KENTUCKY

MOTORCYCLE
MANUAL

Dear Kentucky Motorcyclist,

Dear Kentucky Motorcyclist:

Each day we work to make our
highways in Kentucky safer for all to travel.
Riding a motorcycle on the open roads can
be a wonderful way to experience the unique
beauty of the Commonwealth. Along with
this privilege, however, comes responsibility.


This manual focuses on motorcycle
safety and Kentucky laws in regard to
operating motorcycles in our state. Please take the time to study this
information carefully. These laws have been put in place for the well being
of all people traveling our roadways.

Practicing safety is the key to prevention of accidents. I hope you
will join in this effort and use safe practices in order to keep yourself and
others from harms way.

Thank you for sharing our commitment to safer highways for all
Kentuckians. Enjoy your ride as you travel the Commonwealth and see all
our state has to offer.

Sincerely,

Steven L. Beshear

The Kentucky Motorcycle Operators
Manual has been prepared by the Kentucky
State Police to better serve those wanting to
obtain a Motorcycle License. Many of the
safety suggestions have been provided by
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation. This
manual provides you with information on the
requirements of the operator, the passenger
and the vehicle. By studying the manual you
will understand the Motorcycle Laws and
requirements of Kentucky and learn safety tips, which will help keep you
and those you share the highway with safe.

As a reminder, you are required to obey not only motorcycle laws,
but all traffic laws and regulations that apply to motorists on our highways.
It is my sincere hope that you have an enjoyable and safe riding
experience as a new motorcycle operator and commit to making our
highways safe by following the laws of Kentucky.

Best wishes and enjoy your new driving privileges.


Sincerely,


Rodney Brewer

Commissioner

Kentucky State Police

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MOTORCYCLES LAWS AND REQUIREMENTS

1
Kentucky Motorcycle Law
........................... 1
Obtaining A Motorcycle Licenses ................... 1
Driver/Passenger Requirements .......................................... 2
Vehicle Requirements ................................. 2
Motorcycle Safety Education Program ............................. 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PERFORMANCE TEST
. 43
MOPEDS
.. 46

Operation 46

TRAIL BIKES & ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES (ATVS) 47

SIGNALS/SIGNS
.................. 49

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TIPS .... 3

Preparing to Ride ...... 3

Wearing the Right Gear ........ 3

Know your Motorcycle .... 6
The Right Motorcycle for You ......... 6
Know Your Responsibilities ......8
Ride within Your Abilities ... 9
Basic Vehicle Control ....9
Keeping Your Distance .. 12
SEE
............. 17
Intersections .......................................... 18
Increasing Conspicuity .......... 20
Crash Avoidance
... 24
Handling Dangerous Surfaces 27
Mechanical Problems . 30
Animals
... 32
Flying Objects .. 32
Getting Off the Road
.. 33
Carrying Passengers and Cargo . 33
Group Riding . 35
Being in Shape to Ride 37
Why This Information is Important
.. 37
Alcohol and Other Drugs in Motorcycle Operation .....38
Alcohol in the Body
38
Alcohol and the Law
.. 39
Minimize the Risk
.. 40
Step in to Protect Friends ...... 41
Fatigue
. 41
Summary
42
ii

A large portion of this manual contains safety information printed directly

from the Motorcycle Safety Foundations manual. It is the opinion of
the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and not necessary that of
all who operate a motorcycle. They have compiled their information
through publications, interviews and observations of those familiar with
motorcycles.

iii

MOTORCYCLES- Laws & Requirements

All traffic laws and regulations apply equally to passenger car and
motorcycle operators. To qualify for a motorcycle operators license,
you must learn the information contained throughout this manual. Many
motorcycle dealers have free literature on riding tips, which may also be
helpful to you. In this manual, emphasis will be on motorcycle:
Laws.
Operator Requirements.
Vehicle Requirements.
Safety Tips.
KENTUCKY MOTORCYCLE LAW
Definition: Kentucky law defines a motorcycle as any motor-driven
vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use by the operator and designed
to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, but
excluding tractors and vehicles on which the operator and passengers ride
in an enclosed cab, and excluding a moped.
Motor bikes, mini bikes, and any other small vehicles may not
be operated upon the street or highway without first meeting the
requirements for a motor vehicle, such as registration plate; and the
operator must have a license to operate the vehicle. The only place a
driver may legally ride or operate this type of vehicle without an
operators license and other safety equipment is on private property.
It is important to know the Kentucky Traffic Laws (KRS 186 and KRS
189). This can be found at http://www.lrc.ky.gov
OBTAINING A MOTORCYCLE LICENSE
A person must possess a valid motor vehicle operators license or a person
must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a motorcycle instruction
permit to operator a motorcycle. A person under the age of 18 must have
a parent or legal guardian sign for the permit. If the person does not have
a living parent nor a legal guardian, the instruction permit must be signed
by someone willing to assume responsibility for the applicant. This is true
even if the parent or legal guardian has already signed the Driver License
Application allowing the minor to drive a moped or automobile. A person
applying for a permit must make application in the county of residence
at the office of the circuit clerk unless: written permission is given by the
circuit clerk to take the examination in another county and the State Police
agrees to make arrangements for the examination.
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OPERATOR/PASSENGER REQUIREMENTS
The operator must have:
A valid motor vehicle operators license with a valid motorcycle
operators endorsement thereon, a motorcycle license, or an instruction
permit to operate a motorcycle, before operating a motorcycle upon any
public roadway in Kentucky.
A motorcycle operator authorized to operate a motorcycle on an
instruction permit shall not be authorized to carry passengers.
The operator must use an approved eye-protection device, in the manner
prescribed by the Transportation Cabinet, and both the operator and
passenger must wear approved protective headgear anytime the vehicle is
in motion.
A person may operate without a helmet if he or she is over 21 and has
held a motorcycle license for one year or more. Passengers must be 21 or
over to ride without a helmet. Persons under 21, or those who have held
their licenses for less than one year, must wear protective headgear.
VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS
It is unlawful to operate or ride as a passenger on a motorcycle which
does not have a seat or footrest permanently attached, both being
specifically designed to carry passengers in a safe manner.
Equipment Required: Rearview mirror, one headlight high and low
beam, taillight, horn, muffler, tailpipe, brake light, front and rear brakes,
proof of liability insurance, good tires, and registration. Turn signals are
now required, if they were part of the factory equipment for that model.

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

This program shall offer motorcycle rider training courses designed to

develop and instill knowledge, attitudes, habits, and skills necessary for the
proper operation of a motorcycle.
Rider training courses shall be open to any resident of the state who either
holds a current valid drivers license for any classification or holds a
motorcycle instruction permit.
Applicants for a motorcycle drivers license will be exempted from the
licensing skills test if they present satisfactory evidence of successful
completion of an approved rider training course that includes a similar test
of skill.
For more information regarding motorcycle rider training school locations
and costs, please contact the Kentucky Motorcycle Safety Program at
1-800-396-3234.

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TIPS

PREPARING TO RIDE

What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining
whether or not youll 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
When you ride, your gear is right if it protects you. In any crash, you
have a far better chance of avoiding serious injury if you wear:
An approved helmet.
Face or eye protection.
Protective clothing.
HELMET USE

Crashes can occur particularly among untrained, beginning riders. And

one out of every five motorcycle crashes results in head or neck injuries.
Head injuries are just as severe as neck injuries and far more common.
Crash analyses show that head and neck injuries account for a majority of
serious and fatal injuries to motorcyclists. Research also shows that, with
few exceptions, head and neck injuries are reduced by properly wearing an
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approved helmet.
Some riders dont wear helmets because they think helmets will limit their
view to the sides. Others wear helmets only on long trips or when riding at
high speeds. Here are some facts to consider:
An approved helmet lets you see as far to the sides as necessary. A
study of more than 900 motorcycle crashes, where 40% of the riders wore
helmets, did not find even one case in which a helmet kept a rider from
spotting danger.
Most crashes happen on short trips (less than five miles long), just a
few minutes after starting out.
Most riders are riding slower than 30 mph when a crash occurs. At these
speeds, helmets can cut both the number and the severity of head injuries
by half. No matter what the speed, helmeted riders are three times more
likely to survive head injuries than those not wearing helmets at the time
of the crash.
HELMET SELECTION

There are two primary types of helmets, providing two different levels of
coverage: three-quarter and full face.
Whichever style you choose, you can get the most protection by making
sure that the helmet:

Is designed to meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state

standards. Helmets with a label from the Snell Memorial Foundation give
you an added assurance of quality.
Fits snugly, all the way around.
Has no obvious defects such as cracks, loose padding or frayed straps.
Whatever helmet you decide on, keep it securely fastened on your head
4

when you ride. Otherwise, if you are involved in a crash, its likely to fly
off your head before it gets a chance to protect you.
EYE AND FACE PROTECTION

A plastic shatter-resistant face shield can help protect your whole face in a
crash. It also protects you from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and pebbles
thrown up from cars ahead. These problems are distracting and can be
painful. If you have to deal with them, you cant devote your full attention
to the road.
Goggles protect your eyes, though they wont protect the rest of your face
like a face shield does. A windshield is not a substitute for a face shield
or goggles. Most windshields will not protect your eyes from the wind.
Neither will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses wont keep your eyes from
watering, and they might blow off when you turn your head while riding.
To be effective, eye or face shield protection must:
Be free of scratches.
Be resistant to penetration.
Give a clear view to either side.
Fasten securely, so it does not blow off.
Permit air to pass through, to reduce fogging.
Permit enough room for eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed.
Tinted eye protection should not be worn at night or any other time when
little light is available
CLOTHING

The right clothing protects you in a collision. It also provides comfort, as

well as protection from heat, cold, debris and hot and moving parts of the
motorcycle. It can also make you more visible to others.
Jacket and pants should cover arms and legs completely. They should
fit snugly enough to keep from flapping in the wind, yet loosely enough to
move freely. Leather offers the most protection. Sturdy synthetic material
provides a lot of protection as well. Wear a jacket even in warm weather
to prevent dehydration. Many are designed to protect without getting you
overheated, even on summer days.
Boots or shoes should be high and sturdy enough to cover your ankles
and give them support. Soles should be made of hard, durable, slipresistant material. Keep heels short so they do not catch on rough surfaces.
Tuck in laces so they wont catch on your motorcycle.
Gloves allow a better grip and help protect your hands in a crash. Your
gloves should be made of leather or similar durable material.
5

In cold or wet weather, your clothes should keep you warm and dry, as
well as protect you from injury. You cannot control a motorcycle well if
you are numb. Riding for long periods in cold weather can cause severe
chill and fatigue. A winter jacket should resist wind and fit snugly at the
neck, wrists and waist. Good quality rain suits designed for motorcycle
riding resist tearing apart or ballooning up at high speeds.
KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE
There are plenty of things on the highway that can cause you trouble. Your
motorcycle should not be one of them. To make sure that your motorcycle
wont let you down:
Read the owners manual first.
Start with the right motorcycle for you.
Be familiar with the motorcycle controls.
Check the motorcycle before every ride.
Keep it in safe riding condition between rides.
Avoid add-ons and modifications that make your motorcycle harder to
handle.
THE RIGHT MOTORCYCLE FOR YOU
First, make sure your motorcycle is right for you. It should fit you. Your
feet should reach the ground while you are seated on the motorcycle, and
the controls should be easy to operate. Smaller motorcycles are usually
easier for beginners to operate.
At minimum, your street-legal motorcycle should have:
Headlight, taillight and brake light.
Front and rear brakes.
Turn signals.
Horn.
Two mirrors.
BORROWING AND LENDING

Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, beware. Crashes are fairly common

among beginning riders especially in the first months of riding. Riding
an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the problem. If you borrow a motorcycle,
get familiar with it in a controlled area. And if you lend your motorcycle to
friends, make sure they are licensed and know how to ride before allowing
them out into traffic.
No matter how experienced you may be, ride extra carefully on any
motorcycle thats new or unfamiliar to you. It takes time to adjust, so give
yourself a greater margin for errors.
6

GET FAMILIAR WITH THE MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS Make sure

you are completely familiar with the motorcycle before you take it out
on the street. Be sure to review the owners manual. This is particularly
important if you are riding a borrowed motorcycle.
If you are going to use an unfamiliar motorcycle:

Make all the checks you would on your own motorcycle.

Find out where everything is, particularly the turn signals, horn,
headlight switch, fuel-supply valve and engine cut-off switch. Find and
operate these items without having to look for them.
Know the gear pattern. Work the throttle, clutch and brakes a few times
before you start riding. All controls react a little differently.
Ride very cautiously and be aware of surroundings. Accelerate gently,
take turns more slowly and leave extra room for stopping.
CHECK YOUR MOTORCYCLE

A motorcycle needs more frequent attention than a car. A minor technical

failure in a car seldom leads to anything more than an inconvenience for
the driver. If somethings wrong with the motorcycle, youll want to find
out about it before you get in traffic. Make a complete check of your
7

motorcycle before every ride.

Before mounting the motorcycle, make the following checks:
Tires Check the air pressure, general wear and tread.
Fluids Oil and fluid levels. At a minimum, check hydraulic fluids
and coolants weekly. Look under the motorcycle for signs of an oil or gas
leak.

Headlights and Taillight Check them both. Test your switch to

make sure both high and low beams are working.
Turn Signals Turn on both right and left turn signals. Make sure
all lights are working properly.
Brake Light Try both brake controls, and make sure each one
turns on the brake light.
Once you have mounted the motorcycle, complete the following
checks before starting out:
Clutch and Throttle Make sure they work smoothly. The
throttle should snap back when you let go. The clutch should feel
tight and smooth.
Mirrors Clean and adjust both mirrors before starting. Its
difficult to ride with one hand while you try to adjust a mirror. Adjust
each mirror so you can see the lane behind and as much as possible
of the lane next to you. When properly adjusted, a mirror may show
the edge of your arm or shoulderbut its the road behind and to the
side thats most important.
Brakes Try the front and rear brake levers one at a time. Make
sure each one feels firm and holds the motorcycle when the brake is
fully applied.
Horn Try the horn. Make sure it works.
In addition to the checks you should make before every trip,
check the following items at least once a week: Wheels, cables,
fasteners and fluid levels. Follow your owners manual to get
recommendations.
KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
Accident implies an unforeseen event that occurs without anyones
fault or negligence. Most often in traffic, that is not the case. In fact, most
people involved in a crash can usually claim some responsibility for what
takes place.
8

Consider a situation where someone decides to try to squeeze through an

intersection on a yellow light turning red. Your light turns green. You pull
into the intersection without checking for possible latecomers. That is all
it takes for the two of you to tangle. It was the drivers responsibility to
stop. And it was your responsibility to look before pulling out. Neither of
you held up your end of the deal. Just because someone else is the first to
start the chain of events leading to a crash, it doesnt leave any of us free
of responsibility.
As a rider you cant be sure that other operators will see you or yield the
right of way. To lessen your chances of a crash occurring:
Be visible wear proper clothing, use your headlight, ride in the best
lane position to see and be seen.
Communicate your intentions use the proper signals, brake light and
lane position.
Maintain an adequate space cushion following, being followed,
lane sharing, passing and being passed.
Search your path of travel 12 seconds ahead.
Identify and separate multiple hazards.
Be prepared to act remain alert and know how to carry out proper
crash-avoidance skills.
Blame doesnt matter when someone is injured in a crash. There is rarely a
single cause of any crash. The ability to ride aware, make critical decisions
and carry them out separates responsible riders from all the rest.
Remember, it is up to you to keep from being the cause of, or an
unprepared participant in, any crash.

RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed
or balance. Thats 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
BODY POSITION

To control a motorcycle well:

Posture Sit so you can use your arms to steer the motorcycle
rather than to hold yourself up.
Seat Sit far enough forward so that arms are slightly bent when

you hold the handgrips. Bending your arms permits you to press on
the handlebars without having to stretch.
Hands Hold the hand grips firmly to keep your grip over rough
surfaces. Start with your right
wrist flat. This will help you
keep from accidentally using
too much throttle. Also, adjust
the handlebars so your hands
are even with or below your
elbows. This permits you to
use the proper muscles for
precision steering.

Knees Keep your knees

against the gas tank to help you
keep your balance as the motorcycle turns.
Feet Keep your feet firmly on the footrests to maintain balance. Dont
drag your feet. If your foot catches on something, you could be injured
and it could affect your control of the motorcycle. Keep your feet near
the controls so you can get to them fast if needed. Also, dont let your
toes point downward they may get caught between the road and the
footrests.
SHIFTING GEARS

There is more to shifting gears than simply getting the motorcycle to pick
up speed smoothly. Learning to use the gears when downshifting, turning
or starting on hills is important for safe motorcycle operation. Shift down
through the gears with the clutch as you slow or stop. Remain in first gear
while you are stopped so that you can move out quickly if you need to.
Make certain you are riding slowly enough when you shift into a lower
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, and the rear wheel may skid. When
riding downhill or shifting into first gear you may need to use the brakes
to slow enough before downshifting safely. Work toward a smooth, even
clutch release, especially when downshifting. It is best to change gears
before entering a turn. However, sometimes shifting while in the turn is
necessary. If so, remember to do so smoothly. A sudden change in power
to the rear wheel can cause a skid.
BRAKING

Your motorcycle has two brakes: one each for the front and rear wheel.
10

Use both of them at the same time. The front brake is more powerful and
can provide at least three-quarters of your total stopping power. The front
brake is safe to use if you use it properly.
Remember:
Use both brakes every time you slow or stop. Using both brakes for
even normal stops will permit you to develop the proper habit or skill of
using both brakes properly in an emergency. Squeeze the front brake and
press down on the rear. Grabbing at the front brake or jamming down on
the rear can cause the brakes to lock, resulting in control problems.
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 and squeeze the brake lever, never grab.
Some motorcycles have integrated braking systems that activate
the front and rear brakes together when applying the rear brake pedal.
(Consult the owners manual for a detailed explanation on the operation
and effective use of these systems.)
TURNING

Riders often try to take curves or turns too fast. When they cant hold 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.
Approach turns and curves with caution.
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 motorcycle,
press on the hand grip in the direction of the turn. Press left hand grip
lean left go left. Press right hand grip lean right go right. The
higher the speed in a turn, the greater the lean angle.
ROLL Roll on the throttle to maintain or slightly increase speed.
This helps stabilize the motorcycle In normal turns, the rider and the
motorcycle should lean together at the same angle.
In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by leaning the motorcycle only and
11

keeping your body straight.

KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE

The best protection you can have is distancea cushion of space
all around your motorcycle. If someone else makes a mistake, distance
permits you:
Time to react.
Space to maneuver.
LANE POSITIONS

In some ways the size of the motorcycle can work to your advantage. Each
traffic lane gives a motorcycle three paths of travel.
Your lane position should:
Increase your ability to see and be seen.
Avoid others blind spots.
Avoid surface hazards.
Protect your lane from other drivers.
Communicate your intentions.
Avoid wind blast from other vehicles.
Provide an escape route.
Select the appropriate path to maximize your space cushion and make
yourself more easily seen by others on the road.
The best lane position for seeing and being seen is the left third of the
lane.
1. On a two-lane roadway, ride on the left portion of your lane.
2. On a four-lane roadway, when alone, ride on the left half of the right
12

lane, or on the right half of the inside lane.

3. When riding in a group, you should ride in a staggered position, and
never side by side.

behind. It will also give you a cushion of space if the vehicle ahead starts
to back up for some reason.
When following a vehicle,
ride near the left third of
the lane. Never follow too
closely, as this reduces
the ability to stop safely
and to see road and traffic
conditions including hazards
ahead.
BEING FOLLOWED

Speeding up to lose someone

following too closely only
ends up with someone

RIGHT-OF-WAY.

Even though the right-of-way is yours, it may be necessary to yield. The

cyclist nearly always loses in a collision with a larger vehicle. Remember,
others may not see you.
FOLLOWING ANOTHER VEHICLE

Following too closely could be a factor in crashes involving

motorcyclists. In traffic, motorcycles need as much distance to stop
as cars. Normally, a minimum of four seconds distance should be
maintained behind the vehicle ahead.
To gauge your following distance:
Pick out a marker, such as a pavement marking or lamppost, on or near
the road ahead.
When the rear bumper of the vehicle ahead passes the marker, count
off the seconds: one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousandthree, one-thousand-four.
If you reach the marker before you reach four, you are following too
closely.
A four-second following distance leaves a minimum amount of space to
stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops suddenly. It also permits a better
view of potholes and other hazards in the road. A larger cushion of space
is needed if your motorcycle will take longer than normal to stop. If the
pavement is slippery, if you cannot see through the vehicle ahead, or
if traffic is heavy and someone may squeeze in front of you, open up a
longer following distance.
Keep well behind the vehicle ahead even when you are stopped. This will
make it easier to get out of the way if someone bears down on you from
13

tailgating you at a higher speed.

A better way to handle tailgaters is to get them in front of you. When
someone is following too closely, change lanes and let them pass. If you
cant do this, slow down and open up extra space ahead of you to allow
room for both you and the tailgater to stop. This will also encourage them
to pass. If they dont 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.
PASSING

1. Ride in the left portion of the lane at a safe following distance to

increase your line of sight and make you more visible. Signal and check
for oncoming traffic. Use your mirrors and turn your head to look for
traffic behind.
2. When safe, move into the left lane and accelerate. Select a lane position
that doesnt crowd the car you are passing and provides space to avoid
hazards in your lane.
3. Ride through the blind spot as quickly as possible.
4. Signal again, and complete mirror and head checks before returning to
your original lane and then cancel the signal.
Remember, passes must be completed within posted speed limits, and
only where permitted. Know your signs and road markings!
14

Never pass to the right of another vehicle on a two-lane road. A cycle may
be smaller than other vehicles, but all rules and regulations still pertain to
it as though it were an automobile.
BEING PASSED

When you are being passed from behind or by an oncoming vehicle, stay
in the left portion of your lane. Riding any closer to them could put you in
a hazardous situation.
Avoid being hit by:
The other vehicle A slight mistake by you or the passing driver could
cause a sideswipe.
Extended mirrors Some drivers forget that their mirrors hang out
farther than their fenders.
Objects thrown from windows Even if the driver knows youre
there, a passenger may not see you and might toss something on you or the
road ahead of you.
Blasts of wind from larger vehicles They can affect your control.
You have more room for error if you are in the middle portion when hit by
this blast than if you are on either side of the lane.
Do not move into the portion of the lane farthest from the passing vehicle.
It might invite the other driver to cut back into your lane too early.

LANE SHARING

Cars and motorcycles need a full lane to operate safely. Lane sharing is
usually prohibited. Riding between rows of stopped or moving cars in the
same lane can leave you vulnerable to the unexpected. A hand could come
out of a window; a door could open; a car could turn suddenly. Discourage
lane sharing by others. Keep a left portion position whenever drivers
might be tempted to squeeze by you. Drivers are most tempted to do this:
In heavy, bumper-to-bumper traffic.
When they want to pass you.
When you are preparing to turn at an intersection.
When you are moving into an exit lane or leaving a highway.
MERGING CARS

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

\
CARS ALONGSIDE

Do not ride next to cars or trucks in other lanes if you do not have to. You
might be in the blind spot of a car in the next lane, which could switch into
your lane without warning. Cars in the next 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.
15

16

SEE
Good experienced riders remain aware of what is going on around
them. They improve their riding strategy by using SEE, a three-step
process used to make appropriate judgments, and apply them correctly in
different traffic situations:
Search
Evaluate
Execute
Lets examine each of these steps.
SEARCH

Search aggressively ahead, to the sides and behind to avoid potential

hazards even before they arise. How assertively you search, and how
much time and space you have, can eliminate or reduce harm. Focus
even more on finding potential escape routes in or around intersections,
shopping areas and school and construction zones.
Search for factors such as:
Oncoming traffic that may turn left in front of you.
Traffic coming from the left and right.
Traffic approaching from behind.
Hazardous road conditions.
Be especially alert in areas with limited visibility. Visually busy
surroundings could hide you and your motorcycle from others.
EVALUATE

Think about how hazards can interact to create risks for you. Anticipate
potential problems and have a plan to reduce risks.
Road and surface characteristics Potholes, guardrails, bridges,
telephone poles and trees wont move into your path but may influence
your riding strategy.
Traffic control devices Look for traffic signals, including
regulatory signs, warning signs, and pavement markings, to help you
evaluate circumstances ahead.
Vehicles and other traffic May move into your path and increase
the likelihood of a crash. Think about your time and space requirements
in order to maintain a margin of safety. You must leave yourself time to
react if an emergency arises.

To create more space and minimize harm from any hazard:

Communicate your presence with lights and/or horn.
Adjust your speed by accelerating, stopping or slowing.
Adjust your position and/or direction.
Apply the old adage one step at a time to handle two or more hazards.
Adjust speed to permit two hazards to separate. Then deal with them one
at a time as single hazards. Decision-making becomes more complex with
three or more hazards. Evaluate the consequences of each and give equal
distance to the hazards.
In potential high-risk areas, such as intersections, shopping areas and
school and construction zones, cover the clutch and both brakes to reduce
the time you need to react.
INTERSECTIONS
The greatest potential for conflict between you and other traffic is at
intersections. An intersection can be in the middle of an urban area or
at a driveway on a residential street anywhere traffic may cross your
path of travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car crashes are caused by
drivers entering a riders right-of-way. Cars that turn left in front of you,
including cars turning left from the lane to your right, and cars on side
streets that pull into your lane, are the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE at
intersections is critical.
There are no guarantees that others see you. Never count on eye contact
as a sign that a driver will yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a
motorcyclist and still fails to see him or her. The only eyes that you can
count on are your own. If a car can enter your path, assume that it will.
Good riders are always looking for trouble not to get into it, but to
stay out of it.
Increase your chances of being seen at
intersections. Ride with your headlight
on and in a lane position that provides
the best view of oncoming traffic.
Provide a space cushion around the
motorcycle that permits you to take
evasive action.

EXECUTE

Carry out your decision.

17

18

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. Just make sure your
front wheel stays out of the cross lane of
travel while youre looking.
PASSING PARKED CARS

As you approach the intersection, select a lane position that increases your
visibility to the driver. Cover the clutch lever and both brakes to reduce
reaction time.
Reduce your speed as you approach an intersection. After entering the
intersection, move away from vehicles preparing to turn. Do not change
speed or position radically. The driver might think that you are preparing
to turn.
BLIND INTERSECTIONS

If you approach a blind intersection,

move to the portion of the lane that will
bring you into another drivers 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 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.
19

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 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 cant tell what
a driver will do, slow down and get the
drivers attention. Sound your horn and
continue with caution.
PARKING AT THE ROADSIDE

Park at 60-90 angle to the curb with

your rear wheel touching the curb.
INCREASING CONSPICUITY
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers often say that they never saw the
20

motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a motorcycles outline is much smaller

than a cars. Also, its hard to see something you are not looking for, and
most drivers are not looking for motorcycles. More likely, they are looking
through the skinny, two-wheeled silhouette in search of cars that may pose
a problem to them.
Even if a driver does see you coming, you arent necessarily safe. Smaller
vehicles appear farther away and seem to be traveling slower than they
actually are. It is common for drivers to pull out in front of motorcyclists,
thinking they have plenty of time. Too often, they are wrong. However,
you can do many things to make it easier for others to recognize you and
your motorcycle.
CLOTHING

Most crashes occur in broad daylight. Wear bright-colored clothing to

increase your chances of being seen. Remember, your body is half of the
visible surface area of the rider/motorcycle unit.
Bright orange, red, yellow or green jackets or vests are your best bets for
being seen. Your helmet can do more than protect you in a crash. Brightly
colored helmets can also help others see you.
Any bright color is better than drab or dark colors. Reflective, bright
colored clothing (helmet and jacket or vest) is best.
Reflective material on a vest and on the sides of the helmet will help
drivers coming from the side to spot you. Reflective material can also be a
big help for drivers coming toward you or from behind.
HEADLIGHT

The best way to help others see your motorcycle is to keep the headlight
on at all times (new motorcycles sold in the USA since 1978
automatically have the headlights on when
running). Studies show that, during the day, a
motorcycle with its light on is twice as likely to
be noticed. Use low beam at night and in fog.
SIGNALS

The signals on a motorcycle are similar to those

on a car. They tell others what you plan to do.
However, due to a riders added vulnerability,
signals are even more important. Use them
anytime you plan to change lanes or turn. Use
them
21

even when you think no one else is around. Its the car you dont see thats
going to give you the most trouble. Your signal lights also make you easier
to spot. Thats why its a good idea to use your turn signals even when
what you plan to do is obvious.
When you enter a freeway, drivers approaching from behind are more
likely to see your signal blinking and make room for you.
Turning your signal light on before each turn reduces confusion and
frustration for the traffic around you. Once you turn, make sure your signal
is 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.
Dont make them guess what you intend to do.
BRAKE LIGHT

Your motorcycles 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:
You slow more quickly than others might expect (turning off a high
speed highway).
You slow where others may not expect it (in the middle of a block or at
an alley).
If you are being followed closely, its a good idea to flash your brake light
before you slow. The tailgater may be watching you and not see something
ahead that will make you slow down. This will hopefully discourage them
from tailgating and warn them of hazards ahead they may not see.
USING YOUR MIRRORS

While its most important to keep track of whats happening ahead, you
cant afford to ignore situations behind. Traffic conditions change quickly.
Knowing whats going on behind is essential for you to make a safe
decision about how to handle trouble ahead. Frequent mirror checks
should be part of your normal searching routine. Make a special point of
using your mirrors:
When you are stopped at an intersection. Watch cars coming up from
behind. If the drivers arent paying attention, they could be on top of you
before they see you.
Before you change lanes. Make sure no one is about to pass you.
Before you slow down. The driver behind may not expect you to slow,
22

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.
Some 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 your
mirror. Form a mental image of how far
away it is. Then, turn around and
look at it to see how close you came.)
Practice with your mirrors until you
become a good judge of distance. Even
then, allow extra distance before
you change lanes.
HEAD CHECKS

Checking your mirrors is not enough. Motorcycles have blind spots like
cars. Before you change lanes, turn your head, and look to the side for
other vehicles.
On a road with several lanes, check the far lane and the one next to you. A
driver in the distant lane may head for the same space you plan to take.
Frequent head checks should be your normal scanning routine, also. Only
by knowing what is happening all around you are you fully prepared to
deal with it.
HORN

Be ready to use your horn to get someones attention quickly. It is a good

idea to give a quick beep before passing anyone that may move into your
lane.
Here are some situations:
A driver in the lane next to you is driving too closely to the vehicle
ahead and may want to pass.
A parked car has someone in the drivers seat.
Someone is in the street, riding a bicycle or walking.
In an emergency, press the horn button loud and long. Be ready to stop or
23

swerve away from the danger.

Keep in mind that a motorcycles horn isnt as loud as a cars therefore,
use it, but dont rely on it. Other strategies, like having time and space to
maneuver, may be appropriate along with the horn.
RIDING AT NIGHT

At night it is harder for you to see and be seen. Picking your headlight or
taillight out of the car lights around you is not easy for other drivers. To
compensate, you should:
Reduce Your Speed Ride even slower than you would during the
day particularly on roads you dont know well. This will increase your
chances of avoiding a hazard.
Increase Distance Distances are harder to judge at night than during
the day. Your eyes rely upon shadows and light contrasts to determine
how far away an object is and how fast it is coming. These contrasts are
missing or distorted under artificial lights at night. Open up a four second
following distance or more. And allow more distance to pass and be
passed.
Use the Car Ahead The headlights of the car ahead can give you a
better view of the road than even your high beam can. Taillights bouncing
up and down can alert you to bumps or rough pavement.
Use Your High Beam Get all the light you can. Use your high beam
whenever you are not following or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear
reflective materials when riding at night.
Be Flexible About Lane Position. Change to whatever portion of the
lane is best able to help you see, be seen and keep an adequate space
cushion.
CRASH AVOIDANCE
No matter how careful you are, there will be times when you find yourself
in a tight spot. Your chances of getting out safely depend on your ability
to react quickly and properly. Often, a crash occurs because a rider is not
prepared or skilled in crash avoidance maneuvers.
Know when and how to stop or swerve, two skills critical in avoiding a
crash. It is not always desirable or possible to stop quickly to avoid an
obstacle. Riders must also be able to swerve around an obstacle.
Determining which skill is necessary for the situation is important as well.
Studies show that most crash involved riders:
Under brake the front tire and over brake the rear.
Did not separate braking from swerving or did not choose swerving
24

when it was appropriate. The following information offers some good

advice.

on the footrests. Let the motorcycle move underneath you.

QUICK STOPS

To stop quickly, apply both brakes at the same time. Dont be shy about
using the front brake, but dont grab it, either. Squeeze the brake lever
firmly and progressively. If the front wheel locks, release the front brake
immediately then reapply it firmly. At the same time, press down on the
rear brake. If you accidentally lock the rear brake on a good traction
surface, you can keep it locked until you have completely stopped; but,
even with a locked rear wheel, you can control the motorcycle on a
straightaway if it is upright and going in a straight line.
Always use both brakes at the same time to
stop. The front brake can provide 70% or
more of the potential stopping power.
If you must stop quickly while turning
or riding a curve, the best technique is to
straighten the bike upright first and then
brake.
However, it may not always be possible to
straighten the motorcycle and then stop. If
you must brake while leaning, apply light brakes and reduce the throttle.
As you slow, you can reduce your lean angle and apply more brake
pressure until the motorcycle is straight and maximum brake pressure is
possible. You should straighten the handlebars in the last few feet of
stopping. The motorcycle should then be straight up and in balance.
SWERVING OR TURNING QUICKLY

Sometimes you may not have enough room to stop, even if you use both
brakes properly. An object might appear suddenly in your path. Or the car
ahead might squeal to a stop. The only way to avoid a crash may be to turn
quickly, or swerve around it.
A swerve is any sudden change in direction. It can be two quick turns, or a
rapid shift to the side. Apply a small amount of pressure to the hand grip
located on the side of your intended direction of escape. This will cause
the motorcycle to lean quickly. The sharper the turn(s), the more the
motorcycle must lean.
Keep your body upright and allow the motorcycle to lean in the direction
of the turn while keeping your knees against the tank and your feet solidly
25

Make your escape route the target of your vision. Press on the opposite
hand grip once you clear the obstacle to return you to your original
direction of travel. To swerve to the left, press the left handgrip, then
press the right to recover. To swerve to the right, press right, then left.
IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, SEPARATE IT FROM SWERVING.
Brake before or after never while swerving.
CORNERING

A primary cause of single vehicle crashes is motorcyclists running wide in

a curve or turn and colliding with the roadway or a fixed object.
Every curve is different. Be alert to whether a curve remains constant,
gradually widens, gets tighter or involves multiple turns.
Ride within your skill level and posted speed limits.
Your best path may not always follow the curve of the road.
Change lane position depending on traffic, road conditions and curve of
the road. If no traffic is present, start at the outside of a curve to increase
your line of sight and the effective radius of the turn. As you turn, move
toward the inside of the curve, and as you pass the center, move to the
outside to exit.
Another alternative is to move to the center of your lane before entering
a curve and stay there until you exit. This permits you to spot
approaching traffic as soon as possible. You can also adjust for traffic
crowding the center line, or debris blocking part of your lane.
26

 Make sure the motorcycle is straight.

Rise slightly off the seat with your weight on the footrests to absorb
the shock with your knees and elbows, and avoid being thrown off the
motorcycle.
Just before contact, roll on the throttle slightly to lighten the front end.
If you ride over an object on the street, pull off the road and check your
tires and rims for damage before riding any farther.

SLIPPERY SURFACES

HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES

Your chance of falling or being involved in a crash increases whenever
you ride across:
Uneven surfaces or obstacles.
Slippery surfaces.
Railroad tracks.
Grooves and gratings.
UNEVEN SURFACES AND OBSTACLES

Watch for uneven surfaces such as bumps, broken pavement, potholes or

small pieces of highway trash.
Try to avoid obstacles by slowing or going around them. If you must go
over the obstacle, first determine if it is possible. Approach it at as close
to a 90 angle as possible. Look where you want to go to control your
path of travel. If you have to ride over the obstacle, you should:
Slow down as much as possible before contact.
27

Motorcycles handle better when ridden on surfaces that permit good

traction. Surfaces that provide poor traction include:
Wet pavement, particularly just after it starts to rain and before surface
oil washes to the side of the road.
Gravel roads, or where sand and gravel collect.
Mud, snow, and ice.
Lane markings (painted lines), steel plates and manhole covers,
especially when wet.
To ride safely on slippery surfaces:
Reduce Speed Slow down before you get to a slippery surface to
lessen your chances of skidding. Your motorcycle needs more distance to
stop. And it is particularly important to reduce speed before entering wet
curves.
Avoid Sudden Moves Any sudden change in speed or direction can
cause a skid. Be as smooth as possible when you speed up, shift gears,
turn or brake.
Use Both Brakes The front brake is still effective, even on a slippery
surface. Squeeze the brake lever gradually to avoid locking the front
28

wheel.
Remember, gentle pressure on the rear brake.
The center of a lane can be hazardous when wet. When it starts to rain,
ride in the tire tracks left by cars. Often, the left tire track will be the best
position, depending on traffic and other road conditions as well.
Watch for oil spots when you put your foot down to stop or park. You
may slip and fall.
Dirt and gravel collect along the sides of the road especially on
curves and ramps leading to and from highways. Be aware of whats on
the edge of the road, particularly when making sharp turns and getting
on or off freeways at high speeds.
Rain dries and snow melts faster on some sections of a road than on
others. Patches of ice tend to develop in low or shaded areas and on
bridges and overpasses. Wet surfaces or wet leaves are just as slippery.
Ride on the least slippery portion of the lane and reduce speed.
Cautious riders steer clear of roads covered with ice or snow. If you cant
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, consider letting your feet skim
along the surface. If the motorcycle starts to fall, you can catch yourself.
Be sure to keep off the brakes. If possible, squeeze the clutch and coast.
Attempting this maneuver at anything other than the slowest of speeds
could prove hazardous.

your tires and throw you off balance.

GROOVES AND GRATINGS

Riding over rain grooves or bridge gratings may cause a motorcycle to

weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling is generally not hazardous. Relax,
maintain a steady speed and ride straight across. Crossing at an angle
forces riders to zigzag to stay in the lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous
than the wandering feeling.

MECHANICAL PROBLEMS
You can find yourself in an emergency the moment something goes wrong
with your motorcycle. In dealing with any mechanical problem, take into
account the road and traffic conditions you face. Here are some guidelines
that can help you handle mechanical problems safely.
TIRE FAILURE

RAILROAD TRACKS, TROLLEY TRACKS AND PAVEMENT SEAMS

Usually it is safer to ride straight within your lane to cross tracks. Turning
to take tracks head-on (at a 90 angle) can be more dangerous your
path may carry you into another lane of traffic.
For track and road seams that run parallel to your course, move far enough
away from tracks, ruts, or pavement seams to cross at an angle of
at least 45. Then, make a deliberate turn. Edging across could catch
29

You will seldom hear a tire go flat. If the motorcycle starts handling
differently, it may be a tire failure. This can be dangerous. You must
be able to tell from the way the motorcycle reacts. If one of your tires
suddenly loses air, react quickly to keep your balance. Pull off and check
the tires.
If the front tire goes flat, the steering will feel heavy. A front-wheel flat
is particularly hazardous because it affects your steering. You have to steer
well to keep your balance.
If the rear tire goes flat, the back of the motorcycle may jerk or sway from
side to side.
30

If either tire goes flat while riding:

Hold handgrips firmly, ease off the throttle, and keep a straight course.
If braking is required, however, gradually apply the brake of the tire
that isnt flat, if you are sure which one it is.
When the motorcycle slows, edge to the side of the road, squeeze the
clutch and stop.
STUCK THROTTLE

Twist the throttle back and forth several times. If the throttle cable is
stuck, this may free it. If the throttle stays stuck, immediately operate the
engine cut-off switch and pull in the clutch at the same time. This will
remove power from the rear wheel, though engine sound may not
immediately decline. Once the motorcycle is under control, pull off and
stop.
After you have stopped, check the throttle cable carefully to find the
source of the trouble. Make certain the throttle works freely before you
start to ride again.
WOBBLE

A wobble occurs when the front wheel and handlebars suddenly start
to shake from side to side at any speed. Most wobbles can be traced to
improper loading, unsuitable accessories or incorrect tire pressure. If you
are carrying a heavy load, lighten it. If you cant, shift it. Center the weight
lower and farther forward on the motorcycle. Make sure tire pressure,
spring pre-load, air shocks and dampers are at the settings recommended
for that much weight. Make sure windshields and fairings are mounted
properly.
Check for poorly adjusted steering; worn steering parts; a front wheel
that is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; loose wheel bearings or
spokes; and worn swing arm bearings. If none of these is determined to
be the cause, have the motorcycle checked out thoroughly by a qualified
professional.
Trying to accelerate out of a wobble will only make the motorcycle
more unstable. Instead:
Grip the handlebars firmly, but dont fight the wobble.
Close the throttle gradually to slow down. Do not apply the brakes;
braking could make the wobble worse.
Move your weight as far forward and down as possible.
Pull off the road as soon as you can to fix the problem.
31

DRIVE TRAIN PROBLEMS

The drive train for a motorcycle uses either a chain, belt, or drive shaft
to transfer power from the engine to the rear wheel. Routine inspection,
adjustment, and maintenance makes failure a rare occurrence. A chain or
belt that slips or breaks while youre riding could lock the rear wheel and
cause your motorcycle to skid.
If the chain or belt breaks, youll notice an instant loss of power to the rear
wheel. Close the throttle and brake to a stop in a safe area.
On models with a drive shaft, loss of oil in the rear differential can cause
the rear wheel to lock, and you may not be able to prevent a skid.
ENGINE SEIZURE

When the engine locks or freezes it is usually low on oil. The engines
moving parts cant move smoothly against each other, and the engine
overheats. The first sign may be a loss of engine power or a change in the
engines sound. Squeeze the clutch lever to disengage the engine from the
rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop. Check the oil. If needed, oil should
be added as soon as possible or the engine will seize. When this happens,
the effect is the same as a locked rear wheel. Let the engine cool before
restarting.
ANIMALS
Naturally, you should do everything you safely can to avoid hitting
an animal. If you are in traffic, however, remain in your lane. Hitting
something small is less dangerous to you than hitting something big
like a car.
Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If you are chased, downshift and
approach the animal slowly. As you approach it, accelerate away and
leave the animal behind. Dont kick at an animal. Keep control of your
motorcycle and look to where you want to go.
For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle) brake and prepare to stop they are
unpredictable.
FLYING OBJECTS
From time to time riders are struck by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars
or pebbles kicked up by the tires of the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing
face protection, it might get smeared or cracked, making it difficult to see.
Without face protection, an object could hit you in the eye, face or mouth.
Whatever happens, keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the
handlebars. When safe, pull off the road and repair the damage.
32

GETTING OFF THE ROAD

If you need to leave the road to check the motorcycle (or just to rest for a
while), be sure you:
Check the roadside Make sure the surface of the roadside is firm
enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, loose sand or if youre just not sure
about it, slow way down before you turn onto it.
Signal Drivers behind might not expect you to slow down. Give a
clear signal that you will be slowing down and changing direction. Check
your mirror and make a head check before you take any action.
Pull off the road Get as far off the road as you can. It can be very
hard to spot a motorcycle by the side of the road. You dont want
someone else pulling off at the same place you are.
Park carefully Loose and sloped shoulders can make setting the side
or center stand difficult.
CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO
Only experienced riders should carry passengers or large loads. The extra
weight changes the way the motorcycle handles, balances, speeds up
and slows down. Before taking a passenger or a heavy load on the street,
practice away from traffic.
EQUIPMENT

To carry passengers safely:

Equip and adjust your motorcycle to carry passengers.
Instruct the passenger before you start.
Adjust your riding technique for the added weight.
Equipment should include:
A proper seat large enough to hold both of you without crowding.
You should not sit any farther forward than you usually do.
Footrests for the passenger. Firm footing prevents your passenger
from falling off and pulling you off, too.
Protective equipment the same protective gear recommended for
operators.
Adjust the suspension to handle the additional weight. You will probably
need to add a few pounds of pressure to the tires if you carry a passenger.
(Check your owners manual for appropriate settings.) While your
passenger sits on the seat with you, adjust the mirrors and headlight
according to the change in the motorcycles angle.
INSTRUCTING PASSENGERS

33

Even if your passenger is a motorcycle rider, provide complete instructions

before you start. Tell your passenger to:
Get on the motorcycle only after you have started the engine.
Sit as far forward as possible without crowding you.
Hold firmly to your waist, hips, belt, or to the bikes passenger hand
holds.
Keep both feet on the footrests, even when stopped.
Keep legs away from the muffler(s), chains or moving parts.
Stay directly behind you, leaning as you lean.
Avoid unnecessary talk or motion.
Also, tell your passenger to tighten his or her hold when you:
Approach surface problems.
Are about to start from a stop.
Warn that you will make a sudden move.
RIDING WITH PASSENGERS

Your motorcycle will respond more slowly with a passenger on board.

The heavier your passenger, the longer it may take to slow down and
speed up especially on a light motorcycle.
Ride a little slower, especially when taking curves, corners or bumps.
Start slowing earlier as you approach a stop.
Open up a larger cushion of space ahead and to the sides.
Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter or merge in traffic.
Warn your passenger of special conditions when you will pull out, stop
quickly, turn sharply or ride over a bump. Turn your head slightly to make
yourself understood, but keep your eyes on the road ahead.
CARRYING LOADS

Most motorcycles are not designed to carry much cargo. Small loads can
be carried safely if positioned and fastened properly.
Keep the Load Low Fasten loads securely, or put them in
saddlebags. Piling loads against a sissy bar or frame on the back of the
seat raises the motorcycles center of gravity and disturbs its balance.
Keep the Load Forward Place the load over, or in front of, the rear
axle. Tank bags keep loads forward, but use caution when loading hard or
sharp objects. Make sure the tank bag does not interfere with handlebars
or controls. Mounting loads behind the rear axle can affect how the
motorcycle turns and brakes. It can also cause a wobble.
34

 Distribute the Load Evenly Load saddlebags with about the same
weight. An uneven load can cause the motorcycle to drift to one side.
Secure the Load Fasten the load securely with elastic cords (bungee
cords or nets). Elastic cords with more than one attachment point per
side are more secure. A tight load wont catch in the wheel or chain,
causing it to lock up and skid. Rope tends to stretch and knots come loose,
permitting the load to shift or fall.
Check the Load Stop and check the load every so often to make sure
it has not worked loose or moved.
Passengers or bundles should never be carried in front of the handlebars.
GROUP RIDING
If you ride with others, do it in a way that promotes safety and doesnt
interfere with the flow of traffic.
KEEP THE GROUP SMALL

Small groups make it easier and safer for car drivers who need to get
around them. A small number isnt separated as easily by traffic or red
lights. Riders wont always be hurrying to catch up. If your group is larger
than four or five riders, divide it up into two or more smaller groups.
KEEP THE GROUP TOGETHER

Plan The leader should look ahead for changes and signal early so
the word gets back in plenty of time. Start lane changes early to permit
everyone to complete the change.
Put Beginners Up Front Place inexperienced riders just behind the
leader. That way the more experienced riders can watch them from the
back.
Follow Those Behind Let the tailender set the pace. Use your mirrors
to keep an eye on the person behind. If a rider falls behind, everyone
should slow down a little to stay with the tailender.
Know the Route Make sure everyone knows the route. Then, if
someone is separated they wont have to hurry to keep from getting lost
or taking a wrong turn. Plan frequent stops on long rides.

no place to go if you have to avoid a car or something on the road. To talk,

wait until you are both stopped.
Staggered Formation This is
the best way to keep ranks close yet
maintain an adequate space cushion.
The leader rides in the left side of
the lane, while the second rider stays
one second behind in the right side
of the lane.
A third rider maintains in the left
position, two seconds behind the
first
rider. The fourth rider would keep a
two-second distance behind the
second rider. This formation keeps
the group close and permits each
rider a safe distance from others
ahead, behind and to the sides.
Passing in Formation Riders in a staggered formation should pass

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE

Maintain close ranks but at the same time keep a safe distance to allow
each rider in the group time and space to react to hazards. A close group
takes up less space on the highway, is easier to see and is less likely to be
separated. However, it must be done properly.
Dont Pair Up Never operate directly alongside another rider. There is
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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
at passing speed to open room for the next rider.
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 After the first rider passes safely, the second rider should move up to
the left position and watch for a safe chance to pass. After passing, this
rider should return to the right position and open up room for the next
rider.
Some people suggest that the leader should move to the right side after
passing a vehicle. This is not a good idea. It encourages the second rider to
pass and cut back in before there is a large enough space cushion in front
of the passed vehicle. Its simpler and safer to wait until there is enough
room ahead of the passed vehicle to allow each rider to move into the
same position held before the pass.
Single-File Formation It is best to move into a single-file formation
when riding curves, turning, entering or leaving a highway.

BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

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

pay attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle,
identifying potential hazards, making good judgments and executing
decisions quickly and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to
changing road and traffic conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you
are. Alcohol and other drugs, more than any other factor, degrade your
ability to think clearly and to ride safely. As little as one drink can have a
significant effect on your performance.
Lets 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 IS IMPORTANT
Alcohol is a major contributor to motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal
crashes. Studies show that 40% to 45% of all riders killed in motorcycle
crashes had been drinking. Only one third of those riders had a blood
alcohol concentration above legal limits. The rest had only a few drinks
in their systems enough to impair riding skills. In the past, drug levels
have been harder to distinguish or have not been separated from drinking
violations for the traffic records. But riding under the influence of either
alcohol or drugs poses physical and legal hazards for every rider.
Drinking and drug use is as big a problem among motorcyclists as it is
among automobile drivers. Motorcyclists, however, are more likely to be
killed or severely injured in a crash. Injuries occur in 90% of motorcycle
crashes and 33% of automobile crashes that involve abuse of substances.
On a yearly basis, 2,100 motorcyclists are killed and about 50,000 serious
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ly injured in this same type of crash. These statistics are too overwhelming
to ignore.
By becoming knowledgeable about the effects of alcohol and other drugs
you will see that riding and substance abuse dont mix. Take positive steps
to protect yourself and prevent others from injuring themselves.
ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE
OPERATION
No one is immune to the effects of alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag
about their ability to hold their liquor or perform better on drugs, but
alcohol or drugs make them less able to think clearly and perform physical
tasks skillfully. Judgment and the decision-making processes needed for
vehicle operation are affected long before legal limitations are reached.
Many over-the-counter, prescription and illegal drugs have side effects
that increase the risk of riding. It is difficult to accurately measure the
involvement of particular drugs in motorcycle crashes. But we do know
what effects various drugs have on the process involved in riding a
motorcycle. We also know that the combined effects of alcohol and other
drugs are more dangerous than either is alone.
ALCOHOL IN THE BODY
Alcohol enters the bloodstream quickly. Unlike most foods and beverages
it does not need to be digested. Within minutes after being consumed, it
reaches the brain and begins to affect the drinker. The major effect alcohol
has is to slow down and impair bodily functions both mental and
physical. Whatever you do, you do less well after consuming alcohol.
BLOOD ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION

Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC is the amount of alcohol in relation

to blood in the body. Generally, alcohol can be eliminated in the body at
the rate of almost one drink per hour. But a variety of other factors may
also influence the level of alcohol retained. The more alcohol in your
blood, the greater the degree of impairment.
Three factors play a major part in determining BAC:
The amount of alcohol you consume.
How fast you drink.
Your body weight.
Other factors also contribute to the way alcohol affects your system. Your
sex, physical condition and food intake are just a few that may cause
your BAC level to be even higher. But the full effects of these are not
completely known. Alcohol may still accumulate in your body even if you
are

drinking at a rate of one drink per hour. Abilities and judgment can be
affected by that one drink.
A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed drink with one shot of liquor, and a 5ounce glass of wine all contain the same amount of alcohol. The faster you
drink, the more alcohol accumulates in your body. If you drink two drinks
in an hour, at the end of that hour, at least one drink will remain in your
bloodstream.
Without taking into account any other factors, these examples illustrate
why time is a critical factor when a rider decides to drink.

In all states, an adult with a BAC of 0.08% or above is considered

intoxicated. For operators under the age of 21, lower BAC limits (0.00
to 0.02%,) apply. It doesnt matter how sober you may look or act. The
breath or urine test is what usually determines whether you are riding
legally or illegally.
Your chances of being stopped for riding under the influence of alcohol
are increasing. Law enforcement is being stepped up across the country
in response to the senseless deaths and injuries caused by drinking drivers
and riders.
CONSEQUENCES OF CONVICTION

A person drinking:
Seven drinks over the span of three hours would have at least four (7 3
= 4) drinks remaining in their system at the end of the three hours. They
would need at least another four hours to eliminate the four remaining
drinks before they consider riding.
Four drinks over the span of two hours would have at least two (4 2
= 2) drinks remaining in their system at the end of the two hours. They
would need at least another two hours to eliminate the two remaining
drinks before they consider riding.
There are times when a larger person may not accumulate as high a
concentration of alcohol for each drink consumed. They have more blood
and other bodily fluids. But because of individual differences it is better
not to take the chance that abilities and judgment have not been affected.
Whether or not you are legally intoxicated is not the real issue.
Impairment of judgment and skills begins well below the legal limit.
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW

Years ago, first offenders had a good chance of getting off with a small
fine and participation in alcohol-abuse classes. Today the laws of most
states impose stiff penalties on drinking operators. And those penalties are
mandatory, meaning that judges must impose them.
If you are convicted of riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you
may receive any of the following penalties:
License Suspension Mandatory suspension for conviction, arrest or
refusal to submit to a breath test.
Fines Severe fines are another aspect of a conviction, usually levied
with a license suspension.
Community ServicePerforming tasks such as picking up litter along
the highway, washing cars in the motor-vehicle pool or working at an
emergency ward.
Costs Additional lawyers fees to pay, lost work time spent in court or
alcohol-education programs, public transportation costs (while your
license is suspended) and the added psychological costs of being tagged a
drunk driver.
MINIMIZE THE RISKS
Your ability to judge how well you are riding is affected first. Although
you may be performing more and more poorly, you think you are doing
better and better. The result is that you ride confidently, taking greater and
greater risks. Minimize the risks of drinking and riding by taking steps
before you drink. Control your drinking or control your riding.
MAKE AN INTELLIGENT CHOICE

Dont Drink Once you start, your resistance becomes weaker.

Setting a limit or pacing yourself are poor alternatives at best. Your ability
to exercise good judgment is one of the first things affected by alcohol.

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Even if you have tried to drink in moderation, you may not realize to what
extent your skills have suffered from alcohols fatiguing effects.
Or Dont Ride If you havent controlled your drinking, you must
control your riding.
Leave the motorcycle so you wont be tempted to ride. Arrange
another way to get home.
Wait If you exceed your limit, wait until your system eliminates the
alcohol and its fatiguing effects.
STEP IN TO PROTECT FRIENDS
People who have had too much to drink are unable to make a responsible
decision. It is up to others to step in and keep them from taking too great
a risk. No one wants to do this its uncomfortable, embarrassing and
thankless. You are rarely thanked for your efforts at the time. But the
alternatives are often worse.
There are several ways to keep friends from hurting themselves:
Arrange a safe ride Provide alternative ways for them to get home.
Slow the pace of drinking Involve them in other activities.
Keep them there Use any excuse to keep them from getting on their
motorcycle. Serve them food and coffee to pass the time. Explain your
concerns for their risks of getting arrested or hurt or hurting someone else.
Take their key, if you can.
Get friends involved Use peer pressure from a group of friends to
intervene.
It helps to enlist support from others when you decide to step in. The more
people on your side, the easier it is to be firm and the harder it is for the
rider to resist. While you may not be thanked at the time, you will never
have to say, If only I had ...
FATIGUE
Riding a motorcycle is more tiring than driving a car. On a long trip, youll
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.
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Dont drink or use drugs Artificial stimulants often result in extreme

fatigue or depression when they start to wear off. Riders are unable to
concentrate on the task at hand.

SAFETY TIPS/SUMMARY

Always wear a U.S. Department of Transportation approved helmet and

proper clothing.
When traveling with several motorcyclists, ride in a staggered position,
and never two abreast.
Be careful with brakes apply both brakes at the same time.
Watch for slick or loose surfaces, and reduce speed before you approach
these areas.
Check nearby traffic before passing or changing lanes.
Be alert at intersections. This is where most motorcycle accidents occur.
Never make a U-turn without first coming to a full stop.
Always wear clothing that can be seen readily by other drivers.
Stay off the interstate highways unless your motorcycle is capable of
cruising at interstate speed. The engine size should be a 250 cc or larger
for interstate speeds.
Do not carry passengers unless your motorcycle is designed for more
than one person.
Turn your lights on, even in daylight hours, so other drivers can see you.
Remember that your stopping distance is increased if you are carrying a
passenger or heavy bundle.
Do not loan your motorcycle to anyone who is not experienced in riding
your type of motorcycle.
The best lane position for seeing and being seen is in the left third of the
right lane.
Guard against overconfidence.
Remember that your stopping distance is greater than that of a passenger
car.
Avoid congested traffic areas and high speed when first learning to ride.
Handlebars should be set no more than 15 inches above the seat level for
maximum control and comfort.
Children and animals may dart in the path of motorcycles.
Be especially careful in school and residential areas.

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PERFORMANCE TEST

During the motorcycle performance test, the applicant will be required to

maneuver through the cones as illustrated in the following diagrams.

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MOPEDS

Moped means either a motorized bicycle whose frame design may

inlcude one (1) or more horizontal crossbars supporting a fuel tank so long
as it also has pedals, or a motorized bicycle with a step-through type
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frame which may or may not have pedals, rated no more than two (2)
brake horsepower, a cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty (50) cubic
centimeters, an automatic transmission not requiring clutching or shifting
by the operator after the drive system is engaged, and capable of a
maximum speed of not more than thirty (30) miles per hour.
First time applicants for a moped license must be at least 16 years old and
complete a driver license application. You will only be required to pass
the general knowledge and vision tests to be issued a moped license. A
skills test and permit are not required. Persons already having a valid car/
motorcyle license or permit do not have to apply for a moped license.

OPERATION

Mopeds are a little more complicated to ride and operate than bicycles, but
considerably simpler than motorcycles. Familiarity with controls can be
learned by operating the vehicle in a parking lot or other off-street area.
Since mopeds are not easily seen in the traffic flow, it is vital that the
operator surround himself with as large a space cushion as possible.
Riding with the headlight on and bike flags will help others see you.
Moped operators are not required to wear helmets or eye-protection
devices, but they are strongly recommended.
Mopeds CANNOT be operated on limited-access highways where the
minimum speed is greater than thirty (30) miles per hour.

TRAIL BIKES AND ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES (ATVS)

Trail bikes or all-terrain vehicles are designed for off-road use, and their
use on streets or highways is illegal.

TRAFFIC SIGNALS
Standard Colors:

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WARNING SIGNS

REGULATORY SIGNS

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50

ADDITIONAL SIGNS

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