MOTORCYCLE - State of California
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2016
®
MOTORCYCLE
HANDBOOK
Edmund G. Brown Jr., Governor
State of California
Brian P. Kelly, Secretary
California State Transportation Agency
You can study this handbook plus use
many other DMV online services at Jean Shiomoto, Director
www.dmv.ca.gov. California Department of Motor Vehicles
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TTABLE OF CONTENTS
NEW LAWS 2016..................................ii Being Followed............................. 19
DISCLAIMER........................................ii Passing and Being Passed........... 19
Passing.......................................... 19
WHERE TO WRITE ...............................ii Being Passed................................ 19
DMV INFORMATION............................iii Lane Splitting................................ 20
INTRODUCTION....................................1 Merging Vehicles........................... 20
Vehicles Alongside........................ 20
TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE OPERATION........1
Search, Evaluate, and
Motorcycles........................................ 1
Execute (SEE).................................. 21
Motor-Driven Cycles........................... 2 Search........................................... 21
Motorized Bicycles or Moped............. 2 Evaluate......................................... 21
Electric Bicycles................................. 2 Execute.......................................... 22
Motorized Scooter.............................. 2 Intersections..................................... 22
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS.....................3 Blind Intersections......................... 23
Earning Your License......................... 3 Passing Parked Vehicles............... 23
Parking at the Roadside................ 26
Motorcycle Type-License Class
Increasing Visibility........................... 26
Chart.................................................. 4
Clothing......................................... 27
Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or Headlight....................................... 27
M2 License......................................... 5 Turn Signals................................... 27
California Motorcyclist Safety Brake Light.................................... 28
Program Training Course..................... 6 Using Your Mirrors......................... 28
Cheating............................................. 6 Head Checks................................. 29
Motorcycle Skills Test......................... 6 Horn............................................... 29
PREPARING TO RIDE............................8 Riding at Night.............................. 29
Wear the Right Gear.......................... 8 Collision Avoidance.......................... 30
Helmet Use...................................... 8 Quick Stops................................... 30
Helmet Selection............................. 9 Swerving or Turning Quickly.......... 31
Face, Eye, and Ear Protection.......... 9 Cornering....................................... 32
Clothing......................................... 10 Handling Dangerous Surfaces......... 33
Know Your Motorcycle...................... 11 Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles.....33
The Right Motorcycle.................... 11 Slippery Surfaces.......................... 34
Get Familiar With the Motorcycle Railroad or Trolley Tracks and
Controls......................................... 11 Pavement Seams.......................... 35
Check Your Motorcycle.................. 12 Grooves and Gratings................... 35
Know Your Responsibilities.............. 13 Mechanical Problems....................... 36
Tire Failure..................................... 36
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES............ 14 Stuck Throttle................................. 36
Basic Vehicle Control....................... 14 Wobble.......................................... 36
Body Position................................ 14 Chain Problems............................. 37
Shifting Gears................................ 14 Engine Seizure.............................. 37
Braking.......................................... 15 Animals.......................................... 37
Turning........................................... 15 Flying Objects................................ 38
U-turns........................................... 16 Getting Off the Road........................ 38
Keeping Your Distance..................... 16 Carrying Passengers and Cargo...... 38
Lane Positions............................... 16 Equipment..................................... 38
Carpool/High-Occupancy Vehicle Motorcycles Towing Trailers........... 39
(HOV) Lanes.................................. 17 Instructing Passengers.................. 39
Toll Highways and Vehicle Riding With Passengers................ 39
Crossings: Using Transponders or Child Passengers.......................... 40
Electronic Payment Devices.......... 17 Carrying Loads.............................. 40
Following Another Vehicle............. 18
-i-Group Riding.................................... 41 Minimize the Risks........................... 45
Keep the Group Small................... 41 Fatigue............................................. 45
Keep the Group Together.............. 41
MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE FACTS....... 46
Keep Your Distance....................... 42
EVADING A PEACE OFFICER................ 46
BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE................... 43
Blood Alcohol Concentration............ 43 TREAD LIGHTLY!................................ 47
GET A DUI – LOSE YOUR LICENSE!...... 44 KNOWLEDGE TEST SAMPLE 1............. 49
Alcohol and the Law......................... 45 KNOWLEDGE TEST SAMPLE 2............. 51
NEW LAWS 2016
Effective January 1, 2016
Electric Bicycle Classes
Three classes of electric bicycles have been created. All operators of a Class 3 (maximum
speed of 28 miles per hour [mph]) electric bicycle must be 16 years old or older and are
required to wear a bicycle helmet. There is no financial responsibility, driver license (DL),
registration, or license plate requirement for these electric bicycles. More information on
electric bicycles can be found in the California Vehicle Code (CVC) §§312.5, 12804.9,
21113, & 24016 and in this handbook.
Effective January 1, 2017
Increased Accident Reportability Threshold
The minimum damage threshold for collision reportability will increase from $750 to
$1,000. A driver of a motor vehicle involved in a collision with property damages greater
than $1,000 must submit a Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR 1) to
DMV. DMV is authorized to impose sanctions following an uninsured reportable collision
(CVC §§1656.2, 1808, 1808.1, 12517.1, 13369, 13558, 16000, 16000.1, 16020.1, 16020.2,
16075, 16251, 16430, & 16434).
Disclaimer
This handbook is only a summary of laws and regulations. DMV, law enforcement, and
courts follow the full and exact language of the law contained in the California Vehicle
Code. You may buy a copy of the California Vehicle Code at any DMV field office or
visit our website at www.dmv.ca.gov.
Where to Write
If you have any comments or suggestions regarding this publication, please send them to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Customer Communications Section MS H165
PO Box 932345, Sacramento, CA 94232-3450
© Copyright, Department Of Motor Vehicles 2016
All rights reserved.
This work is protected by U. S. Copyright Law. DMV owns the copyright of this work.
Copyright law prohibits the following: (1) reproduction of the copyrighted work; (2)
distribution of copies of the copyrighted work; (3) preparation of derivative works
based upon the copyrighted work; (4) displaying the copyrighted work publicly; or (5)
performing the copyrighted work publicly. All requests for permission to make copies
of all or any part of this publication should be addressed to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Legal Office MS C128
PO Box 932382
Sacramento, CA 94232-3820
- ii -DMV INFORMATION
FIELD OFFICE HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Some field offices may have extended hours and a few offer only driver license (DL)
or vehicle registration services. To find a field office location and service options,
go online or call the toll-free number listed below.
Go online at www.dmv.ca.gov for (to):
• Field office locations, hours, direc- Call 1-800-777-0133 during normal
tions, and phone numbers. business hours to:
• Make appointments to visit a field • Obtain/request DL/ID and vehicle
office or take a drive test (except for registration information, forms, and
commercial drive tests).
publications.
• Order personalized plates.
• Find office locations and hours.
• DL and identification (ID) card
• Make a drive test appointment.
information.
• Speak to a DMV representative or
• Vehicle/vessel registration information.
request a call back.
• Downloadable forms.
• Publications—handbooks, brochures, Call 1-800-777-0133 for automated
and sample tests. service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to:
• Renew your vehicle registration with
• Senior driver information. the renewal identification number
• Teen driver information. (RIN) provided on your billing notice.
• Links to other state and federal agencies. You can pay with a credit card or
• Renew your DL/ID or vehicle regis- e-check.
tration. • Make an office appointment.
Make sure to have your DL/ID card number, vehicle license plate number and/or
vehicle identification number (VIN) available.
Persons with speech or hearing impairments can call toll free, 1-800-368-4327 for
assistance with DMV services. Only typed messages from another TTY are received
and responded to at this number.
Advertising sponsorship helps defray the printing costs of this publication. The products
and services provided by the advertising sponsors are not promoted or endorsed by
DMV, but the significant contribution by the advertising sponsors is most appreciated.
If you would like to advertise in this publication, please call the Office of State
Publishing Advertising Department at 1-866-824-0603.
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- iv -INTRODUCTION TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE
This handbook supplements the OPERATION
California Driver Handbook con- The basic rules of the road con-
cerning traffic laws, safe driving tained in the California Vehicle
rules, and driver licenses. Study Code apply to all two-wheel vehi-
the California Driver Handbook cles including, but not limited to,
as well as this handbook. motorcycles, motor-driven cycles,
This handbook provides infor- mopeds, or motorized bicycles.
mation for both beginner and Minibikes, tote-goats, trail bikes,
experienced riders of two-wheel and similar vehicles may fall with-
vehicles. Portions of this handbook in the definition of motorcycle,
dealing with safe driving practices motor-driven cycle, or motorized
(rather than traffic laws) were bicycle. If any of these vehicles
developed initially by the National are operated on a highway, they
Public Services Research Institute must meet applicable equipment,
in cooperation with the Motorcycle registration, financial responsi-
Safety Foundation (MSF). bility, licensing, and operational
The MSF, California Highway requirements, if appropriate.
P a t r ol (C H P), C a l i fo r n i a It is illegal to ride a motor-driven
Motorcyclist Safety Program cycle, moped, motorized bicycle,
(CMSP), various motorcyclist or electric bicycle on a freeway or
enthusiast g roups, and the expressway if signs are posted to
Department of Motor Vehicles prohibit operation. Additionally, it
(DMV) agree that combining qual- is illegal to ride a moped, motor-
ity motorcycle rider education and ized bicycle or a Class 3 electric
increased public awareness, has the bicycle on a bicycle path or trail,
potential to reduce the number and equestrian (horse) trail, hiking
severity of motorcycle collisions. trail, or recreational trail unless
When using this handbook, that path or trail is on or next to a
remember it is only a summary road, or permission to use the trail
of laws and regulations. DMV, law or roadway is granted by local law.
enforcement, and courts follow the Motorcycles
full and exact language of the law A motorcycle is a motor vehicle
contained in the California Vehicle with a seat or saddle for the rider
Code (CVC). designed to travel on not more than
three wheels.
-1-Motor-Driven Cycles provides assistance only when
A motor-driven cycle is a motor- the rider is pedaling and ceases
cycle with less than a 150 cc to provide assistance when a
motor size. speed of 20 mph is reached.
NOTE: You may not operate a • Class 2: A low speed throt-
motor-driven cycle on a freeway tle-assisted electric bicycle
or expressway if signs are posted equipped with a motor used
to prohibit motor-driven cycle exclusively to propel the bicycle
operation. and NOT capable of providing
assistance when a speed of 20
Motorized Bicycles mph is reached.
or Moped • Class 3: A low speed ped-
A motorized bicycle or moped is al-assisted electric bicycle
a two-or three-wheeled device, equipped with a speedometer,
capable of no more than 30 miles and a motor which provides
per hour (mph) on level ground, assistance only when the rider
and equipped with: is pedaling and ceases to pro-
• Fully operative pedals for vide assistance when a speed
human propulsion. of 28 mph is reached.
• A motor producing less than The operator of a Class 3 electric
four gross brake horsepower bicycle:
and an automatic transmission. –– Must be 16 years old or older.
• No pedals if powered solely ––Must wear a bicycle safety
by electrical energy (CVC helmet.
§406(a)). ––Must not transport pas-
• Motorized bicycles may ride in sengers.
a bicycle lane if authorized by ––May ride an electric bicycle
local authority or ordinance. in a bicycle lane if autho-
Electric Bicycles rized by local authority or
An electric bicycle is a bicycle ordinance.
equipped with fully operable All electric bicycle classes are
pedals and an electric motor of exempt from the motor vehicle
less than 750 watts. Three classes financial responsibility, DL, and
of electric bicycles have been license plate requirements (CVC
established: §24016).
• Class 1: A low speed ped- Motorized Scooter
al-assisted electric bicycle A motorized scooter is defined as
equipped with a motor which any two-wheeled “device” with:
-2-• A motor, handlebars, and a side car attached, three-wheel
f loorboard for standing on motorcycle, or motorized scooter.
when riding, and
Earning Your License
• The options of having: Safe riding requires knowledge
––A driver seat which cannot and skill. Testing two-wheel
interfere with the operator’s vehicle operators is the best
ability to stand and ride. measurement of the skills neces-
––The ability to be powered by sary to operate safely in traffic
human propulsion. because people often overesti-
NOTE: A motorized scooter may mate their own abilities. DMV’s
be driven with any class DL. A licensing tests are designed to be
motorized scooter may not be scored objectively.
used to take a skills test. You may apply for a Class M1 or
A motorized scooter’s exhaust M2 DL at any DMV field office
system must not be modified or which provides DL services.
altered. To obtain your DL, refer to the
Requirements for a Motorcycle
LICENSE M1 or M2 License section (see
REQUIREMENTS page 5). You will be required
California issues the following to pass the driver knowledge
DL classes for two-wheel vehicle test, motorcycle knowledge
operation: test, knowledge test(s) for any
• Class M1—You may operate other license class(es) requested,
any two-wheel motorcycle, and pass a motorcycle skills
motor-driven cycle, or motor- test or obtain a Certificate
ized scooter and all vehicles of Completion of Motorcycle
listed under Class M2. Training (DL 389) as defined
in the California Motorcyclist
NOTE: The permit and DL Safety Program Training Course
requirements in this handbook section (see page 6).
pertain to two-wheel vehicles
and are referenced in CVC Knowledge test questions are
§12804.9. based on information in this hand-
book and the California Driver
• Class M2—You may operate Handbook. The motorcycle skills
any motorized bicycle, moped, test is conducted in either an
or motorized scooter. actual traffic environment or in
NOTE: Class C licensees may a controlled off-street area.
operate a motorcycle with a
-3-Motorcycle Type - License Class Chart
Type of Vehicle California Vehicle Code Class of Vehicle Description
Sections (§§) license
Motorcycle 400, 12804.9(b)(4) M1 A motorcycle is a motor vehicle with a seat or saddle for the rider and
is designed to travel on not more than three wheels.
Motor-driven 405, 12804.9(b)(4) M1* A motor-driven cycle is a motorcycle with less than a 150 cc motor
cycle size. A motor-driven cycle does not include motorized bicycle.
Motorized 406(a), 12804.9(b)(5)(A)(i) Any class A two- or three-wheeled device, capable of no more than 30 mph on level
bicycle or moped of ground, and equipped with fully operative pedals for human propulsion or
(capable of no more license** having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, a motor producing
than 30 mph) less than four gross brake horsepower, and an automatic transmission.
-4-
Electric bicycle 312.5(a), Not A bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of
12804.9(b)(5)(A)(i) required less than 750 watts. There are three electric bicycle classes: Class 1 and
2 are capable of speeds of no more than 20 mph. Class 3 is capable of
speeds of no more than 28 mph.
Motorized scooter 407.5, 12804.9(b) Any class A motorized scooter is defined as any two-wheeled device with an electric
NOTE: Cannot be of motor, handlebars, a floorboard for standing on when riding, and the option
used for a skills test. license*** of having a driver seat which cannot interfere with the operator’s ability to
stand and ride and/or the ability to be powered by human propulsion.
*Motor vehicles with less than a 150 cc motor size do not have the engine capability to be safely driven on a freeway or expressway.
** A person holding a valid California driver license of any class may operate a short-term (48 hrs. or less) rental motorized bicycle without
taking any special examination for the operation of a motorized bicycle, and without having a class M2 endorsement on that driver license.
*** A person holding a valid driver license of any class may operate a motorized scooter.Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License
To Obtain an M1 or M2 License
MINORS AGE ADULTS AGE ADULTS AGE
REQUIREMENTS 15½ to 17 18 to 20 21 and OVER
(See NOTE 1) (See NOTE 2) (See NOTE 3)
Driver education and
behind-the-wheel driver
training certificates of N/A N/A
completion
Certificates of Completion
of Motorcycle Training N/A
(DL 389)
Complete a Driver License
or Identification Card
Application (DL44 or
DL44C)
Parent(s) or guardian(s)
signature (if a minor) N/A N/A
Pass a vision exam
Fingerprint(s)
Pay required fees
Have your photograph
taken
*Pass the applicable knowl-
edge and skills tests
Have an instruction permit
for at least 6 months N/A
Permit restrictions (See NOTE 4) (See NOTE 4) (See NOTE 4)
*Tests include at least the driver knowledge, motorcycle knowledge, and motorcycle
skills. An observation road test is required for applicants who have never been licensed
for any class of motor vehicle and apply for a motorcycle only license.
NOTE 1: Minors 15½ years old or older, but under 17½ years old, must submit a DL
389, bring proof of completion of both driver education and driver training or have
a Class C driver license, and pass both the driver knowledge and the motorcycle
driver knowledge test.
NOTE 2: Applicants 18 years old or older, but under 21 years old, must submit a DL
389, and pass both the driver knowledge and the motorcycle driver knowledge test.
NOTE 3: While not a requirement, motorcycle license applicants 21 years old or
older, are encouraged to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP)
training course.
NOTE 4: The Class M1/M2 instruction permit includes the following restrictions:
• No carrying passengers.
• No freeway driving.
• No nighttime driving.
-5-NOTE: The DL 389 is valid for Cheating
12 months from the issue date. The use of testing aids is strictly
To locate a DMV field office that prohibited. This includes, but
offers the motorcycle skills test is not limited to, the California
and/or to schedule an appoint- Motorcycle Handbook,
ment, visit www.dmv.ca.gov or California Driver Handbook,
call 1-800-777-0133. cheat sheets, or electronic com-
California Motorcyclist munication devices such as a
Safety Program Training cell phone, computer, tablet,
Course etc. If any testing aid(s) are used
during the knowledge test, the
Motorcycle applicants under 21
knowledge test will be marked
years old are required to com-
as a “failure.” An action may
plete a CMSP training course
also be taken by DMV against
before receiving a motorcycle
your driving privilege or the
instruction permit.
driving privilege of anyone who
Motorcycle applicants 21 years assists you in cheating during the
old and older are encouraged examination process.
to enroll in the CMSP training
course. The CMSP training Motorcycle Skills Test
course provides hands-on motor- Basic vehicle control skills are
cycle knowledge and skill training included in the motorcycle skills
for beginner and experienced rid- test to determine your ability to
ers. The DMV motorcycle skills maneuver in normal traffic situa-
test may be waived upon comple- tions. The skills test may be waived
tion of the CMSP training course for a person presenting a valid DL
and submission of the Certificate 389; however, you may be required
of Completion of Motorcycle to perform an observation test
Training (DL 389). DMV will not when applying for a motorcycle
waive the motorcycle skills test only (Class M1/M2) license.
based on an out-of-state motorcy- The motorcycle skills test allows
cle training program or in-state/ the rider to demonstrate his or her
out-of-state course completion ability to control the motorcycle
card for insurance purposes. through several skills. Applicants
For more information, contact taking the motorcycle skills test
CMSP at 1-877-RIDE-411 or visit should consider the size of the
www.californiamotorcyclist.com. motorcycle they plan to operate.
NOTE: The DL 389 is valid for The motorcycle skills test is a
12 months from the issue date. pass/fail test.
-6-The motorcycle skills test wheel within the tracking
includes the following: path, and weaving once more
Pre-trip Inspection - You will through the row of five cones as
be asked to identify the following you return to the starting point.
items on your motorcycle: • Slow Ride – Ride slowly
• Starter between two parallel lines
keeping the front tire within
• Kill switch
the tracking path. At the end
• Clutch (if equipped) of the tracking path, begin the
• Throttle circle ride twice in a counter-
• Gear selector clockwise direction.
• Headlight dimmer switch • Gear Shift Ride – Ride in a
• Brakes straight path, shift gears up and
• Turn signals then down, complete a U-turn
and return, shift gears up and
• Horn
then down, and end in a smooth
You will be asked to demonstrate stop at the starting point. This is
the following skills: only performed on motorcycles
• Riding in the tracking paths with a clutch and gears.
(the area within and including A. The width inside of the
the tracking lines) parallel ride lane is one foot.
• Serpentine Ride – Beginning B. The width inside the circle
on the right of the first cone, ride lane is two feet.
weave through a row of five C. The diameter of the outside
traffic cones. At the end of the circle is twenty-four feet.
row of cones, begin the circle D. The cones are spaced twelve
ride. feet apart. The width of the
• Circle Ride – Ride around area for the cones is eight
the circle twice in a clockwise feet.
direction keeping the front
-7-Observation Test (if applying for Helmet Use
a motorcycle only license) – An All riders and passengers are
observation road test is required required per CVC §27803 to
for applicants who have never wear a U.S. DOT compliant
been licensed for any class of motorcycle safety helmet when
motor vehicle and who apply riding a motorcycle, motor-
for a motorcycle only license. driven cycle, or motorized
The examiner will observe you bicycle. The motorcycle safety
operating the motorcycle from a helmet must be certified by the
preselected vantage point, usu- manufacturer stating the helmet
ally on the corner, near the DMV complies with the U.S. DOT
field office. They will instruct Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
you to follow a route that will Standard (FMVSS) 218. Head
keep you in view for the longest injuries account for the majority
period of time. of serious and fatal motorcyclist
injuries and, with few exceptions,
PREPARING TO RIDE head injuries are reduced by
Wear the Right Gear properly wearing a motorcycle
When you ride, you have a far safety helmet. Here are some
better chance of avoiding serious facts to consider:
injury when wearing protective • Most collisions happen on short
gear and apparel. trips (less than five miles long).
By law, you must wear: • Most riders are riding slower
• A U. S. D e p a r t m e nt of than 30 mph when a collision
Transportation (DOT) compli- occurs. At these speeds, a U.S.
ant motorcycle safety helmet. DOT compliant motorcycle
It is highly suggested you wear: safety helmet can cut both the
number and the severity of
• Face and/or eye protection. head injuries by 50 percent.
• Protective apparel, such as a • A non-U.S. DOT compliant
leather or long sleeve jacket helmet generally has very thin
with reflective material, long liners and protective padding.
heavy pants, over the ankle These types of helmets lack
closed-toe boots, and full- the strength, size, and ability
fingered leather gloves. to protect the rider during a
More information on wearing the collision.
right gear and protective apparel • A non-U.S. DOT compliant
is covered in the following pages. helmet may look like U.S. DOT
-8-compliant helmets and may be three-quarters, modular, or full-
sold alongside U.S. DOT com- face helmet. The full-face helmet
pliant helmets. Make sure the with a lock-in visor, offers the
U.S. DOT certification is on the best coverage and protection to
helmet you wish to purchase. the back and sides of your head.
Non-U.S. DOT compliant Whichever style you choose, you
helmets may be referred to as get the most protection by making
novelty helmets, rain bonnets, sure the helmet:
lids, loophole lids, beanies, or
• Meets U.S. DOT safet y
brain buckets.
standards and has the manu-
A U. S. DOT compliant helmet facturer-applied DOT lettering
may be decorated by the owner on the back of the helmet.
with stick-on items such as
NOTE: DOT lettering should
decals, Mohawks, Viking horns,
not be a stick-on label or easily
etc. and will not affect the safety
removed.
properties of the helmet. In a
collision, regardless of speed, • Fits snugly, all the way around.
if you are wearing a U.S. DOT • Has no obvious defects such
compliant motorcycle safety as cracks, loose padding, or
helmet you are three times more frayed straps.
likely to survive a head injury • Is securely fastened on your
than if you are not wearing a head when you ride. Otherwise,
U.S. DOT compliant motorcycle if you are involved in a col-
safety helmet. lision, it may come off your
head before it gets a chance to
Helmet Selection
protect you.
Face, Eye, and Ear
Protection
A plastic shatter-resistant face
shield can help protect your whole
face in a collision. Face shields,
when lowered and locked-in,
offer protection from wind, dust,
dirt, rain, insects, pebbles, and
other debris.
Face shields, when lowered and
There are four types of hel- locked-in, protect your face.
mets to consider: A half shell, Goggles only protect your eyes.
-9-A windshield is not a substitute emergency vehicle or another
for a face shield or goggles. Most motor vehicle.
windshields will not protect
your eyes from wind, nor will Clothing
eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses The right clothing is an integral
will not keep your eyes from part of your protective apparel
watering, and they might blow off and will help protect you in a
when you turn your head. collision. It provides comfort,
and protection from heat, cold,
To be effective, eye or face shield
and debris, along with the hot,
protection must:
moving parts of the motorcycle.
• Be free of scratches. Recommended clothing and
• Be resistant to punctures. protective apparel:
• Give a clear view to either side. • A jacket that covers your arms
• Fasten securely, so it does not and fits snugly enough to keep
blow off or up. from flapping in the wind,
• Permit air to pass through, to yet allows you to move freely.
reduce fogging. Leather or sturdy synthetic
• Permit enough room for eye- materials with integrated body
glasses or sunglasses, if needed. armor offers, the most protec-
NOTE: Tinted eye protection or tion. You should consider a
tinted face shields should not be jacket that is brightly colored or
worn at night or when little light reflective. Either of these will
is available. aid in your visibility so other
motorists can see you.
To protect against the elements
• Long pants offer greater pro-
of nature, such as wind which
tection than short pants. Denim
can cause hearing loss, you may
jeans provide the best protec-
want to use ear protection. CVC
tion. Chaps (leather pants
§27400 states a person may not
without a seat) worn over long
wear a headset covering, ear-
pants offer an extra layer of
plugs, or earphones in both ears,
protection for your legs.
unless the protectors (earplugs or
molds) are specifically designed • Over-the-ankle boots or closed-
to reduce harmful (injurious) toe shoes should be high and
noise levels. The headset cover- sturdy enough to cover and
ings, earplugs, or earphones must support your ankles. Soles
not inhibit the wearer's ability should be made of a hard,
to hear a siren or horn from an durable, slip-resistant mate-
rial. The heels should be short
- 10 -so they do not catch on rough not be one of them. To make sure
surfaces. Tuck in the laces so your motorcycle will not let you
they will not catch on your down:
motorcycle. Shoes, such as flip • Start with the right motorcycle
flops or sandals, are not recom- for you.
mended protective apparel. • Read the owner’s manual first.
• Gloves allow a better grip and • Be familiar with the motorcycle
help protect your hands. Gloves controls.
should be made of leather or
similar durable material offer- • Check the motorcycle before
ing maximum hand and finger every ride.
protection. • Keep it in safe riding condition.
• Wearing a jacket, long pants, • Avoid add-ons and modifica-
sturdy shoes or boots, and tions that make your motorcycle
gloves (even in warm weather) harder to handle.
can prevent dehydration, and The Right Motorcycle
sun/wind burn. Many of these
First, make sure your motorcycle
items are designed to protect
“fits” you. Your feet should com-
without making you overheat,
fortably reach the ground while
even on summer days.
you are seated on the motorcycle.
Riding for long periods in At a minimum, your street-legal
cold weather can cause severe motorcycle must have:
chill, dehydration, and fatigue.
Numbness can make it difficult • Tires with sufficient tread and
to control a motorcycle. In cold air pressure for safe operation.
or wet weather, layer clothes to • Operable headlights, taillight,
keep yourself warm and dry, as brake light, and turn signals.
well as protect you from injury. A • Front and rear brakes.
winter jacket should resist wind • A horn and mirror(s).
and fit snugly at the neck, wrists,
and waist. Good quality rain suits Get Familiar With the
Motorcycle Controls
designed for motorcycle riding
resist tearing apart or ballooning Be completely familiar with the
up at high speeds. motorcycle before you take it
out on the street. Get familiar
Know Your Motorcycle with any motorcycle new to you,
There are many things on the preferably in a controlled area.
highway that can cause you (No matter how experienced you
trouble. Your motorcycle should may be, ride extra carefully on
- 11 -any motorcycle new or unfamiliar • Tires—Check the air pressure,
to you.) Remember more than general wear, and tread.
half of all collisions occur by • Fluids—Oil and fluid levels.
motorcycle riders with less than At a minimum, check hydraulic
six months experience. fluid and coolant weekly. Look
If you use an u nfamiliar under the motorcycle for signs
motorcycle: of fluid leaks.
• Make all the safety and main- • Headlights and Taillight—
tenance checks you would on Check them both for proper
your own motorcycle. operation and burned out bulbs.
• Find out where everything is • Turn Signals—Turn on both
located, particularly the turn right and left turn signals.
signals, horn, headlight dim- Make sure all front and rear
mer switch, fuel-supply valve, signal lights work properly.
and engine cut-off switch. • Battery—Check the battery
You should be able to find condition and electrolyte level;
them without having to look ensure the terminals are clean
for them. and tight, and that the battery
• Know the gear pattern. Work is fastened securely.
the throttle, clutch, and brakes • Brake Light—Try both brake
a few times before you start controls and make sure each
riding. All controls react a little one turns on the brake light.
differently. • Chain or Belt—Check the ten-
• Ride very cautiously and be sion, lubrication, and sprockets.
aware of your surroundings. • Kick-Stand—Check the kick-
Accelerate gently, take turns stand for cracks, bent springs,
slowly, and leave extra room and tension to hold position.
for stopping. Once you are on the motorcycle,
Check Your Motorcycle complete the following checks
A motorcycle needs more fre- before starting out:
quent attention than a car. If • Clutch and Throttle—Make
something is wrong with the sure they work smoothly. The
motorcycle, find out about it throttle should snap back when
before you get in traffic or operate you let go. The clutch should
the motorcycle at freeway speeds. feel tight and smooth.
Make the following checks before • Mirrors—Clean and adjust
every ride: the mirror(s) before starting.
Adjust the mirror(s) so you can
- 12 -see the lane behind you and as anyone’s fault or negligence.
much as possible of the lane Most often in traffic, this is not
next to you. When properly the case. In fact, most people
adjusted, a mirror may show involved in a collision can usu-
the edge of your arm or shoul- ally claim some responsibility for
der—but it’s the road behind what takes place.
and to the side of you that is Blame does not matter when
most important. someone is injured in a colli-
• Brakes—Try the front and sion. There is rarely a single
rear brake levers one at a time. cause of any collision. The
Make sure each one feels firm ability to be aware, make criti-
and holds the motorcycle when cal decisions, and carry them
the brake is fully applied. out separates responsible riders
• Horn—Make sure the horn from all the rest. It is up to you
works. to keep from being the cause of,
In addition to the checks before or an unprepared participant in,
every trip, check the follow- any collision.
ing items at least once a week: As a motorcycle rider, you
wheels, cables, fasteners, and cannot be sure that others will
fluid levels. Follow the manufac- see you or yield the right of
turer’s recommendations. way. To reduce the chances of
Collisions are fairly common a collision:
among new riders. Riding an • Be visible. Wear bright or
unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the reflective clothing, use your
problem. Get familiar with any headlight and running lights,
motorcycle new to you, prefer- if equipped, and ride in the
ably in a controlled area. (No best lane position to see and
matter how experienced you may be seen.
be, ride extra carefully on any • Communicate your inten-
motorcycle new or unfamiliar tions. Use the proper signals,
to you.) Remember more than brake light, and lane position.
half of all collisions occur by • Maintain an adequate space
motorcycle riders with less than cushion. Allow yourself
six months experience. enough space when following,
Know Your being followed, lane splitting,
Responsibilities passing, and being passed.
“Accident” implies an unfore- • Be aware. Monitor vehicle
seen event that occurs without traffic in front and approaching
- 13 -traffic from behind while main- accidentally use too much
taining an escape route. throttle. Also, adjust the han-
• Scan your path of travel. Look dlebars so your hands are even
at least 10 to 15 seconds ahead. with or below your elbows.
• Identify and separate mul- This allows you to use the
tiple hazards. proper muscles for precision
steering.
• Be prepared to act. Remain
alert. Know how to carry out • Knees—Keep your knees
proper collision-avoidance against the gas tank to help
techniques. with your balance as you turn
the motorcycle.
RIDE WITHIN YOUR • Feet—Keep your feet firmly
ABILITIES on the footrests for balance. Do
This handbook cannot teach you not drag your feet; you could
how to control direction, speed, lose control of the motorcycle.
or balance. You learn this by Keep your feet near the con-
taking professionally taught trols. Do not point your toes
motorcycle rider courses, practic- downward—they may get
ing, knowing your abilities, and caught between the road and
riding within them. the footrests.
Basic Vehicle Control Shifting Gears
Body Position There is more to shifting gears
than simply getting the motor-
To control a motorcycle:
cycle to pick up speed smoothly.
• Posture —Sit so you can Learning to use the gears when
use your arms to control the downshifting, turning, or start-
motorcycle rather than to hold ing on hills is important for safe
yourself up. motorcycle operation.
• Seat—Sit far enough forward Shift down through the gears
so your arms are slightly bent with the clutch as you slow or
when holding the handlegrips. stop. Remain in first gear while
Bending your arms permits stopped so you can move out
you to press on the handlebars quickly, if needed.
without having to stretch and
reduces arm fatigue. Ride slowly enough when you
shift into a lower gear or the
• Hands—Hold the handlegrips motorcycle will lurch and the
firmly. Start with your right rear wheel may skid. When
wrist f lat so you will not riding downhill or shifting into
- 14 -first gear you may need to slow • If you know the technique,
to downshift safely. Work toward using both brakes in a turn is
a smooth, even clutch release possible, although it should
especially when downshifting. be done very carefully. When
It is best to change gears before you lean the motorcycle, some
starting a turn. However, some- of the traction is used for
times you may need to shift cornering and less traction is
while in the turn. Remember to available for stopping. A skid
shift smoothly because a sudden can occur if you apply too much
change in power to the rear wheel brake. Also, using the front
can cause a skid. brake incorrectly on a slippery
surface may be hazardous. Use
Braking caution and gently squeeze the
Your motorcycle has two brakes: brake lever, never “grab” it.
one for the front wheel and one • Some motorcycles have inte-
for the rear wheel. When making grated braking systems that
a normal, nonemergency stop, link the front and rear brakes
use both brakes at the same time together when you apply the
and downshift. The front brake rear brake pedal (consult your
has more stopping power, provid- owner’s manual).
ing three-quarters of your total
stopping power. The front brake Turning
is safe to use when used properly. Riders often try to take curves
or turns too fast. When they
REMEMBER:
cannot hold the turn, they end
• Use both brakes every time up crossing into another lane of
you slow or stop. Using both traffic or going off the road. In
brakes for “normal” stops helps some cases, riders overreact and
you develop the proper habit brake too hard causing a skid and
and skill of using both brakes loss of control. Approach turns
correctly, which you may need and curves with caution.
in an emergency. Squeeze the
Use four steps for better control:
front brake and press down on
the rear brake. Grabbing at the 1. Slow—Reduce your speed
front brake or jamming down before the turn by rolling off
on the rear brake can cause the throttle and, if necessary,
the brakes to lock and result applying both brakes.
in control problems. 2. Look—Look through the turn
to where you want to go. Turn
only your head, not your
- 15 -shoulders, and keep your eyes • Friction Zone—The friction
level with the horizon. zone is the area of the clutch
3. Press—To turn, the motor- between completely engaged
cycle must lean. To lean the and completely released.
motorcycle, press on the Riding within the friction
handlegrip in the direction zone will give you more control
of the turn. Press left—lean through the turn.
left—go left. Press right— • Dragging the Rear Brake—
lean right—go right. Higher Dragging the rear brake is the
speeds and/or tighter turns practice of utilizing the rear
require the motorcycle to brake to control the bike speed
lean more. and maintain stability, such as
4. Roll—Roll on the throttle in a U-turn. The front brake
through the turn to stabilize should not be used as it could
suspension. Maintain steady cause the bike to tip over.
speed or accelerate gradually • Centralize Weight—A motor-
through the turn. This will cycle will be easier to maneuver
help keep the motorcycle when the weight is kept close
stable. to the bike. Keep your feet on
In normal turns, the rider and the the footrests and, if necessary,
motorcycle should lean together apply weight to the outside
at the same angle. footrest to equalize balance.
In slow tight turns, the rider • Practice—Practice executing
should keep his or her body U-turns in an empty open
straight and only lean the parking lot. Start with wide
motorcycle. U-turns and gradually tighten
the turning radius. Also, prac-
U-turns tice U-turns in both directions
Completing U-turns on a motor- by riding in figure 8 patterns
cycle requires you to maintain until you are comfortable with
control and balance to maneuver U-turns in both right and left
through a tight U-turn. Here are directions.
some tips for completing U-turns Keeping Your Distance
successfully: The best protection you can
• Look— Look through the have is distance—a “cushion of
turn to where you want to go. space”—all around your motor-
Turn only your head, not your cycle. If someone else makes a
shoulders, and keep your eyes mistake, distance gives you:
level with the horizon.
- 16 -• Time to react. cushion around the motorcycle.
• Space to maneuver. Position yourself in the lane that
allows the most visibility and
Lane Positions space around you. Change your
In some ways, the size of the lane position as traffic situa-
motorcycle can work to your tions change. Ride in paths 2 or
advantage. Each traffic lane 3 if vehicles and other potential
gives a motorcycle three paths problems are on your left side. If
of travel, as indicated in the vehicles are on both sides of you,
illustration. the center of the lane (path 2) is
usually the best option. Riding
LANE POSITIONS closer to the center portion of
your lane helps to keep other
vehicles from sharing the lane.
The oily strip in the center por-
tion of the lane is usually no more
than two feet wide. You can ride
just to the left or right of the oily
strip and still be within the center
of the lane. Avoid riding on oil
and grease buildups.
Your lane position should:
• Increase your ability to see and Carpool/High-Occupancy
be seen. Vehicle (HOV) Lanes
• Avoid others’ blind spots. A carpool lane is a special free-
• Protect your lane from other way lane used only for carpools,
drivers. buses, motorcycles, or decaled
low-emission vehicles. The pave-
• Communicate your intentions.
ment in this lane is marked with a
• Help you avoid wind blasts diamond symbol ◊ and the words
from other vehicles. “Carpool Lane.” These lanes are
• Provide an escape route. also known as high-occupancy
Select the appropriate lane posi- vehicle (HOV) lanes. Do not
tion to maximize your space cross over double parallel lines
cushion and make yourself more to enter or exit any carpool lane
visible to others. except at designated entry or exit
In general, there is no “best lane places. Motorcyclists are allowed
position” for motorcycle riders to use carpool/HOV lanes, unless
to be seen and maintain a space otherwise posted.
- 17 -Toll Highways and involving motorcyclists. In traf-
Vehicle Crossings: Using fic, motorcycles need as much
Transponders or Electronic distance to stop as other vehicles.
Payment Devices Normally, you should maintain a
In California, high-occupancy two-second following distance.
toll (HOT) lanes and toll high- To gauge your following distance:
ways are fee-paid roadways used
• Ahead of you pick out a
in heavily traveled areas to relieve
marker, such as a pavement
traffic congestion.
marking or lamp post.
Commuters traveling on toll • When the rear bumper of the
highways or using HOT lanes vehicle ahead of you passes
may purchase transponders, the marker, count off the
which track their vehicle's usage seconds: “one-thousand-one,
of these roadways. Transponders one-thousand-two.” If you
allow drivers to pay toll fees reach the marker before you
through electronic billing. reach “one-thousand-two,” you
When using a transponder or are following too closely.
other electronic payment device, • A two-second following dis-
motorcyclists are allowed to tance gives you a minimum
place the payment device in five amount of space to stop or
locations (on the motorcycle or swerve, if the driver ahead
carried by the rider), as long as the stops suddenly. It also gives
toll reader can detect the device. you a better view of potholes
The locations are: and other road hazards.
• In the motorcyclist’s pocket. • Increase following distance
• Inside a cycle net draped across when the motorcycle is towing
the gas tank of the motorcycle. a trailer as increased stopping
• On the license plate device, if distance is required.
the toll operator provides such • You will need a larger space
a device. cushion if your motorcycle
• In a storage compartment on takes longer than normal to
the motorcycle. stop. Open up a three-second or
more following distance when
• On the windshield of the
the pavement is slippery, you
motorcycle.
cannot see through the vehicle
Following Another Vehicle ahead, or traffic is heavy.
“Following too closely” (tailgat- • When you are stopped, keep
ing) could be a factor in collisions well behind the vehicle ahead
- 18 -of you. This provides an escape vehicle. However, visibility is
route if a driver behind you is more critical. Be sure other
traveling too quickly or the drivers see you and that you see
vehicle ahead starts to back up. potential hazards.
• When behind a vehicle, ride
Passing
where the driver can see you
in his or her rearview mirror. 1. Ride in the left portion of
your lane at a safe following
If you ride in the left or right por-
distance to increase your line
tion of the lane, the driver may see
of sight and make you more
you in his or her side view mirror.
visible. Signal and check for
If the traffic situation allows, the
oncoming traffic. Use your
center lane position is usually the
mirrors and turn your head to
best place for you to be seen by the
look for traffic behind.
driver in his or her rearview mir-
ror and to prevent other vehicles 2. When safe, move into the left
from sharing your lane. lane and accelerate. Select
a lane position that doesn’t
Being Followed crowd the vehicle you are
When you speed up to lose a passing and provides space
tailgater, you only end up with to avoid hazards in your lane.
someone tailgating you at a 3. Ride through the driver’s blind
higher speed. spot as quickly as possible.
A better way to handle tailgaters 4. Signal again and complete
is to allow them to pass you. If mirror and head checks before
you cannot do this, slow down returning to your original
and open up extra space ahead lane. Then cancel your turn
of you. This will allow space for signal.
both you and the tailgater to stop. Remember, passing must be
This will also encourage the tail- completed within posted speed
gater to pass. But if the tailgater limits, and only where permitted.
does not pass, you have at least
given yourself and the tailgater Being Passed
more time and space to react in When you are being passed
case an emergency develops. from behind or by an oncoming
vehicle, stay in the center portion
Passing and Being Passed of your lane. Riding any closer
Passing and being passed by a could put you in a hazardous
larger vehicle is not much differ- situation.
ent than with a smaller passenger
- 19 -Avoid being hit by: suddenly or change lanes, a door
• The other vehicle—A slight could open, or a hand could come
mistake by you or the passing out a window.
driver could cause a sideswipe. Merging Vehicles
• Extended mirrors—Some Drivers on an entrance ramp may
drivers forget their mirrors not see you on the highway. Give
hang out farther than their them plenty of room. Change to
fenders. another lane if one is open. If
• Objects thrown from windows there is no room for a lane change,
• Blasts of wind from larger adjust your speed to open up
vehicles—The blast of wind space for the merging driver and
from a passing vehicle or truck stay near the center of your lane.
can affect your control. You
have more room for error if you MERGING
are in the middle portion of the
lane when hit by this blast than
if you are on either the left or
right portions of the lane.
Do not move into the portion of
the lane farthest from the passing
vehicle. It might invite the other
driver to move back into your
lane too early.
Lane Splitting
The term “lane splitting”, also
known as lane sharing, filtering, or
white-lining refers to the process
of a motorcyclist riding between
lanes of stopped or slower-moving
traffic or moving between lanes Vehicles Alongside
to the front of traffic stopped Do not ride next to passenger
at a traffic light. Vehicles and vehicles or trucks in other lanes
motorcycles each need a full lane if you do not have to because you
to operate safely. Riding between might be in the driver’s blind
rows of stopped or moving vehicles spot. The driver could change
in the same lane can leave you lanes without warning.
vulnerable. A vehicle could turn
- 20 -Also, vehicles in the next lane you have, can eliminate or reduce
can block your escape if you harm. Focus even more on finding
come upon danger in your own potential escape routes in or around
lane. Speed up or drop back to intersections, shopping areas,
find a place clear of traffic on schools or construction zones.
both sides. Search for factors such as:
BLIND SPOTS • Oncoming traffic that may turn
left in front of you.
• Traffic coming from either the
left, right, or behind.
• Pedestrians coming out from
between parked vehicles.
• Hazardous road conditions.
Evaluate
To predict how a hazard may
affect you, it is important to know
the speed, distance, and direc-
tion the hazard may be moving.
Think about how hazards can
create risks for you. Anticipate
potential problems and have a
Search, Evaluate, and
plan to reduce risks.
Execute (SEE)
Experienced motorcycle riders • Road and surface charac-
remain aware of what is going on teristics, such as potholes,
around them. They improve their guardrails, bridges, telephone
riding strategy by using SEE, a poles, and trees will not move
three-step process for making into your path but may influ-
appropriate judgments and apply- ence your riding strategy and
ing them correctly in different escape routes.
traffic situations. SEE stands for, • Traffic control devices such
Search, Evaluate, and Execute. as traffic signals, regulatory
signs, warning signs, and pave-
Search ment markings will help you
Actively search ahead, to the sides, evaluate circumstances ahead.
and behind you to help you avoid • Vehicles and other traffic may
potential hazards. How you search move into your path and increase
and how much time and space the likelihood of a collision.
- 21 -Think about your time and space intersections. An intersection is
requirements in order to maintain anywhere traffic may cross your
a margin of safety. You must path. It can be in the middle of an
leave yourself time to react if an urban area or at a driveway on a
emergency arises. residential street. Over one-half
of motorcycle/passenger vehicle
Execute collisions are caused by drivers
Carry out your decision. To create entering a rider’s right-of-way.
more space and minimize harm Vehicles turning left in front of
from any hazard: you, including those illegally
• Communicate your presence turning left from the wrong lane,
with lights and/or your horn. and vehicles on side streets pull-
• Adjust your speed as necessary ing into your lane, are the biggest
by accelerating, stopping, or dangers. Your use of the SEE
slowing. process at intersections is critical
• Adjust your lane position and/ (see page 21).
or direction of travel. There are no guarantees that
Apply the old saying “one step others will see you. Never count
at a time” to handle two or more on “eye contact” as a sign that
hazards. Adjust your speed so you a driver will yield to you. Too
can deal with each hazard sepa- often, a driver can look right at
rately. Then deal with them one at a motorcyclist and still fail to
a time as single hazards. Decision- “see” him or her. The only eyes
making becomes more complex you can count on are your own.
with three or more hazards. Weigh If a vehicle can enter your path,
the consequences of each and give assume it will. Good motorcycle
equal distance to the hazards. riders are always “looking for
trouble” not to get into it, but to
In high-risk areas, such as inter- stay out of it.
sections, shopping areas, schools,
or construction zones, reduce LARGE INTERSECTIONS
your speed, and cover the clutch
and both brake levers to reduce
your reaction time.
Intersections
The greatest potential for con-
flict and a chance of collision
between you and other traffic is at
- 22 -Increase the chances of being position, lean your body forward
seen at intersections. Ride with and look around buildings,
your headlight on, and in a parked vehicles, or bushes to see
lane position that provides the if anything is coming. Make sure
best view of oncoming traffic. your front wheel stays out of the
Maintain enough space around cross lane of travel while you are
your motorcycle that permits you looking.
to take evasive action.
As you approach an intersec-
BLIND INTERSECTION
tion, select a lane position that
increases your visibility to the
driver. Cover the clutch and both
brakes to reduce reaction time.
Reduce your speed as you
approach an intersection. After
entering the intersection, move
away from vehicles preparing
to turn. Do not change speed
or position radically. The driver
might think you are preparing
to turn.
Blind Intersections Passing Parked Vehicles
When you approach a blind When passing parked vehicles,
intersection, move to the lane stay toward the left portion of
position that brings you into your lane. This way, you can avoid
another driver’s field of vision at problems caused by doors open-
the earliest possible moment. In ing, drivers getting out of vehicles,
this picture, the motorcycle rider or people stepping from between
has moved to the left portion of vehicles. If oncoming traffic is
the lane, away from the parked present, it is usually best to remain
vehicle, so the driver on the cross in the center portion of the lane to
street can see him or her as soon maximize the space around you.
as possible.
A bigger problem can occur if a
If you have a stop sign or stop driver pulls away from the curb
line, stop there first. Then edge without checking for traffic from
forward and stop again, just behind. Even if the driver looks,
short of where the cross-traffic he or she may fail to see you.
lane meets your lane. From this
- 23 -You can also read
