Motorcycle Motorcycle Motorcycle Motorcycle Motorcycle: Operator Manual

Motorcycle
Operator Manual
Dannel P. Malloy
Governor
Melody A. Currey
Commissioner
Prepared By
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Adapted with Permission
By
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
60 State Street
Wethersfield, Connecticut 06161
R-217 (Rev. 01-11)

CONTENTS 3
GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT MOTORCYCLE Swerving or Turning Quickly ..........................29
ENDORSEMENT Cornering ...............................................................30
Getting Your Endorsement .................................... 4 Handling Dangerous Surfaces ............................31
Motorcycling and Connecticut Law ............... 4
Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles .........................31
Motorcycle Learner’s Permit ............................. 6
Slippery Surfaces ................................................32
Sharing the Road ................................................... 7
Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks
and Pavement Seams ..................................33
PREPARING TO RIDE
Grooves and Gratings ........................................33
Wear the Right Gear ................................................. 8
Mechanical Problems .............................................34
Helmet Use .............................................................. 8
Tire Failure .............................................................34
Helmet Selection ................................................... 8
Stuck Throttle .......................................................34
Eye and Face Protection ..................................... 9
Wobble ...................................................................34
Clothing ..................................................................10
Drive Train Problems ..........................................35
Know Your Motorcycle ..........................................10 Engine Seizure .....................................................35
The Right Motorcycle for You .........................10
Animals .......................................................................35
Borrowing and Lending ....................................11
Get Familiar with the Flying Objects ...........................................................36
Motorcycle Controls ....................................11
Getting Off the Road ..............................................36
Check Your Motorcycle .....................................12
Carrying Passengers
Know Your Responsibilities ..................................13
and Cargo ............................................................36
Equipment .............................................................36
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Instructing Passengers ......................................37
Basic Vehicle Control ..............................................14 Riding With Passengers ....................................37
Body Position .......................................................14 Carrying Loads .....................................................37
Shifting Gears .......................................................14
Group Riding .............................................................38
Braking ....................................................................15
Keep the Group Small .......................................38
Turning ...................................................................15
Keep the Group Together ................................38
Keeping Your Distance ..........................................16 Keep Your Distance ............................................38
Lane Positions ......................................................16
Following Another Vehicle ..............................17 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
Being Followed ....................................................18
Why This Information Is
Passing and Being Passed ................................18
Important .............................................................40
Lane Sharing .........................................................20
Merging Cars ........................................................20 Alcohol and Other Drugs in
Cars Alongside .....................................................20 Motorcycle Operation .....................................40
SEE ................................................................................21 Alcohol in the Body ................................................40
Blood Alcohol
Intersections .............................................................22
Concentration ................................................41
Blind Intersections ..............................................23
Passing Parked Cars ...........................................24 Alcohol and the Law ..............................................42
Parking at the Roadside ....................................24 Consequences of
Conviction .......................................................42
Increasing Conspicuity ..........................................25
Clothing ..................................................................25 Minimize the Risks ..................................................42
Headlight ...............................................................25
Step in to Protect Friends .....................................43
Signals .....................................................................25
Brake Light .............................................................26 Fatigue ........................................................................43
Using Your Mirrors ..............................................26
Head Checks .........................................................27 EARNING YOUR LICENSE
Horn .........................................................................27 Knowledge Test ...................................................44
Riding at Night .....................................................28 On-Motorcycle Skill Test ...................................45
Crash Avoidance ......................................................28
SUPPLEMENT FOR 3-WHEEL MOTORCYCLES
Quick Stops ...........................................................28
Three-Wheel Supplement ...............................46
4 GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT ENDORSEMENT
GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT

What is a Motorcycle Endorsement?
A motorcycle endorsement, designated by the letter “M,” on a Connecticut motor
vehicle driver’s license, allows operation of a motorcycle on public highways.
What is a motorcycle learner’s permit?
Before earning your motorcycle endorsement, you have the option to obtain a
motorcycle learner’s permit. The permit allows you to drive a motorcycle with certain
restrictions to help you gain experience as a skilled operator.
Who needs a motorcycle endorsement?
Any Connecticut motor vehicle driver’s license holder who operates a motorcycle.
Who does not need a motorcycle endorsement from Connecticut?
Any non-resident or temporary resident who holds a valid driver’s license issued by
another jurisdiction, which authorizes the operation of a motorcycle. This may include:
• Members of the Armed Forces
• Students enrolled in a higher education institution
• Non-residents employed in Connecticut.
What is required to obtain a motorcycle endorsement?
• A valid Connecticut Driver’s License.
• A parental consent form (if under 18 years of age).
• Fees for motorcycle knowledge and vision tests.
• Successful completion of a motorcycle knowledge and vision tests at a full-service
DMV branch office. You may take the motorcycle knowledge and vision tests at any
full-service DMV branch office on a “walk in” basis. No appointment is necessary. For
office hours, please visit the DMV website at ct.gov/dmv/offices.
NOTE: Once you pass the motorcycle knowledge and vision tests, you have the
option to get a motorcycle learner’s permit. Before earning your endorsement, the
permit allows you to drive a motorcycle on the road with certain restrictions.
• Complete a novice motorcycle-training course approved by the Commissioner of
Motor Vehicles. This training includes classroom and skills training on a motorcycle.
Once you have successfully completed this training, your proof of course completion
must be presented to the DMV .
A list of approved course providers may be found at ct.gov/dmv/mcsafetycourses.
Once you have successfully completed this training, your proof of course completion
must be presented to the DMV and an “M” endorsement will be added to your driver’s
license.
Motorcycling and Connecticut Law
What is a motorcycle?
Connecticut motor vehicle law defines a motorcycle as a motor vehicle having not
more than three wheels in contact with the ground and a saddle or seat on which the
rider sits or a platform on which the rider stands, and with or without a side car, except
5
any vehicle in which the driver’s seat is completely or partially enclosed and the motor
on such vehicle is not within such enclosed area.
Motor-Driven Cycles (Mopeds)
Connecticut law distinguishes the difference between a motorcycle and a motor-
driven cycle, commonly known as a moped. A motor-driven cycle is defined as any
motorcycle, motor scooter, or bicycle with an attached motor that has a seat height of
at least 26 inches and a motor that produces no more than five brake horsepower. You
must have a valid driver’s license to operate a motor-driven cycle, but do not need a
motorcycle endorsement.
NOTE: Sixteen-and 17-year-olds must wear protective headgear when operating a
motor-driven cycle or motorcycle.
In addition, if the speed limit on a road is greater than the maximum speed of the
motor-driven cycle, you may only operate that cycle in the right hand traffic lane or
on a usable shoulder on the right side of the road, except if preparing to turn left at an
intersection or into or from a private road or driveway. A motor-driven cycle cannot be
operated on a limited access highway or turnpike.
Driver’s License Required To Operate Any Motor Vehicle
To operate a motorcycle on the public streets and highways in the State of
Connecticut, the motorcycle operator is required to have a valid driver’s license, with a
motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle learner’s permit.
To obtain a Connecticut Driver’s License, the applicant must be at least 16 years of age;
be physically and mentally capable of operating a motor vehicle and have successfully
completed both a written and on-road driver’s examination. All applicants who do
not hold a driver’s license must complete an 8-hour safe driving course. Applicants 16
or 17 years of age must also hold a learner’s permit, have parental consent and pass a
25-question final exam to obtain a driver’s license.
For more detailed information on how to obtain a Connecticut Driver’s License,
please visit the DMV website at ct.gov/dmv.
Motorcycle Operator Required To Observe All Connecticut Traffic Laws
The operator of a motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle on the public streets and
highways of the State of Connecticut is required to observe all Connecticut traffic laws,
regulations, and rules of the road. Any violation of Connecticut law while operating a
motorcycle or motor-driven cycle results in the same penalties and fines as are other
motorists.
Motorcycle License Plate
Connecticut law states that the motorcycle license plate is to be fastened immovably
in an upright position to the rear of the motorcycle so that it is plainly visible and
legible from behind the cycle.
Passenger Restrictions for New “M” Endorsement Holders
Drivers 18 years of age and older may not transport passengers for 90 days after
obtaining a motorcycle endorsement. In addition, no 16-or 17-year-old may transport
any passenger on a motorcycle for a period of six months after receiving his or her
motorcycle endorsement.
6 GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT ENDORSEMENT
Other Laws for 16-and 17-Year-Old Motorcycle Operators

• Connecticut law prohibits 16-and 17 year-olds with a driver’s license from driving
between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless they are traveling for employment, school, religious
or medical-related reasons. This applies to the operation of a motorcycle.
• No person under 18 years of age may operate a motorcycle or a motor-driven
cycle, or be a passenger on a motorcycle, unless such operator or passenger is wearing
protective headgear.
Motorcycle Learner’s Permit
What do you need to obtain the motorcycle learner’s permit?
• You must possess a valid Connecticut Driver’s License.
• You must pass the motorcycle knowledge and vision tests.
• You must present a parental consent form if under 18 years of age.
• Each applicant issued a motorcycle learner’s permit, regardless of age while
operating a motorcycle, must wear U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) or
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) approved protective headgear.
• Pay the required fee for testing and the permit.
Where do you apply to take the knowledge and vision tests?
• You may take the knowledge and vision test to obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit
at any full-service DMV branch office on a “walk in” basis. No appointment is necessary.
For office hours visit the DMV website at ct.gov/dmv/offices.
What will the knowledge and vision tests include?
• The knowledge examination will consist of 16 questions taken from parts of this
manual and the Connecticut Driver’s Manual for New Drivers.
• The vision test will measure your visual acuity (how clearly you see) and your
horizontal vision (how far you can see to either side while looking straight ahead) as
well as depth and color perception.
What you need to know about operating a motorcycle with a motorcycle learner’s
permit:
• You must have your motorcycle permit and your driver’s license in your possession
while operating the motorcycle.
• You cannot operate your motorcycle on a limited access highway.
• You cannot operate your motorcycle at night.
• You cannot operate your motorcycle out-of-state.
• You cannot carry passengers on your motorcycle*.
• You must wear U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) or National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) approved protective headgear regardless of age.
• Your permit is valid for 60 days and may be renewed once in a calendar year.
*NOTE: You may not transport passengers for 90 days after obtaining a motorcycle
endorsement. Sixteen and 17-year-old drivers are prohibited from carrying passengers
for six months after obtaining a motorcycle endorsement.
SHARE THE ROAD 7
Share the Road

In an effort to increase safety on the road, the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) has compiled a list of facts for all motorists to remember
when riding a motorcycle or driving near a motorcycle. Remember the following:
• Motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the
road.
• Allow the motorcyclist a full lane width. Although it may seem as though there is
enough room in the traffic lane for an automobile and a motorcycle, remember the
motorcycle needs room to maneuver safely.
• Approximately one-half of all motorcycle crashes involve another motor vehicle.
Nearly 40 percent were caused by the other vehicle turning left in front of the
motorcyclist.
• Motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see. Motorcycles have a much smaller
profile than vehicles, which can make it more difficult to judge the speed and distance
of an approaching vehicle.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
This allows the motorcyclist to anticipate traffic flow and find a safe lane position.
• Remember that motorcyclists are often hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot or missed
in a quick look due to their smaller size. Always make a visual check for motorcycles
by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at
intersections.
• Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals
usually are not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off.
Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
• Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances to you pose major
hazards to motorcyclists. Motorcyclists may change speed or adjust their position
within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffic conditions such as potholes,
gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings and grooved
pavement.
• Allow for three or four more seconds of following distance, when following
a motorcycle to allow the motorcyclist enough time to maneuver or stop in an
emergency. In dry conditions motorcycles can stop more quickly than a car.
8 PREPARING TO RIDE
What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining
whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on
any trip, a safe rider makes a point to:
1. Wear the right gear.
2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.
3. Check the motorcycle equipment.
4. Be a responsible rider.
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR • A DOT compliant helmet lets

When you ride, your gear is “right” you see as far to the sides as
necessary. A study of more than
if it protects you. In any crash, you have
900 motorcycle crashes, where
a far better chance of avoiding serious 40% of the riders wore helmets,
injury if you wear: did not find even one case in which
• A DOT compliant helmet. a helmet kept a rider from spotting
danger.
• Face or eye protection.
• Most crashes happen on short
• Protective clothing. trips (less than five miles long), just
Helmet Use a few minutes after starting out.
Crashes can occur — particularly • Most riders are riding slower than
30 mph when a crash occurs. At
among untrained, beginning riders.
these speeds, helmets can cut both
And one out of every five motorcycle the number and the severity of head
crashes results in head or neck injuries. injuries by half.
Head injuries are just as severe as neck
injuries — and far more common. Crash No matter what the speed, helmeted
analyses show that head and neck riders are three times more likely to
injuries account for a majority of serious survive head injuries than those not
and fatal injuries to motorcyclists. wearing helmets at the time of the
Research also shows that, with few crash. The single most important thing
exceptions, head and neck injuries are you can do to improve your chances of
reduced by properly wearing a quality surviving a crash is to wear a securely-
helmet. fastened, quality helmet.
Some riders don’t wear helmets Helmet Selection

because they think helmets will limit There are two primary types of
their view to the sides. Others wear helmets, providing two different levels
helmets only on long trips or when of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
riding at high speeds. But, here are
some facts to consider: Whichever style you choose, you can
get the most protection by making sure
that the helmet:
9
HELMETS
• Is designed to meet U.S. Goggles protect your eyes, though

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

The right clothing protects you in MOTORCYCLE
a collision. It also provides comfort, There are plenty of things on the
as well as protection from heat, cold, highway that can cause you trouble.
debris and hot and moving parts of the Your motorcycle should not be one
motorcycle. It can also make you more of them. To make sure that your
visible to others. motorcycle won’t let you down:
• Jacket and pants should cover • Read the owner’s manual first.
arms and legs completely. They
should fit snugly enough to keep • Start with the right motorcycle for
from flapping in the wind, yet you.
loosely enough to move freely. • Be familiar with the motorcycle
Leather offers the most protection. controls.
Sturdy synthetic material provides
a lot of protection as well. Wear • Check the motorcycle before every
a jacket even in warm weather to ride.
prevent dehydration. Many are • Keep it in safe riding condition
designed to protect without getting between rides.
you overheated, even on summer
• Avoid add-ons and modifications
days.
that make your motorcycle harder
• Boots or shoes should be high to handle.
and sturdy enough to cover your
ankles and give them support. Soles The Right Motorcycle For You
should be made of hard, durable, First, make sure your motorcycle is
slip-resistant material. Keep heels right for you. It should “fit” you. Your
short so they do not catch on rough feet should reach the ground while
surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t you are seated on the motorcycle, and
catch on your motorcycle. the controls should be easy to operate.
• Gloves allow a better grip and help Smaller motorcycles are usually easier
protect your hands in a crash. Your for beginners to operate.
gloves should be made of leather or
similar durable material.
In cold or wet weather, your clothes
should keep you warm and dry, as
well as protect you from injury. You TEST YOURSELF 1
cannot control a motorcycle well if A plastic shatter-resistant face shield:
you are numb. Riding for long periods
A. Is not necessary if you have a
in cold weather can cause severe chill windshield.
and fatigue. A winter jacket should B. Only protects your eyes.
resist wind and fit snugly at the neck,
C. Helps protect your whole face.
wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits
D. Does not protect your face as well as
designed for motorcycle riding resist goggles.
tearing apart or ballooning up at high
Answer - page 45
speeds.
11
At a minimum, your street-legal know how to ride before allowing them

motorcycle should have: out into traffic.
• Headlight, taillight and No matter how experienced you
brakelight. may be, ride extra carefully on any
motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar
• Front and rear brakes.
to you. More than half of all crashes
• Turn signals. involve riders with less than five months
• Horn. of experience on their motorcycle.
• Two mirrors. Get Familiar with the

Borrowing and Lending Motorcycle Controls
Make sure you are completely familiar
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles,
with the motorcycle before you take
beware. Crashes are fairly common
it out on the street. Be sure to review
among beginning riders — especially
the owner’s manual. This is particularly
in the first months of riding. Riding
important if you are riding a borrowed
an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the
motorcycle.
problem. If you borrow a motorcycle,
get familiar with it in a controlled area. If you are going to use an unfamiliar
And if you lend your motorcycle to motorcycle:
friends, make sure they are licensed and
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
Light Switch (high/low) Engine Cut-Off
Switch
Choke (varies)
Electric
Turn-Signal Start
Switch Button
Ignition Key
(varies)
Horn Button Throttle
Clutch Lever Front Brake Lever

Speedometer
& Odometer
Tachometer
(if equipped)
Fuel Supply Valve

(if equipped)
Rear Brake Pedal
Gear-ChangeLever
Kick Starter
(if equipped)
12 PREPARING TO RIDE
• Make all the checks you would on lights are working properly.
your own motorcycle. • Brake Light — Try both brake
• Find out where everything is, controls, and make sure each one
particularly the turn signals, horn, turns on the brake light.
headlight switch, fuel-supply valve Once you have mounted the
and engine cut-off switch. Find and motorcycle, complete the following
operate these items without having checks before starting out:
to look for them.
• Clutch and Throttle — Make sure
• Know the gear pattern. Work the they work smoothly. The throttle
throttle, clutch and brakes a few should snap back when you let go.
times before you start riding. All The clutch should feel tight and
controls react a little differently. smooth.
• Ride very cautiously and be aware • Mirrors — Clean and adjust both
of surroundings. Accelerate gently, mirrors before starting. It’s difficult
take turns more slowly and leave to ride with one hand while you
try to adjust a mirror. Adjust each
extra room for stopping.
mirror so you can see the lane
Check Your Motorcycle behind and as much as possible of
the lane next to you. When properly
A motorcycle needs more frequent adjusted, a mirror may show the
attention than a car. A minor technical edge of your arm or shoulder—but
failure in a car seldom leads to anything it’s the road behind and to the side
more than an inconvenience for the that’s most important.
driver. • Brakes — Try the front and rear
If something’s wrong with the brake levers one at a time. Make
motorcycle, you’ll want to find out sure each one feels firm and holds
the motorcycle when the brake is
about it before you get in traffic. Make
fully applied.
a complete check of your motorcycle
before every ride. • Horn — Try the horn. Make sure it
works.
Before mounting the motorcycle,
make the following checks: • Fuel Supply Valve — Make sure
the valve is open. Your motorcycle
• Tires — Check the air pressure, may start with fuel still in the lines,
general wear and tread. but it will stall once the lines are
empty.
• Fluids — Oil and fluid levels. At a
minimum, check hydraulic fluids In addition to the checks you should
and coolants weekly. Look under make before every trip, check the
the motorcycle for signs of an oil or following items at least once a week:
gas leak. Wheels, cables, fasteners and fluid
levels. Follow your owner’s manual to
• Headlights and Taillight — Check
get recommendations.
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
13
KNOW YOUR and know how to carry out proper

crash-avoidance skills.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Blame doesn’t matter when someone
“Accident” implies an unforeseen
is injured in a crash. There is rarely a
event that occurs without anyone’s fault
single cause of any crash. The ability to
or negligence. Most often in traffic, that
ride aware, make critical decisions and
is not the case. In fact, most people
carry them out separates responsible
involved in a crash can usually claim
riders from all the rest. Remember, it is
some responsibility for what takes place.
up to you to keep from being the cause
Consider a situation where someone of, or an unprepared participant in, any
decides to try to squeeze through an crash.
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
driver’s 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 doesn’t leave any
of us free of responsibility.
As a rider you can’t 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 — when following, being TEST YOURSELF 2
followed, lane sharing, passing and
being passed. More than half of all crashes:
A. Occur at speeds greater than 35 mph.
• Search your path of travel 12
seconds ahead. B. Happen at night.
C. Are caused by worn tires.
• Identify and separate multiple
D. Involve riders who have less than
hazards. five months of experience on their
motorcycle.
• Be prepared to act — remain alert
Answer - page 45
14 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance.
That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal
course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing
your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules
of the road.
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL • Knees — Keep your knees against

the gas tank to help you keep your
Body Position balance as the motorcycle turns.
To control a motorcycle well: • Feet — Keep your feet firmly on the
• Posture — Sit so you can use your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t
arms to steer the motorcycle rather drag your feet. If your foot catches
than to hold yourself up. on something, you could be injured
and it could affect your control of
• Seat — Sit far enough forward so the motorcycle. Keep your feet near
that arms are slightly bent when the controls so you can get to them
you hold the handlegrips. Bending fast if needed. Also, don’t let your
your arms permits you to press on toes point downward — they may
the handlebars without having to get caught between the road and
stretch. 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
throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars gears when downshifting, turning or
so your hands are even with or starting on hills is important for safe
below your elbows. This permits motorcycle operation.
you to use the proper muscles for Shift down through the gears with
precision steering. the clutch as you slow or stop. Remain
in first gear while you are stopped so
HOLDING HANDGRIPS that you can move out quickly if you
need to.
Make certain you are riding slowly
RIGHT 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
WRONG release, especially when downshifting.
It is best to change gears before
entering a turn. However, sometimes
15
shifting while in the turn is necessary. operation and effective use of these
If so, remember to do so smoothly. A systems.)
sudden change in power to the rear
wheel can cause a skid. Turning
Riders often try to take curves or turns
Braking too fast. When they can’t hold the turn,
Your motorcycle has two brakes: one they end up crossing into another lane
each for the front and rear wheel. Use of traffic or going off the road. Or, they
both of them at the same time. The overreact and brake too hard, causing a
front brake is more powerful and can skid and loss of control. Approach turns
provide at least three-quarters of your and curves with caution.
total stopping power. The front brake is Use four steps for better control:
safe to use if you use it properly.
• SLOW — Reduce speed before the
Remember: turn by closing the throttle and, if
• Use both brakes every time you necessary, applying both brakes.
slow or stop. Using both brakes for • LOOK — Look through the turn
even “normal” stops will permit to where you want to go. Turn
you to develop the proper habit or just your head, not your shoulders,
skill of using both brakes properly and keep your eyes level with the
in an emergency. Squeeze the horizon.
front brake and press down on the
rear. Grabbing at the front brake • PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
or jamming down on the rear can must lean. To lean the motor-
cause the brakes to lock, resulting in cycle, press on the handgrip in
control problems. the direction of the turn. Press left
handgrip — lean left — go left.
• If you know the technique, Press right handgrip — lean right —
using both brakes in a turn is go right. The higher the speed in a
possible, although it should be done turn, the greater the lean angle.
very carefully. When leaning the
motorcycle some of the traction is • ROLL — Roll on the throttle to
used for cornering. Less traction maintain or slightly increase speed.
is available for stopping. A skid This helps stabilize the motorcycle.
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 owner’s manual
for a detailed explanation on the
In normal turns, the rider and the TEST YOURSELF 3

motorcycle should lean together at the
same angle. When riding, you should:
A. Turn your head and shoulders
NORMAL TURNS 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 45
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE

The best protection you can have is
distance — a “cushion of space” — all
around your motorcycle. If someone else
makes a mistake, distance permits you:
• Time to react.
• Space to maneuver.
In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by Lane Positions
leaning the motorcycle only and keeping
In some ways the size of the
your body straight.
motorcycle can work to your advantage.
Each traffic lane gives a motorcycle
SLOW, TIGHT TURNS three paths of travel, as indicated in the
illustration.
Your lane position should:
• Increase your ability to see and be
seen.
• Avoid others’ blind spots.
• Avoid surface hazards.
• Protect your lane from other
drivers.
• Communicate your intentions.
• Avoid wind blast from other
vehicles.
• Provide an escape route.
Select the appropriate path to
maximize your space cushion and make
yourself more easily seen by others on
the road.
17
LANE POSITIONS
In general, there is no single best Following Another Vehicle

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

is slippery, if you cannot see through
the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy Speeding up to lose someone
and someone may squeeze in front of following too closely only ends up with
you, open up a three-second or more someone tailgating you at a higher
following distance. speed.
Keep well behind the vehicle ahead A better way to handle tailgaters
even when you are stopped. This will is to get them in front of you. When
make it easier to get out of the way someone is following too closely,
if someone bears down on you from change lanes and let them pass. If you
behind. It will also give you a cushion of can’t do this, slow down and open up
space if the vehicle ahead starts to back extra space ahead of you to allow room
up for some reason. for both you and the tailgater to stop.
This will also encourage them to pass.
When behind a car, ride where the If they don’t pass, you will have given
driver can see you in the rearview mirror. yourself and the tailgater more time and
Riding in the center portion of the lane space to react in case an emergency
should put your image in the middle of does develop ahead.
the rearview mirror — where a driver is
most likely to see you. Passing and Being Passed
Riding at the far side of a lane may Passing and being passed by another
permit a driver to see you in a sideview vehicle is not much different than with a
mirror. But remember that most drivers car. However, visibility is more critical. Be
don’t look at their sideview mirrors sure other drivers see you, and that you
nearly as often as they check the see potential hazards.
rearview mirror. If the traffic situation
allows, the center portion of the lane is
usually the best place for you to be seen
by the drivers ahead and to prevent lane
sharing by others.
19
Passing Being Passed

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

Lane Sharing if one is open. If there is no room for a

lane change, adjust speed to open up
Cars and motorcycles need a full lane
space for the merging driver.
to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually
prohibited. Cars Alongside
Riding between rows of stopped or Do not ride next to cars or trucks in
moving cars in the same lane can leave other lanes if you do not have to. You
you vulnerable to the unexpected. A might be in the blind spot of a car in the
hand could come out of a window; a door next lane, which could switch into your
could open; a car could turn suddenly. lane without warning. Cars in the next
Discourage lane sharing by others. Keep a lane also block your escape if you come
center-portion position whenever drivers upon danger in your own lane. Speed
might be tempted to squeeze by you. up or drop back to find a place clear of
Drivers are most tempted to do this: traffic on both sides.
• In heavy, bumper-to-bumper
traffic.
BLIND SPOTS
• 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
MERGING
TEST YOURSELF 4
Usually, a good way to handle
tailgaters is to:
A. Change lanes and let them pass.
B. Use your horn and make
obscene gestures.
C. Speed up to put distance
between you and the tailgater.
D. Ignore them.
Answer - page 45
21
SEE • Road and surface characteristics

— Potholes, guardrails, bridges,
Good experienced riders remain telephone poles and trees won’t
aware of what is going on around them. move into your path but may
They improve their riding strategy by influence your riding strategy.
using MSF’s SEESM strategy, a three-
step process used to make appropriate • Traffic control devices — Look for
judgments, and apply them correctly in traffic signals, including regulatory
different traffic situations: signs, warning signs, and pavement
markings, to help you evaluate
• Search
circumstances ahead.
• Evaluate
• Vehicles and other traffic — May
• Execute move into your path and increase
Let’s examine each of these steps. the likelihood of a crash.
Search Think about your time and space

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

lights and/or horn.
• Oncoming traffic that may turn
left in front of you. • Adjust your speed by accelerating,
stopping or slowing.
• Traffic coming from the left and
right. • Adjust your position and/or
direction.
• Traffic approaching from behind.
Apply the old adage “one step at a
• Hazardous road conditions. time” to handle two or more hazards.
Be especially alert in areas with limited Adjust speed to permit two hazards
visibility. Visually “busy” surroundings to separate. Then deal with them one
could hide you and your motorcycle at a time as single hazards. Decision-
from others. making becomes more complex with
three or more hazards. Evaluate the
Evaluate consequences of each and give equal
Think about how hazards can interact distance to the hazards.
to create risks for you. Anticipate
potential problems and have a plan to
reduce risks.
In potential high-risk areas, such as INTERSECTIONS

intersections, shopping areas and school
and construction zones, cover the clutch The greatest potential for conflict
and both brakes to reduce the time you between you and other traffic is at
need to react. intersections. An intersection can be
in the middle of an urban area or at
a driveway on a residential street —
TEST YOURSELF 5 anywhere traffic may cross your path of
travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car
To reduce your reaction time, you
should: crashes are caused by drivers entering a
rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in
A. Ride slower than the speed
front of you, including cars turning left
limit.
from the lane to your right, and cars on
B. Cover the clutch and the brakes. side streets that pull into your lane, are
C. Shift into neutral when slowing. the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE
[p. 17] at intersections is critical.
D. Pull in the clutch when turning.
There are no guarantees that
Answer - page 45
others see you. Never count on “eye
contact” as a sign that a driver will
yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a
motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him
or her. The only eyes that you can count
on are your own. If a car can enter your
path, assume that it will. Good riders
are always “looking for trouble” — not
to get into it, but to stay out of it.
Increase your chances of being
seen at intersections. Ride with your
headlight on and in a lane position that
provides the best view of oncoming
traffic. Provide a space cushion around
the motorcycle that permits you to take
evasive action.
SMALL INTERSECTIONS
23
LARGE INTERSECTIONS
When approaching an intersection In this picture, the rider has moved to

where a vehicle driver is preparing to the left portion of the lane — away
cross your path, slow down and select from the parked car — so the driver on
a lane position to increase your visibiity the cross street can see him as soon as
to that driver. Cover the clutch lever and possible.
both brakes to reduce reaction time. As
Remember, the key is to see as much
you enter the intersection, move away
as possible and remain visible to others
from the vehicle. Do not change speed
while protecting your space.
or position radically, as drivers might
think you are preparing to turn. Be
BLIND INTERSECTIONS
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.
STOP SIGNS PARKED CARS
does look, he may fail to see you.
If you have a stop sign or stop line, stop In either event, the driver might cut
there first. Then edge forward and stop into your path. Slow down or change
again, just short of where the cross-traffic lanes to make room for someone cutting
lane meets your lane. From that position, in.
lean your body forward and look around Cars making a sudden U-turn are
buildings, parked cars or bushes to see if the most dangerous. They may cut
anything is coming. Just make sure your you off entirely, blocking the whole
front wheel stays out of the cross lane of roadway and leaving you with no
travel while you’re looking. place to go. Since you can’t tell what a
driver will do, slow down and get the
Passing Parked Cars
driver’s attention. Sound your horn and
When passing parked cars, stay continue with caution.
toward the left of your lane. You
can avoid problems caused by doors Parking at the Roadside
opening, drivers getting out of cars If parking in a parallel parking space
or people stepping from between next to a curb, position the motorcycle
cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it at an angle with the rear wheel to the
is usually best to remain in the center- curb. (Note: Some cities have ordinances
lane position to maximize your space that require motorcycles to park parallel
cushion. to the curb.)
A bigger problem can occur if the
driver pulls away from the curb without
PARKING AT CURBS
checking for traffic behind. Even if he
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 45
25
INCREASING coming from the side to spot you.

Reflective material can also be a big help
CONSPICUITY for drivers coming toward you or from
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers behind.
often say that they never saw the
motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a Headlight
motorcycle’s outline is much smaller The best way to help others see your
than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see motorcycle is to keep the headlight on
something you are not looking for, — at all times (new motorcycles sold
and most drivers are not looking for in the USA since 1978 automatically
motorcycles. More likely, they are have the headlights on when running).
looking through the skinny, two- Studies show that, during the day, a
wheeled silhouette in search of cars that motorcycle with its light on is twice as
may pose a problem to them. likely to be noticed. Use low beam at
Even if a driver does see you coming, night and in fog.
you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller Signals
vehicles appear farther away and seem
to be traveling slower than they actually The signals on a motorcycle are similar
are. It is common for drivers to pull out to those on a car. They tell others what
in front of motorcyclists, thinking they you plan to do.
have plenty of time. Too often, they are
wrong.
However, you can do many things to
SIGNALING
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
However, due to a rider’s added • You slow where others may not
vulnerability, signals are even more expect it (in the middle of a block or
important. Use them anytime you plan at an alley).
to change lanes or turn. Use them even If you are being followed closely, it’s
when you think no one else is around. a good idea to flash your brake light
It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to before you slow. The tailgater may be
give you the most trouble. Your signal watching you and not see something
lights also make you easier to spot. ahead that will make you slow down.
That’s why it’s a good idea to use your This will hopefully discourage them from
turn signals even when what you plan tailgating and warn them of hazards
to do is obvious. ahead they may not see.
When you enter a freeway, drivers
approaching from behind are more likely Using Your Mirrors
to see your signal blinking and make While it’s most important to keep
room for you. track of what’s happening ahead, you
Turning your signal light on before can’t afford to ignore situations behind.
each turn reduces confusion and Traffic conditions change quickly.
frustration for the traffic around you. Knowing what’s going on behind is
Once you turn, make sure your signal is essential for you to make a safe decision
off or a driver may pull directly into your about how to handle trouble ahead.
path, thinking you plan to turn again. Frequent mirror checks should be part
Use your signals at every turn so drivers of your normal searching routine. Make
can react accordingly. Don’t make them a special point of using your mirrors:
guess what you intend to do.
• When you are stopped at an
Brake Light intersection. Watch cars coming up
from behind. If the drivers aren’t
Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually paying attention, they could be on
not as noticeable as the brake lights on top of you before they see you.
a car — particularly when your taillight
is on. (It goes on with the headlight.) • Before you change lanes. Make
If the situation will permit, help others sure no one is about to pass you.
notice you by flashing your brake light • Before you slow down. The driver
before you slow down. It is especially behind may not expect you to slow,
important to flash your brake light or may be unsure about where you
before: will slow. For example, you signal a
• You slow more quickly than turn and the driver thinks you plan
others might expect (turning off a to turn at a distant intersection,
high-speed highway). rather than at a nearer driveway.
27
On a road with several lanes, check

USING MIRRORS
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
someone’s attention quickly.
It is a good idea to give a quick beep
before passing anyone that may move
into your lane.
Here are some situations:
• A driver in the lane next to you
is driving too closely to the vehicle
ahead and may want to pass.
• A parked car has someone in the
Some motorcycles have rounded driver’s seat.
(convex) mirrors. These provide a wider
view of the road behind than do flat • Someone is in the street, riding a
mirrors. They also make cars seem farther bicycle or walking.
away than they really are. If you are not In an emergency, press the horn
used to convex mirrors, get familiar with button loud and long. Be ready to stop
them. (While you are stopped, pick out a or swerve away from the danger.
parked car in your mirror. Form a mental
Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn
image of how far away it is. Then, turn
isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use
around and look at it to see how close
it, but don’t rely on it. Other strategies,
you came.) Practice with your mirrors
like having time and space to maneuver,
until you become a good judge of
may be appropriate along with the
distance. Even then, allow extra distance
horn.
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.
Riding at Night CRASH AVOIDANCE
At night it is harder for you to see No matter how careful you are, there
and be seen. Picking your headlight will be times when you find yourself in a
or taillight out of the car lights around tight spot. Your chances of getting out
you is not easy for other drivers. To safely depend on your ability to react
compensate, you should: quickly and properly. Often, a crash
• Reduce Your Speed — Ride even occurs because a rider is not prepared or
slower than you would during the skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers.
day — particularly on roads you Know when and how to stop or
don’t know well. This will increase
swerve, two skills critical in avoiding
your chances of avoiding a hazard.
a crash. It is not always desirable or
• Increase Distance — Distances possible to stop quickly to avoid an
are harder to judge at night than obstacle. Riders must also be able to
during the day. Your eyes rely upon swerve around an obstacle. Deter-
shadows and light contrasts to
mining which skill is necessary for the
determine how far away an object
is and how fast it is coming. These situation is important as well.
contrasts are missing or distorted Studies show that most crash-
under artificial lights at night. involved riders:
Open up a three-second following
distance or more. And allow more • Underbrake the front tire and
distance to pass and be passed. overbrake the rear.
• Use the Car Ahead — The • Did not separate braking from
headlights of the car ahead can give swerving or did not choose
you a better view of the road than swerving when it was appropriate.
even your high beam can. Taillights The following information offers
bouncing up and down can alert some good advice.
you to bumps or rough pavement.
• Use Your High Beam — Get all the Quick Stops
light you can. Use your high beam To stop quickly, apply both brakes
whenever you are not following at the same time. Don’t be shy about
or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear using the front brake, but don’t “grab”
reflective materials when riding at
it, either. Squeeze the brake lever
night.
firmly and progressively. If the front
• Be Flexible About Lane Position. wheel locks, release the front brake
Change to whatever portion of the immediately then reapply it firmly. At
lane is best able to help you see, be
the same time, press down on the
seen and keep an adequate space
cushion. rear brake. If you accidentally lock the
rear brake on a good traction surface,
TEST YOURSELF 7 you can keep it locked until you have
completely stopped; but, even with a
Reflective clothing should: locked rear wheel, you can control the
A. Be worn at night. motorcycle on a straightaway if it is
B. Be worn during the day. upright and going in a straight line.
C. Not be worn.
D. Be worn day and night
Answer - page 45
29
straight and maximum brake pressure
STOPPING DISTANCE
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
Always use both brakes at the same avoid a crash may be to turn quickly, or
time to stop. The front brake can provide swerve around it.
70% or more of the potential stopping A swerve is any sudden change in
power. direction. It can be two quick turns, or
If you must stop quickly while turning a rapid shift to the side. Apply a small
or riding a curve, the best technique is amount of pressure to the handgrip
to straighten the bike upright first and located on the side of your intended
then brake. However, it may not always direction of escape. This will cause the
be possible to straighten the motorcycle motorcycle to lean quickly. The sharper
and then stop. If you must brake while the turn(s), the more the motorcycle
leaning, apply light brakes and reduce must lean.
the throttle. As you slow, you can Keep your body upright and allow
reduce your lean angle and apply more the motorcycle to lean in the direction
brake pressure until the motorcycle is of the turn while keeping your knees
SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

against the tank and your feet solidly on Cornering

the footrests. Let the motorcycle move
A primary cause of single-vehicle
underneath you. Make your escape
crashes is motorcyclists running wide in
route the target of your vision. Press
a curve or turn and colliding with the
on the opposite handgrip once you
roadway or a fixed object.
clear the obstacle to return you to your
original direction of travel. To swerve to Every curve is different. Be alert to
the left, press the left handgrip, then whether a curve remains constant,
press the right to recover. To swerve to gradually widens, gets tighter or
the right, press right, then left. involves multiple turns.
IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, SEPARATE Ride within your skill level and posted
IT FROM SWERVING. Brake before or speed limits.
after — never while swerving. Your best path may not always follow
the curve of the road.
CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES
DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES

(TIGHTER TURNS)
31
Change lane position depending on HANDLING DANGEROUS

traffic, road conditions and curve of
the road. If no traffic is present, start at
SURFACES
the outside of a curve to increase your Your chance of falling or being
line of sight and the effective radius of involved in a crash increases whenever
the turn. As you turn, move toward the you ride across:
inside of the curve, and as you pass the • Uneven surfaces or obstacles.
center, move to the outside to exit.
• Slippery surfaces.
Another alternative is to move to the
• Railroad tracks.
center of your lane before entering a
curve — and stay there until you exit. • Grooves and gratings.
This permits you to spot approaching Uneven Surfaces and
traffic as soon as possible. You can also
adjust for traffic “crowding” the center Obstacles
line, or debris blocking part of your lane. 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
TEST YOURSELF 8 possible. Approach it at as close to a 90˚
angle as possible. Look where you want
The best way to stop quickly is to: to go to control your path of travel. If
A. Use the front brake only. you have to ride over the obstacle, you
B. Use the rear brake first. should:
C. Throttle down and use the front • Slow down as much as possible
brake. before contact.
D. Use both brakes at the same time.
• Make sure the motorcycle is
Answer - page 45
straight.
OBSTACLES
• Rise slightly off the seat with your lever gradually to avoid locking the
weight on the footrests to absorb front wheel. Remember, gentle
the shock with your knees and pressure on the rear brake.
elbows, and avoid being thrown off • The center of a lane can be
the motorcycle. hazardous when wet. When it starts
• Just before contact, roll on the to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by
throttle slightly to lighten the front cars. Often, the left tire track will
end. be the best position, depending on
traffic and other road conditions as
If you ride over an object on the well.
street, pull off the road and check your
tires and rims for damage before riding • Watch for oil spots when you put
any farther. your foot down to stop or park. You
may slip and fall.
Slippery Surfaces • Dirt and gravel collect along the
Motorcycles handle better when sides of the road — especially on
ridden on surfaces that permit good curves and ramps leading to and
from highways. Be aware of what’s
traction. Surfaces that provide poor
on the edge of the road, particularly
traction include: when making sharp turns and
• Wet pavement, particularly just getting on or off freeways at high
after it starts to rain and before speeds.
surface oil washes to the side of the • Rain dries and snow melts faster
road. on some sections of a road than
• Gravel roads, or where sand and on others. Patches of ice tend to
gravel collect. develop in low or shaded areas and
on bridges and overpasses. Wet
• Mud, leaves, snow, and ice.
surfaces or wet leaves are just as
• Lane markings (painted lines), slippery. Ride on the least slippery
steel plates and manhole covers, portion of the lane and reduce
especially when wet. speed.
To ride safely on slippery surfaces: Cautious riders steer clear of roads
• Reduce Speed — Slow down covered with ice or snow. If you can’t
before you get to a slippery avoid a slippery surface, keep your
surface to lessen your chances of motorcycle straight up and proceed
skidding. Your motorcycle needs as slowly as possible. If you encounter
more distance to stop. And it is a large surface so slippery that you
particularly important to reduce must coast, or travel at a walking pace,
speed before entering wet curves. consider letting your feet skim along
• Avoid Sudden Moves — Any the surface. If the motorcycle starts to
sudden change in speed or direction fall, you can catch yourself. Be sure to
can cause a skid. Be as smooth as keep off the brakes. If possible, squeeze
possible when you speed up, shift the clutch and coast. Attempting this
gears, turn or brake. maneuver at anything other than
• Use Both Brakes — The front the slowest of speeds could prove
brake is still effective, even on a hazardous.
slippery surface. Squeeze the brake
33
For track and road seams that run

CROSSTRACKS—RIGHT parallel to your course, move far enough
away from tracks, ruts, or pavement
seams to cross at an angle of at least
45˚. Then, make a deliberate turn.
Edging across could catch your tires and
throw you off balance.
Grooves and Gratings
Riding over rain grooves or bridge
gratings may cause a motorcycle to
CROSSTRACKS—WRONG 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.
GRATE CROSSINGS—RIGHT
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.
PARALLEL TRACKS—RIGHT GRATE CROSSINGS—WRONG
PARALLEL TRACKS—WRONG TEST YOURSELF 9

When it starts to rain it is usually best to:
A. Ride in the center of the lane.
B. Pull off to the side until the rain stops.
C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars.
D. Increase your speed.
Answer - page 45
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS Stuck Throttle

You can find yourself in an emergency Twist the throttle back and forth
the moment something goes wrong several times. If the throttle cable is
with your motorcycle. In dealing with stuck, this may free it. If the throttle
any mechanical problem, take into stays stuck, immediately operate the
account the road and traffic conditions engine cut-off switch and pull in the
you face. Here are some guidelines clutch at the same time. This will remove
that can help you handle mechanical power from the rear wheel, though
problems safely. engine sound may not immediately
decline. Once the motorcycle is “under
Tire Failure control,” pull off and stop.
You will seldom hear a tire go flat. After you have stopped, check the
If the motorcycle starts handling throttle cable carefully to find the source
differently, it may be a tire failure. This of the trouble. Make certain the throttle
can be dangerous. You must be able to works freely before you start to ride
tell from the way the motorcycle reacts. again.
If one of your tires suddenly loses air,
react quickly to keep your balance. Pull Wobble
off and check the tires. A “wobble” occurs when the front
If the front tire goes flat, the steering wheel and handlebars suddenly start
will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel flat is to shake from side to side at any
particularly hazardous because it affects speed. Most wobbles can be traced to
your steering. You have to steer well to improper loading, unsuitable accessories
keep your balance. or incorrect tire pressure. If you are
carrying a heavy load, lighten it. If you
If the rear tire goes flat, the back of
can’t, shift it. Center the weight lower
the motorcycle may jerk or sway from
and farther forward on the motorcycle.
side to side.
Make sure tire pressure, spring pre-
If either tire goes flat while riding: load, air shocks and dampers are at the
• Hold handgrips firmly, ease off the settings recommended for that much
throttle, and keep a straight course. weight. Make sure windshields and
fairings are mounted properly.
• If braking is required, however,
gradually apply the brake of the tire Check for poorly adjusted steering;
that isn’t flat, if you are sure which worn steering parts; a front wheel that
one it is. is bent, misaligned, or out of balance;
loose wheel bearings or spokes; and
• When the motorcycle slows, worn swingarm bearings. If none of
edge to the side of the road, these is determined to be the cause,
squeeze the clutch and stop. have the motorcycle checked out
thoroughly by a qualified professional.
35
Trying to “accelerate out of a Engine Seizure

wobble” will only make the motorcycle
When the engine “locks” or
more unstable. Instead:
“freezes” it is usually low on oil. The
• Grip the handlebars firmly, but engine’s moving parts can’t move
don’t fight the wobble. smoothly against each other, and the
• Close the throttle gradually engine overheats. The first sign may be
to slow down. Do not apply the a loss of engine power or a change in
brakes; braking could make the the engine’s sound. Squeeze the clutch
wobble worse. lever to disengage the engine from the
• Move your weight as far forward rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop.
and down as possible. Check the oil. If needed, oil should be
• Pull off the road as soon as you added as soon as possible or the engine
can to fix the problem. will seize. When this happens, the effect
is the same as a locked rear wheel. Let
the engine cool before restarting.
TEST YOURSELF 10
If your motorcycle starts to wobble:
ANIMALS
A. Accelerate out of the wobble. Naturally, you should do everything
B. Use the brakes gradually.
you safely can to avoid hitting an
animal. If you are in traffic, however,
C. Grip the handlebars firmly and close
the throttle gradually. remain in your lane. Hitting something
D. Downshift.
small is less dangerous to you than
Answer - page 45 hitting something big — like a car.
Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If
Drive Train Problems you are chased, downshift and approach
the animal slowly. As you approach it,
The drive train for a motorcycle uses
accelerate away and leave the animal
either a chain, belt, or drive shaft to
behind. Don’t kick at an animal. Keep
transfer power from the engine to
control of your motorcycle and look to
the rear wheel. Routine inspection,
where you want to go.
adjustment, and maintenance makes
failure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle)
that slips or breaks while you’re riding brake and prepare to stop — they are
could lock the rear wheel and cause unpredictable.
your motorcycle to skid.
If the chain or belt breaks, you’ll TEST YOURSELF 11
notice an instant loss of power to the
If you are chased by a dog:
rear wheel. Close the throttle and brake
to a stop in a safe area. A. Kick it away.
B. Stop until the animal loses interest.
On models with a drive shaft, loss of
C. Swerve around the animal.
oil in the rear differential can cause the
rear wheel to lock, and you may not be D. Approach the animal slowly, then
speed up.
able to prevent a skid. Answer - page 45
FLYING OBJECTS CARRYING PASSENGERS

From time to time riders are struck AND CARGO
by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars Only experienced riders should carry
or pebbles kicked up by the tires of passengers or large loads. The extra
the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing weight changes the way the motorcycle
face protection, it might get smeared handles, balances, speeds up and slows
or cracked, making it difficult to see. down. Before taking a passenger or a
Without face protection, an object heavy load on the street, practice away
could hit you in the eye, face or mouth. from traffic.
Whatever happens, keep your eyes
on the road and your hands on the Equipment
handlebars. When safe, pull off the road To carry passengers safely:
and repair the damage.
• Equip and adjust your motorcycle
GETTING OFF THE ROAD to carry passengers.
If you need to leave the road to check • Instruct the passenger before you
the motorcycle (or just to rest for a start.
while), be sure you: • Adjust your riding technique for
the added weight.
• Check the roadside — Make sure
the surface of the roadside is firm Equipment should include:
enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, • A proper seat — large enough to
loose sand or if you’re just not sure hold both of you without crowding.
about it, slow way down before you You should not sit any farther
turn onto it. forward than you usually do.
• Signal — Drivers behind might not • Footrests — for the passenger.
expect you to slow down. Give a Firm footing prevents your
clear signal that you will be slowing passenger from falling off and
down and changing direction. pulling you off, too.
Check your mirror and make a head
check before you take any action. • Protective equipment — the same
protective gear recommended for
• Pull off the road — Get as far off operators.
the road as you can. It can be very
hard to spot a motorcycle by the Adjust the suspension to handle the
side of the road. You don’t want additional weight. You will probably
someone else pulling off at the need to add a few pounds of pressure
same place you are. to the tires if you carry a passenger.
• Park carefully — Loose and sloped (Check your owner’s manual for
shoulders can make setting the side appropriate settings.) While your
or center stand difficult. passenger sits on the seat with you,
adjust the mirrors and headlight
according to the change in the
motorcycle’s angle.
37
Instructing Passengers • Ride a little slower, especially

when taking curves, corners or
Even if your passenger is a motorcycle
bumps.
rider, provide complete instructions
before you start. Tell your passenger to: • Start slowing earlier as you
approach a stop.
• Get on the motorcycle only after
you have started the engine. • Open up a larger cushion of
space ahead and to the sides.
• Sit as far forward as possible
without crowding you. • Wait for larger gaps to cross,
enter or merge in traffic.
• Hold firmly to your waist, hips,
belt, or to the bike’s passenger Warn your passenger of special
handholds. conditions — when you will pull out,
• Keep both feet on the footrests, stop quickly, turn sharply or ride over a
even when stopped. bump. Turn your head slightly to make
yourself understood, but keep your eyes
• Keep legs away from the
on the road ahead.
muffler(s), chains or moving parts.
• Stay directly behind you, leaning Carrying Loads
as you lean. Most motorcycles are not designed
• Avoid unnecessary talk or motion. to carry much cargo. Small loads can be
carried safely if positioned and fastened
Also, tell your passenger to tighten his
properly.
or her hold when you:
• Keep the Load Low — Fasten
• Approach surface problems.
loads securely, or put them in
• Are about to start from a stop. saddlebags. Piling loads against a
sissybar or frame on the back of the
• Warn that you will make a sudden
seat raises the motorcycle’s center
move.
of gravity and disturbs its balance.
Riding With Passengers • Keep the Load Forward — Place
Your motorcycle will respond more the load over, or in front of, the rear
axle. Tankbags keep loads forward,
slowly with a passenger on board. The
but use caution when loading hard
heavier your passenger, the longer it or sharp objects. Make sure the
may take to slow down and speed up — tankbag does not interfere with
especially on a light motorcycle. handlebars or controls. Mounting
loads behind the rear axle can affect
TEST YOURSELF 12 how the motorcycle turns and
brakes. It can also cause a wobble.
Passengers should: • Distribute the Load Evenly —
A. Lean as you lean. Load saddlebags with about the
B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat. same weight. An uneven load can
cause the motorcycle to drift to one
C. Sit as far back as possible.
side.
D. Never hold onto you. Answer - page 45
• Secure the Load — Fasten the load • Know the Route — Make sure
securely with elastic cords (bungee everyone knows the route. Then, if
cords or nets). Elastic cords with someone is separated they won’t
more than one attachment point have to hurry to keep from getting
per side are more secure. A tight lost or taking a wrong turn. Plan
load won’t catch in the wheel or frequent stops on long rides.
chain, causing it to lock up and skid.
Rope tends to stretch and knots Keep Your Distance
come loose, permitting the load to Maintain close ranks but at the same
shift or fall. time keep a safe distance to allow each
rider in the group time and space to
• Check the Load — Stop and check react to hazards. A close group takes
the load every so often to make up less space on the highway, is easier
sure it has not worked loose or to see and is less likely to be separated.
moved. However, it must be done properly.
GROUP RIDING Don’t Pair Up — Never operate
directly alongside another rider. There is
If you ride with others, do it in a no place to go if you have to avoid a car
way that promotes safety and doesn’t or something on the road. To talk, wait
interfere with the flow of traffic. until you are both stopped.
Keep the Group Small Staggered Formation — This is
Small groups make it easier and safer the best way to keep ranks close yet
for car drivers who need to get around maintain an adequate space cushion. The
them. A small number isn’t separated leader rides in the left side of the lane,
as easily by traffic or red lights. Riders while the second rider stays one second
won’t always be hurrying to catch up. behind in the right side of the lane.
If your group is larger than four or five
riders, divide it up into two or more STAGGERED FORMATION
smaller groups.
Keep the Group Together
• Plan — The leader should look
ahead for changes and signal early
so “the word gets back” in plenty
of time. Start lane changes early to
permit everyone to complete the
change.
• Put Beginners Up Front — Place
inexperienced riders just behind
the leader. That way the more
experienced riders can watch them
from the back.
• Follow Those Behind — Let
the tailender set the pace. Use
your mirrors to keep an eye on
the person behind. If a rider falls
behind, everyone should slow down
a little to stay with the tailender.
39
A third rider maintains in the left Some people suggest that the leader
position, two seconds behind the first should move to the right side after
rider. The fourth rider would keep a passing a vehicle. This is not a good
two-second distance behind the second idea. It encourages the second rider
rider. This formation keeps the group to pass and cut back in before there
close and permits each rider a safe is a large enough space cushion in
distance from others ahead, behind and front of the passed vehicle. It’s simpler
to the sides. and safer to wait until there is enough
room ahead of the passed vehicle to
• Passing in Formation — Riders in
allow each rider to move into the same
a staggered formation should pass
position held before the pass.
one at a time.
Single-File Formation — It is best
• First, the lead rider should pull
out and pass when it is safe. After to move into a single-file formation
when riding curves, turning, entering or
passing, the leader should return to
leaving a highway.
the left position and continue riding
at passing speed to open room for
the next rider. TEST YOURSELF 13
• After the first rider passes safely, When riding in a group, inexperienced
the second rider should move up riders should position themselves:
to the left position and watch for a A. Just behind the leader.
safe chance to pass. After passing, B. In front of the group.
this rider should return to the right
position and open up room for the C. At the tail end of the group.
next rider. D. Beside the leader.
Answer - page 45
GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1) GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2)

40 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders

pay attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle,
identifying potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions
quickly and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road
and traffic conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and
other drugs, more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly
and to ride safely. As little as one drink can have a significant effect on your
performance.
Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What to
do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined.
WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND OTHER

IS IMPORTANT DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE
Alcohol is a major contributor to OPERATION
motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal No one is immune to the effects of
crashes. Studies show that nearly 40% alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag
of all riders killed in motorcycle crashes about their ability to hold their liquor
had been drinking. The rest had only a or perform better on drugs, but alcohol
few drinks in their systems — enough or drugs make them less able to think
to impair riding skills. In the past, drug clearly and perform physical tasks
levels have been harder to distinguish or skillfully. Judgment and the decision-
have not been separated from drinking making processes needed for vehicle
violations for the traffic records. But operation are affected long before legal
riding “under the influence” of either limitations are reached.
alcohol or drugs poses physical and legal
hazards for every rider. Many over-the-counter, prescription
and illegal drugs have side effects that
Drinking and drug use is as big increase the risk of riding. It is difficult to
a problem among motorcyclists accurately measure the involvement of
as it is among automobile drivers. particular drugs in motorcycle crashes.
Motorcyclists, however, are more likely But we do know what effects various
to be killed or severely injured in a crash. drugs have on the processes involved in
Injuries occur in 90% of motorcycle riding a motorcycle. We also know that
crashes and 33% of automobile crashes the combined effects of alcohol and
that involve abuse of substances. On other drugs are more dangerous than
a yearly basis, 2,000 motorcyclists either is alone.
are killed and about 50,000 seriously
injured in this same type of crash. These ALCOHOL IN THE BODY
statistics are too overwhelming to
ignore. Alcohol enters the bloodstream
quickly. Unlike most foods and
By becoming knowledgeable about beverages, it does not need to be
the effects of alcohol and other drugs digested. Within minutes after being
you will see that riding and substance consumed, it reaches the brain and
abuse don’t mix. Take positive steps to begins to affect the drinker. The major
protect yourself and prevent others from effect alcohol has is to slow down and
injuring themselves. impair bodily functions — both mental
and physical. Whatever you do, you do
less well after consuming alcohol.
41
Blood Alcohol Concentration A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed drink

with one shot (1.5 ounces) of liquor,
Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC and a 5- ounce glass of wine all contain
is the amount of alcohol in relation to the same amount of alcohol.
blood in the body. Generally, alcohol can
be eliminated in the body at the rate of The faster you drink, the more alcohol
almost one drink per hour. But a variety accumulates in your body. If you drink
of other factors may also influence two drinks in an hour, at the end of that
the level of alcohol retained. The more hour, at least one drink will remain in
alcohol in your blood, the greater the your bloodstream.
degree of impairment. Without taking into account any
Three factors play a major part in other factors, these examples illustrate
determining BAC: why time is a critical factor when a rider
decides to drink.
• The amount of alcohol you
consume. A person drinking:
• How fast you drink. – Seven drinks over the span of three
hours would have at least four (7 – 3
• Your body weight. = 4) drinks remaining in their system
Other factors also contribute to the at the end of the three hours. They
way alcohol affects your system. would need at least another four hours
to eliminate the four remaining drinks
Your sex, physical condition and
before they consider riding.
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.
ALCOHOL CONTENT
42 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
– Four drinks over the span of two If you are convicted of riding under
hours would have at least two (4 – 2 = the influence of alcohol or drugs,
2) drinks remaining in their system at you may receive any of the following
the end of the two hours. They would penalties:
need at least another two hours to • License Suspension — Mandatory
eliminate the two remaining drinks suspension for conviction, arrest or
before they consider riding. refusal to submit to a breath test.
There are times when a larger • Fines — Severe fines are another
person may not accumulate as high aspect of a conviction, usually levied
a concentration of alcohol for each with a license suspension.
drink consumed. They have more • Community Service — Performing
blood and other bodily fluids. But tasks such as picking up litter along
because of individual differences it the highway, washing cars in the
is better not to take the chance that motor-vehicle pool or working at an
abilities and judgment have not been emergency ward.
affected. Whether or not you are • Costs — Additional lawyer’s fees to
legally intoxicated is not the real issue. pay, lost work time spent in court or
Impairment of judgment and skills alcohol-education programs, public
begins well below the legal limit. transportation costs (while your
license is suspended) and the added
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW psychological costs of being tagged
a “drunk driver.”
In all states, an adult with a BAC
of 0.08% or above is considered MINIMIZE THE RISKS
intoxicated. For operators under the age
of 21, lower BAC limits (0.00 to 0.02%, Your ability to judge how well you
depending on state) apply. It doesn’t are riding is affected first. Although
matter how sober you may look or act. you may be performing more and more
The breath or urine test is what usually poorly, you think you are doing better
determines whether you are riding and better. The result is that you ride
legally or illegally. confidently, taking greater and greater
risks. Minimize the risks of drinking and
Your chances of being stopped for riding by taking steps before you drink.
riding under the influence of alcohol are Control your drinking or control your
increasing. Law enforcement is being riding.
stepped up across the country in response
to the senseless deaths and injuries caused Make an Intelligent Choice
by drinking drivers and riders. Don’t Drink — Once you start, your
resistance becomes weaker.
Consequences of Conviction
Setting a limit or pacing yourself are
Years ago, first offenders had a good
poor alternatives at best. Your ability to
chance of getting off with a small fine
exercise good judgment is one of the
and participation in alcohol-abuse
first things affected by alcohol. Even if
classes. Today the laws of most states
you have tried to drink in moderation,
impose stiff penalties on drinking
you may not realize to what extent
operators. And those penalties are
your skills have suffered from alcohol’s
mandatory, meaning that judges must
fatiguing effects.
impose them.
43
Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t firm and the harder it is for the rider to
controlled your drinking, you must resist. While you may not be thanked at
control your riding. the time, you will never have to say, “If
• Leave the motorcycle — so you only I had ...”
won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange
another way to get home.
FATIGUE
• Wait — If you exceed your limit, Riding a motorcycle is more tiring
wait until your system eliminates the than driving a car. On a long trip, you’ll
alcohol and its fatiguing effects. tire sooner than you would in a car.
Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can
STEP IN TO PROTECT affect your control of the motorcycle.
FRIENDS • Protect yourself from the elements
People who have had too much to — Wind, cold, and rain make
you tire quickly. Dress warmly. A
drink are unable to make a responsible
windshield is worth its cost if you
decision. It is up to others to step in plan to ride long distances.
and keep them from taking too great
a risk. No one wants to do this — it’s • Limit your distance — Experi-
uncomfortable, embarrassing and enced riders seldom try to ride more
than about six hours a day.
thankless. You are rarely thanked
for your efforts at the time. But the • Take frequent rest breaks — Stop
alternatives are often worse. and get off the motorcycle at least
every two hours.
There are several ways to keep friends
• Don’t drink or use drugs —
from hurting themselves:
Artificial stimulants often result in
• Arrange a safe ride — Provide extreme fatigue or depression when
alternative ways for them to get they start to wear off. Riders are
home. unable to concentrate on the task at
• Slow the pace of drinking — hand.
Involve them in other activities.
• Keep them there — Use any TEST YOURSELF 14
excuse to keep them from getting If you wait one hour per drink for the
on their motorcycle. Serve them alcohol to be eliminated from your body
food and coffee to pass the time. before riding:
Explain your concerns for their A. You cannot be arrested for drinking
risks of getting arrested or hurt or and riding.
hurting someone else. Take their B. Your riding skills will not be affected.
key, if you can. C. Side effects from the drinking may
• Get friends involved — Use peer still remain.
pressure from a group of friends to D. You will be okay as long as you ride
intervene. slowly.
Answer - page 45
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
44 EARNING YOUR LICENSE
Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tests are the best
measurement of the skills necessary to operate safely in traffic. Assessing your
own skills is not enough. People often overestimate their own abilities. It’s even
harder for friends and relatives to be totally honest about your skills. Licensing
exams are designed to be scored more objectively.
To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill
test. Knowledge test questions are based on information, practices and ideas
from this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules and
safe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual
traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area.
Knowledge Test 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and

you must stop, it is usually best
(Sample Questions) to:
1. It is MOST important to flash A. Relax on the handgrips.
your brake light when:
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 one-quarter.
B. Reduce speed and be ready to
B. About one-half. react.
C. About three-quarters. 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.
45
On-Motorcycle Skill Test • Stop, turn and swerve quickly.

Basic vehicle control and crash- • Make critical decisions and 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. • Selecting safe speeds to perform
You may be tested for your ability to: maneuvers.
• Know your motorcycle and your • Choosing the correct path and
riding limits. staying within boundaries.
• Accelerate, brake and turn • Completing normal and quick
safely. stops.
• See, be seen and communicate • Completing normal and quick
with others. turns or swerves.
• Adjust speed and position to the
traffic situation.
To receive a motorcycle license with full privileges, most

states require that maneuvers be performed as designed
for single-track, two-wheeled motorcycles.
On-motorcycle skill tests are not designed for sidecars or three-wheeled
vehicles. Those vehicles maneuver differently than a two-wheeled motorcycle.
Depending on the state, an examiner may follow you on a car test-route.
Restrictions (sidecar, three-wheeled vehicle) may be added until completion of a
two-wheeled motorcycle test.
Answers to Test Yourself (previous pages)

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 (left): not to correct scale for size of vehicles
and distances.
1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-C, 5-B
46 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
SUPPLEMENTARY • Saddle seating

INFORMATION FOR – Seating in which the rider/
passenger straddles the
THREE-WHEEL VEHICLES vehicle.
Many states require a separate license – If designed for a passenger,
endorsement to operate a three-wheel the passenger must be
vehicle. This requires the rider to pass seated behind the operator
both a written and a skills test. The (or in a separate passenger
purpose of this supplement is to help compartment in the case of a
prepare riders to complete the written motorcycle with sidecar).
exam for a three-wheel vehicle license 3. Turning diameter of the vehicle
or endorsement. This information is at its widest point must be less
provided in addition to that offered in than 40’.
the first part of this Motorcycle Operator 4. The vehicle meets all applicable
Manual (MOM), so when preparing to federal on-road vehicle standards.
take the written test, begin by reading
The following vehicles are not
the information on 2-wheel motocycles
included in this definition, and
thoroughly. It provides information on
therefore testing requirements may not
safe operation of your vehicle in traffic.
be applicable. Always refer to your
This supplement contains information
state Department of Motor Vehicles,
specific to the safe operation of a three-
Department of Licensing or other
wheel vehicle, including both three-track
appropriate state regulatory agency for
vehicles and motorcycles with sidecars.
exact regulations regarding testing for:
KNOW YOUR VEHICLE • Automotive hybrids or
Due to the many three-wheel vehicle automotive conversions
designs available on the market today, • Vehicles with automotive
standards suitable for testing may vary. controls or seating
However, vehicles should conform to • Vehicles with front or rear
standards determined by your state. In mounted engines (engines must
general, three-wheel vehicles will have be mounted mid-frame below the
the following specifications: rider to be considered motorcycle-
based)
1. Three wheels leaving two or
three separate tracks during • Vehicles with enclosed or semi-
straight line operation. enclosed riding compartments
2. Motorcycle-based conversion or • Motorcycles or scooters with two
design with: close-set wheels in front (contact
patches less than 18.1 inches
• Handlebar steering apart) that lean and maneuver like
• Motorcycle-type controls standard, single-track, two-wheel
arranged with the standard motorcycles
layout. Convenience alterations or
such as a single brake pedal or
lever control, automatic clutch, • Vehicles with any other departure
or automatic transmission are from the above standards.
allowed.
47
Three-Wheel Vehicle Designs Borrowing and Lending

As shown below in the Figure, vehicle Borrowers and lenders, beware.
designs vary among manufacturers. Crashes are fairly common among
Unlike traditional motorcycles, which are beginning operators, especially in the
considered single-track vehicles, three- first months of riding. Operating an
wheel vehicles could be either dual or unfamiliar vehicle adds to the problem.
triple track design. Dual track vehicles If you borrow a three-wheel vehicle or
are motorcycles with sidecars, while motorcycle with sidecar, get familiar
triple track vehicles can be configured with it in a controlled area. If you lend
either with dual front wheels or dual your three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle
rear wheels. with sidecar to friends, make sure
they are licensed and know how to
MOTORCYCLE AND THREE- ride before you allow them to operate
WHEEL VEHICLE DESIGNS in traffic. Such vehicles operate very
differently than 2-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 Vehicle
Controls
Be sure you are familiar with the
controls of the three-wheel vehicle
or motorcycle with a sidecar before
attempting to operate it on any
highway, since some vehicle controls
may differ from those found on other
three-wheel vehicles or motorcycles.
This is especially important if you are
riding on a borrowed vehicle. Before
beginning the ride:
• Make all the checks you would on
The Right Vehicle for You your own vehicle.
Make sure your three-wheel vehicle or • Familiarize yourself with all
sidecar-equipped motorcycle is right for controls, such as the turn signals,
you. You should be able to comfortably horn, headlight switch, fuel control
reach and operate all of the controls, and valve, and cut-off switch. Locate
be able to complete full vehicle turns and operate these items without
using the handlebars without excessive having to search for them.
upper body movements that could
jeopardize stability and control. • Operate all the controls before
you start riding. Know the
gearshift pattern and operate the
throttle, clutch and brakes a few
times. Controls react differently
on different vehicles, and exact three-wheel vehicles. Because of this

locations of controls may vary tendency, careful load and passenger
slightly. Additionally, some positioning inside the tip-over lines will
motorcycle conversions may be help maintain maximum stability of the
equipped with a single brake pedal vehicle.
or lever control, automatic clutch, or
automatic transmission. Body Position
• As you begin to ride, start out As with any motor vehicle, operator
slowly and carefully and be aware of position is important for control and
your surroundings. Accelerate gently, for reducing or preventing fatigue. The
take turns a little more slowly, and operator should be able to reach both
leave extra room for stopping. handgrips comfortably, since more
handlebar movement is necessary than
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL when riding a motorcycle. While it is
not necessary for the rider of a three-
Steering & Tip wheel vehicle to move drastically during
Three-wheel vehicles handle differently operation, shifting weight in the direction
than motorcycles. With three wheels of the turn can improve control.
on the ground, they are naturally more
Braking
stable than a motorcycle. They also steer
differently. Because conventional three- On a motorcycle with a sidecar,
wheel vehicles cannot lean, they cannot during braking in a sharp turn, the
countersteer. Instead, the front wheel is sidecar wheel may lift off the ground.
pointed in the direction the rider wants Motorcycle and sidecar tires have limited
the vehicle to go. traction or grip on the road surface and
traction is greater when the vehicle is
Under some conditions during the
rolling, not skidding or slipping. During
operation of a three-wheel vehicle, it
turning, some of the available tire
is possible to have only two wheels in
traction is used for cornering, so less is
contact with the road surface. This could
available for stopping. Thus, a skid can
occur during turning or tight maneuvers
occur if you brake too hard.
whenever enough weight is transferred
outside of what are called tip-over lines. Turning
The Figure shows the tip-over lines on
The tendency of the rear, inside wheel
to lift during turning is greater with
TIP-OVER LINES
increased vehicle speed and tighter
curve radii. During a turn, inertia causes
the center of gravity of the vehicle to
shift sideways, and outward toward the
tip-over line. The reduced weight over
the opposite side wheel can cause it to
lift slightly.
49
Because the weight of a three-track • Slightly lean your upper body in

vehicle is distributed almost equally the direction you intend to turn.
between the two front or two rear • Maintain speed as you enter the
wheels, these vehicles handle the same curve.
in left and right hand turns.
• Accelerate gradually as you exit the
When turning a three-track curve.
vehicle: During a left hand turn, the sidecar
• Approach a turn at speed with acts as a stabilizer, so the sidecar wheel
your head up, and look through the stays on the ground. However, if the
turn. turn is taken too sharply or at too high
• Concentrate on pointing the front a rate of speed, there is a tendency
wheel/wheels in the direction you for the motorcycle rear suspension to
want the vehicle to go. extend, and this may cause the rear
• Roll off the throttle before entering wheel of the motorcycle to lift off the
the turn. ground.
• Apply the brakes enough to slow When turning left on a motorcycle
the vehicle to a speed at which you with sidecar:
can ride safely through the turn,
• Reduce speed prior to entering the
then release the brakes before the
turn
turn.
• Apply more pressure on the rear
• Slightly lean your upper body in
brake then on the front
the direction you intend to turn.
• Steer the front wheel/wheels Hills
toward the turn. When riding uphill on a three-
• Roll on the throttle to pull the wheel vehicle or motorcycle with a
vehicle through the turn. sidecar, some weight will shift to the
Because the center of gravity of a rear, causing the front of the vehicle
motorcycle with sidecar is close to the to become lighter. This weight shift
motorcycle itself, the behavior of the reduces the traction on the front tire/
vehicle when turning right and when tires for steering and tire grip.
turning left are quite different. When riding downhill, gravity
During a right turn, a slight sideways increases the amount of braking force
movement of the center of gravity required to slow or stop the vehicle. It
creates a greater tendency for the is important, therefore, to begin slowing
sidecar wheel to lift. The lift will be earlier for cornering and stopping.
greater if the sidecar is empty or lightly Lane Position
loaded.
The track of the dual wheels of a
When turning right on a three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle with
motorcycle with sidecar: a sidecar is almost the same width as
• Anticipate the degree of turn some automobiles. Unlike a motorcycle,
required. you are limited, therefore, in lane
• Reduce speed before entering the positioning. Keep toward the center of
curve by downshifting or braking. the lane to be sure the track of the dual
wheels does not cross the painted lines • On acceleration, compensate for this
into opposing traffic. Riding too far to yaw tendency by steering slightly
the right could cause loss of traction if in the opposite direction from the
the tire leaves the pavement. sidecar.
• On deceleration, compensate for this
Lane positioning when riding
tendency by steering slightly in the
in groups is also an important direction of the sidecar. You can also
consideration. You will not be able pull in the clutch when braking.
to use a staggered formation, such as
you would when riding motorcycles. Swerving
Ride single file and always maintain a A quick stop may not always be
safe margin, two seconds minimum, sufficient to avoid an obstacle in your
between vehicles. path, even if you properly apply both
Parking at the Roadside brakes. Sometimes the only way to avoid
a collision is to swerve. A swerve is any
Because of the limitations on mobility sudden change of direction. It can be
and vehicle length, it is not practical to two quick turns or a rapid shift to the side
park your vehicle at a 90 degree angle when maneuvering the vehicle. Often,
with your rear wheel touching the there is not much time to adjust your
curb, as you would with a motorcycle. body position.
Position your vehicle in a parking space
so you are parked parallel to the curb A three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle
and set the parking brake. Some three- with sidecar is not as maneuverable
wheel vehicles have reverse, so you can as a motorcycle, so plan well ahead to
more easily maneuver into a parking avoid the need for any sudden turns or
space designed for an automobile. swerving. If braking is required, brake
Parking parallel to the curb will facilitate either before or after the swerve, never
pulling away from the curb and entering while swerving.
the lanes of traffic. Cornering & Curves
Acceleration and Deceleration The cornering characteristics of a
A three-wheel vehicle with two drive three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle with a
wheels tends to be much more stable sidecar differ from those of a motorcycle.
during acceleration and braking than a Even with three wheels on the ground, a
motorcycle with a sidecar. Attaching a sidecar can tip over if it is being turned
sidecar to your motorcycle adds a non- too sharply or is going too fast for a
powered, off-centered mass of weight. corner. Therefore, it is best to always slow
So, during acceleration, the sidecar before entering a corner.
will feel as though it is lagging behind The best path to follow in the curve
you, causing the vehicle to feel as may not be the one that follows the
though it is being steered to the right. curve of the road. Following the center
During deceleration or braking, the of the lane may actually increase the
momentum of the sidecar continues tip over forces. Check opposing traffic
to carry it forward, giving the feeling carefully, and if safe, enter the curve
that the sidecar is trying to pass you, toward the outside of your lane, as shown
making the vehicle feel as though it is in the Figure. This increases your line of
being steered left. sight through the curve and reduces the
51
effective radius of the curve. As you turn, When loaded, you may find
move toward the inside of the curve, performance is reduced and that
and as you pass the center, move to the stopping distances are longer, so allow
outside to exit, always remembering to a little extra distance. The addition of a
stay in your lane. sidecar passenger will greatly improve
stability, and right hand turns can be
CARRYING PASSENGERS AND made at a slightly higher speed. Turning
CARGO left, however, will require more turning
Three-wheel vehicles are designed to
carry passengers and cargo, but always
be sure not to exceed the tire or vehicle
loading capacity. The extra weight could
change the handling characteristics of
the vehicle slightly, so you must give
some thought to where the loads are
positioned.
Many three-track vehicles will have
built-in storage compartments for cargo,
either in front of, or behind the rider.
On these vehicles, 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
of the vehicle. While a second passenger
can be carried on the seat behind the
rider, the heavier passenger should
always be in the sidecar.
The passenger sitting behind the rider
should sit upright at all times. It is not
necessary for the passenger to lean into
curves with the rider.
When carrying loads in a sidecar,
secure the load firmly in place, since if
the load shifts, handling will be affected.
Loads should be distributed toward the
rear of the sidecar to reduce tipping of
the nose of the sidecar in the event of a
sudden left turn.
ORGAN DONOR INFORMATION
You have an opportunity now to make a decision that could, in the future, save
someone’s life.
Heart, lungs, liver, kidney, pancreas, small bowel, skin, bone and cornea transplants
take place successfully every day. But, the waiting list keeps growing and donors are
desperately needed.
Make a decision to save someone’s life. When you get your driver’s license, designate
yourself as an organ and tissue donor, then tell your friends and family what you have
done and encourage them to do the same.
Someone else could be making a decision today that may someday even save your life.
Complete the donor information on your license and tell your family.
For more information, call:
New England Organ Bank at 1-800-446-6362 or LifeChoice Donor Services at 1-800-

874-5215.
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, Ducati, Harley-Davidson,
Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio/Vespa, 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.

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Motorcycle

Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Adapted with Permission

Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles

Wethersfield, Connecticut 06161

R-217 (Rev. 01-11)

GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT

Other Laws for 16-and 17-Year-Old Motorcycle Operators

Share the Road

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR • A DOT compliant helmet lets

Some riders don’t wear helmets Helmet Selection

• Is designed to meet U.S. Goggles protect your eyes, though

Clothing KNOW YOUR

At a minimum, your street-legal know how to ride before allowing them

• Two mirrors. Get Familiar with the

Horn Button Throttle

Clutch Lever Front Brake Lever

Fuel Supply Valve

KNOW YOUR and know how to carry out proper

• Be visible — wear proper clothing,

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL • Knees — Keep your knees against

In normal turns, the rider and the TEST YOURSELF 3

KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE

In general, there is no single best Following Another Vehicle

than normal to stop. If the pavement Being Followed

Passing Being Passed

PASSING BEING PASSED

Lane Sharing if one is open. If there is no room for a

SEE • Road and surface characteristics

Search Think about your time and space

Search for factors such as: • Communicate your presence with

In potential high-risk areas, such as INTERSECTIONS

When approaching an intersection In this picture, the rider has moved to

STOP SIGNS PARKED CARS

does look, he may fail to see you.

INCREASING coming from the side to spot you.

On a road with several lanes, check

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

against the tank and your feet solidly on Cornering

CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES

DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES

Change lane position depending on HANDLING DANGEROUS

For track and road seams that run

PARALLEL TRACKS—RIGHT GRATE CROSSINGS—WRONG

PARALLEL TRACKS—WRONG TEST YOURSELF 9

MECHANICAL PROBLEMS Stuck Throttle

Trying to “accelerate out of a Engine Seizure

FLYING OBJECTS CARRYING PASSENGERS

Instructing Passengers • Ride a little slower, especially

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

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

WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND OTHER

Blood Alcohol Concentration A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed drink

It helps to enlist support from others

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

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

To receive a motorcycle license with full privileges, most

Answers to Test Yourself (previous pages)

SUPPLEMENTARY • Saddle seating