Motorcycle Operator Manual: With Supplementary Information For Three-Wheel Motorcycles

MOTORCYCLE
OPERATOR
MANUAL
With Supplementary Information
for Three-Wheel Motorcycles
17 TH EDITION
PREFACE
2
Welcome to the Seventeenth Edition This latest edition has undergone

of the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual significant improvements, and contains
(MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely new, more in-depth information,
in traffic requires special skills and designed to:
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety • Guide riders in preparing to ride
Foundation (MSF) has made this manual safely
available to help novice motorcyclists
reduce their risk of having a crash. The • Develop effective street strategies
manual conveys essential safe riding • Give riders more comprehensive
information and has been designed understanding of safe group riding
for use in licensing programs. While practices
designed for the novice, all motorcyclists
• Describe in detail best practices for
can benefit from the information this
carrying passengers and cargo
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
Department of Motor Vehicles under the Foundation are available to assist
contract to NHTSA. governmental and private agencies in
efforts to improve motorcycle safety.
The purpose of this manual is to
educate riders and to help them avoid
crashes while safely operating either
a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a
three-wheel motorcycle. Tim Buche
President,
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
msf-usa.org
CONTENTS
CONTENTS 3
THE RIDER AND BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

THE MOTORCYCLE ��4 Why This Information Is
Important ��42
PREPARING TO RIDE Alcohol and Other Drugs in
Wear the Right Gear ��5 Motorcycle Operation ��42
Know Your Motorcycle ��7 Alcohol in the Body ��42
Know Your Responsibilities ��10 Alcohol and the Law ��44
Minimize the Risks ��44
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Step in to Protect Friends ��45
Basic Vehicle Control ��11
Marijuana and
Keeping Your Distance ��15 Motorcycle Operation ��45
SEE ��20 Fatigue ��46
Intersections ��21
Increasing Conspicuity ��24
EARNING YOUR LICENSE��47
Crash Avoidance ��27 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
Handling Dangerous Surfaces ��30 Supplementary Information
Mechanical Problems ��33 for Three-Wheel Motorcycles��49
Animals ��34 Know Your Vehicle��49
Flying Objects ��35 Basic Vehicle Control��51
Getting Off the Road ��35 Carrying Passengers and Cargo��54
Carrying Passengers
and Cargo ��35
HAND SIGNALS........................... 55
Group Riding ��38 T-CLOCS PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST��57
4 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE
Motorcycling is a
unique experience.
RIDING ENVIRONMENT
Compared to a car,
you don’t sit in a
motorcycle, you
become part of it.
Not as a passive
driver, but as an
active rider arcing
into a string of
smooth corners,
playing along with
the rhythm of the
road; shifting,
accelerating,
and braking
with precision.
Whether you
ride to and from
work or prefer you, and supports the concept that,
the camaraderie of a group ride on the as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
weekend, motorcycling engages all your says, “Safe riding depends as much
senses and creates an invigorating sense on the mental skills of awareness and
of freedom. judgment as it does on a physical skill of
Along with that freedom comes maneuvering the machine.”
responsibility. All states require Successfully piloting a motorcycle is a
some form of license endorsement much more involved task than driving a
demonstrating you possess a minimum car. Motorcycling requires a fine sense
level of skill and knowledge. This of balance and a heightened sense of
booklet and other motorcycle awareness and position amidst other
publications can help prepare you to roadway users. A motorcycle responds
be successful. You might also consider more quickly to rider inputs than a car,
taking a formal hands-on training but is also more sensitive to outside
course, even if your state doesn’t require forces, like irregular road surfaces or
that you complete one. You’ll learn how crosswinds. A motorcycle is also less
to improve your riding skills and mental visible than a car due to its narrower
strategies, so you can be a safer, more profile, and offers far less protection by
alert rider. exposing its rider to other traffic and
The diagram above illustrates the the elements. All these risks can be
complex environment that awaits managed through study, training, and
practice.
PREPARING TO RIDE 5
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 helmet kept a rider from spotting

danger.
When you ride, your gear is “right”
if it protects you. In any crash, you have • Most crashes happenon short
trips (less than five miles long), just
a far better chance of avoiding serious
a few minutes after starting out.
injury if you wear:
• Most ridersare riding slower than
• A DOT-compliant helmet. 30 mph when a crash occurs. At
• Face or eye protection. these speeds, helmets can cut both
the number and the severity of head
• Protective clothing.
injuries by half.
Helmet Use No matter what the speed, helmeted
Crashes can occur — particularly riders are three times more likely to
among untrained, beginning riders. survive head injuries than those not
And one out of every five motorcycle wearing helmets at the time of the
crashes results in head or neck injuries. crash. The single most important thing
Head injuries are just as severe as neck you can do to improve your chances of
injuries — and far more common. Crash surviving a crash is to wear a securely-
analyses show that head and neck fastened, quality helmet.
injuries account for a majority of serious
Helmet Selection
and fatal injuries to motorcyclists.
Research also shows that, with few There are two primary types of
exceptions, head and neck injuries are helmets, providing two different levels
reduced by properly wearing a quality of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
helmet. Whichever style you choose, you can
Some riders don’t wear helmets get the most protection by making sure
because they think helmets will limit that the helmet:
their view to the sides. Others wear • Is designed to meet U.S.
helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation
riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards. Helmets
some facts to consider: with a label from the Snell Memorial
Foundation also give you an
• A DOT-compliant helmetlets assurance of quality.
you see as far to the sides as
necessary. A study of more than • Fits snugly,all the way around.
900 motorcycle crashes, where • Has no obvious defectssuch as
40% of the riders wore helmets, cracks, loose padding or frayed
did not find even one case in which straps.
6 PREPARING TO RIDE
Whatever helmet you

decide on, keep it securely HELMETS
fastened on your head
when you ride. Otherwise,
if you are involved in a
crash, it’s likely to fly off
your head before it gets a
chance to protect you.
Eye and Face
Protection
A plastic impact-resistant
faceshield can help protect
your whole face in a
crash. It also protects you Clothing
from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and
pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. The right clothing protects you in
These problems are distracting and a collision. It also provides comfort,
can be painful. If you have to deal as well as protection from heat, cold,
with them, you can’t devote your full debris and hot and moving parts of the
attention to the road. motorcycle. It can also make you more
visible to others.
Goggles protect your eyes, though
they won’t protect the rest of your face • Jacket and pantsshould cover
like a faceshield does. A windshield arms and legs completely. They
is not a substitute for a faceshield or should fit snugly enough to keep
goggles. Most windshields will not from flapping in the wind, yet
protect your eyes from the wind. Neither loosely enough to move freely.
will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses Leather offers the most protection.
won’t keep your eyes from watering, Sturdy synthetic material provides
and they might blow off when you turn a lot of protection as well. Wear
your head while riding. a jacket even in warm weather to
prevent dehydration. Many are
To be effective, eye or faceshield designed to protect without getting
protection must: you overheated, even on summer
• Be freeof scratches. days. Some riders choose jackets
• Be resistantto penetration. and pants with rigid “body armor”
inserts in critical areas for additional
• Give a clear viewto either side. protection.
• Fasten securely,so it does not
• Boots or shoesshould be high
blow off.
and sturdy enough to cover your
• Permit airto pass through, to ankles and give them support. Soles
reduce fogging. should be made of hard, durable,
• Permit enough roomfor slip-resistant material. Keep heels
eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed. short so they do not catch on rough
Tinted eye protection should not be surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t
worn when little light is available. catch on your motorcycle.
7
• Glovesallow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR

protect your hands in a crash. Your
gloves should be made of leather or
MOTORCYCLE
similar durable material. There are plenty of things on the
highway that can cause you trouble.
• Hearing protection reduces
Your motorcycle should not be one
noise while allowing you to hear
of them. To make sure that your
important sounds such as car horns
motorcycle won’t let you down:
or sirens. Long term exposure to
engine and wind noise can cause • Startwith the right motorcycle
permanent hearing damage even for you.
if you wear a full face helmet. • Readthe owner’s manual.
Whether you choose disposable
foam plugs or reusable custom • Be familiarwith the motorcycle
molded devices, be sure you adhere controls.
to state laws regarding hearing • Checkthe motorcycle before
protection. every ride.
In cold or wet weather, your clothes • Keepit in safe riding condition
should keep you warm and dry, as between rides.
well as protect you from injury. You
• Avoidadd-ons and modifications
cannot control a motorcycle well if
that make your motorcycle harder
you are numb. Riding for long periods
to handle.
in cold weather can cause severe chill
and fatigue. A winter jacket should The Right Motorcycle For You
resist wind and fit snugly at the neck,
First, make sure your motorcycle is
wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits
right for you. It should “fit” you. Your
designed for motorcycle riding resist
feet should reach the ground while
tearing apart or ballooning up at high
you are seated on the motorcycle, and
speeds.
the controls should be easy to operate.
Smaller motorcycles are usually easier
for beginners to operate.
CLOTHING At a minimum, your street-legal
motorcycle should have:
• Headlight, taillight and
brakelight.
TEST YOURSELF 1
A plastic shatter-resistant face
shield:
A. Is not necessary if you have a
windshield.
B. Only protects your eyes.
C. Helps protect your whole face.
D. Does not protect your face as well
as goggles.
Answer - page 48
8 PREPARING TO RIDE
• Front and rear brakes. involve riders with less than five months
of experience on their motorcycle.
• Turn signals.
• Horn. Get Familiar with the
• Two mirrors.
Motorcycle Controls
Make sure you are completely familiar
Borrowing and Lending with the motorcycle before you take
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, it out on the street. Be sure to review
beware. Crashes are more likely to occur the owner’s manual. This is particularly
among beginning riders — especially important if you are riding a borrowed
in the first months of riding. Riding motorcycle.
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 • Make all the checksyou would on
friends, make sure they are licensed and your own motorcycle.
know how to ride before allowing them • Find out where everything is,
out into traffic. particularly the turn signals, horn,
No matter how experienced you headlight switch, fuel-supply valve
may be, ride extra carefully on any and engine cut-off switch. Find and
motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar operate these items without having
to you. More than half of all crashes to look for them.
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
9
• Know the controls.Work the • Try the front and rear brake levers
throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter a one at a time. Make sure each feels
few times before you start riding. firm and holds the motorcycle when
fully applied.
• Ride very cautiouslyand be aware
of surroundings. Accelerate gently, C — Controls
take turns more slowly and leave • Make sure the clutch and throttle
extra room for stopping. operate smoothly. The throttle
Check Your Motorcycle should snap back to fully closed
when released. The clutch should
A motorcycle needs more frequent feel tight and should operate
attention than a car. A minor technical smoothly.
failure on a car is seldom more than an
• Try the horn. Make sure it works.
inconvenience for the driver. The same
failure on a motorcycle may result in a L — Lights and Electrics
crash or having to leave your motorcycle • Check both headlight and taillight.
parked on the side of the road. If Test your switch to make sure both
anything’s wrong with your motorcycle, high and low beams work.
you’ll want to find out about it before
you get in traffic. • Turn on both right and left hand
turn signals. Make sure all lights are
The primary source of information working properly.
about how a motorcycle should be
• Try both brakes and make sure each
inspected and maintained is its owner’s
one turns on the brake light.
manual. Be sure to absorb all of its
important information. A motorcycle will • Clean and adjust your mirrors
continue to ride like new if it is properly before starting. It’s difficult to ride
maintained and routine inspections with one hand while you try to
become part of its maintenance cycle. adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror
so you can see the lane behind and
A pre-ride inspection only takes
as much as possible of the lane next
a few minutes and should be done
to you. When properly adjusted, a
before every ride to prevent problems. mirror may show the edge of your
It’s quick and easy to check the critical arm or shoulder – but it’s the road
components and should be as routine behind you and to the side that are
and automatic as checking the weather most important.
forecast before heading out for the day.
A convenient reminder developed by O — Oil and Other Fluids
MSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a T-CLOCS • Check engine oil and transmission
“tear-out” sheet at the back of this fluid levels.
manual for you to keep with you when
• Check the brake hydraulic fluid and
you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection should coolant level weekly.
be conducted before every ride, and
includes checks of: • Be sure your fuel valve is open
before starting out. With the fuel
T — Tires and Wheels
valve closed, your motorcycle may
• Check tire inflation pressure, start with only the fuel that is still in
treadwear and general condition of the lines, but will stall once the lines
sidewalls and tread surface. are empty.
10 PREPARING TO RIDE
• Look underneath the motorcycle for responsibility to look before pulling out.
signs of an oil or fuel leak. Both of you are at fault. Someone else
C — Chassis might be the first to start the chain of
events leading to a crash, but it doesn’t
• Check the front suspension. Ensure leave any of us free of responsibility.
there is no binding. The rear shocks
and springs should move smoothly. As a rider you can’t be sure that other
operators will see you or yield the right
• Be sure the chain or belt is adjusted of way. To lessen your chances of a
according to the manufacturer’s crash occurring:
specifications and that the sprockets
are not worn or damaged. • Be visible— wear proper clothing,
use your headlight, ride in the best
S — Stands
lane position to see and be seen.
• Ensure the side stand operates
• Communicate your intentions—
smoothly and that the spring holds
use the proper signals, brake light
it tightly in the up position. If
and lane position.
equipped, the center stand should
also be held firmly against the frame • Maintain an adequate space
whenever the motorcycle is moving. cushion — when following, being
followed, lane sharing, passing and
Additionally, regular maintenance
being passed.
such as tune-ups and oil changes are as
important for a motorcycle as routine • Search your pathof travel 12
checkups by your doctor are for you. seconds ahead.
Wear and tear is normal with use; • Identify and separatehazards.
routine maintenance will help prevent
costly breakdowns. The schedule for • Be prepared to act— remain alert
regular upkeep for motorcycle parts and know how to carry out proper
and controls is contained in your crash-avoidance skills.
motorcycle’s owner’s manual. Blame doesn’t matter when someone
is injured in a crash. The ability to ride
KNOW YOUR aware, make critical decisions and carry
RESPONSIBILITIES them out separates responsible riders
“Accident” implies an unforeseen from the rest. Remember, it is up to you
event that occurs without fault or to keep from being the cause of, or an
negligence. In traffic, that is not the unprepared participant in, any crash.
case. In fact, most people involved in a
crash can claim some responsibility for
TEST YOURSELF 2
what takes place.
More than half of all crashes:
Consider a situation where someone
decides to drive through an intersection A. Occur at speeds greater than
35mph.
on a yellow light turning red. Your
B. Happen at night.
light turns green. You pull into the
intersection without checking for C. Are caused by worn tires.
possible traffic. That is all it takes for the D. Involve riders who have less than
five months of experience on their
two of you to crash. It was the driver’s motorcycles.
responsibility to stop, and it was your Answer - page 48
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 11
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 throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars

so your hands are even with or
Body Position below your elbows. This permits
To control a motorcycle well: you to use the proper muscles for
precision steering.
• Posture— Position yourself
comfortably so you are able to • Knees— Keep your knees against
operate all the controls and can use the gas tank to help you keep your
your arms to steer the motorcycle, balance as the motorcycle turns.
rather than to hold yourself up. • Feet— Keep your feet firmly on the
This helps you bond with your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t
motorcycle and allows you to react drag your feet. If your foot catches
quickly to hazards. 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 handgrips. 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
the footrests.
• Hands— Hold the handgrips
firmly to keep your grip over rough Shifting Gears
surfaces. Start with your right There is more to shifting gears than
wrist flat. This will help you keep simply getting the motorcycle to pick
from accidentally using too much up speed smoothly. Learning to use the
gears when downshifting, turning or
HOLDING HANDGRIPS starting on hills is equally important for
safe motorcycle operation.
The gearshift lever is located in front
of the left footrest and is operated by
the left foot. To shift “up” to a higher
gear, position your foot under the
shift lever and lift. To downshift, press
the shift lever down. The shift lever
changes one gear each time it is lifted
or pressed down. Whenever the lever
is released, spring loading returns it to
center, where the mechanism resets
for the next shift up or down. A typical
gear pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is
12 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
for neutral, which is selected by either enough before downshifting safely.

a “half lift” from 1st gear or a “half When downshifting, use a 3-step
press” from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you
have five gears, but some have four or squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press the
six gears. shift lever down firmly, 3) ease out the
clutch lever as you roll on the throttle.
SHIFTING GEARS Once the shift is completed, release
the shift lever to permit it to reset for
the next shift. Rolling on the throttle
slightly while smoothly easing out the
clutch can help the engine come up
to speed more quickly and make the
downshift smoother. Shifting to a lower
gear causes an effect similar to using
the brakes. This is known as engine
braking. To use engine braking, shift
down one gear at a time and ease out
the clutch through the friction zone
between each downshift. Keep the
As your motorcycle increases clutch in the friction zone until the
speed, you will need to shift up to a engine speed stabilizes. Then ease out
higher gear. Shift up well before the the lever fully until ready for the next
engine RPM reaches its maximum downshift. Usually you shift gears one at
recommended speed. As a general rule, a time, but it is possible to shift through
shift up soon enough to avoid over- more than one gear while the clutch is
revving the engine, but not so soon to squeezed.
cause the engine to lug. Remain in first gear while you are
When upshifting, use a 3-step stopped so that you can move out
process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you quickly if you need to.
squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the Work toward a smooth, even clutch
shift lever firmly as far as it will go, 3) release, especially when downshifting. It
smoothly ease out the clutch and adjust is best to change gears before entering
the throttle. Once the shift is completed, a turn. However, sometimes shifting
release the shift lever to permit it to while in the turn is necessary. If so,
reset for the next shift. remember to do so smoothly. A sudden
You should shift down through the change in power to the rear wheel can
gears with the clutch as you slow or cause a skid.
stop, and can also shift down when you
need more power to accelerate. Braking
Make certain you are riding slowly Improper braking technique remains
enough when you shift into a lower a significant contributing factor in many
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle
and the rear wheel may skid. When has two brake controls: one for the
riding downhill or shifting into first gear front wheel and one for the rear wheel.
you may need to use the brakes to slow Always use both brakes every time you
13
slow or stop. The front brake is more To stop as quickly and as safely as
powerful and can provide at least 70% possible in a curve, and depending on
of your total stopping power. The front road and traffic conditions, try to get the
brake is safe to use if you use it properly. motorcycle as perpendicular to the road
as possible, then brake. If conditions do
Maximum straight-line braking is
not allow, brake smoothly and gradually,
accomplished by fully applying both
but do not apply as much braking force
front and rear brakes without locking
as you would if the motorcycle were
either wheel.
straight up. As you slow, you can reduce
To do this: your lean angle, and as more traction
• Squeeze the front brake becomes available for braking, you can
smoothly, firmly and with more firmly apply the brakes, so that
progressively more force. Do not by the time the motorcycle is stopped,
grab the brake lever or use abrupt the motorcycle is straight up, and the
pressure. handlebars are squared.
• As the motorcycle’s weight
Linked and Integrated
transfers forward, more traction
becomes available at the front Braking Systems
wheel, so the front brake can be Some motorcycles have linked braking
applied harder after braking begins. which connects the front and rear
• Keep your knees against the brakes on the motorcycle and applies
tank and your eyes up, looking braking pressure to both brakes when
well ahead. This helps you stop the either the front lever or rear pedal is
motorcycle in a straight line. applied. An integrated braking system
is a variation of the linked system in
• Apply light-to-lighter pressure which partial front braking is applied
to the rear brake pedal to prevent a whenever the rear brake is activated.
rear wheel skid. As weight transfers Consult your owner’s manual for a
forward less traction is available detailed explanation on the operation
at the rear. Use less rear brake and effective use of these systems.
pressure.
Anti-Lock Braking Systems
Using both brakes for even “normal”
stops will permit you to develop the (ABS)
proper habit or skill of using both brakes ABS is designed to prevent wheel
properly in an emergency. Squeeze the lock-up and avoid skids when stopping
front brake and press down on the rear. in straight-line, panic situations. ABS
Grabbing at the front brake or jamming operates when maximum pressure on
down on the rear can cause the brakes both the front and rear brake controls
to lock, resulting in control problems. is applied. If electronic sensors detect
the possibility of a wheel lock, brake
Braking in a Corner hydraulic pressure is released then
Any time a motorcycle is leaned over, reapplied to maintain maximum braking
the amount of traction available for effectiveness.
braking is reduced. The greater the lean
The system is capable of releasing and
angle, the more the possibility of the
reapplying pressure more than 15 times
tires losing traction.
per second.
Turning In normal turns, the rider and the

motorcycle should lean together at the
Approach turns and curves with
same angle.
caution. Riders often try to take curves
or turns too fast. When they can’t hold
NORMAL TURNS
the turn, they end up crossing into
another lane of traffic or going off the
road. Or, they overreact and brake too
hard, causing a skid and loss of control.
Use four steps for better control:
• SLOW — Reduce speed before the
turn by closing the throttle and, if
necessary, applying both brakes.
• LOOK— Look through the turn
to where you want to go. Turn
just your head, not your shoulders,
and keep your eyes level with the
horizon.
• PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
must lean. To lean the motor-
cycle, press on the handgrip in In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by
the direction of the turn. Press left leaning the motorcycle only and keeping
handgrip — lean left — go left. your body straight.
Press right handgrip — lean right
— go right. The higher the speed in SLOW, TIGHT TURNS
a turn, or the sharper the turn, the
greater the lean angle needs to be.
• ROLL — Roll on the throttle to
maintain or slightly increase speed.
This helps stabilize the motorcycle.
TEST YOURSELF 3
When riding, you should:
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 48
15
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE • Avoid windblast from other

vehicles.
The best protection you can have is
distance — a “cushion of space” — • Provide an escape route.
separating yourself from other vehicles
• Set up for turns.
on the roadway. This will provide you
with a clear view of emerging traffic Many motorcyclists consider the left
situations, so that if someone else third of the lane – the left tire track of
makes a mistake, you will have: automobiles – to be their default lane
position. You should then consider
• More time to respond. varying your lane position as conditions
• More space to maneuver, including warrant, keeping in mind that no
an escape route if necessary. portion of the lane need be avoided —
including the center.
Lane Positions You should position yourself in the
Successful motorcyclists know that portion of the lane where you are most
they are safer when clearly seen. In likely to be seen and you can maintain
some ways the size of the motorcycle a space cushion around you. Change
can work to your advantage. Each traffic position as traffic situations change.
lane gives a motorcycle three paths of Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other
travel, as indicated in the illustration. potential problems are on your left
Your lane position should help you: only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards
are on your right only. If vehicles are
• Increase your ability to see and be being operated on both sides of you,
seen. the center of the lane, path 2, is usually
your best option.
• Avoid others’ blind spots.
Remember, the center third of the
• Avoid surface hazards. lane is the place where debris and oil
• Protect your lane from other drivers. drippings from cars collect and where
hazards such as manhole covers are
• Communicate your intentions. located. Unless the road is wet, the
LANE POSITIONS
FOLLOWING
average center strip permits adequate count off the seconds: “one-
traction to ride on safely. You can thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”
operate to the left or right of the grease • If you reach the markerbefore
strip and still be within the center third you reach “two,” you are following
of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big too closely.
buildups of oil and grease usually found
at busy intersections or tollbooths. A two-second following distance
leaves a minimum amount of space to
Experienced riders rely on their own stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops
best judgment and instincts. One suddenly. It also permits a better view of
absolute, however, is to avoid riding in potholes and other hazards in the road.
another vehicle’s blind spot.
A larger cushion of space is needed
Following Another Vehicle if your motorcycle will take longer
“Following too closely” is a factor in than normal to stop. If the pavement
crashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic, is slippery, if you cannot see through
motorcycles need as much distance the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy
to stop as cars. Normally, a minimum and someone may squeeze in front of
of two seconds distance should be you, open up a three-second or more
maintained behind the vehicle ahead. following distance.
To gauge your following distance: Keep well behind the vehicle ahead
even when you are stopped. This will
• Pick out a marker,such as a make it easier to get out of the way
pavement marking or lamppost, on if someone bears down on you from
or near the road ahead. behind. It will also give you a cushion of
• When the rear bumperof the space if the vehicle ahead starts to back
vehicle ahead passes the marker, up for some reason.
17
When behind a car, ride where the Passing

driver can see you in the rearview mirror.
Riding in the center portion of the lane 1. Ride in the left portionof the
should put your image in the middle of lane at a safe following distance
the rearview mirror — where a driver is to increase your line of sight and
most likely to see you. make you more visible. Signal
and check for oncoming traffic.
Riding at the far side of a lane may Use your mirrors and turn your
permit a driver to see you in a sideview head to look for traffic behind.
mirror. But remember that most drivers
don’t look at their sideview mirrors 2. When safe,move into the left
nearly as often as they check the lane and accelerate. Select a lane
rearview mirror. If the traffic situation position that doesn’t crowd the
allows, the center portion of the lane is car and provides space to avoid
usually the best place for you to be seen hazards in your lane.
by the drivers ahead and to prevent lane 3. Ride through the blind spotas
sharing by others. quickly as possible.
Being Followed 4. Signal again,and complete
mirror and headchecks before
Speeding up to lose someone following returning to your original lane
too closely only ends up with someone and then cancel the signal.
tailgating you at a higher speed.
Remember, passes must be
A better way to handle tailgaters completed within posted speed
is to get them in front of you. When limits, and only where permitted.
someone is following too closely, Know your signs and road markings!
change lanes and let them pass. If you
can’t do this, slow down and open up
extra space ahead of you to allow room
for both you and the tailgater to stop. PASSING
This will also encourage them to pass.
If they don’t pass, you will have given
yourself and the tailgater more time and
space to react in case an emergency
does develop ahead.
Passing and Being Passed
Passing and being passed by another
vehicle is not much different than with a
car. However, visibility is more critical. Be
sure other drivers see you, and that you
see potential hazards.
Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the

lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It
When you are being passed from might invite the other driver to cut back
behind, stay in the center portion of
into your lane too early.
your lane. Riding close to the passing
vehicle could put you in a hazardous Lane Sharing
situation.
Cars and motorcycles need a full lane
Avoid being hit by: to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually
• The other vehicle — A slight prohibited.
mistake by you or the passing driver
could cause a sideswipe. Riding between rows of stopped or
moving cars in the same lane can leave
• Extended mirrors — Some drivers you vulnerable to the unexpected. A
forget that their mirrors hang out hand could come out of a window;
farther than their fenders.
a door could open; a car could turn
• Objects thrown from windows suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by
— Even if the driver knows you’re others. Keep a center-portion position
there, a passenger may not see you whenever drivers might be tempted
and might toss something on you or
to squeeze by you. Drivers are most
the road ahead of you.
tempted to do this:
• Blasts of wind from larger
vehicles— They can affect your • In heavy,bumper-to-bumper
control. You have more room for traffic.
error if you are in the middle portion • When theywant to pass you.
when hit by this blast than if you
• When youare preparing to turn at
are on either side of the lane.
an intersection.
• When youare moving into an exit
BEING PASSED lane or leaving a highway.
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 48
19
Merging Cars Cars Alongside

Drivers on an entrance ramp may Do not ride next to cars or trucks in
not see you on the highway. Give them other lanes if you do not have to. You
plenty of room. Change to another lane might be in the blind spot of a car in the
if one is open. If there is no room for a next lane, which could switch into your
lane change, adjust speed to open up lane without warning. Cars in the next
space for the merging driver. lane also block your escape if you come
upon danger in your own lane. Speed
up or drop back to find a place clear of
traffic on both sides.
MERGING BLIND SPOTS

SEE
Good, experienced
RIDER RADAR
riders are always aware of
what is going on around
them. They reduce their
risk by using MSF’s three-
step SEE strategy:
• Search
• Evaluate
• Execute
SEE will help you
assess what is going on
in traffic so you can plan
and implement the safest
course of action as traffic
situations change. Let’s
look at each of these
steps.
Search
How assertively you
search, and how much
time and space you have,
can eliminate or minimize
risk. As you search, focus
considered enough time and space to
on finding potential escape routes,
swerve and/or brake for fixed hazards or
especially in or around intersections,
for someone or something entering your
shopping areas and school and
path of travel.
construction zones.
Finally, experienced riders search for
One way to search is to use your
hazards that are further out, looking
“RiderRadar” to aggressively scan the
ahead to an area it would take about
environment ahead of you, to the sides,
12 seconds to reach. This provides
and behind you to avoid potential
time to prepare for a situation before it
hazards even before they arise. There
becomes immediate.
are three “lead times” experienced
riders consider. First, be alert and scan Using the SEE strategy will help you to
for hazards that are about 2 seconds Search for a variety of factors such as:
ahead of you, or within your following • Oncoming traffic that may turn left
distance. Scanning your 4-second in front of you.
immediate path can allow you time for
a quick response if something should • Traffic coming from the left and
go wrong. Anything that is within 4 from the right.
seconds of your path is considered • Traffic approaching from behind.
immediate because 4 seconds is
21
• Hazardous road conditions that Apply the old adage “one step at a
require you to be alert, especially in time” to handle two or more hazards.
areas with limited visibility. Visually Adjust speed to permit two hazards
“busy” surroundings could hide you to separate. Then deal with them one
and your motorcycle from others. at a time as single hazards. Decision-
making becomes more complex with
Evaluate three or more hazards. Evaluate the
Evaluate means to think about how consequences of each and give equal
hazards can interact to create risks for distance to the hazards.
you. Anticipate potential problems and
In potential high-risk areas, such as
have a plan to reduce risks, particularly
intersections, shopping areas and school
when faced with:
and construction zones, cover the clutch
• Road and surface characteristics and both brakes to reduce the time you
such as potholes, guardrails, need to react.
bridges, telephone poles and trees
that won’t move into your path, but INTERSECTIONS
may influence your riding strategy. The greatest potential for conflict
• Traffic control devices including between you and other traffic is at
traffic signals, warning signs, and intersections. An intersection can be
pavement markings, which will in the middle of an urban area or at
require you to carefully evaluate a driveway on a residential street —
circumstances ahead. anywhere traffic may cross your path of
travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car
• Vehicles and other trafficthat crashes are caused by drivers entering a
may move into your path and rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in
increase the likelihood of a crash. front of you, including cars turning left
Think about your time and space from the lane on your right, and cars on
requirements in order to maintain a side streets that pull into your lane, are
margin of safety, and give yourself the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE
time to react if an emergency arises. at intersections is critical.
Execute
Finally, Execute your decision. To
create more space and minimize harm TEST YOURSELF 5
from any hazard:
To reduce your reaction time, you
• Communicateyour presence with should:
lights and/or horn. A. Ride slower than the speed
• Adjust your speedby accelerating, limit.
stopping or slowing. B. Cover the clutch and the brakes.
• Adjust your positionand/or C. Shift into neutral when slowing.
direction by swerving, changing
D. Pull in the clutch when turning.
lanes, or moving to another position
Answer - page 48
within your lane.
LARGE INTERSECTIONS
There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being

others see you. Never count on “eye seen at intersections. Ride with your
contact” as a sign that a driver will headlight on and in a lane position that
yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a provides the best view of oncoming
motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him traffic. Provide a space cushion around
or her. The only eyes that you can count the motorcycle that permits you to
on are your own. If a car can enter your take evasive action. When approaching
path, assume that it will. Good riders an intersection where a vehicle driver
are always “looking for trouble” — not is preparing to cross your path, slow
to get into it, but to stay out of it. down and select a lane position to
increase your visibility to that driver.
Cover the clutch lever and both brakes
SMALL INTERSECTION to reduce reaction time. As you enter
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 48
23
the intersection, move away from the

vehicle. Do not change speed or position BLIND INTERSECTIONS
radically, as drivers might think you
are preparing to turn. Be prepared to
brake hard and hold your 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.
In this picture, the rider has moved to
the left portion of the lane — away
from the parked car — so the driver on STOP SIGNS
the cross street can see him as soon as
possible.
Remember, the key is to see as much
as possible and remain visible to others
while protecting your space.
If you have a stop sign or stop line,
stop there first. Then edge forward
and stop again, just short of where the
cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From
that position, lean your body forward
and look around buildings, parked cars
or bushes to see if anything is coming. PARKED CARS
Just make sure your front wheel stays
out of the cross lane of travel while
you’re looking.
Passing Parked Cars
When passing parked cars, stay
toward the left of your lane. You
can avoid problems caused by doors
opening, drivers getting out of cars
or people stepping from between
cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it
is usually best to remain in the center-
lane position to maximize your space
cushion.
A bigger problem can occur if the

driver pulls away from the curb without PARKING AT CURBS
checking for traffic behind. Even if he
does look, he may fail to see you.
In either event, the driver might cut
into your path. Slow down or change
lanes to make room for someone
cutting in.
Cars making a sudden U-turn are
the most dangerous. They may cut
you off entirely, blocking the whole
roadway and leaving you with no
place to go. Since you can’t tell what a
driver will do, slow down and get the
driver’s attention. Sound your horn and
However, you can do many things to
continue with caution.
make it easier for others to recognize
Parking at the Roadside you and your motorcycle.
If parking in a parallel parking space Clothing
next to a curb, position the motorcycle
Most crashes occur in broad daylight.
at an angle with the rear wheel to the
Wear bright-colored clothing to increase
curb. (Note: Some cities have ordinances
your chances of being seen. Remember,
that require motorcycles to park parallel
your body is half of the visible surface
to the curb.)
area of the rider/motorcycle unit.
Increasing Conspicuity Bright orange, red, yellow or green
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers jackets/vests are your best bets for being
often say that they never saw the seen. Your helmet can do more than
motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a protect you in a crash. Brightly colored
motorcycle’s outline is much smaller helmets can also help others see you.
than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see Any bright color is better than drab
something you are not looking for, or dark colors. Reflective, bright-colored
and most drivers are not looking for clothing (helmet and jacket/vest) is best.
motorcycles. More likely, they are
looking through the skinny, two- Reflective material on a vest and on
wheeled silhouette in search of cars that the sides of the helmet will help drivers
may pose a problem to them. coming from the side to spot you.
Reflective material can also be a big
Even if a driver does see you coming, help for drivers coming toward you or
you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller from behind.
vehicles appear farther away and
seem to be traveling slower than they Headlight
actually are. It is common for drivers The best way to help others see your
to pull out in front of motorcyclists, motorcycle is to keep the headlight on
thinking they have plenty of time. Too — at all times (new motorcycles sold
often, they are wrong. in the USA since 1978 automatically
25
Once you turn, make sure your signal is

SIGNALING off or a driver may pull directly into your
path, thinking you plan to turn again.
Use your signals at every turn so drivers
can react accordingly. Don’t make them
guess what you intend to do.
Brake Light
Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually
not as noticeable as the brake lights on
a car — particularly when your taillight
is on. (It goes on with the headlight.)
If the situation will permit, help others
notice you by flashing your brake light
before you slow down. It is especially
important to flash your brake light
before:
have the headlights on when running). • You slow more quicklythan
Studies show that, during the day, a others might expect (turning off a
motorcycle with its light on is twice as high-speed highway).
likely to be noticed. Use low beam at
night and in fog. • You slow whereothers may not
expect it (in the middle of a block or
Signals at an alley).
The signals on a motorcycle are similar If you are being followed closely, it’s
to those on a car. They tell others what a good idea to flash your brake light
you plan to do. before you slow. The tailgater may be
However, due to a rider’s added watching you and not see something
vulnerability, signals are even more ahead that will make you slow down.
important. Use them anytime you plan This will hopefully discourage them from
to change lanes or turn. Use them even tailgating and warn them of hazards
when you think no one else is around. ahead they may not see.
It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to Using Your Mirrors
give you the most trouble. Your signal
lights also make you easier to spot. While it’s most important to keep
That’s why it’s a good idea to use your track of what’s happening ahead, you
turn signals even when what you plan can’t afford to ignore situations behind.
to do is obvious. Traffic conditions change quickly.
Knowing what’s going on behind is
When you enter a freeway, drivers essential for you to make a safe decision
approaching from behind are more likely about how to handle trouble ahead.
to see your signal blinking and make
room for you. Frequent mirror checks should be part
of your normal searching routine. Make
Turning your signal light on before a special point of using your mirrors:
each turn reduces confusion and
frustration for the traffic around you. • When you are stoppedat an
intersection. Watch cars coming up
from behind. If the drivers aren’t

paying attention, they could be on USING MIRRORS
top of you before they see you.
• Before you change lanes.Make
sure no one is about to pass you.
• Before you slow down. T he driver
behind may not expect you to slow,
or may be unsure about where you
will slow. For example, you signal a
turn and the driver thinks you plan
to turn at a distant intersection,
rather than at a nearer driveway.
Most motorcycles have rounded
(convex) mirrors. These provide a
wider view of the road behind than
do flat mirrors. They also make cars
seem farther away than they really are.
If you are not used to convex mirrors,
get familiar with them. (While you
are stopped, pick out a parked car in Frequent head checks should be
your mirror. Form a mental image of your normal scanning routine, also.
how far away it is. Then, turn around Only by knowing what is happening
and look at it to see how close you all around you are you fully prepared
came.) Practice with your mirrors until to deal with it.
you become a good judge of distance.
Even then, allow extra distance before
Horn
you change lanes. Be ready to use your horn to get
someone’s attention quickly.
Head Checks
It is a good idea to give a quick beep
Checking your mirrors is not enough. before passing anyone that may move
Motorcycles have “blind spots” like cars. into your lane.
Before you change lanes, turn your head,
and look to the side for other vehicles. Here are some situations:
On a road with several lanes, check • A driverin the lane next to you
the far lane and the one next to you. A is driving too closely to the vehicle
driver in the distant lane may head for ahead and may want to pass.
the same space you plan to take. • A parked carhas someone in the
driver’s seat.
TEST YOURSELF 7
• Someone is in the street,riding a
Reflective clothing should: bicycle or walking.
A. Be worn at night.
In an emergency, sound your horn
B. Be worn during the day.
loud and long. Be ready to stop or
C. Not be worn. swerve away from the danger.
D. Be worn day and night
Answer - page 48
27
Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE

isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use it,
but don’t rely on it. Other strategies, like No matter how careful you are, there
having time and space to maneuver, may will be times when you find yourself in a
be appropriate along with the horn. tight spot. Your chances of getting out
safely depend on your ability to react
Riding at Night quickly and properly. Often, a crash
At night it is harder for you to see occurs because a rider is not prepared or
and be seen. Picking your headlight skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers.
or taillight out of the car lights around Know when and how to stop or
you is not easy for other drivers. To swerve, two skills critical in avoiding
compensate, you should: a crash. It is not always desirable or
• Reduce Your Speed — Ride even possible to stop quickly to avoid an
slower than you would during the obstacle. Riders must also be able to
day — particularly on roads you swerve around an obstacle. Deter-
don’t know well. This will increase mining which skill is necessary for the
your chances of avoiding a hazard. situation is important as well.
• Increase Distance— Distances Studies show that most crash-
are harder to judge at night than involved riders:
during the day. Your eyes rely upon
shadows and light contrasts to • Underbrakethe front tire and
determine how far away an object overbrake the rear.
is and how fast it is coming. These • Did notseparate braking from
contrasts are missing or distorted swerving or did not choose
under artificial lights at night. swerving when it was appropriate.
Open up a three-second following
distance or more. And allow more The following information offers
distance to pass and be passed. some good advice.
• Use the Car Ahead— The Quick Stops
headlights of the car ahead can give
you a better view of the road than To stop quickly, apply both brakes
even your high beam can. Taillights at the same time. Don’t be shy about
bouncing up and down can alert using the front brake, but don’t “grab”
you to bumps or rough pavement. it, either. Squeeze the brake lever
• Use Your High Beam— Get all the firmly and progressively. If the front
light you can. Use your high beam wheel locks, release the front brake
whenever you are not following immediately then reapply it firmly. At
or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear the same time, press down on the
reflective materials when riding at rear brake. If you accidentally lock the
night. rear brake on a good traction surface,
• Be Flexible About Lane Position. you can keep it locked until you have
Change to whatever portion of the completely stopped; but, even with a
lane is best able to help you see, be locked rear wheel, you can control the
seen and keep an adequate space motorcycle on a straightaway if it is
cushion. upright and going in a straight line.
Stopping Quickly
STOPPING DISTANCE
in a Curve
If you know the technique,
using both brakes in a turn is
possible, although it should
be done very carefully. When
leaning the motorcycle some
of the traction is used for
cornering. Less traction is
available for stopping. A skid
can occur if you apply too much
brake. Also, using the front
brake incorrectly on a slippery
surface may be hazardous. Use caution feet of stopping to maintain your balance
and squeeze the brake lever, never grab. and remain upright.
If you must stop quickly while turning Swerving or Turning Quickly

in a curve, first straighten and square Sometimes you may not have enough
the handlebars, then stop. If you find room to stop, even if you use both
yourself in a situation that does not allow brakes properly. You may encounter an
straightening first, such as when there is unexpected object in your path. Or the
a danger of running off the road in a left- car ahead might sqeal to a stop. The
hand curve, or when facing oncoming only way to avoid a crash may be to
traffic in a right-hand curve, apply the turn quickly or swerve around it.
brakes smoothly and gradually. As you
slow, you can reduce your lean angle A swerve is a sudden change in
and apply more brake pressure until the direction. It can be two quick turns,
motorcycle is straight and maximum or a rapid shift to the side. Apply a
brake pressure can be applied. Always small amount of hand pressure to the
straighten the handlebars in the last few handlegrip located on the side of your
intended direction of escape. This will
SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

29
cause the motorcycle to lean quickly. crash and serious injury or death. Too
The sharper the turn(s), the more the much rear brake pressure causes rear-
motorcycle must lean. wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel
locks, your ability to change direction is
Keep your body upright and allow
lost. To regain control the brake must
the motorcycle to lean in the direction
be released. However, if the rear wheel
of the turn while keeping your knees
is out of alignment with the front, there
against the tank and your feet solidly on
is a risk of a high-side crash. This occurs
the foot rests. Let the motorcycle move
when the wheels are out of alignment
underneath you. Make your escape
and a locked rear wheel is released. The
route the target of your vision. Press
motorcycle can abruptly snap upright
on the opposite handlegrip once you
and tumble, throwing the rider into the
clear the obstacle to return you to your
air ahead of the motorcycle’s path. Even
original direction of travel. To swerve to
slight misalignment can result in a high-
the left, press the left handlegrip, then
side crash.
press the right to recover. To swerve to
the right, press right, then left. Curves
If braking is required, separate it A primary cause of single-vehicle
from swerving. Brake before or after crashes is motorcyclists running wide in
– never while swerving. a curve or turn and colliding with the
roadway or a fixed object.
Maximum Straight-Line
Braking Every curve is different. Be alert to
whether a curve remains constant,
Maximum straight-line braking is gradually widens, gets tighter or
accomplished by fully applying front involves multiple turns. Ride within your
and rear brakes without locking either skill level and posted speed limits.
wheel. Keep your body centered over
the motorcycle and look well ahead, Your best path may not always follow
not down. This will help you keep the curve of the road. Change lane
the motorcycle in as straight a line as position depending on traffic, road
possible, minimizing lean angle and the conditions and curve of the road. If no
likelihood of the wheels losing traction. traffic is present, start at the outside
of a curve to increase your line of sight
Front-Wheel Skids and the effective radius of the turn. As
If the front wheel locks, release the you turn, move toward the inside of the
front brake immediately and completely. curve, and as you pass the center, move
to the outside to exit.
Reapply the brake smoothly. Front-
wheel skids result in immediate loss of Another alternative is to move to the
steering control and balance. Failure to center of your lane before entering a
fully release the brake lever immediately curve — and stay there until you exit.
will result in a crash. This permits you to spot approaching
traffic as soon as possible. You can also
Rear-Wheel Skids adjust for traffic “crowding” the center
A skidding rear tire is a dangerous line, or debris blocking part of your lane.
condition that can result in a violent
CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES
DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES

(TIGHTER TURNS)
HANDLING DANGEROUS bumps, broken pavement, potholes or

small pieces of highway trash.
SURFACES
Try to avoid obstacles by slowing or
Your chance of falling or being
going around them. If you must go
involved in a crash increases whenever
over the obstacle, first determine if it is
you ride across:
possible. Approach it at as close to a 90˚
• Uneven surfaces or obstacles. angle as possible. Look where you want
• Slippery surfaces. to go to control your path of travel. If you
have to ride over the obstacle, you should:
• Railroad tracks.
• Slow downas much as possible
• Grooves and gratings.
before contact.
Uneven Surfaces • Make surethe motorcycle is
and Obstacles straight.
Watch for uneven surfaces such as • Rise slightlyoff the seat with your
31
OBSTACLES
weight on the footrests to absorb before you get to a slippery

the shock with your knees and surface to lessen your chances of
elbows, and avoid being thrown off skidding. Your motorcycle needs
the motorcycle. more distance to stop. And it is
particularly important to reduce
• Just before contact,roll on the
speed before entering wet curves.
throttle slightly to lighten the front
end. • Avoid Sudden Moves— Any
sudden change in speed or direction
If you ride over an object on the can cause a skid. Be as smooth as
street, pull off the road and check your possible when you speed up, shift
tires and rims for damage before riding gears, turn or brake.
any farther.
• Use Both Brakes— The front
Slippery Surfaces brake is still effective, even on a
slippery surface. Squeeze the brake
Motorcycles handle better when lever gradually to avoid locking the
ridden on surfaces that permit good front wheel. Remember, gentle
traction. Surfaces that provide poor pressure on the rear brake.
traction include: • The center of a lanecan be
• Wet pavement,particularly just after hazardous when wet. When it starts
it starts to rain and before surface oil to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by
washes to the side of the road.
• Gravel roads,or where sand and TEST YOURSELF 8
gravel collect.
• Mud, leaves, snow, and ice. The best way to stop quickly is to:
• Lane markings (painted lines), A. Use the front brake only.
steel plates and manhole covers, B. Use the rear brake first.
especially when wet. C. Throttle down and use the front
brake.
To ride safely on slippery surfaces:
D. Use both brakes at the same time.
• Reduce Speed— Slow down Answer - page 48
cars. Often, the left tire track will edge of the road, particularly when
be the best position, depending on making sharp turns and getting on or
traffic and other road conditions. off freeways at high speeds.
• Watch for oil spotswhen you put • Rain dries and snow melts faster
your foot down to stop or park. You on some sections of a road than on
may slip and fall. others. Patches of ice tend to develop
in low or shaded areas and on bridges
• Dirt and gravelcollect along the
and overpasses. Wet surfaces or wet
sides of the road — especially on
leaves are just as slippery. Ride on the
curves and ramps leading to and from
least slippery portion of the lane and
highways. Be aware of what’s on the
reduce speed.
CROSSTRACKS—CORRECT Cautious riders steer clear of roads
covered with ice or snow. If you can’t
avoid a slippery surface, keep your
motorcycle straight up and proceed
as slowly as possible. If you encounter
a large surface so slippery that you
must coast, or travel at a walking pace,
GRATE CROSSINGS—CORRECT
CROSSTRACKS—INCORRECT
PARALLEL TRACKS—CORRECT GRATE CROSSINGS—INCORRECT
PARALLEL TRACKS—INCORRECT 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 48
33
consider letting your feet skim along can be dangerous. You must be able to
the surface. If the motorcycle starts to tell from the way the motorcycle reacts.
fall, you can catch yourself. Be sure to If one of your tires suddenly loses air,
keep off the brakes. If possible, squeeze react quickly to keep your balance. Pull
the clutch and coast. Attempting this off and check the tires.
maneuver at anything other than the If the front tire goes flat, the steering
slowest of speeds could prove hazardous. will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel flat is
Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks particularly hazardous because it affects
and Pavement Seams. your steering. You have to steer well to
keep your balance.
Usually it is safer to ride straight within
your lane to cross tracks. Turning to take If the rear tire goes flat, the back of
tracks head-on (at a 90˚ angle) can be the motorcycle may jerk or sway from
more dangerous — your path may carry side to side.
you into another lane of traffic. If either tire goes flat while riding:
For track and road seams that run • Hold handgripsfirmly, ease off the
parallel to your course, move far enough throttle, and keep a straight course.
away from tracks, ruts, or pavement
seams to cross at an angle of at least • If braking is required,gradually
45˚. Then, make a deliberate turn. apply the brake of the tire that isn’t
Edging across could catch your tires and flat, if you are sure which one it is.
throw you off balance.
• When the motorcycle slows,
Grooves and Gratings edge to the side of the road,
Riding over rain grooves or bridge squeeze the clutch and stop.
gratings may cause a motorcycle to
weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling Stuck Throttle
is generally not hazardous. Relax, Twist the throttle back and forth
maintain a steady speed and ride several times. If the throttle cable is
straight across. Crossing at an angle
stuck, this may free it. If the throttle
forces riders to zigzag to stay in the
lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous stays stuck, immediately operate the
than the wandering feeling. engine cut-off switch and pull in the
clutch at the same time. This will remove
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS power from the rear wheel, though
engine sound may not immediately
You can find yourself in an emergency
decline. Once the motorcycle is “under
the moment something goes wrong
control,” pull off and stop.
with your motorcycle. In dealing with
any mechanical problem, take into After you have stopped, check the
account the road and traffic conditions throttle cable carefully to find the source
you face. Here are some guidelines of the trouble. Make certain the throttle
that can help you handle mechanical works freely before you start to ride again.
problems safely.
Wobble
Tire Failure A “wobble” occurs when the front
You will seldom hear a tire go flat. wheel and handlebars suddenly start to
If the motorcycle starts handling shake from side to side at any speed.
differently, it may be a tire failure. This Most wobbles can be traced to improper
loading, unsuitable accessories or to a stop in a safe area.

incorrect tire pressure. If you are carrying On a motorcycle with a drive shaft,
a heavy load, lighten it. If you can’t, loss of oil in the rear differential can
reposition it. Center the weight lower cause the rear wheel to lock, and you
and farther forward on the motorcycle. may not be able to prevent a skid.
Make sure tire pressure, spring pre-
load, air shocks and dampers are at the Engine Seizure
settings recommended for the weight
When the engine “locks” or
you are carrying. Make sure windshields
“freezes” it is usually low on oil. The
and fairings are mounted properly.
engine’s moving parts can’t move
Check for poorly adjusted steering; smoothly against each other, and the
worn steering parts; a front wheel that engine overheats. The first sign may be
is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; a loss of engine power or a change in
loose wheel bearings or spokes; and the engine’s sound. Squeeze the clutch
worn swingarm bearings. If none of lever to disengage the engine from the
these is determined to be the cause, rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop.
have the motorcycle checked out Check the oil. If needed, oil should be
thoroughly by a qualified professional. added as soon as possible or the engine
Trying to “accelerate out of a will seize. When this happens, the effect
wobble” will only make the motorcycle is the same as a locked rear wheel. Let
more unstable. Instead: the engine cool before restarting.
• Grip the handlebars firmly,but ANIMALS

don’t fight the wobble.
Naturally, you should do everything
• Close the throttle gradually you safely can to avoid hitting an
to slow down. Do not apply the animal. If you are in traffic, however,
brakes; braking could make the remain in your lane. Hitting something
wobble worse.
small is less dangerous to you than
• Move your weightas far forward hitting something big — like a car.
and down as possible.
Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If
• Pull off the roadas soon as you you are being chased, downshift and
can to fix the problem. approach the animal slowly. As you
Drive Train Problems approach it, accelerate and leave the
animal behind. Don’t kick at the animal.
The drive train for a motorcycle uses Keep control of your motorcycle and
either a chain, belt, or drive shaft to look to where you want to go.
transfer power from the engine to
the rear wheel. Routine inspection,
adjustment, and maintenance makes TEST YOURSELF 10
failure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt If your motorcycle starts to wobble:
that slips or breaks while you’re riding
A. Accelerate out of the wobble.
could lock the rear wheel and cause
your motorcycle to skid. B. Use the brakes gradually.
C. Grip the handlebars firmly and close
If the chain or belt breaks, you’ll the throttle gradually.
notice an instant loss of power to the D. Downshift.
rear wheel. Close the throttle and brake Answer - page 48
35
For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle) or cargo will affect the way your
brake and prepare to stop — they are motorcycle behaves, requiring extra
unpredictable. practice, preparation and caution. For
this reason, only experienced riders
FLYING OBJECTS should attempt to carry passengers or
From time to time riders are struck large loads. Before taking a passenger
by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars or a heavy load on the street, prepare
or pebbles kicked up by the tires of yourself and your motorcycle for safe
the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing operation in traffic.
face protection, it might get smeared
Preparing Your Motorcycle
or cracked, making it difficult to see.
Without face protection, an object Tire Pressure – Check the air
could hit you in the eye, face or mouth. pressure of both tires. Refer to the
Whatever happens, keep your eyes owner’s manual or the label affixed
on the road and your hands on the to the motorcycle for the correct
handlebars. When safe, pull off the road inflation specifications. Though most
and repair the damage. of the added weight will typically be
on the rear wheel, don’t forget to also
GETTING OFF THE ROAD check the pressure on the front tire.
If you need to leave the road to check Correct inflation pressures will maintain
the motorcycle (or just to rest), be sure to: maximum stability, steering precision
and braking capability.
• Check the roadside— Make sure
the surface of the roadside is firm Suspension – With a heavy load,
enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, the riding characteristics and balance of
loose sand or if you’re just not sure the motorcycle will change. On some
about it, slow way down before you motorcycles, it will be necessary to
turn onto it. adjust the suspension settings (spring
• Signal— Drivers behind might not preload, compression/damping settings,
expect you to slow down. Give a etc.) to compensate for the lowered rear
clear signal that you will be slowing of the motorcycle. Refer to the owner’s
down and changing direction. manual for adjustment procedures and
Check your mirror and make a head specifications.
check before you take any action.
Headlight – Prior to loading, position
• Pull off the road— Get as far off
the road as you can. It can be very the motorcycle about 10 feet from a
hard to spot a motorcycle by the wall in an unlighted garage and mark
side of the road. You don’t want the headlight beam location on the
someone else pulling off at the wall with chalk. With a full load and
same place you are. passenger, recheck the headlight beam
• Park carefully— Loose and sloped location. Use the adjusting screws on
shoulders can make setting the side the headlight to lower the beam to
or center stand difficult. the same height. Check your owner’s
manual for adjustment procedure.
CARRYING PASSENGERS
Equipment for
AND CARGO
Carrying a Passenger
The extra weight of a passenger
• Be sure your passenger is properly
attired, wearing the same level of you have started the engine and
personal protective gear as you. have the transmission in neutral. As
the passenger mounts, keep both
• Be sure your motorcycle is equipped
your feet on the ground and the
with passenger footrests.
brakes applied.
• Your motorcycle should have a proper
• Sit as far forward as possible
seat, one large enough to hold both
without hindering your control of
you and your passenger without
the motorcycle.
crowding. You should not sit more
forward than you usually do. • Hold firmly onto your waist, hips,
belt or passenger handholds for
• Check that there is a strap or solid
balance and security.
handholds for your passenger to
hold onto. • Keep both feet firmly on the cycle’s
footrests, even when stopped. Firm
Preparing Your footing will prevent your passenger
Passenger to Ride from falling off and pulling you off.
Ensure your passenger is able to reach • Keep legs away from the muffler(s),
the passenger footrests, and is able to chains or moving parts.
hold on to your waist, hips, belt, or the
• Stay directly behind you and lean
bike’s passenger handholds. Children
with you through turns and curves.
should be placed immediately behind
It is helpful for the passenger to
the rider. A child sitting in front of the
look over the rider’s shoulder in the
rider will not be able to properly balance direction of turns and curves.
him/herself and may interfere with the
rider’s control of the motorcycle. • Avoid unnecessary conversation and
avoid leaning or turning around.
Passenger safety begins with Make no sudden moves that might
proper instruction. Riders should not affect the stability of the motorcycle
assume that passengers are familiar when it is in operation.
with motorcycle handling, control, or
balance. As a routine practice, always • Rise slightly off the seat when
instruct your passenger on cycling basics crossing an obstacle.
prior to starting the trip, even if your Also, remind your passenger to
passenger is a motorcycle rider. tighten his or her hold when you:
As you prepare for your ride, tell your • Approach surface hazards such as
passenger to: bumps or uneven road surfaces.
• Get on the motorcycle only after • Are about to start from a stop or
begin moving into traffic.
TEST YOURSELF 11 • Are about to turn sharply or make a
If you are chased by a dog: sudden move.
A. Kick it away. Riding With Passengers
B. Stop until the animal loses interest.
Your motorcycle will respond
C. Swerve around the animal. differently when you ride with a
D. Approach the animal slowly, then passenger. The heavier your passenger,
speed up.
Answer - page 48 the longer it will take to speed up, slow
37
down, or turn. day’s riding segment and allow

plenty of time for breaks. Poor
When riding with passengers: weather, breakdowns, and fatigue
• Ride a little slower, especially when are always possible.
taking curves, corners, or bumps. If • Consider selecting some interesting
any part of the motorcycle scrapes secondary roads to occasionally
the ground at lean angle, steering reduce the monotony of the highway.
control can be lost.
• Start as early in the morning as
• Start slowing earlier as you possible. When you are fresh, you
approach a stop, and maintain a ride at peak performance. For most
larger space cushion whenever riders, this is usually between 6 a.m.
slowing or stopping. and 11 a.m. – then, take a good
• Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, hour’s break for lunch. Your energy
or merge in traffic. will pick up again in the afternoon.
Carrying Loads • Don’t forget sun protection in the

summer. Some combinations of
Everything you are likely to need for riding gear can leave your neck
a riding holiday or weekend trip can exposed, risking sunburn.
be packed on your motorcycle in many
different ways. There are complete • If you wear a backpack, be sure it
luggage systems, saddlebags that are is securely attached to you. Try to
adjust the shoulder straps so that
permanently attached to the motorcycle,
the backpack rests lightly on the
soft bags that do not require a carrier
seat. This will reduce the tension in
system and can be tied to the seat,
your neck and shoulders.
and a tank bag for other small items.
You can also travel simply with only a • If you have a tank bag, be sure it
backpack. Whatever you decide, do not is securely mounted and does not
exceed gross vehicle weight rating when obstruct your view of the controls
traveling with cargo and a passenger, or instruments. If necessary, pack it
and always make adjustments to the only partially full. When strapping
motorcycle to compensate for the the tank bag in place, make sure
added weight. it does not catch any of the brake
lines or cables in the area of the
Tips for Traveling with steering head.
Passengers and Cargo • Secure loads low, or put them in
• Keep the load forward. Pack heavier saddlebags. Attaching a load to a
items in the front of the tank bag. sissy bar raises the motorcycle’s center
Lighter items such as your sleeping
bag, ground pad or tent, should be TEST YOURSELF 12
packed on a luggage rack behind
you. Try to place the load over, or Passengers should:
in front of, the rear axle. Mounting A. Lean as you lean.
loads behind the rear axle can affect B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat.
how the motorcycle turns and
C. Sit as far back as possible.
brakes. It can also cause a wobble.
D. Never hold onto you.
• Plan your route and length of each Answer - page 48
of gravity and can upset its balance. be different than what you are used to.
• If you use saddlebags, load each Test the power when accelerating and
with about the same weight. be aware that it will be lower, increas-
An uneven load can cause the ing passing times and distances. Braking
motorcycle to pull to one side. will also feel different, and stopping
Overloading may also cause the distances may increase.
bags to catch in the wheel or chain,
GROUP RIDING
locking the rear wheel and causing
the motorcycle to skid. Preparation
• Fasten the load securely with Preparing yourself for a group ride
elastic cords (bungee cords or is as important as making sure your
nets). Elastic cords with more than motorcycle is ready. Riding with a group
one attachment point per side are requires an alert mind that is free from
recommended. A loose load could worries, distractions and stress. It also
catch in the wheel or chain, causing means riding free from the influence of
alcohol or drugs. For some, even too
it to lock up, resulting in a skid.
much caffeine or prescription drugs can
Rope can stretch and knots can adversely affect concentration.
come loose, permitting the load to
shift or fall. You should stop and Prior to a long trip, it’s a good idea to
check the load often to make sure it have your motorcycle serviced at your
has not shifted or loosened. local dealership if you aren’t able to do
the work yourself. A thorough pre-
• Include a small tool kit and some ride check is a must. Use the T-CLOCS
common spare parts that you might checklist as a reminder of the important
need. Water and some energy bars components to check before you leave.
or other food should also be part of Remember to consider such variables
your preparation, and don’t forget as passengers and extra weight from
a first aid kit, especially if you are cargo that might require a change in tire
pressure or suspension adjustment.
riding in a group.
Pre-Ride Test Plan
Before starting out, hold a rider’s
Prior to starting out, take a test meeting to discuss the route, length of
ride with your fully loaded motorcycle riding segments, rest stops and locations
through some familiar neighborhood for fuel, meals and lodging. Make sure
roads to get a feel for the operation of everyone knows the route. That way,
your motorcycle. Be sure the suspension if someone becomes separated, he or
settings are correct, and that the side she won’t have to hurry to keep from
stand, footrests, and exhaust pipes don’t getting lost or making the wrong turn.
scrape over bumps and in turns. Ensure Choose a lead rider and a sweep rider.
the tank bag does not get in the way of These should be the most experienced
riders of the group. The lead rider
the handlebars or restrict the steering.
should look ahead for changes in road,
Also check the security of the load, so traffic or weather conditions, and signal
that your luggage does not hit you in early so the word gets back in plenty
the back under maximum braking. of time to the other riders. The sweep
You will also find that the perfor- rider is the last rider in the group, and
mance of a fully loaded motorcycle will sets the pace for the group. Place
inexperienced riders just behind the
39
leader. That ensures that they won’t third maintains the left position of the
have to chase after the group, and the lane, at least two seconds behind the
more experienced riders can watch first rider. The fourth rider should keep
them from the back. at least a two second distance from
the second rider in the right side of the
The most important rules for group
lane, and so on. This formation keeps
riding are: no competition, no passing
the group close and permits each rider
of other riders and no tailgating. If a
to maintain a safe distance from others
rider insists on riding faster than the
ahead, behind and to the sides.
group, allow him or her to go ahead to
an agreed meeting point. It is best to move to single file forma-
tion when riding in curves, turning, and
Hand signals entering or leaving freeways or highways.
During the rider’s meeting, review
the hand signals so all riders can Intersections
communicate during the ride. A Intersections present the highest
diagram of the most common hand risk for motorcyclists in a group. When
signals is at the end of this manual. making a left turn at an intersection
with a left turn signal arrow, tighten
Follow those behind the formation to allow as many riders
During the ride, use your mirrors through the intersection as possible.
to keep an eye on the person behind Make the turn single file – do not ride
and confirm that the group is staying side-by-side. If not all riders get through
together. If a rider falls behind, everyone the light, stop at a safe point ahead and
should slow down to keep the group wait. This will prevent riders from feeling
together. pressured to speed up or run a red light.
Keep Your Distance

Maintain close ranks, but at the
same time, maintain an adequate space
cushion to allow each rider in the group STAGGERED FORMATION
time and distance to react to hazards.
A close group takes up less space on
the highway, is easier to see, and is less
likely to become separated. This must,
however, be done properly.
Don’t Pair Up
Never ride directly alongside another
rider in the same lane. There is no place
to go if you have to maneuver to avoid
a car or hazard in the roadway. Wait
until you are both stopped to talk.
Staggered Formation
This is the best way to keep the ranks
close yet maintain an adequate space
cushion. The group leader rides in the
left side of the lane, and the second
rider stays at least one second back and
rides in the right side of the lane. The
Interstate Highways and

GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1)
Freeways
A staggered formation is essential
when riding on freeways and interstates.
However, enter in single file and form up
only after all riders have safely merged
in traffic. The lead rider should move the
group over at least one lane to prevent
vehicles that are entering and exiting
from disrupting your formation. In heavy
traffic, resist the temptation to ride too
close together. Maintain your minimum
one-second, two-second staggered
formation space cushion. When exiting,
use a single file formation for better
space cushion and time to react to
conditions at the end of the off-ramp.
Parking
When possible, park as a group, so
everyone can get off their motorcycles
more quickly. Avoid parking downhill or
head-in, and if possible, park where you
can pull through, making the arrival and
departure smoother. Whenever possible,
park so that the group can depart as a GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2)
unit in single file.
Passing in Formation
When the group wants to pass slow
traffic on a freeway or interstate, the
group may pass as a unit. On a two-lane
highway, riders in a staggered formation
should pass one at a time.
• First, the lead rider should pull
out and pass when it is safe. After
passing the leader should return to
the left position and continue riding
TEST YOURSELF 13
When riding in a group,
inexperienced riders should position
themselves:
A. Just behind the leader.
B. In front of the group.
C. At the tail end of the group.
D. Beside the leader. Answer - page 48
41
at passing speed to open room for Ten Rules of Group Riding

the next rider.
• Base the length of the route and
• Next, the second rider should move segments on ability of the least
up to the left position in the lane experienced rider.
and wait for a chance to safely pass.
• Take timely breaks to prevent loss of
When passing be sure you have
concentration and reduce fatigue.
a clear view of oncoming traffic.
Just because the lead rider passed, • Adjust the pace through curves to
that does not mean that conditions the ability of the least experienced
haven’t changed and that it is still rider. If necessary, form two groups
safe for other riders to pass. After with different speeds.
passing the rider should return to • Don’t tailgate or encourage the
the right position and open up rider in front to speed. If you want
room for the next rider. to ride faster, ride ahead of the
Some people suggest that the lead group.
rider should move to the right side
of the lane after passing the vehicle. • Keep adequate following distance
This is not a good idea, since it might and maintain a staggered
encourage the second rider to pass and formation.
cut back in before there is enough space • Do not pass in the group, except in
cushion in front of the passed vehicle. the case of emergency.
It’s simpler and safer to wait until there
is enough room ahead of the passed • Place inexperienced riders just
vehicle to allow each rider to move into behind the leader so they can keep
the same position held before the pass. pace without riding faster than it is
safe.
• When passing, be conscious of the
traffic conditions and oncoming
traffic. Even though the previous
riders passed safely, it may not be
safe for you.
• Maintain adequate time distance
between riders, especially at
intersections. This allows you to
avoid hard braking.
• Check your mirrors frequently to
ensure the group stays together.
42 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 drugs, more
than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and to ride skillfullly. 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 DRUGS

IS IMPORTANT IN MOTORCYCLE
Alcohol is a major contributor to OPERATION
motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal No one is immune to the effects of
crashes. Studies show that 29% of all alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag
fatally injured motorcycle riders had BAC about their ability to hold their liquor
levels above the legal imit of 0.08%. An or perform better on drugs, but alcohol
additional 8% had lower alcohol levels or drugs make them less able to think
(BAC 0.01 to 0.07%), demonstrating clearly and perform physical tasks
that having only a drink or two in one’s skillfully. Judgment and the decision-
system is enough to impair riding skills. making processes needed for vehicle
Drug levels are harder to distinguish or operation are affected long before legal
have not been separated from drinking limits are reached.
violations for the traffic records. But
riding “under the influence” of either Many over-the-counter, prescription
alcohol or drugs poses physical hazards and illegal drugs have side effects that
and legal consequences for every rider. increase the risk of riding. It is difficult to
accurately measure the involvement of
Drinking and drug use is as big a particular drugs in motorcycle crashes.
problem among motorcyclists as it is But we do know what the effects of
among automobile drivers. Motorcyclists, various drugs have on the processes
however, are more likely to be killed involved in riding a motorcycle. We
or severely injured in a crash. Injuries also know that the combined effects of
occur in 90% of motorcycle crashes and alcohol and drugs are more dangerous
33% of automobile crashes that involve than either is alone.
abuse of substances. On a yearly basis,
2,000 motorcyclists are killed and about ALCOHOL IN THE BODY
50,000 seriously injured in this same
type of crash. These statistics are too Alcohol enters the bloodstream
overwhelming to ignore. quickly. Unlike most foods and
beverages, it does not need to be
By becoming knowledgeable about digested. Within minutes after being
the effects of alcohol and drugs you consumed, it reaches the brain and
will see that riding and substance begins to affect the drinker. The major
abuse don’t mix. Take positive steps to effect alcohol has is to slow down and
protect yourself and prevent others from impair bodily functions — both mental
injuring themselves. and physical. Whatever you do, you do
less well after consuming alcohol.
43
43
Blood Alcohol Concentration liquor, and a 5-ounce glass of wine all

contain the same amount of alcohol.
Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC
is the amount of alcohol in relation to The faster you drink, the more alcohol
blood in the body. Generally, alcohol accumulates in your body. If you drink
can be eliminated in the body at the two drinks in an hour, at the end of that
rate of almost one drink per hour. But hour, at least one drink will remain in
a variety of factors may also influence your bloodstream.
the level of alcohol retained. The more Without taking into account any
alcohol in your blood, the greater the other factors, these examples illustrate
degree of impairment. why time is a critical factor when a rider
Three primary factors play a major decides to drink.
part in determining BAC: If you drink:
• The amountof alcohol you – Seven drinks over the span of
consume. three hours you would have at least
• How fastyou drink. four (7 – 3 = 4) drinks remaining in
your system at the end of the three
• Your bodyweight. hours. You would need at least
Other factors also contribute to the another four hours to eliminate the
way alcohol affects your system. alcohol from the four remaining drinks
before you consider riding.
Your sex, physical condition and
food intake are just a few that may – Four drinks over the span of two
cause your BAC level to be even higher. hours, you would have at least two
But the full effects of these are not (4 – 2 = 2) drinks remaining in your
completely known. Alcohol may still system at the end of the two hours.
accumulate in your body even if you You would need at least another two
are drinking at a rate of one drink hours to eliminate the alcohol from
per hour. Abilities and judgment can be the two remaining drinks before you
affected by that one drink. consider riding.
A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed
drink with one shot (1.5 ounces) of hard
ALCOHOL CONTENT
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW • Community Service— Performing

tasks such as picking up litter along
In all states, an adult with a BAC the highway, washing cars in the
of 0.08% or above is considered motor-vehicle pool or working at an
intoxicated. For operators under the age emergency ward.
of 21, lower BAC limits (0.00 to 0.02%, • Costs — Additional lawyer’s fees,
depending on state) apply. It doesn’t lost work time spent in court or
matter how sober you may look or act. alcohol-education programs, public
A breath, blood, or urine test is what transportation costs (while your
usually determines whether you are license is suspended), and the
riding legally or illegally. added psychological costs of being
known as a “drunk driver.”
Whether or not you are legally
intoxicated is not the real issue. MINIMIZE THE RISKS
Impairment of judgment and skills begins
Your ability to judge how well you
well below the legal limit.
are riding is affected first. Although
Your chances of being stopped for you may be performing more and
riding under the influence of alcohol are more poorly, you think you are doing
increasing. Law enforcement is being better and better. The result is that
stepped up across the country in response you ride confidently, taking greater
to the senseless deaths and injuries caused and greater risks. Minimize the risks
by drinking drivers and riders. of drinking and riding by taking
steps before you drink or choose to
Consequences of Conviction totally separate the two. Control your
Years ago, first offenders had a good drinking or control your riding.
chance of getting off with a small fine
and participation in alcohol-abuse Make an Intelligent Choice
classes. Today the laws of most states Don’t Drink — Once you start, your
impose stiff penalties on drinking resistance is weaker.
operators. And those penalties are
Setting a limit or pacing yourself are
mandatory, meaning that judges must
poor alternatives at best. Your ability
impose them.
to use good judgment is one of the
If you are convicted of riding under the first things affected by alcohol. Even if
influence of alcohol or drugs, you may you have tried to drink in moderation,
receive any of the following penalties: you may not realize to what extent
• License Suspension— Mandatory your skills have suffered from alcohol’s
suspension for conviction, arrest or fatiguing effects.
refusal to submit to a breath test. Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t
• Fines— Severe fines are another controlled your drinking, you must
aspect of a conviction, usually levied control your riding.
with a license suspension.
• Leave the motorcycle— so you
• Insurance Rate Increase— A DUI/ won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange
DWI conviction can put you into a another way to get home.
“high risk” category. So, having a DUI
on your driving record means you’ll • Wait— If you exceed your limit,
be paying for it long after your court wait until your system eliminates the
or legal interactions have ended. alcohol and its fatiguing effects.
45
STEP IN TO PROTECT A for medical use, and two allowed it for

recreational use by people 21 and over.
FRIEND
Although marijuana may be legal
People who have had too much to
for medicinal or recreational use in
drink are unable to make a responsible
your state, it is still not legal, safe, or
decision. It is up to others to step in and
wise to operate a motor vehicle while
keep them from taking too great a risk. No
impaired by marijuana, since it tends to
one wants to do this — it’s uncomfortable
distort your perception of time, space
and embarrassing. And you are rarely
and speed. This is especially critical for
thanked for your efforts at the time. But
motorcycle riders, who must continually
the alternatives are often worse.
make detailed assessments of complex
There are several ways to keep friends traffic situations and make split-second
from hurting themselves: decisions requiring precise rider input
• Arrange a safe ride— Provide to navigate safely and maintain an
alternative ways for them to get home. adequate safety margin.
• Slow the pace of drinking— States are beginning to set marijuana
Involve them in other activities. impairment limits based on blood
• Keep them there— Use any excuse content levels of marijuana’s primary
to keep them from getting on their psychoactive ingredient, THC. However,
motorcycle. Serve them food and compared to alcohol and BAC level, it
coffee to pass the time. Explain your is difficult to determine the relationship
concerns for their risks of getting between the amount of marijuana
arrested or hurt or hurting someone ingested and the resulting THC level in
else. Take their key, if you can, and the blood. Complicating factors include
secure their bike. marijuana’s potency, which is highly
• Get friends involved— Use peer variable, and ingestion method, which
pressure from a group of friends has significant bearing on the onset and
to intervene. duration of impairment.
It helps to enlist support from others When marijuana is smoked, its effects
when you decide to step in. The more generally begin within a few minutes
people on your side, the easier it is to be and can last from 2 to 4 hours. But when
firm and the harder it is for the rider to marijuana is eaten the onset of effects
resist. While you may not be thanked at could be delayed for more than an hour
the time, you will never have to say, “If and the duration of the “high” could be
only I had...” more than 6 hours.
MARIJUANA AND Be safe. Do not operate your
motorcycle or any motor vehicle if
MOTORCYCLE
you are impaired by marijuana, and
OPERATION find alternate transportation if you are
Marijuana is gaining acceptance as planning to be under the influence
having legitimate medicinal applications of marijuana at your destination. Just
and as a recreational drug in the United as with alcohol, riders impaired by
States, as evidenced by recent trends marijuana can be convicted of riding
in state laws permitting its use. As of under the influence, and be subjected to
early 2014, 20 states allowed marijuana similar harsh penalties.
FATIGUE
Riding a motorcycle is more tiring
than driving a car. On a long trip, you’ll
tire sooner than you would in a car.
Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can
affect your control of the motorcycle.
• Protect yourself from the
elements— Wind, cold, and rain
make you tire quickly. Dress warmly.
A windshield is worth its cost if you
plan to ride long distances.
• Limit your distance—
Experienced riders seldom try to ride
more than about six hours a day.
• Take frequent rest breaks— Stop
and get off the motorcycle at least
every two hours.
• Don’t drink or use drugs—
Artificial stimulants often result in
extreme fatigue or depression when
they wear off. Riders are unable to
concentrate on the task at hand.
TEST YOURSELF 14
If you wait one hour per drink for
the alcohol to be eliminated from
your body before riding:
A. You cannot be arrested for drinking
and riding.
B. Your riding skills will not be affected.
C. Side effects from the drinking may
still remain.
D. You will be okay as long as you ride
slowly. Answer - page 48
EARNING YOUR LICENSE 47
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:
B. Shift your weight toward the
A. Someone is following too closely.
good tire.
B. You will be slowing suddenly.
C. Brake on the good tire and steer
C. There is a stop sign ahead. to the side of the road.
D. Your signals are not working. D. Use both brakes and stop quickly.
2. The FRONT brake supplies how 5. The car below is waiting to enter
much of the potential stopping the intersection. It is best to:
power?
A. Make eye contact with the driver.
A. About 25%.
B. Reduce speed and be ready to
B. About 50%. react.
C. About 70%. C. Maintain speed and position.
D. All of the stopping power. D. Maintain speed and move right.
3. To swerve correctly:
A. Shift your weight quickly.
B. Turn the handlebars quickly.
C. Press the handgrip in the direction
of the turn.
D. Press the handgrip in the opposite
direction of the turn.
48 EARNING YOUR LICENSE
On-Motorcycle Skill Test • Stop, turn and swerve quickly.

Basic vehicle control and crash- • Make critical decisionsand carry
avoidance skills are included in on- them out.
motorcycle tests to determine your Examiners may score on factors
ability to handle normal and hazardous related to safety such as:
traffic situations. • Selectingsafe speeds to perform
You may be tested for your ability to: maneuvers.
• Know your motorcycleand your • Choosingthe correct path and
riding limits. staying within boundaries.
• Accelerate, brake and turn • Completingnormal and quick
safely. stops.
• See, be seenand communicate • Completingnormal and quick
with others. turns or swerves.
• Adjust speedand position to the
traffic situation.
Answers to Test Yourself (throughout the

booklet)
1-C, 2-D, 3-D, 4-A, 5-B,
6-C, 7-D 8-D, 9-C, 10-C,
11-D, 12-A, 13-A, 14-C
Diagrams and drawings used in this
manual are for reference only and are
Answers to Knowledge Test (p.47): not to correct scale for size of vehicles
and distances.
1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-C, 5-B
49
THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT 49
SUPPLEMENTARY • Saddle seating

INFORMATION – Seating in which the rider/
passenger straddles the
FOR THREE-WHEEL vehicle.
MOTORCYCLES – If designed for a passenger,
Many states require a separate license the passenger must be
endorsement to operate a three-wheel seated behind the operator
motorcycle. This requires the rider to (or in a separate passenger
compartment in the case of a
pass both a written and a skills test. The
motorcycle with sidecar).
purpose of this supplement is to help
prepare riders to complete the written 3. Turning diameter of the vehicle
exam for a three-wheel motorcycle at its widest point must be less
license or endorsement. This information than 40’.
is provided in addition to that offered in 4. The vehicle meets all applicable
the first part of this Motorcycle Operator federal on-road vehicle standards.
Manual (MOM), so when preparing The following vehicles are not
to take the written test, begin by included in this definition, and
reading the information on two-wheel therefore testing requirements may
motorcycles thoroughly. It provides not be applicable. Always refer to your
information on safe operation of your state Department of Motor Vehicles,
motorcycle in traffic. This supplement Department of Licensing or other
contains information specific to the safe appropriate state regulatory agency for
operation of a three-wheel motorcycle, exact regulations regarding testing for:
including both three-track motorcycles
• Automotive hybrids or
and motorcycles with sidecars.
automotive conversions
KNOW YOUR VEHICLE • Vehicles with automotive
controls or seating
There are many types of three-wheel
motorcycles available on the market • Vehicles with front or rear
today. Requirements for licensing mounted engines (engines must
three-wheel motorcycles vary by state. be mounted mid-frame below the
In general, three-wheel motorcycles will rider to be considered motorcycle-
based)
have the following characteristics:
• Vehicles with enclosed or semi-
1. Three wheels leaving two or
enclosed riding compartments
three separate tracks during
straight line operation. • Motorcycles or scooters with two
close-set wheels in front (contact
2. Motorcycle-based conversion or
patches less than 18.1 inches
design with:
apart) that lean and maneuver like
• Handlebar steering standard, single-track, two-wheel
• Motorcycle-type controls motorcycles
with the standard layout. or
Convenience alterations like
a single brake pedal or lever • Vehicles with any other departure
control, automatic clutch, or from the above standards.
automatic transmission.
50 PREPARING
THREE-WHEEL TO RIDE
SUPPLEMENT
Three-Wheel handlebars without excessive upper

Motorcycle Designs body movements that could jeopardize
stability and control.
Three-wheel motorcycle designs
vary among manufacturers. Unlike Borrowing and Lending
traditional motorcycles, which are Borrowers and lenders, beware.
considered single-track motorcycles,
three-wheel motorcycles could be either Crashes are fairly common among
dual or triple track design. Dual track beginning operators, especially in
vehicles are motorcycles with sidecars, the first months of riding. Operating
while triple track motorcycles can be an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the
configured either with dual front wheels problem. If you borrow a three-wheel
or dual rear wheels. motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar,
get familiar with it in a controlled area
first. If you lend your three-wheel
MOTORCYCLE motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar
AND THREE-WHEEL to friends, make sure they are licensed
MOTORCYCLE DESIGNS and know how to ride before you
allow them to operate in traffic. Such
motorcycles operate very differently
than two-wheel motorcycles.
No matter how experienced you may
be, be extra careful on any vehicle that
is unfamiliar or new to you.
Get Familiar with
Motorcycle Controls
Be sure you are familiar with the
controls of the three-wheel motorcycle
or motorcycle with a sidecar before
attempting to operate it on any
highway, since some controls may differ
from those found on other motorcycles.
This is especially important if you are
riding on a borrowed motorcycle. Before
beginning the ride:
• Make all the checksyou would on
your own motorcycle.
• Familiarize yourself with all
The Right Motorcycle for You controls, such as the turn signals,
Make sure your three-wheel horn, headlight switch, fuel control
motorcycle or sidecar-equipped valve, and cut-off switch. Locate
motorcycle is right for you. You should and operate these items without
be able to comfortably reach and having to search for them.
operate all of the controls, and be
able to complete full turns using the
51
• Operate all the controls before Under some conditions during the
you start riding. Know the operation of a three-wheel motorcycle,
gearshift pattern and operate the it is possible to have only two wheels
throttle, clutch and brakes a few in contact with the road surface. This
times. Controls react differently could occur during turning or tight
on different motorcycles, and maneuvers whenever enough weight is
exact locations of controls may transferred outside of what are called
vary slightly. Additionally, some tip-over lines. This tendency requires
motorcycle conversions may be careful load and passenger positioning
equipped with a single brake pedal inside the tip-over lines to help maintain
or lever control, automatic clutch, or maximum stability.
automatic transmission.
Body Position
• As you begin to ride, start out
slowly and carefully and be aware of As with any motor vehicle, operator
your surroundings. Accelerate gently, position is important for control and
take turns a little more slowly, and for reducing or preventing fatigue. The
leave extra room for stopping. operator should be able to reach both
handgrips comfortably, since more
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL handlebar movement is necessary than
when riding a two-wheel motorcycle.
Steering & Tip While it is not necessary for the rider
Three-wheel motorcycles handle of a three-wheel motorcycle to move
differently than two-wheel motorcycles. drastically during operation, shifting
With three wheels on the ground, weight in the direction of the turn can
they are naturally more stable than a improve control.
two-wheel motorcycle. They also steer
Braking
differently. Because conventional three-
wheel motorcycles cannot lean, they On a motorcycle with a sidecar,
cannot countersteer. Instead, the front during braking in a sharp turn, the
wheel is pointed in the direction the sidecar wheel may lift off the ground.
rider wants the motorcycle to go. Motorcycle and sidecar tires have limited
traction or grip on the road surface, and
traction is greater when the motorcycle
is rolling, not skidding or slipping.
During turning, some of the available
TIP-OVER LINES tire traction is used for cornering, so less
is available for stopping. Thus, a skid
can occur if you brake too hard.
Turning
The tendency of the rear inside
wheel to lift during turning is greater
with increased speed and tighter curve
radii. During a turn, inertia causes the
center of gravity of the motorcycle to
shift sideways and outward toward the
52 PREPARING
THREE-WHEEL TO RIDE
SUPPLEMENT
tip-over line. The reduced weight over When turning right on a

the opposite side wheel can cause it to motorcycle with sidecar:
lift slightly. • Anticipate the degree of turn
The weight of a three-track required.
motorcycle is distributed almost equally • Reduce speed before entering the
between the two front or two rear curve by downshifting or braking.
wheels. These motorcycles handle the • Slightly lean your upper body in
same in left and right hand turns. the direction you intend to turn.
When turning a three-track • Maintain speed as you enter the
motorcycle: curve.
• Approach a turn at speed with • Accelerate gradually as you exit the
your head up, and look through the curve.
turn.
During a left hand turn, the sidecar
• Concentrate on pointing the front acts as a stabilizer, so the sidecar wheel
wheel/wheels in the direction you stays on the ground. However, if the
want the motorcycle to go.
turn is taken too sharply or at too high
• Roll off the throttle before entering a rate of speed, there is a tendency
the turn. for the motorcycle rear suspension to
• Apply the brakes enough to slow extend, and this may cause the rear
the motorcycle to a speed at which wheel of the motorcycle to lift off the
you can ride safely through the ground.
turn, then release the brakes before
the turn. When turning left on a motorcycle
with sidecar:
• Slightly lean your upper body in
the direction you intend to turn. • Reduce speed prior to entering the
turn
• Steer the front wheel/wheels
toward the turn. • Apply more pressure on the rear
brake then on the front
• Roll on the throttle to pull the
motorcycle through the turn. Hills
On the other hand, because the When riding uphill on a three-wheel
center of gravity of a motorcycle with motorcycle or motorcycle with a sidecar,
sidecar is close to the motorcycle itself, some weight will shift to the rear,
the behavior of the vehicle when causing the front of the motorcycle
turning right and when turning left is to become lighter. This weight shift
quite different. reduces the traction on the front tire/
tires for steering and tire grip.
During a right turn, a slight sideways
movement of the center of gravity When riding downhill, gravity
creates a greater tendency for the increases the amount of braking force
sidecar wheel to lift. The lift will be required to slow or stop the motorcycle.
greater if the sidecar is empty or lightly It is important, therefore, to begin
loaded. slowing earlier for cornering and
stopping.
53
53
Lane Position the sidecar will feel as though it is

lagging behind you, causing the vehicle
The track of the dual wheels of a
to feel as though it is being steered
three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle
to the right. During deceleration or
with a sidecar is almost the same
braking, the momentum of the sidecar
width as some automobiles. Unlike a
continues to carry it forward, giving
motorcycle, you are limited, therefore, in
the feeling that the sidecar is trying to
lane positioning. Keep toward the center
pass you, making the motorcycle feel as
of the lane to be sure the track of the
though it is being steered left.
dual wheels does not cross the painted
lines into opposing traffic. Riding too far • On acceleration, compensate for
to the right could cause loss of traction if this tendency by steering slightly
in the opposite direction from the
the tire leaves the pavement.
sidecar.
Lane positioning when riding • On deceleration, compensate for
in groups is also an important this tendency by steering slightly in
consideration. You will not be able to the direction of the sidecar. You can
use a staggered formation, such as also pull in the clutch when braking.
you would when riding two-wheeled
motorcycles. Ride single file and always Swerving
maintain a safe margin, two seconds A quick stop may not always be
minimum, between vehicles. sufficient to avoid an obstacle in your
path, even if you properly apply both
Parking at the Roadside
brakes. Sometimes the only way to
Because of the limitations on mobility avoid a collision is to swerve. A swerve
and motorcycle length, it is not practical is any sudden change of direction. It can
to park your motorcycle at a 90 degree be two quick turns or a rapid shift to the
angle with your rear wheel touching the side when maneuvering the motorcycle.
curb, as you would with a two-wheel Often, there is not much time to adjust
motorcycle. Position your motorcycle in a your body position.
parking space so you are parked parallel
A three-wheel motorcycle or
to the curb and set the parking brake.
motorcycle with sidecar is not as
Some three-wheel motorcycles have
maneuverable as a two-wheel
reverse, so you can more easily maneuver
motorcycle, so plan well ahead to
into a parking space designed for an
avoid the need for any sudden turns or
automobile. Parking parallel to the curb
swerving. If braking is required, brake
will facilitate pulling away from the curb
either before or after the swerve, never
and entering the lanes of traffic.
while swerving.
Acceleration and Deceleration
Cornering & Curves
A three-wheel motorcycle with two
The cornering characteristics of a
drive wheels tends to be much more
three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle
stable during acceleration and braking
with a sidecar differ from those of a
than a motorcycle with a sidecar.
motorcycle. Even with three wheels on
Attaching a sidecar to your motorcycle
the ground, a sidecar can tip over if it is
adds a non-powered, off-centered mass
being turned too sharply or is going too
of weight. So, during acceleration,
fast for a corner. Therefore, it is best to
54 PREPARING
THREE-WHEEL TO RIDE
SUPPLEMENT
Many three-track motorcycles will have

PATH THROUGH A CURVE built-in storage compartments for cargo,
either in front of, or behind the rider.
On these motorcycles, center the load
and keep it low in the storage areas so
it is positioned within the tip-over lines
and balanced side-to-side. If a passenger
is being carried, the passenger will sit
directly behind the rider.
On a motorcycle with a sidecar, the
best place for a passenger is in the
sidecar. Never put a single passenger
on the saddle; the added weight on the
tip-over-line will increase the instability
always slow before entering a corner. of the motorcycle. While a second
The best path to follow in the curve passenger can be carried on the seat
may not be the one that follows the behind the rider, the heavier passenger
curve of the road. Following the center should always be in the sidecar.
of the lane may actually increase the The passenger sitting behind the rider
tip over forces. Check opposing traffic should sit upright at all times. It is not
carefully, and if safe, enter the curve necessary for the passenger to lean into
toward the outside of your lane. This curves with the rider.
increases your line of sight through the
curve and reduces the effective radius When carrying loads in a sidecar,
of the curve. As you turn, move toward secure the load firmly in place, since
the inside of the curve, and as you pass if the load shifts, handling will be
the center, move to the outside to exit, affected. Loads should be distributed
always remembering to stay in your lane. toward the rear of the sidecar to reduce
tipping of the nose of the sidecar in the
CARRYING PASSENGERS event of a sudden left turn.
AND CARGO When loaded, you may find
Three-wheel motorcycles are designed performance is reduced and that stopping
to carry passengers and cargo, but distances are longer, so allow a little
always be sure not to exceed the tire extra distance. The addition of a sidecar
or motorcycle loading capacity. The passenger will greatly improve stability,
extra weight could change the handling and right hand turns can be made at
characteristics of the vehicle slightly, so a slightly higher speed. Turning left,
you must give some thought to where however, will require more turning force.
the loads are positioned.
HAND SIGNALS
1 Single File – 2 Double File –

arm and index arm with index
finger extended and middle finger
straight up. extended straight up.
3 Stop – 4 Speed Up –
arm extended arm extended
straight down, straight out,
palm facing palm facing up,
back. swing upward.
5 Slow Down – 6 Follow Me –

arm extended arm extended
straight out, palm straight up
facing down, swing from shoulder,
down to your side. palm forward.
7 You Lead/Come –
arm extended upward 45 degrees,
palm forward pointing with index
finger, swing in arc from back to front.
HAND SIGNALS
8 Hazard in Roadway –
on the left, point
with left hand; on the
right, point with right foot.
9 Highbeam – ap Fuel –
You can tear this page out and keep it with you when you ride.
tap on top of arm out to side
helmet with open pointing to tank with
palm down. finger extended.
aa Comfort Stop – as Refreshment

forearm extended, Stop –
fist clenched with fingers closed,
short up and down thumb to mouth.
motion.
ad Turn Signal On –
open and close
hand with fingers and
thumb extended.
af Pull Off –
arm positioned as for
right turn, forearm
swung toward shoulder.
T-CLOCS: Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist
T-CLOCS ITEM WHAT TO CHECK WHAT TO LOOK FOR CHECK-OFF
T-TIRES & WHEELS

Tires Condition Tread depth, wear, weathering, evenly seated, bulges, embedded objects. Front Rear
Air Pressure Check when cold, adjust to load. Front Rear
Wheels Spokes Bent, broken, missing, tension, check at top of wheel: “ring” = OK — “thud” = loose spoke Front Rear
Cast Cracks, dents. Front Rear
Rims Out of round/true = 5mm. Spin wheel, index against stationary pointer. Front Rear
Bearings Grab top and bottom of tire and flex: No freeplay (click) between hub and axle, no growl when spinning. Front Rear
Seals Cracked, cut or torn, excessive grease on outside, reddish-brown around outside. Front Rear
Brakes Function Each brake alone keeps bike from rolling. Front Rear
C-CONTROLS
Levers and Condition Broken, bent, cracked, mounts tight, ball ends on handlebar levers, proper adjustment.
Pedal Pivots Lubricated.
Cables Condition Fraying, kinks, lubrication: ends and interior.
Routing No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, wire supports in place.
Hoses Condition Cuts, cracks, leaks, bulges, chafing, deterioration.
Routing No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, hose supports in place.
Throttle Operation Moves freely, snaps closed, no revving when handlebars are turned.
L-LIGHTS
Battery Condition Terminals; clean and tight, electrolyte level, held down securely.
Vent Tube Not kinked, routed properly, not plugged.
Headlamp Condition Cracks, reflector, mounting and adjustment system.
Aim Height and right/left.
Operation Hi beam/low beam operation.
Tail lamp/ Condition Cracks, clean and tight.
brake lamp Operation Activates upon front brake/rear brake application.
Turn signals Operation Flashes correctly. Front left Front right
Rear left Rear right
Mirrors Condition Cracks, clean, tight mounts and swivel joints.
Aim Adjust when seated on bike.
Lenses & Condition Cracked, broken, securely mounted, excessive condensation.
Reflectors
Wiring Condition Fraying, chafing, insulation.
Routing Pinched, no interference or pulling at steering head or suspension, wire looms and ties in place, connectors tight, clean.
O-OIL
Levels Engine Oil Check warm on center stand on level ground, dipstick, sight glass.
Hypoid Gear Oil, Transmission, rear drive, shaft.
Shaft Drive
Hydraulic Fluid Brakes, clutch, reservoir or sight glass.
Coolant Reservoir and/or coolant recovery tank — check only when cool.
Fuel Tank or gauge.
Leaks Engine Oil Gaskets, housings, seals.
Hypoid Gear Oil, Gaskets, seals, breathers.
Shaft Drive
Hydraulic Fluid Hoses, master cylinders, calipers.
Coolant Radiator, hoses, tanks, fittings, pipes.
Fuel Lines, fuel valve, carbs.
T-CLOCS: Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist
T-CLOCS ITEM WHAT TO CHECK WHAT TO LOOK FOR CHECK-OFF
C-CHASSIS
Frame Condition Cracks at gussets, accessory mounts, look for paint lifting.
Steering-Head Bearings No detent or tight spots through full travel, raise front wheel, check for play by pulling/pushing forks.
Swingarm Bushings/ Raise rear wheel, check for play by pushing/pulling swingarm.
Bearings
Suspension Front Forks Smooth travel, equal air pressure/damping, anti-dive settings. Left Right
Rear Shock(s) Smooth travel, equal pre-load/air pressure/damping settings, linkage moves freely and is lubricated. Left Right
Chain or Belt Tension Check at tightest point.

Lubrication Side plates when hot. Note: do not lubricate belts.
Sprockets Teeth not hooked, securely mounted
Fasteners Threaded Tight, missing bolts, nuts.
Clips Broken, missing.
Cotter Pins Broken, missing.
S-STANDS
Center stand Condition Cracks, bent.
Retention Springs in place, tension to hold position.
Side stand Condition Cracks, bent (safety cut-out switch or pad equipped).
Retention Springs in place, tension to hold position.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Rider's Name___________________________________________________________Blood Type_________________
Allergies/Medical Conditions________________________________________________________________________
Doctor's Name/Phone______________________________________________________________________________
Cycle Insurer Name/Phone__________________________________________________________________________
Contact this person if rider is injured
Name_____________________________________________ Home Phone____________________________________
Work Phone_______________________________________ Cell Phone______________________________________

MOTORCYCLES MAKE SENSE –
SO DOES PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
Motorcycles are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and easy to park.
Unfortunately, many riders never learn critical skills needed to ride safely.
Professional training for beginning and experienced riders prepares them for
real-world traffic situations. Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCoursesSM teach and
improve such skills as:
• Effective turning • Braking maneuvers • Protective apparel selection

• Obstacle avoidance • Traffic strategies • Maintenance
For the basic or experienced RiderCourse nearest you,

call toll free: 800.446.9227
or visit msf-usa.org
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) purpose is to improve the safety

of motorcyclists on the nation’s streets and highways. In an attempt to reduce
motorcycle crashes and injuries, the Foundation has programs in rider education,
licensing improvement, public information and statistics. These programs
are designed for both motorcyclists and motorists. A national not-for-profit
organization, the MSF is sponsored by BMW, BRP, Harley-Davidson, Honda,
Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha.
The information contained in this publication is offered for the benefit of those
who have an interest in riding motorcycles. The information has been compiled
from publications, interviews and observations of individuals and organizations
familiar with the use of motorcycles, accessories, and training. Because there are
many differences in product design, riding styles, federal, state and local laws,
there may be organizations and individuals who hold differing opinions. Consult
your local regulatory agencies for information concerning the operation of motor-
cycles in your area. Although the MSF will continue to research, field test and
publish responsible viewpoints on the subject, it disclaims any liability for the views
expressed herein.
Printing and distribution courtesy of

Motorcycle Safety Foundation
msf-usa.org
Second Revision................ December 1978 Tenth Revision.................. January 2002
Third Revision......................February 1981 Eleventh Revision.................... July 2002
Fourth Revision.................... .January 1983 Twelfth Revision.................... May 2004
Fifth Revision....................... October 1987 Thirteenth Revision................June 2007
Sixth Revision............................ April 1991 Fourteenth Revision............ March 2008
Seventh Revision.............. September 1992 Fifteenth Revision..................June 2009
Eighth Revision.................... .January 1999 Sixteenth Revision............ January 2011
Ninth Revision......................... March 2000 Seventeenth Revision.......February 2014
Printed in USA 000254
msf-usa.org

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MOTORCYCLE

Welcome to the Seventeenth Edition This latest edition has undergone

THE RIDER AND BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR a helmet kept a rider from spotting

Whatever helmet you

• Glovesallow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars

for neutral, which is selected by either enough before downshifting safely.

Turning In normal turns, the rider and the

KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE • Avoid windblast from other

When behind a car, ride where the Passing

Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the

Merging Cars Cars Alongside

MERGING BLIND SPOTS

There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being

the intersection, move away from the

A bigger problem can occur if the

Once you turn, make sure your signal is

from behind. If the drivers aren’t

Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE

If you must stop quickly while turning Swerving or Turning Quickly

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES

DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES

HANDLING DANGEROUS bumps, broken pavement, potholes or

weight on the footrests to absorb before you get to a slippery

PARALLEL TRACKS—CORRECT GRATE CROSSINGS—INCORRECT

PARALLEL TRACKS—INCORRECT TEST YOURSELF 9

loading, unsuitable accessories or to a stop in a safe area.

• Grip the handlebars firmly,but ANIMALS

down, or turn. day’s riding segment and allow

Carrying Loads • Don’t forget sun protection in the

Keep Your Distance

Interstate Highways and

at passing speed to open room for Ten Rules of Group Riding

Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay

WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND DRUGS

Blood Alcohol Concentration liquor, and a 5-ounce glass of wine all

ALCOHOL AND THE LAW • Community Service— Performing

STEP IN TO PROTECT A for medical use, and two allowed it for

Knowledge Test 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and

On-Motorcycle Skill Test • Stop, turn and swerve quickly.

Answers to Test Yourself (throughout the

SUPPLEMENTARY • Saddle seating

Three-Wheel handlebars without excessive upper

tip-over line. The reduced weight over When turning right on a

Lane Position the sidecar will feel as though it is

Many three-track motorcycles will have

1 Single File – 2 Double File –

5 Slow Down – 6 Follow Me –

aa Comfort Stop – as Refreshment

T-CLOCS ITEM WHAT TO CHECK WHAT TO LOOK FOR CHECK-OFF

T-TIRES & WHEELS

Air Pressure Check when cold, adjust to load. Front Rear

Cast Cracks, dents. Front Rear

T-CLOCS ITEM WHAT TO CHECK WHAT TO LOOK FOR CHECK-OFF

Chain or Belt Tension Check at tightest point.

Rider's Name___________________________________________________________Blood Type_________________

PARALLEL TRACKS—INCORRECT TEST YOURSELF 9

Rider's Name___________________________________________Blood Type_

Name_________ Home Phone

Work Phone_ Cell Phone