. still remain.

It helps to enlist support from others D. You will be okay as long as you ride
when you decide to step in. The more slowly.
people on your side, the easier it is to be
Answer - page 41

40 EARNING YOUR LICENSE

Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tests are the best
measurement of the skills necessary to operate safely in traffic. Assessing your
own skills is not enough. People often overestimate their own abilities. It’s even
harder for friends and relatives to be totally honest about your skills. Licensing
exams are designed to be scored more objectively.

To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill
test. Knowledge test questions are based on information, practices and ideas
from this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules and
safe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual
traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area.

Knowledge Test 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and
you must stop, it is usually best
(Sample Questions) to:
1. It is MOST important to flash
A. Relax on the handgrips.
your brake light when:
A. Someone is following too closely. B. Shift your weight toward the
B. You will be slowing suddenly. good tire.
C. There is a stop sign ahead.
D. Your signals are not working. C. Brake on the good tire and steer
2. The FRONT brake supplies how to the side of the road.
much of the potential stopping
power? D. Use both brakes and stop quickly.
A. About one-quarter. 5. The car below is waiting to enter
B. About one-half.
C. About three-quarters. the intersection. It is best to:
D. All of the stopping power.
3. To swerve correctly: A. Make eye contact with the driver.
A. Shift your weight quickly.
B. Turn the handlebars quickly. B. Reduce speed and be ready to
C. Press the handgrip in the direction react.

of the turn. C. Maintain speed and position.
D. Press the handgrip in the opposite
D. Maintain speed and move right.
direction of the turn.

41

On-Motorcycle Skill Test • Stop, turn and swerve quickly.
• Make critical decisions and carry
Basic vehicle control and crash-
avoidance skills are included in on- them out.
motorcycle tests to determine your
ability to handle normal and hazardous Examiners may score on factors
traffic situations. related to safety such as:

You may be tested for your ability to: • Selecting safe speeds to perform
maneuvers.
• Know your motorcycle and your
riding limits. • Choosing the correct path and
staying within boundaries.
• Accelerate, brake and turn
safely. • Completing normal and quick
stops.
• See, be seen and communicate
with others. • Completing normal and quick
turns or swerves.
• Adjust speed and position to the
traffic situation.

To receive a motorcycle license with full privileges, most
states require that maneuvers be performed as designed

for single-track, two-wheeled motorcycles.

On-motorcycle skill tests are not designed for sidecars or three-wheeled
vehicles. Those vehicles maneuver differently than a two-wheeled motorcycle.
Depending on the state, an examiner may follow you on a car test-route.
Restrictions (sidecar, three-wheeled vehicle) may be added until completion of a
two-wheeled motorcycle test.

Answers to Test Yourself (previous pages) Diagrams and drawings used in this
1-C, 2-D, 3-D, 4-A, 5-B, manual are for reference only and are
6-C, 7-D 8-D, 9-C, 10-C, not to correct scale for size of vehicles
11-D, 12-A, 13-A, 14-C and distances.

Answers to Knowledge Test (left):
1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-C, 5-B

42 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

SUPPLEMENTARY • Saddle seating
INFORMATION FOR
THREE-WHEEL VEHICLES – Seating in which the rider/
passenger straddles the
Many states require a separate license vehicle.
endorsement to operate a three-wheel
vehicle. This requires the rider to pass – If designed for a passenger,
both a written and a skills test. The the passenger must be
purpose of this supplement is to help seated behind the operator
prepare riders to complete the written (or in a separate passenger
exam for a three-wheel vehicle license compartment in the case of a
or endorsement. This information is motorcycle with sidecar).
provided in addition to that offered in
the first part of this Motorcycle Operator 3. Turning diameter of the vehicle
Manual (MOM), so when preparing to at its widest point must be less
take the written test, begin by reading than 40’.
the information on 2-wheel motocycles
thoroughly. It provides information on 4. The vehicle meets all applicable
safe operation of your vehicle in traffic. federal on-road vehicle standards.
This supplement contains information
specific to the safe operation of a three- The following vehicles are not
wheel vehicle, including both three-track included in this definition, and
vehicles and motorcycles with sidecars. therefore testing requirements may not
be applicable. Always refer to your
KNOW YOUR VEHICLE state Department of Motor Vehicles,
Department of Licensing or other
Due to the many three-wheel vehicle appropriate state regulatory agency for
designs available on the market today, exact regulations regarding testing for:
standards suitable for testing may vary.
However, vehicles should conform to • Automotive hybrids or
standards determined by your state. In automotive conversions
general, three-wheel vehicles will have
the following specifications: • Vehicles with automotive
controls or seating
1. Three wheels leaving two or
three separate tracks during • Vehicles with front or rear
straight line operation. mounted engines (engines must
be mounted mid-frame below the
2. Motorcycle-based conversion or rider to be considered motorcycle-
based)
design with:
• Vehicles with enclosed or semi-
• Handlebar steering enclosed riding compartments

• Motorcycle-type controls • Motorcycles or scooters with two
arranged with the standard close-set wheels in front (contact
layout. Convenience alterations patches less than 18.1 inches
such as a single brake pedal or apart) that lean and maneuver like
lever control, automatic clutch, standard, single-track, two-wheel
or automatic transmission are motorcycles
allowed.
or

• Vehicles with any other departure
from the above standards.