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1-866-355-9399 www.dmv.wv.gov/msp
For information concerning scheduling the Rider Education classes
for the West Virginia Motorcycle Safety Program contact: MOTORCYCLES MAKE SENSE –
State Program Provider SO DOES PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
Toll-free 1-866-355-9399
Motorcycles are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and easy to park.
Unfortunately, many riders never learn critical skills needed to ride safely.
Professional training for beginning and experienced riders prepares them for
real-world traffic situations. Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCoursesSM teach
and improve such skills as:
• Effective turning • Braking maneuvers • Protective apparel selection
• Obstacle avoidance • Traffic strategies • Maintenance
For the basic or experienced
RiderCourse nearest you,
call toll free: 866.355.9399
The Motorcycle motorcycles. The infor-
Safety Foundation’s (MSF) mation has been com-
purpose is to improve the piled from publications, in-
safety of motorcyclists on the nation’s terviews and observations of
streets and highways. In an attempt to individuals and organizations familiar with
reduce motorcycle crashes and injuries, the use of motorcycles, accessories,
the Foundation has programs in rider and training. Because there are many
education, licensing improvement, differences in product design, riding
public information and statistics. styles, federal, state and local laws,
These programs are designed for both there may be organizations and indi-
motorcyclists and motorists. A viduals who hold differing opinions.
national not-for-profit organization, the Consult your local regulatory agencies
MSF is sponsored by BMW, Ducati, for information concerning the opera-
Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, tion of motorcycles in your area.
KTM, Piaggio/Vespa, Suzuki, Victory Although the MSF will continue to
and Yamaha. research, field test and publish
The information contained in this responsible viewpoints on the sub-
publication is offered for the benefit of ject, it disclaims any liability for
those who have an interest in riding the views expressed herein.
Printing and distribution courtesy of
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
2 Jenner Street, Suite 150, Irvine, CA 92618-3806
www.msf-usa.org
Second Revision ................... December 1978 Seventh Revision ..................September 1992
Third Revision ....................... February 1981 Eighth Revision ....................... January 1999
Fourth Revision....................... January 1983 Ninth Revision ............................ March 2000
Fifth Revision .......................... October 1987 Tenth Revision ......................... January 2002
Sixth Revision ............................... April 1991 Eleventh Revision ...........................July 2002
Twelfth Revision ............................ May 2004
Printed in the USA 000254About This Book CONTENTS
PREPARING HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES ..27
TO RIDE Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles .......27
Slippery Surfaces ..............................28
Operating a motorcycle safely in These revisions reflect: WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR ....................4 Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks
traffic requires special skills and Helmet Use .........................................4 and Pavement Seams ....................29
• The latest finding of motorcycle- Helmet Selection .................................4
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety safety research. Grooves and Gratings .......................29
Eye and Face Protection .....................5
Foundation (MSF) has made this manual
Clothing ..............................................6 MECHANICAL PROBLEMS ..................30
• Comments and guidance provided
available to help novice motorcyclists Tire Failure .......................................30
reduce their risk of having a crash. The
by the motorcycling, licensing and KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE ...............6 Stuck Throttle ...................................30
traffic safety communities. The Right Motorcycle for You ...........6 Wobble ..............................................30
manual conveys essential safe riding
• Expanded alcohol and drug Borrowing and Lending ......................7 Chain Problems ................................31
information and has been designed for Get Familiar with the
use in safe licensing programs. While information. Engine Seizure ..................................31
Motorcycle Controls ........................7
designed for the novice, all motorcyclists In promoting improved licensing Check Your Motorcycle ......................8 ANIMALS .............................................31
can benefit from the information this programs, the MSF works closely with KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES .........9 FLYING OBJECTS ................................32
manual contains. state licensing agencies. The Foundation GETTING OFF THE ROAD ..................32
The original “Motorcycle Operator has helped more than half the states in the RIDE WITHIN CARRYING PASSENGERS
Manual” was developed by the National nation adopt the “Motorcycle Operator YOUR ABILITIES AND CARGO .....................................32
Public Services Research Institute Manual” for use in their licensing BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL ................10 Equipment .........................................32
systems. Body Position ...................................10 Instructing Passengers ......................33
(NPSRI) under contract to the National
Shifting Gears ...................................10 Riding With Passengers ....................33
Highway Traffic Safety Administration Improved licensing, along with Carrying Loads .................................33
Braking .............................................11
(NHTSA) and within the terms of a high-quality motorcycle rider education Turning ..............................................11 GROUP RIDING ...................................34
cooperative agreement between NHTSA and increased public awareness, has the
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE ................12 Keep the Group Small ......................34
and the MSF. The manual and related potential to reduce crashes. Staff at the Keep the Group Together .................34
Lane Positions ...................................12
tests were used in a multi-year study of Foundation are available to assist state, Keep Your Distance ..........................34
Following Another Vehicle ...............13
improved motorcycle operator licensing private and governmental agencies in Being Followed .................................14
procedures, conducted by the California efforts to improve motorcycle safety. Passing and Being Passed .................14 BEING IN SHAPE
Department of Motor Vehicles under Lane Sharing .....................................16 TO RIDE
contract to NHTSA. Merging Cars ....................................16 WHY THIS INFORMATION IS
The purpose of this manual is to Cars Alongside ..................................16 IMPORTANT ......................................36
educate the reader to help avoid crashes SEE ......................................................17 ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS IN
while safely operating a motorcycle. For INTERSECTIONS ..................................18 MOTORCYCLE OPERATION ...............36
this edition, the MSF has updated and Blind Intersections ............................19 ALCOHOL IN THE BODY .....................37
expanded the content of the original Tim Buche Passing Parked Cars .........................20 Blood Alcohol
manual. Parking at the Roadside ....................20 Concentration .................................37
President,
INCREASING CONSPICUITY ................21 ALCOHOL AND THE LAW ...................38
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Clothing ............................................21 Consequences of
Headlight ..........................................21 Conviction ......................................38
Signals ..............................................21 MINIMIZE THE RISKS .........................38
Brake Light ........................................22 STEP IN TO PROTECT FRIENDS .........39
Using Your Mirrors ...........................22
FATIGUE ..............................................39
Head Checks .....................................23
Horn ..................................................23 EARNING
Riding at Night .................................24 YOUR LICENSE
CRASH AVOIDANCE ............................24 Knowledge Test ................................40
Quick Stops .......................................24 On-Motorcycle Skill Test ..................41
Swerving or Turning Quickly ...........25
Cornering ..........................................26
42 3PREPARING TO RIDE ON-MOTORCYCLE SKILL TEST • Stop, turn and swerve quickly.
What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward Basic vehicle control and • Make critical decisions and carry
determining whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. crash-avoidance skills are included in them out.
Before taking off on any trip, a safe rider makes a point to: on-motorcycle tests to determine Examiners may score on
1. Wear the right gear. your ability to handle normal and factors related to safety such as:
hazardous traffic situations. • Selecting safe speeds to perform
2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.
You may be tested for your maneuvers.
3. Check the motorcycle equipment. ability to: • Choosing the correct path and
4. Be a responsible rider. • Know your motorcycle and your staying within boundaries.
riding limits. • Completing normal and quick
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR • An approved helmet lets you see • Accelerate, brake and turn stops.
When you ride, your gear is as far to the sides as necessary. A safely. • Completing normal and quick
“right” if it protects you. In any study of more than 900 motorcycle • See, be seen and communicate turns or swerves.
crash, you have a far better chance of crashes, where 40% of the riders with others.
avoiding serious injury if you wear: wore helmets, did not find even
• Adjust speed and position to the
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR
one case in which a helmet kept a
• An approved helmet. rider from spotting danger.
traffic situation.
• Face or eye protection. • Most crashes happen on short
• Protective clothing. trips (less than five miles
long), just a few minutes after
HELMET USE starting out.
Crashes can occur — • Most rider d seirM
are
tos riding slower
particularly among untrained, than 30 mph when a crash
beginning riders. And one out of occurs. At these speeds, helmets
every five motorcycle crashes results can cut both the number and the
in head or neck injuries. Head severity of head injuries by half.
injuries are just as severe as neck No matter what the speed,
injuries — and far more common. helmeted riders are three times more
Crash analyses show that head and likely to survive head injuries than
neck injuries account for a majority those not wearing helmets at the time
of serious and fatal injuries to of the crash.
motorcyclists. Research also shows
To receive a motorcycle license with full privileges, most
that, with few exceptions, head and
neck injuries are reduced by properly
HELMET SELECTION states require that maneuvers be performed as designed;
wearing an approved helmet. There are two primary types of On-motorcycle skill tests are not designed for sidecars or three-wheeled
helmets, providing two different
Some riders don’t wear helmets vehicles. Those vehicles maneuver differently than a two-wheeled
levels of coverage: three-quarter and
because they think helmets will limit motorcycle. Depending on the state, a driver examiner may follow you
full face.
their view to the sides. Others wear on a car test-route. Restrictions (sidecar, three-wheeled vehicle) may
helmets only on long trips or when Whichever style you choose, you be added until completion of a two-wheeled motorcycle test.
riding at high speeds. Here are some can get the most protection by
facts to consider: making sure that the helmet:
Diagrams and drawings used in this manual are for reference only
and are not to correct scale for size of vehicles and distances.
4 41EARNING YOUR LICENSE HELMETS
HELMET USE
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.
• Meets U.S. Department of Goggles protect your eyes,
4. If a tire goes flat while riding and Transportation (DOT) and state though they won’t protect the rest of
KNOWLEDGE TEST standards. Helmets with a label your face like a faceshield does. A
(Sample Questions) you must stop, it is usually best to:
from the Snell Memorial windshield is not a substitute for a
EYE AND FACE PROTECTION
KNOWLEDGE TEST
1. It is MOST important to flash A. Relax on the handlegrips. Foundation give you an added faceshield or goggles. Most
your brake light when: B. Shift your weight toward the good assurance of quality. windshields will not protect your
tire. eyes from the wind. Neither will
A. Someone is following too closely.
C. Brake on the good tire and steer to • Fits snugly, all the way around.
B. You will be slowing suddenly. eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses
the side of the road. • Has no obvious defects such
C. There is a stop sign ahead. won’t keep your eyes from watering,
D. Use both brakes and stop quickly. as cracks, loose padding or
D. Your signals are not working. and they might blow off when you
frayed straps.
5. The car below is waiting to enter turn your head while riding.
2. The FRONT brake supplies how Whatever helmet you decide
the intersection. It is best to: To be effective, eye or
much of the potential stopping on, keep it securely fastened on your
A. Make eye contact with the driver. faceshield protection must:
power? head when you ride. Otherwise, if
B. Reduce speed and be ready to you are involved in a crash, it’s likely • Be free of scratches.
A. About one-quarter.
react. to fly off your head before it gets a • Be resistant to penetration.
B. About one-half.
C. Maintain speed and position. chance to protect you.
C. About three-quarters.
D. Maintain speed and move right. • Give a clear view to either side.
D. All of the stopping power. • Fasten securely, so it does not
3. To swerve correctly: EYE AND FACE PROTECTION blow off.
A. Shift your weight quickly. A plastic shatter-resistant • Permit air to pass through, to
B. Turn the handlebars quickly. faceshield can help protect your reduce fogging.
C. Press the handlegrip in the whole face in a crash. It also • Permit enough room for
direction of the turn. protects you from wind, dust, dirt, eyeglasses or sunglasses, if
D. Press the handlegrip in the rain, insects and pebbles thrown up needed.
opposite direction of the turn. from cars ahead. These problems Tinted eye protection should
are distracting and can be painful. not be worn at night or any other
If you have to deal with them, you time when little light is available.
can’t devote your full attention to
_____________________________________
Answers to Test Yourself (previous pages)
the road.
1-C, 2-D, 3-D, 4-A, 5-B, _____________________________________
6-C, 7-D 8-D, 9-C, 10-C, Answers to above Knowledge Test:
11-D, 12-A, 13-A, 14-C 1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-C, 5-B
40 5CLOTHING CLOTHING KNOW YOUR one of the first things affected by It helps to enlist support from
FATIGUE
MOTORCYCLE alcohol. Even if you have tried to drink others when you decide to step in.
The right clothing protects you
in moderation, you may not realize to The more people on your side, the
in a collision. It also provides There are plenty of things on the what extent your skills have suffered easier it is to be firm and the harder
comfort, as well as protection from highway that can cause you trouble. from alcohol’s fatiguing effects. it is for the rider to resist. While
heat, cold, debris and hot and moving Your motorcycle should not be one of you may not be thanked at the
parts of the motorcycle. them. To make sure that your Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t
time, you will never have to say,
controlled your drinking, you must
• Jacket and pants should cover motorcycle won’t let you down: “If only I had ...”
control your riding.
arms and legs completely. They • Read the owner’s manual first.
should fit snugly enough to keep • Leave the motorcycle — FATIGUE
• Start with the right motorcycle for so you won’t be tempted to ride. Riding a motorcycle is more
from flapping in the wind, yet you. Arrange another way to get home. tiring than driving a car. On a long
loosely enough to move freely.
Leather offers the most protection. • Be familiar with the motorcycle • Wait — If you exceed your trip, you’ll tire sooner than you
Sturdy synthetic material provides controls. limit, wait until your system would in a car. Avoid riding when
• Check the motorcycle before eliminates the alcohol and its tired. Fatigue can affect your control
a lot of protection as well.
fatiguing effects. of the motorcycle.
Wear a jacket even in warm every ride.
weather to prevent dehydration. • Keep it in safe riding condition STEP IN TO • Protect yourself from the
THE RIGHT MOTORCYCLE
Many are designed to protect between rides. elements — Wind, cold, and rain
PROTECT FRIENDS make you tire quickly. Dress
without getting you overheated,
• Avoid add-ons and modifications People who have had too much warmly. A windshield is worth its
even on summer days.
that make your motorcycle to drink are unable to make a cost if you plan to ride long
• Boots or shoes should be high and harder to handle. responsible decision. It is up to others distances.
sturdy enough to cover your ankles to step in and keep them from taking
• Limit your distance — Experi-
and give them support. Soles too great a risk. No one wants to do
THE RIGHT MOTORCYCLE this — it’s uncomfortable, enced riders seldom try to ride
should be made of hard, durable,
FOR YOU embarrassing and thankless. You are more than about six hours a day.
slip-resistant material. Keep heels
short so they do not catch on rough First, make sure your motorcycle rarely thanked for your efforts at the • Take frequent rest breaks —
surfaces. Tuck in laces so they is right for you. It should “fit” you. time. But the alternatives are often Stop and get off the motorcycle at
won’t catch on your motorcycle. Your feet should reach the ground worse. least every two hours.
while you are seated on the There are several ways to keep • Don’t drink or use drugs —
• Gloves allow a better grip and
motorcycle. friends from hurting themselves: Artificial stimulants often result in
help protect your hands in a crash.
• Arrange a safe ride — Provide extreme fatigue or depression
Your gloves should be made of
alternative ways for them to when they start to wear off. Riders
leather or similar durable material. are unable to concentrate on the
get home.
In cold or wet weather, your task at hand.
• Slow the pace of drinking —
clothes should keep you warm and
Involve them in other activities.
dry, as well as protect you from
injury. You cannot control a • Keep them there — Use any
1 Test Yourself excuse to keep them from getting 14 Test Yourself
motorcycle well if you are numb.
on their motorcycle. Serve them If you wait one hour per each drink for
Riding for long periods in cold A plastic shatter-resistant face the alcohol to be eliminated from your
shield:
food and coffee to pass the time.
weather can cause severe chill and Explain your concerns for their
body before riding:
fatigue. A winter jacket should resist A. Is not neccessary if you have a A. You cannot be arrested for drinking
windshield. risks of getting arrested or hurt
wind and fit snugly at the neck, and riding.
B. Only protects your eyes. or hurting someone else. Take
wrists and waist. Good-quality B. Your riding skills will not be affected.
C. Helps protect your whole face. their key, if you can.
rainsuits designed for motorcycle C. Side effects from the drinking may
D. Does not protect your face as well • Get friends involved — Use peer still remain.
riding resist tearing apart or as goggles. pressure from a group of friends D. You will be okay as long as you ride
ballooning up at high speeds. Answer - page 40 to intervene. slowly.
Answer - page 40
6 39A person drinking: that judges must impose them. At minimum, your street-legal are licensed and know how to ride
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW
KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE
If you are convicted of riding motorcycle should have: before allowing them out into traffic.
• 8 drinks in 4 hours would have at
least four drinks remaining in their under the influence of alcohol or • Headlight, taillight and No matter how experienced you
system. drugs, you may receive any of the brakelight. may be, ride extra carefully on any
following penalties: motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar
• 7 drinks in 3 hours would have at • Front and rear brakes.
least four drinks remaining in their • License Suspension — to you. More than half of all crashes
Mandatory suspension for • Turn signals.
system. occur on motorcycles ridden by the
conviction, arrest or refusal to • Horn. operator for less than six months.
There are times when a larger
submit to a breath test.
person may not accumulate as high a • Two mirrors.
concentration of alcohol for each drink • Fines — Severe fines are another GET FAMILIAR WITH THE
consumed. They have more blood aspect of a conviction, usually
levied with a license suspension. BORROWING AND LENDING MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
and other bodily fluids. But because Make sure you are completely
of individual differences it is better • Community Service — Performing Borrowers and lenders of
motorcycles, beware. Crashes are familiar with the motorcycle before
not to take the chance that abilities tasks such as picking up litter
fairly common among beginning you take it out on the street. Be sure
and judgment have not been affected. along the highway, washing cars in
the motor-vehicle pool or working to review the owner’s manual. This is
Whether or not you are legally riders — especially in the first
particularly important if you are
MINIMIZE RISKS
intoxicated is not the real issue. at an emergency ward. months of riding. Riding an
Impairment of judgment and skills unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the riding a borrowed motorcycle.
• Costs — Additional lawyer’s fees
begins well below the legal limit. to pay, lost work time spent in problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, If you are going to use an
court or alcohol-education get familiar with it in a controlled unfamiliar motorcycle:
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW programs, public transportation area. And if you lend your
In West Virginia, a person with a costs (while your license is motorcycle to friends, make sure they
BAC of .08% or above is considered suspended) and the added
intoxicated; in other states the legal psychological costs of being
limit is between .05% and .10%. It tagged a “drunk driver.” MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
doesn’t matter how sober you may Light Switch (high/low) Engine Cut-Off
look or act. The breath or urine test MINIMIZE THE RISKS Choke (varies) Switch
is what usually determines whether Your ability to judge how well Turn-Signal Electric
you are riding legally or illegally. you are riding is affected first. Switch Start
Button
Ignition Key
Your chances of being stopped Although you may be performing (varies)
for riding under the influence of more and more poorly, you think you
alcohol are increasing. Law are doing better and better. The result
enforcement is being stepped up is that you ride confidently, taking
across the country in response to the greater and greater risks. Minimize Horn Button
senseless deaths and injuries caused Throttle
the risks of drinking and riding by
by drinking drivers and riders.
taking steps before you drink.
CONSEQUENCES OF Control your drinking or control Clutch Lever Front Brake Lever
Speedometer
your riding.
CONVICTION & Odometer
Tachometer
Years ago, first offenders had a DON’T DRINK (if equipped)
good chance of getting off with a Don’t Drink — Once you start,
small fine and participation in your resistance becomes weaker. Fuel Supply Valve
alcohol-abuse classes. Today the laws (if equipped)
Rear Brake Pedal
of most states impose stiff penalties Setting a limit or pacing yourself
Gear-Change Lever
on drinking operators. And those are poor alternatives at best. Your Kick Starter
penalties are mandatory, meaning ability to exercise good judgment is (if equipped)
38 7• Make all the checks you would • Brake Light — Try both brake ALCOHOL IN THE BODY Other factors also contribute to
CHECK YOUR MOTORCYCLE
BLOOD ALOCHOL CONCENTRATION
on your own motorcycle. controls, and make sure each one the way alcohol affects your system.
turns on the brake light. Alcohol enters the bloodstream Your sex, physical condition and
• Find out where everything is, quickly. Unlike most foods and
particularly the turn signals, horn, Once you have mounted the food intake are just a few that may
beverages, it does not need to be cause your BAC level to be even
headlight switch, fuel-supply motorcycle, complete the following digested. Within minutes after being
valve and engine cut-off switch. checks before starting out: higher. But the full effects of these
consumed, it reaches the brain and are not completely known. Alcohol
Find and operate these items • Clutch and Throttle — Make begins to affect the drinker. The
without having to look for them. may still accumulate in your body
sure they work smoothly. The major effect alcohol has is to slow even if you are drinking at a rate of
• Know the gear pattern. Work the throttle should snap back when down and impair bodily functions — one drink per hour. Abilities and
throttle, clutch and brakes a few you let go. The clutch should feel both mental and physical. Whatever judgment can be affected by that
times before you start riding. All tight and smooth. you do, you do less well after one drink.
controls react a little differently. • Mirrors — Clean and adjust both consuming alcohol.
A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed
• Ride very cautiously and be mirrors before starting. It’s
drink with one shot of liquor and a 5-
aware of surroundings. Accelerate difficult to ride with one hand BLOOD ALCOHOL ounce glass of wine all contain the
gently, take turns more slowly and while you try to adjust a mirror. CONCENTRATION same amount of alcohol.
leave extra room for stopping. Adjust each mirror so you can see
the lane behind and as much as Blood Alcohol Concentration or The faster you drink, the more
possible of the lane next to you. BAC is the amount of alcohol in alcohol accumulates in your body. If
CHECK YOUR MOTORCYCLE relation to blood in the body. you drink two drinks in an hour, at
When properly adjusted, a mirror
A motorcycle needs more may show the edge of your arm or Generally, alcohol can be eliminated the end of that hour, at least one drink
frequent attention than a car. A minor shoulder—but it’s the road behind in the body at the rate of almost one will remain in your bloodstream.
technical failure in a car seldom leads and to the side that’s most drink per hour. But a variety of other
Without taking into account any
to anything more than an important. factors may also influence the level
of the other factors, the formula
inconvenience for the driver. of alcohol retained. The more alcohol
• Brakes — Try the front and rear below illustrates the LEAST amount
If something’s wrong with the in your blood, the greater the degree
brake levers one at a time. Make of drinks remaining in the
motorcycle, you’ll want to find out of impairment.
sure each one feels firm and holds bloodstream:
about it before you get in traffic. the motorcycle when the brake is Three factors play a major part
Make a complete check of your fully applied. in determining BAC: Total # hours drinks
motorcycle before every ride. drinks LESS since last EQUALS left
• Horn — Try the horn. Make sure • The amount of alcohol you consumed drink in body
Before mounting the motorcycle, it works. consume. ________ - ________ = ________
make the following checks: In addition to the checks you • How fast you drink.
• Tires — Check the air pressure, should make before every trip, check • Your body weight.
general wear and tread. the following items at least once a
• Fluids — Oil and fluid levels. At a week: Wheels, cables, fasteners and ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION
minimum, check hydraulic fluids fluid levels. Follow your owner’s
and coolants weekly. Look under manual to get recommendations.
the motorcycle for signs of an oil
or gas leak. 2 Test Yourself
• Headlights and Taillight — More than half of all crashes:
Check them both. Test your switch A. Occur at speeds greater than
to make sure both high and low 35 mph.
beams are working. B. Happen at night.
C. Are caused by worn tires.
• Turn Signals — Turn on both
D. Involve riders who have ridden
right and left turn signals. Make their motorcycles less than six
sure all lights are working months.
Answer - page 40
properly.
8 37BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE KNOW YOUR • Be visible — wear proper
KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
RESPONSIBILITIES clothing, use your headlight, ride
Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay in the best lane position to see and
attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle, “Accident” implies an be seen.
identifying potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions unforeseen event that occurs without
• Communicate your intentions —
quickly and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road anyone’s fault or negligence. Most
use the proper signals, brake light
and traffic conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and often in traffic, that is not the case. In
and lane position.
other drugs, more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly fact, most people involved in a crash
and to ride safely. As little as one drink can have a significant effect on your can usually claim some responsibility • Maintain an adequate space
performance. for what takes place. cushion — following, being
followed, lane sharing, passing
Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. Consider a situation where
and being passed.
What to do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined. someone decides to try to squeeze
through an intersection on a yellow • Scan your path of travel 12
By becoming knowledgeable light turning red. Your light turns seconds ahead.
WHY THIS INFORMATION
about the effects of alcohol and other green. You pull into the intersection • Identify and separate multiple
IS IMPORTANT
drugs you will see that riding and without checking for possible hazards.
Alcohol is a major contributor to substance abuse don’t mix. Take latecomers. That is all it takes for the
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal • Be prepared to act — remain
positive steps to protect yourself and two of you to tangle. It was the alert and know how to carry out
crashes. Studies show that 40% to prevent others from injuring
45% of all riders killed in motorcycle driver’s responsibility to stop. And it proper crash-avoidance skills.
themselves. was your responsibility to look
crashes had been drinking. Only one- Blame doesn’t matter when
before pulling out. Neither of you
third of those riders had a blood ALCOHOL AND OTHER someone is injured in a crash. There
alcohol concentration above legal held up your end of the deal. Just
DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE is rarely a single cause of any crash.
limits. The rest had only a few drinks because someone else is the first to
OPERATION The ability to ride aware, make
in their systems — enough to impair start the chain of events leading to a
critical decisions and carry them out
riding skills. In the past, drug levels No one is immune to the effects crash, it doesn’t leave any of us free
separates responsible riders from all
have been harder to distinguish or of alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag of responsibility.
the rest. Remember, it is up to you to
have not been separated from about their ability to hold their liquor As a rider you can’t be sure that
or perform better on drugs, but keep from being the cause of, or an
drinking violations for the traffic other operators will see you or yield
alcohol or drugs make them less able unprepared participant in, any crash.
records. But riding “under the the right of way. To lessen your
influence” of either alcohol or drugs to think clearly and perform physical
tasks skillfully. Judgment and the chances of a crash occurring:
poses physical and legal hazards for
every rider. decision-making processes needed
Drinking and drug use is as big a for vehicle operation are affected
problem among motorcyclists as it is long before legal limitations are
among automobile drivers. Motor- reached.
cyclists, however, are more likely to Many over-the-counter,
be killed or severely injured in a prescription and illegal drugs have
crash. Injuries occur in 90% of side effects that increase the risk of
motorcycle crashes and 33% of riding. It is difficult to accurately
automobile crashes that involve measure the involvement of
abuse of substances. On a yearly particular drugs in motorcycle
basis, 2,100 motorcyclists are killed crashes. But we do know what effects
and about 50,000 seriously injured in various drugs have on the process
this same type of crash. These involved in riding a motorcycle. We
statistics are too overwhelming to also know that the combined effects
ignore. of alcohol and other drugs are more
dangerous than either is alone.
36 9RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES cushion. The leader rides in the left open up room for the next rider.
side of the lane, while the second Some people suggest that the
This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance. rider stays one second behind in leader should move to the right side
That’s something you can learn only through practice. But control begins with the right side of the lane.
knowing your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and after passing a vehicle. This is not a
A third rider maintains in the left good idea. It encourages the second
obeying the rules of the road.
position, two seconds behind the first rider to pass and cut back in before
rider. The fourth rider would keep a there is a large enough space cushion
two-second distance behind the in front of the passed vehicle. It’s
second rider. This formation keeps simpler and safer to wait until there
the group close and permits each is enough room ahead of the passed
rider a safe distance from others vehicle to allow each rider to move
ahead, behind and to the sides. into the same position held before
BASIC VEHICLE too much throttle. Also, adjust the the pass.
handlebars so your hands are even • Passing in Formation — Riders
CONTROL in a staggered formation should Single-File Formation — It is best
with or below your elbows. This to move into a single-file formation
pass one at a time.
permits you to use the proper muscles when riding curves, turning,
BODY POSITION for precision steering. • First, the lead rider should pull
entering or leaving a highway.
BODY POSITION
To control a motorcycle well: out and pass when it is safe. After
• Knees — Keep your knees against
passing, the leader should return to
• Posture — Sit so you can use your the gas tank to help you keep your the left position and continue 13 Test Yourself
arms to steer the motorcycle rather balance as the motorcycle turns. riding at passing speed to open When riding in a group,
than to hold yourself up. • Feet — Keep your feet firmly on room for the next rider. inexperienced riders should
• Seat — Sit far enough forward so the footrests to maintain balance. • After the first rider passes position themselves:
that arms are slightly bent when Don’t drag your feet. If your foot safely, the second rider should A. Just behind the leader.
you hold the handlegrips. Bending catches on something, you could move up to the left position and B. In front of the group.
your arms permits you to press on be injured and it could affect your watch for a safe chance to pass. C. At the tail end of the group.
the handlebars without having to control of the motorcycle. Keep After passing, this rider should D. Beside the leader.
stretch. your feet near the controls so you return to the right position and
Answer - page 40
• Hands — Hold the handlegrips can get to them fast if needed.
firmly to keep your grip over Also, don’t let your toes point GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1) GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2)
rough surfaces. Start with your downward — they may get caught
right wrist flat. This will help you between the road and the footrests.
keep from accidentally using
SHIFTING GEARS
SHIFTING GEARS
HOLDING HANDLEBARS There is more to shifting gears
than simply getting the motorcycle to
RIGHT pick up speed smoothly. Learning to
use the gears when downshifting,
turning or starting on hills is
important for safe motorcycle
operation.
Shift down through the gears
with the clutch as you slow or stop.
Remain in first gear while you are
WRONG stopped so that you can move out
quickly if you need to.
10 35• Secure the Load — Fasten the down a little to stay with the Make certain you are riding Also, using the front brake
BRAKING
GROUP RIDING load securely with elastic cords tailender. slowly enough when you shift into a incorrectly on a slippery surface
(bungee cords or nets). Elastic • Know the Route — Make sure lower gear. If not, the motorcycle will may be hazardous. Use caution
cords with more than one everyone knows the route. Then, lurch, and the rear wheel may skid. and squeeze the brake lever, never
attachment point per side are more if someone is separated they won’t When riding downhill or shifting into grab.
secure. A tight load won’t catch in have to hurry to keep from getting first gear you may need to use the • Some motorcycles have
the wheel or chain, causing it to lost or taking a wrong turn. Plan brakes to slow enough before integrated braking systems that
lock up and skid. Rope tends to frequent stops on long rides. downshifting safely. Work toward a activate the front and rear brakes
stretch and knots come loose, smooth, even clutch release, together when applying the rear
permitting the load to shift or fall. KEEP YOUR DISTANCE especially when downshifting. brake pedal. (Consult the owner’s
• Check the Load — Stop and Maintain close ranks but at the It is best to change gears before manual for a detailed explanation
check the load every so often to same time keep a safe distance to entering a turn. However, sometimes on the operation and effective use
make sure it has not worked loose allow each rider in the group time shifting while in the turn is necessary. of these systems.)
or moved. and space to react to hazards. A close If so, remember to do so smoothly. A
group takes up less space on the sudden change in power to the rear
TURNING
GROUP RIDING highway, is easier to see and is less wheel can cause a skid. Riders often try to take curves or
If you ride with others, do it in a likely to be separated. However, it turns too fast. When they can’t hold
TURNING
way that promotes safety and doesn’t must be done properly. BRAKING the turn, they end up crossing into
interfere with the flow of traffic. Don’t Pair Up — Never operate another lane of traffic or going off the
Your motorcycle has two brakes:
directly alongside another rider. road. Or, they overreact and brake too
KEEP THE GROUP SMALL one each for the front and rear wheel.
There is no place to go if you have hard, causing a skid and loss of
Use both of them at the same time.
Small groups make it easier and to avoid a car or something on the control. Approach turns and curves
The front brake is more powerful and
safer for car drivers who need to get road. To talk, wait until you are with caution.
can provide at least three-quarters
around them. A small number isn’t both stopped. of your total stopping power. The Use four steps for better control:
separated as easily by traffic or red Staggered Formation — This is the front brake is safe to use if you use • SLOW
lights. Riders won’t always be best way to keep ranks close yet it properly.
hurrying to catch up. If your group is • LOOK
maintain an adequate space
larger than four or five riders, divide Remember: • PRESS
it up into two or more smaller groups. • Use both brakes every time you • ROLL
STAGGERED FORMATION slow or stop. Using both brakes for
KEEP THE GROUP TOGETHER even “normal” stops will permit • SLOW — Reduce speed before
you to develop the proper habit or the turn by closing the throttle and,
• Plan — The leader should look
skill of using both brakes properly if necessary, applying both brakes.
ahead for changes and signal early
so “the word gets back” in plenty in an emergency. Squeeze the front • LOOK — Look through the turn
of time. Start lane changes early to brake and press down on the rear. to where you want to go. Turn just
permit everyone to complete the Grabbing at the front brake or your head, not your shoulders, and
change. jamming down on the rear can keep your eyes level with the
cause the brakes to lock, resulting horizon.
• Put Beginners Up Front — Place
inexperienced riders just behind in control problems. • PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
the leader. That way the more • If you know the technique, using must lean. To lean the motor-
experienced riders can watch them both brakes in a turn is possible, cycle, press on the handlegrip in
from the back. although it should be done very the direction of the turn. Press
• Follow Those Behind — Let the carefully. When leaning the left — lean left — go left. Press
tailender set the pace. Use your motorcycle some of the traction is right — lean right — go right.
mirrors to keep an eye on the used for cornering. Less traction is Higher speeds and/or tighter
person behind. If a rider falls available for stopping. A skid can turns require the motorcycle to
behind, everyone should slow occur if you apply too much brake. lean more.
34 11• ROLL — Roll on the throttle 3 Test Yourself INSTRUCTING PASSENGERS • Ride a little slower, especially
CARRYING PASSENGERS
through the turn to stabilize the When riding, you should: when taking curves, corners or
suspension. Maintain steady speed Even if your passenger is a
A. Turn your head and shoulders to bumps.
or accelerate gradually through the look through turns. motorcycle rider, provide complete
instructions before you start. Tell • Start slowing earlier as you
turn. This will help keep the B. Keep your arms straight. approach a stop.
motorcycle stable. C. Keep your knees away from the your passenger to:
gas tank. • Get on the motorcycle only after • Open up a larger cushion of
In normal turns, the rider and the space ahead and to the sides.
D. Turn just your head and eyes to you have started the engine.
motorcycle should lean together at look where you are going. • Wait for larger gaps to cross,
the same angle. Answer - page 40 • Sit as far forward as possible
enter or merge in traffic.
without crowding you.
Warn your passenger of special
NORMAL TURNS KEEPING YOUR • Hold firmly to your waist, hips
conditions — when you will pull out,
DISTANCE or belt, or the bike’s passenger
stop quickly, turn sharply or ride over
handholds
The best protection you can have a bump. Turn your head slightly to
is distance — a “cushion of space” — • Keep both feet on the footrests, make yourself understood, but keep
all around your motorcycle. If even when stopped. your eyes on the road ahead.
someone else makes a mistake, • Keep legs away from the
LANE POSITIONS
distance permits you: muffler(s), chains or moving parts. CARRYING LOADS
• Time to react. • Stay directly behind you, leaning Most motorcycles are not
• Space to maneuver. as you lean. designed to carry much cargo. Small
• Avoid unnecessary talk or motion. loads can be carried safely if
LANE POSITIONS positioned and fastened properly.
Also, tell your passenger to
In some ways the size of the tighten his or her hold when you: • Keep the Load Low — Fasten
motorcycle can work to your advan- loads securely, or put them in
• Approach surface problems. saddlebags. Piling loads against a
tage. Each traffic lane gives a
motorcycle three paths of travel, as • Are about to start from a stop. sissybar or frame on the back of
In slow tight turns, counterbalance
indicated in the illustration. • Warn that you will make a the seat raises the motorcycle’s
by leaning the motorcycle only and
sudden move. center of gravity and disturbs its
keeping your body straight. Your lane position should:
balance.
• Increase your ability to see and be • Keep the Load Forward — Place
SLOW, TIGHT TURNS seen. RIDING WITH PASSENGERS
the load over, or in front of, the
• Avoid others’ blind spots. Your motorcycle will respond rear axle. Tankbags keep loads
more slowly with a passenger on forward, but use caution when
• Avoid surface hazards.
board. The heavier your passenger, loading hard or sharp objects.
• Protect your lane from other the longer it will take to slow down Make sure the tankbag does not
drivers. and speed up — especially on a light interfere with handlebars or
• Communicate your intentions. motorcycle. controls. Mounting loads behind
• Avoid wind blast from other the rear axle can affect how the
vehicles. 12 Test Yourself motorcycle turns and brakes. It can
• Provide an escape route. Passengers should:
also cause a wobble.
Select the appropriate path to A. Lean as you lean. • Distribute the Load Evenly —
maximize your space cushion and B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat. Load saddlebags with about the
make yourself more easily seen by C. Sit as far back as possible. same weight. An uneven load can
others on the road. D. Never hold onto you. cause the motorcycle to drift to
Answer - page 40
one side.
12 33FLYING OBJECTS FLYING OBJECTS CARRYING PASSENGERS LANE POSITIONS
From time to time riders are AND CARGO
struck by insects, cigarettes thrown Only experienced riders should
from cars or pebbles kicked up by the carry passengers or large loads. The
tires of the vehicle ahead. If you are extra weight changes the way the
wearing face protection, it might get motorcycle handles, balances, speeds
smeared or cracked, making it up and slows down. Before taking a
difficult to see. Without face passenger or a heavy load on the
protection, an object could hit you in street, practice away from traffic.
the eye, face or mouth. Whatever
happens, keep your eyes on the road EQUIPMENT
and your hands on the handlebars.
To carry passengers safely:
When safe, pull off the road and
repair the damage. • Equip and adjust your
motorcycle to carry passengers. In general, there is no single FOLLOWING ANOTHER
best position for riders to be seen VEHICLE
GETTING OFF THE ROAD • Instruct the passenger before you
FOLLOWING
GETTING OFF THE ROAD
and to maintain a space cushion
start. “Following too closely” could
If you need to leave the road to around the motorcycle. No portion
• Adjust your riding technique for be a factor in crashes involving
check the motorcycle (or just to rest of the lane need be avoided —
the added weight. motorcyclists. In traffic, motorcycles
for a while), be sure you: including the center.
need as much distance to stop as
• Check the roadside — Make sure Equipment should include: Position yourself in the portion cars. Normally, a minimum of two
the surface of the roadside is firm • A proper seat — large enough of the lane where you are most likely seconds distance should be
enough to ride on. If it is soft to hold both of you without to be seen and you can maintain a maintained behind the vehicle ahead.
grass, loose sand or if you’re just crowding. You should not sit space cushion around you. Change To gauge your following
not sure about it, slow way down any farther forward than you position as traffic situations change. distance:
before you turn onto it. usually do. Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and
• Pick out a marker, such as a
• Footrests — for the passenger. other potential problems are on your
• Signal — Drivers behind might pavement marking or lamppost, on
Firm footing prevents your left only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if
not expect you to slow down. Give or near the road ahead.
passenger from falling off and hazards are on your right only. If
a clear signal that you will be • When the rear bumper of the
pulling you off, too. vehicles are being operated on both
slowing down and changing vehicle ahead passes the marker,
sides of you, the center of the lane,
direction. Check your mirror and • Protective equipment — the count off the seconds: “one-
path 2, is usually your best option.
make a head check before you take same protective gear
CARRYING LOADS
thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”
any action. recommended for operators. The oily strip in the center
portion that collects drippings from • If you reach the marker before
• Pull off the road — Get as far off Adjust the suspension to handle you reach “two,” you are
cars is usually no more than two feet
the road as you can. It can be very the additional weight. You will following too closely.
wide. Unless the road is wet, the
hard to spot a motorcycle by the probably need to add a few pounds of A two-second following distance
average center strip permits adequate
side of the road. You don’t want pressure to the tires if you carry a leaves a minimum amount of space to
traction to ride on safely. You can
someone else pulling off at the passenger. (Check your owner’s stop or swerve if the driver ahead
operate to the left or right of the
same place you are. manual for appropriate settings.) stops suddenly. It also permits a
grease strip and still be within the
• Park carefully — Loose and While your passenger sits on the seat better view of potholes and other
center portion of the traffic lane.
sloped shoulders can make setting with you, adjust the mirror and hazards in the road.
Avoid riding on big buildups of oil
the side or center stand difficult. headlight according to the change in A larger cushion of space is
and grease usually found at busy
the motorcycle’s angle. needed if your motorcycle will take
intersections or toll booths.
longer than normal to stop. If the
32 13FOLLOWING Trying to “accelerate out of a ENGINE SEIZURE
wobble” will only make the When the engine “locks” or
motorcycle 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 to engine overheats. The first sign may
slow down. Do not apply the be a loss of engine power or a change
brakes; braking could make the in the engine’s sound. Squeeze the
wobble worse. clutch lever to disengage the engine
from the rear wheel. Pull off the road
• Move your weight as far forward and stop. Check the oil. If needed, oil
and down as possible. should be added as soon as possible
• Pull off the road as soon as you or the engine will seize. When this
can to fix the problem. happens, the effect is the same as a
pavement is slippery, if you cannot drivers ahead and to prevent lane locked rear wheel. Let the engine
see through the vehicle ahead, or if sharing by others. 10 Test Yourself cool before restarting.
BEING FOLLOWED
traffic is heavy and someone may If your motorcycle starts to wobble:
squeeze in front of you, open up a A. Accelerate out of the wobble.
BEING FOLLOWED ANIMALS
three-second or more following B. Use the brakes gradually.
Speeding up to lose someone Naturally, you should do
distance. C. Grip the handlebars firmly and
following too closely only ends up close the throttle gradually. everything you safely can to avoid
Keep well behind the vehicle with someone tailgating you at a D. Downshift. hitting an animal. If you are in traffic,
ahead even when you are stopped. higher speed. Answer - page 40
however, remain in your lane. Hitting
This will make it easier to get out
A better way to handle tailgaters something small is less dangerous to
of the way if someone bears down on
is to get them in front of you. When CHAIN PROBLEMS you than hitting something big —
you from behind. It will also give you
someone is following too closely, A chain that slips or breaks while like a car.
a cushion of space if the vehicle
change lanes and let them pass. If you’re riding could lock the rear Motorcycles seem to attract
ahead starts to back up for some
you can’t do this, slow down and wheel and cause your cycle to skid. dogs. If you are chased, downshift
reason.
open up extra space ahead of you to Chain slippage or breakage can be and approach the animal slowly. As
When behind a car, ride where allow room for both you and the avoided by proper maintenance. you approach it, accelerate away and
the driver can see you in the rearview tailgater to stop. This will also • Slippage — If the chain slips leave the animal behind. Don’t kick
mirror. Riding in the center portion encourage them to pass. If they don’t when you try to speed up quickly at an animal. Keep control of your
of the lane should put your image pass, you will have given yourself or ride uphill, pull off the road. motorcycle and look to where you
in the middle of the rearview mirror and the tailgater more time and space Check the chain and sprockets. want to go.
— where a driver is most likely to to react in case an emergency does Tightening the chain may help. If For larger animals (deer, elk,
see you. develop ahead. the problem is a worn or stretched cattle) brake and prepare to stop —
Riding at the far side of a lane chain or worn or bent sprockets, they are unpredictable.
may permit a driver to see you in a PASSING AND BEING PASSED replace the chain, the sprockets or
sideview mirror. But remember that both before riding again.
most drivers don’t look at their
Passing and being passed by 11 Test Yourself
another vehicle is not much different • Breakage — You’ll notice an If you are chased by a dog:
sideview mirrors nearly as often as
than with a car. However, visibility is instant loss of power to the rear A. Kick it away.
they check the rearview mirror. If the
more critical. Be sure other drivers wheel. Close the throttle and brake B. Stop until the animal loses interest.
traffic situation allows, the center
see you, and that you see potential to a stop. C. Swerve around the animal.
portion of the lane is usually the best
hazards. D. Approach the animal slowly, then
place for you to be seen by the
speed up.
Answer - page 40
14 31MECHANICAL PROBLEMS MECHANICAL STUCK THROTTLE PASSING stay in the center portion of your
PASSING
PROBLEMS Twist the throttle back and forth 1. Ride in the left portion of the lane. Riding any closer to them could
lane at a safe following distance put you in a hazardous situation.
several times. If the throttle cable is
You can find yourself in an to increase your line of sight and Avoid being hit by:
stuck, this may free it. If the throttle
emergency the moment something make you more visible. Signal
stays stuck, immediately operate the • The other vehicle — A slight
goes wrong with your motorcycle. In and check for oncoming traffic. mistake by you or the passing
engine cut-off switch and pull in the
dealing with any mechanical Use your mirrors and turn your driver could cause a sideswipe.
clutch at the same time. This will
problem, take into account the road head to look for traffic behind.
remove power from the rear wheel, • Extended mirrors — Some
and traffic conditions you face. Here 2. When safe, move into the left lane
though engine sound may not drivers forget that their mirrors
are some guidelines that can help you and accelerate. Select a lane hang out farther than their fenders.
immediately decline. Once the
handle mechanical problems safely. position that doesn’t crowd the
motorcycle is “under control,” pull • Objects thrown from windows
car you are passing and pro-
off and stop. — Even if the driver knows you’re
TIRE FAILURE vides space to avoid hazards in
After you have stopped, check there, a passenger may not see you
your lane.
You will seldom hear a tire go and might toss something on you
the throttle cable carefully to find the 3. Ride through the blind spot as
flat. If the motorcycle starts handling or the road ahead of you.
source of the trouble. Make certain quickly as possible.
differently, it may be a tire failure. the throttle works freely before you • Blasts of wind from larger
BEING PASSED
This can be dangerous. You must be 4. Signal again, and complete mirror vehicles — They can affect your
start to ride again. and headchecks before returning
able to tell from the way the control. You have more room for
to your original lane and then error if you are in the middle
motorcycle reacts. If one of your tires cancel the signal.
suddenly loses air, react quickly to
WOBBLE portion when hit by this blast
A “wobble” occurs when the Remember, passes must be than if you are on either side of
keep your balance. Pull off and check
front wheel and handlebars suddenly completed within posted speed limits, the lane.
the tires. and only where permitted. Know your
start to shake from side to side at any Do not move into the portion
If the front tire goes flat, the signs and road markings!
speed. Most wobbles can be traced to of the lane farthest from the
steering will feel “heavy.” A BEING PASSED passing vehicle. It might invite the
improper loading, unsuitable
front-wheel flat is particularly When you are being passed from other driver to cut back into your lane
accessories or incorrect tire pressure.
hazardous because it affects your behind or by an oncoming vehicle, too early.
If you are carrying a heavy load,
steering. You have to steer well to
lighten it. If you can’t, shift it. Center
keep your balance.
the weight lower and farther forward PASSING BEING PASSED
If the rear tire goes flat, the back on the motorcycle. Make sure tire
of the motorcycle may jerk or sway pressure, spring pre-load, air shocks
from side to side. and dampers are at the settings
If either tire goes flat recommended for that much weight.
while riding: Make sure windshields and fairings
• Hold handlegrips firmly, ease off are mounted properly.
the throttle, and keep a straight Check for poorly adjusted
course. steering; worn steering parts; a front
• If braking is required, however, wheel that is bent, misaligned, or out
gradually apply the brake of the of balance; loose wheel bearings or
tire that isn’t flat, if you are sure spokes; and worn swingarm bearings.
which one it is. If none of these is determined to be
the cause, have the motorcycle
• When the motorcycle slows, edge
checked out thoroughly by a
to the side of the road, squeeze the
qualified professional.
clutch and stop.
30 15You can also read
