Revised December 2015 - Schedule your test online: www.dojmt.gov/driving
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Revised
December 2015
Schedule your test online:
www.dojmt.gov/driving
Department of Justice
Motor Vehicle Division
Driver License Bureau
302 North Roberts
PO Box 201430
Helena, MT 59620-1430
(406) 444-3933
It is illegal to operate a motor scooter, motorcycle or any other motor-driven cycle on The road test is an important part of the examination because it gives you the
a public street or highway in Montana unless you have a motorcycle endorsement on opportunity to demonstrate your ability to drive safely. You must provide a
a valid driver license. properly-registered motorcycle to be used in the test. Make certain you are
familiar with it.
In order to obtain a motorcycle endorsement, you must:
Be at least 16 years of age or 15 years of age and have passed a driver’s Your motorcycle must have at least 1 headlamp (but not more than two) that
education course approved by the Montana Department of Justice and
the Superintendent of Public Instruction (online courses are not approved) illuminates at least 500 feet, which must be illuminated at all times.
Have in possession a valid Montana driver license or obtain one The taillight and reflector must be visible for at least 500 feet.
Successfully complete the motorcycle written and road tests The stoplight must be visible for 100 feet in normal sunlight.
Pay the required additional fee of $0.50 cents per year The rearview mirror must be located so that you have a clear view of the road
After successfully passing the written test, you will be issued a motorcycle learner for at least 200 feet to the rear.
license. This allows you to operate any motor-driven cycle while under the immediate
supervision of a responsible licensed driver who has a valid license for motor-driven Your cycle must be equipped with at least one brake that can be operated by
cycles. It is valid for one year from the date you pass the knowledge test. If the permit foot or hand.
expires before you pass the road test, you will forfeit the fee. To get a new permit you
will have to repay the fee and pass the full examination. If your cycle is equipped with directional signals, they must be operable.
The driver examination consists of five parts: Your bike must have a muffler. There should be no modifi cations to the muff-
ler that would increase the sound of your cycle. If you intend to ride in a
1. Driving record review national park, you must have a spark arrestor on your muffler.
2. Physical aptitude review In addition to the required equipment listed above, the cycle should be
equipped with:
3. Vision test Footrests or pegs for passengers
4. Written test A horn audible for at least 200 feet
5. Road test
A license plate light
The written test consists of questions specifically geared toward motorcycle drivers.
The material necessary to pass the motorcycle test is covered in this supplement to Safety Awareness
the regular Driver License Manual. The questions on the motorcycle test are similar to
those outlined throughout this supplement. Montana state law, with respect to Montana Code Annotated
61-8-346, requires that all non-emergency vehicles, in the presence of an
It should be noted that the motorcycle test is difficult. It has been designed to be
emergency vehicle making use of audio and visual signals, yield the right-of-
comprehensive, and thus difficult, because the number of motorcycle-related accidents
way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel and as close as possible
is increasing, and most of these accidents involve new and
to the right-hand edge or curb of the road.
inexperienced cyclists. Further, in most cases, the person who is injured or killed -
regardless of fault - is the cyclist. Therefore, in order to contribute to safe On highways with a posted speed limit of 50 MPH or more, vehicles in a lane
motorcycle driving, the examination is designed to increase your knowledge of directly next to a stationary emergency or police vehicle displaying emergency
particular motorcycle-driving situations you will encounter. signals must slow down to a speed of at least 20 miles below the posted
speed limit. When possible, vehicles should switch to a lane farther away from
the lane that the stationary vehicle is in.
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/152
2 PREFACE CONTENTS 3
Welcome to the Sixteenth Edition of This latest edition has undergone THE RIDER AND BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual significant improvements, and contains THE MOTORCYCLE ...........................4 Why This Information Is
(MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely new, more in-depth information, Important .......................................42
in traffic requires special skills and designed to: PREPARING TO RIDE Alcohol and Other Drugs in
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety t (VJEFSJEFSTJOQSFQBSJOHUPSJEF Wear the Right Gear ............................5 Motorcycle Operation ....................42
Foundation (MSF) has made this manual safely
available to help novice motorcyclists Know Your Motorcycle ........................7 Alcohol in the Body ............................42
reduce their risk of having a crash. The t %FWFMPQFGGFDUJWFTUSFFUTUSBUFHJFT Know Your Responsibilities ...............10 Alcohol and the Law ..........................44
manual conveys essential safe riding t (JWFSJEFSTNPSFDPNQSFIFOTJWF Minimize the Risks .............................44
information and has been designed understanding of safe group riding RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Step in to Protect Friends ..................45
for use in licensing programs. While practices Basic Vehicle Control ..........................11
designed for the novice, all motorcyclists Fatigue ................................................45
t %FTDSJCFJOEFUBJMCFTUQSBDUJDFTGPS Keeping Your Distance .......................15
can benefit from the information this
carrying passengers and cargo SEE .......................................................20 EARNING YOUR LICENSE ..............46
manual contains.
In promoting improved licensing Intersections .......................................21
The original Motorcycle Operator THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
programs, the MSF works closely with
Manual was developed by the National Increasing Conspicuity .......................24
state licensing agencies. The Foundation Supplementary Information
Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI) Crash Avoidance .................................27
has helped more than half the states for Three-Wheel Motorcycles.........48
under contract to the National Highway
in the nation adopt the Motorcycle Handling Dangerous Surfaces ...........30 Know Your Vehicle ..............................48
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Operator Manual for use in their Mechanical Problems .........................33
and within the terms of a cooperative Basic Vehicle Control ...........................50
licensing systems.
agreement between NHTSA and the Animals ...............................................34 Carrying Passengers and Cargo..........53
MSF. The manual and related tests Improved licensing, along with high
Flying Objects .....................................35
were used in a multi-year study of quality motorcycle rider education and
Getting Off the Road .........................35
HAND SIGNALS.......................... 55
improved motorcycle operator licensing increased public awareness, has the
procedures, conducted by the California potential to reduce crashes. Staff at the Carrying Passengers T-CLOCS PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST ....57
Department of Motor Vehicles under Foundation are available to assist state, and Cargo .......................................35
contract to NHTSA. private and governmental agencies in Group Riding .......................................38
efforts to improve motorcycle safety.
The purpose of this manual is to
educate riders and to help them avoid
crashes while safely operating either
a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a To assist you in becoming a safe and responsible rider, take a
three-wheel motorcycle. Tim Buche
President, Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety Course.
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Successful completion of the MT Motorcycle Basic Rider
Course earns you a skills test waiver from the Motor
Vehicle Division, provided the motorcycle endorsement on
your driver license is obtained within one year of course
completion.
Check it out and increase your skills and safety!
Motorcycle.msun.edu or 1-800-922-2453
2 Jenner, Suite 150
Irvine, CA 92618-3806
www.msf-usa.org
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/154 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE PREPARING TO RIDE 5
Motorcycling is a
unique experience.
RIDING ENVIRONMENT What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining
whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on any
Compared to a car,
trip, a safe rider makes a point to:
you don’t sit in a
motorcycle, you 1. Wear the right gear.
become part of it. 2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.
Not as a passive
3. Check the motorcycle equipment.
driver, but as an
active rider arcing 4. Be a responsible rider.
into a string of
smooth corners, WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR a helmet kept a rider from spotting
playing along with danger.
When you ride, your gear is “right”
the rhythm of the t.PTUDSBTIFTIBQQFO on short
if it protects you. In any crash, you have
road; shifting, trips (less than five miles long), just
a far better chance of avoiding serious
accelerating, a few minutes after starting out.
injury if you wear:
and braking t.PTUSJEFST are riding slower than
with precision. t"%05DPNQMJBOUIFMNFU 30 mph when a crash occurs. At
Whether you t'BDFPSFZFQSPUFDUJPO these speeds, helmets can cut both
ride to and from the number and the severity of head
t1SPUFDUJWFDMPUIJOH
work or prefer and supports the concept that, as the injuries by half.
the camaraderie of a group ride on the Motorcycle Safety Foundation says, Helmet Use No matter what the speed, helmeted
weekend, motorcycling engages all your “Safe riding is as much a skill of the riders are three times more likely to
Crashes can occur — particularly
senses and creates an invigorating sense eyes and mind as it is of the hands and survive head injuries than those not
among untrained, beginning riders.
of freedom. feet.” wearing helmets at the time of the
And one out of every five motorcycle
Along with that freedom comes Successfully piloting a motorcycle is a crashes results in head or neck injuries. crash. The single most important thing
responsibility. All states require much more involved task than driving a Head injuries are just as severe as neck you can do to improve your chances of
some form of license endorsement car. Motorcycling requires a fine sense injuries — and far more common. Crash surviving a crash is to wear a securely-
demonstrating you possess a minimum of balance and a heightened sense of analyses show that head and neck fastened, quality helmet.
level of skill and knowledge. This awareness and position amidst other injuries account for a majority of serious
booklet and other motorcycle
Helmet Selection
roadway users. A motorcycle responds and fatal injuries to motorcyclists.
publications can help prepare you to more quickly to rider inputs than a car, Research also shows that, with few There are two primary types of
be successful. You might also consider but is also more sensitive to outside exceptions, head and neck injuries are helmets, providing two different levels
taking a formal hands-on training forces, like irregular road surfaces or reduced by properly wearing a quality of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
course, even if your state doesn’t require crosswinds. A motorcycle is also less helmet. Whichever style you choose, you can
that you complete one. You’ll learn how visible than a car due to its narrower get the most protection by making sure
Some riders don’t wear helmets
to improve your riding skills and mental profile, and offers far less protection by that the helmet:
because they think helmets will limit
strategies, so you can be a safer, more exposing its rider to other traffic and their view to the sides. Others wear t*TEFTJHOFEUPNFFU64
alert rider. the elements. All these risks can be helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation
The diagram above illustrates the managed through study, training, and riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards. Helmets
complex environment that awaits you, practice. some facts to consider: with a label from the Snell Memorial
Foundation also give you an
t"%05DPNQMJBOUIFMNFU lets assurance of quality.
you see as far to the sides as
necessary. A study of more than t'JUTTOVHMZ all the way around.
900 motorcycle crashes, where t)BTOPPCWJPVTEFGFDUTsuch as
40% of the riders wore helmets, cracks, loose padding or frayed
did not find even one case in which straps.
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/156 PREPARING TO RIDE 7
Whatever helmet you
HELMETS
t(MPWFT allow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR
decide on, keep it securely protect your hands in a crash. Your
fastened on your head gloves should be made of leather or
MOTORCYCLE
when you ride. Otherwise, similar durable material. There are plenty of things on the
if you are involved in a highway that can cause you trouble.
t)FBSJOHQSPUFDUJPOreduces
crash, it’s likely to fly off Your motorcycle should not be one
noise while allowing you to hear
your head before it gets a of them. To make sure that your
important sounds such as car horns
chance to protect you. motorcycle won’t let you down:
or sirens. Long term exposure to
Eye and Face engine and wind noise can cause t4UBSU with the right motorcycle
permanent hearing damage even for you.
Protection
if you wear a full face helmet. t Read the owner’s manual.
A plastic shatter-resistant Whether you choose disposable
faceshield can help protect foam plugs or reusable custom t#FGBNJMJBS with the motorcycle
your whole face in a molded devices, be sure you adhere controls.
crash. It also protects you Clothing to state laws regarding hearing t$IFDL the motorcycle before
from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and protection. every ride.
pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. The right clothing protects you in
These problems are distracting and a collision. It also provides comfort, In cold or wet weather, your clothes t,FFQ it in safe riding condition
can be painful. If you have to deal as well as protection from heat, cold, should keep you warm and dry, as between rides.
with them, you can’t devote your full debris and hot and moving parts of the well as protect you from injury. You
t"WPJE add-ons and modifications
attention to the road. motorcycle. It can also make you more cannot control a motorcycle well if
that make your motorcycle harder
visible to others. you are numb. Riding for long periods
(PHHMFTQSPUFDUZPVSFZFT UIPVHI to handle.
in cold weather can cause severe chill
they won’t protect the rest of your face t+acket and pants should cover
and fatigue. A winter jacket should The Right Motorcycle For You
like a faceshield does. A windshield arms and legs completely. They
resist wind and fit snugly at the neck,
is not a substitute for a faceshield or should fit snugly enough to keep First, make sure your motorcycle is
XSJTUTBOEXBJTU(PPERVBMJUZSBJOTVJUT
goggles. Most windshields will not from flapping in the wind, yet right for you. It should “fit” you. Your
designed for motorcycle riding resist
protect your eyes from the wind. Neither loosely enough to move freely. feet should reach the ground while
tearing apart or ballooning up at high
XJMMFZFHMBTTFTPSTVOHMBTTFT(MBTTFT Leather offers the most protection. you are seated on the motorcycle, and
speeds.
won’t keep your eyes from watering, Sturdy synthetic material provides the controls should be easy to operate.
and they might blow off when you turn a lot of protection as well. Wear Smaller motorcycles are usually easier
your head while riding. a jacket even in warm weather to for beginners to operate.
prevent dehydration. Many are CLOTHING
To be effective, eye or faceshield At a minimum, your street-legal
designed to protect without getting
protection must: motorcycle should have:
you overheated, even on summer
t#FGSFF of scratches. days. Some riders choose jackets t)FBEMJHIU UBJMMJHIUBOE
and pants with rigid “body armor” brakelight.
t#FSFTJTUBOU to penetration.
inserts in critical areas for additional
t(JWFBDMFBSWJFX to either side. protection. TEST YOURSELF 1
t'BTUFOTFDVSFMZ so it does not A plastic shatter-resistant face
t#PPUTPSTIPFT should be high
blow off. shield:
and sturdy enough to cover your
t1FSNJUBJS to pass through, to ankles and give them support. Soles A. Is not necessary if you have a
reduce fogging. windshield.
should be made of hard, durable,
B. Only protects your eyes.
t1FSNJUFOPVHISPPN for slip-resistant material. Keep heels
eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed. short so they do not catch on rough C. Helps protect your whole face.
surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t D. Does not protect your face as well
Tinted eye protection should not be as goggles.
worn when little light is available. catch on your motorcycle. Answer - page 47
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/158 PREPARING TO RIDE 9
t'SPOUBOESFBSCSBLFT involve riders with less than five months t,OPXUIFDPOUSPMT Work the t5SZUIFGSPOUBOESFBSCSBLFMFWFST
of experience on their motorcycle. throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter a one at a time. Make sure each feels
t5VSOTJHOBMT
few times before you start riding. firm and holds the motorcycle when
t)PSO Get Familiar with the fully applied.
t3JEFWFSZDBVUJPVTMZ and be aware
t5XPNJSSPST
Motorcycle Controls of surroundings. Accelerate gently, C — Controls
Make sure you are completely familiar take turns more slowly and leave t.BLFTVSFUIFDMVUDIBOEUISPUUMF
Borrowing and Lending with the motorcycle before you take extra room for stopping. operate smoothly. The throttle
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, it out on the street. Be sure to review should snap back to fully closed
beware. Crashes are fairly common the owner’s manual. This is particularly Check Your Motorcycle
when released. The clutch should
among beginning riders — especially important if you are riding a borrowed A motorcycle needs more frequent feel tight and should operate
in the first months of riding. Riding motorcycle. attention than a car. A minor technical smoothly.
an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the If you are going to use an unfamiliar failure on a car is seldom more than an
problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, t5SZUIFIPSO.BLFTVSFJUXPSLT
motorcycle: inconvenience for the driver. The same
get familiar with it in a controlled area. failure on a motorcycle may result in a t$MFBOBOEBEKVTUZPVSNJSSPST
And if you lend your motorcycle to t Make all the checks you would on crash or having to leave your motorcycle before starting. It’s difficult to ride
friends, make sure they are licensed and your own motorcycle. parked on the side of the road. If with one hand while you try to
know how to ride before allowing them t'JOEPVUXIFSFFWFSZUIJOHJT anything’s wrong with your motorcycle, adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror
out into traffic. particularly the turn signals, horn, you’ll want to find out about it before so you can see the lane behind and
headlight switch, fuel-supply valve you get in traffic. as much as possible of the lane next
No matter how experienced you
and engine cut-off switch. Find and to you. When properly adjusted, a
may be, ride extra carefully on any The primary source of information
operate these items without having mirror may show the edge of your
motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar about how a motorcycle should be
to look for them. arm or shoulder – but it’s the road
to you. More than half of all crashes inspected and maintained is its owner’s behind you and to the side that are
manual. Be sure to absorb all of its most important.
important information. A motorcycle will
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS continue to ride like new if it is properly L — Lights and Electrics
maintained and routine inspections t$IFDLCPUIIFBEMJHIUBOEUBJMMJHIU
become part of its maintenance cycle. Test your switch to make sure both
A pre-ride inspection only takes high and low beams work.
a few minutes and should be done t5VSOPOCPUISJHIUBOEMFGUIBOE
before every ride to prevent problems. turn signals. Make sure all lights are
It’s quick and easy to check the critical working properly.
components and should be as routine t5SZCPUICSBLFTBOENBLFTVSFFBDI
and automatic as checking the weather one turns on the brake light.
forecast before heading out for the day.
A convenient reminder developed by O — Oil and Other Fluids
MSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a T-CLOCS t$IFDLFOHJOFPJMBOEUSBOTNJTTJPO
“tear-out” sheet at the back of this fluid levels.
manual for you to keep with you when
t$IFDLUIFCSBLFIZESBVMJDnVJEBOE
you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection should
coolant level weekly.
be conducted before every ride, and
includes checks of: t#FTVSFZPVSGVFMWBMWFJTPQFO
before starting out. With the fuel
T — Tires and Wheels
valve closed, your motorcycle may
t$IFDLUJSFJOnBUJPOQSFTTVSF start with only the fuel that is still in
treadwear and general condition of the lines, but will stall once the lines
sidewalls and tread surface. are empty.
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1510 PREPARING TO RIDE RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 11
t-PPLVOEFSOFBUIUIFNPUPSDZDMFGPS responsibility to look before pulling out.
signs of an oil or fuel leak. Both of you are at fault. Someone else This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance.
might be the first to start the chain of That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal
C — Chassis course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing
events leading to a crash, but it doesn’t
t$IFDLUIFGSPOUTVTQFOTJPO&OTVSF leave any of us free of responsibility. your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules
there is no binding. The rear shocks of the road.
and springs should move smoothly. As a rider you can’t be sure that other
t#FTVSFUIFDIBJOJTBEKVTUFE
operators will see you or yield the right BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars
of way. To lessen your chances of a so your hands are even with or
according to the manufacturer’s crash occurring: Body Position below your elbows. This permits
specifications and that the sprockets
t#FWJTJCMF — wear proper clothing, To control a motorcycle well: you to use the proper muscles for
are not worn or damaged.
use your headlight, ride in the best precision steering.
S — Stands t1PTUVSF — Position yourself
lane position to see and be seen. comfortably so you are able to t,OFFT — Keep your knees against
t&OTVSFUIFTJEFTUBOEPQFSBUFT the gas tank to help you keep your
t$PNNVOJDBUFZPVSJOUFOUJPOT — operate all the controls and can use
smoothly and that the spring holds balance as the motorcycle turns.
use the proper signals, brake light your arms to steer the motorcycle,
it tightly in the up position. If
and lane position. rather than to hold yourself up. t'FFU — Keep your feet firmly on the
equipped, the center stand should
This helps you bond with your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t
also be held firmly against the frame t.BJOUBJOBOBEFRVBUFTQBDF
motorcycle and allows you to react drag your feet. If your foot catches
whenever the motorcycle is moving. cushion — when following, being
quickly to hazards. on something, you could be injured
followed, lane sharing, passing and
Additionally, regular maintenance and it could affect your control of
being passed. t4FBU — Sit far enough forward so
such as tune-ups and oil changes are as the motorcycle. Keep your feet near
that arms are slightly bent when
important for a motorcycle as routine t4FBSDIZPVSQBUI of travel 12 the controls so you can get to them
you hold the handgrips. Bending
checkups by your doctor are for you. seconds ahead. fast if needed. Also, don’t let your
your arms permits you to press on
Wear and tear is normal with use; t*EFOUJGZBOETFQBSBUF hazards. toes point downward — they may
the handlebars without having to
routine maintenance will help prevent get caught between the road and
t#FQSFQBSFEUPBDU — remain alert stretch.
costly breakdowns. The schedule for the footrests.
regular upkeep for motorcycle parts and know how to carry out proper t)BOET — Hold the handgrips
and controls is contained in your crash-avoidance skills. firmly to keep your grip over rough Shifting Gears
motorcycle’s owner’s manual. Blame doesn’t matter when someone surfaces. Start with your right There is more to shifting gears than
is injured in a crash. The ability to ride wrist flat. This will help you keep simply getting the motorcycle to pick
KNOW YOUR aware, make critical decisions and carry from accidentally using too much up speed smoothly. Learning to use the
RESPONSIBILITIES them out separates responsible riders gears when downshifting, turning or
“Accident” implies an unforeseen from the rest. Remember, it is up to you starting on hills is equally important for
HOLDING HANDGRIPS
event that occurs without fault or to keep from being the cause of, or an safe motorcycle operation.
negligence. In traffic, that is not the unprepared participant in, any crash.
The gearshift lever is located in front
case. In fact, most people involved in a of the left footrest and is operated by
crash can claim some responsibility for the left foot. To shift “up” to a higher
TEST YOURSELF 2
what takes place. gear, position your foot under the
More than half of all crashes: shift lever and lift. To downshift, press
Consider a situation where someone
decides to drive through an intersection A. Occur at speeds greater than the shift lever down. The shift lever
35mph. changes one gear each time it is lifted
on a yellow light turning red. Your
B. Happen at night. or pressed down. Whenever the lever
light turns green. You pull into the
intersection without checking for C. Are caused by worn tires. is released, spring loading returns it to
possible traffic. That is all it takes for the D. Involve riders who have less than center, where the mechanism resets
five months of experience on their for the next shift up or down. A typical
two of you to crash. It was the driver’s motorcycles.
responsibility to stop, and it was your Answer - page 47 gear pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1512 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 13
for neutral, which is selected by either enough before downshifting safely. slow or stop. The front brake is more To stop as quickly and as safely as
a “half lift” from 1st gear or a “half 8IFOEPXOTIJGUJOH VTFBTUFQ powerful and can provide at least 70% possible in a curve, and depending on
press” from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you of your total stopping power. The front road and traffic conditions, try to get the
have five gears, but some have four or squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press the brake is safe to use if you use it properly. motorcycle as perpendicular to the road
six gears. shift lever down firmly, 3) ease out the Maximum straight-line braking is
as possible, then brake. If conditions do
clutch lever as you roll on the throttle. not allow, brake smoothly and gradually,
accomplished by fully applying both
SHIFTING GEARS Once the shift is completed, release but do not apply as much braking force
front and rear brakes without locking
the shift lever to permit it to reset for as you would if the motorcycle were
either wheel.
the next shift. Rolling on the throttle straight up. As you slow, you can reduce
To do this: your lean angle, and as more traction
slightly while smoothly easing out the
clutch can help the engine come up t4RVFF[FUIFGSPOUCSBLF becomes available for braking, you can
to speed more quickly and make the smoothly, firmly and with more firmly apply the brakes, so that
progressively more force. Do not by the time the motorcycle is stopped,
downshift smoother. Shifting to a lower
grab the brake lever or use abrupt the motorcycle is straight up, and the
gear causes an effect similar to using pressure.
the brakes. This is known as engine handlebars are squared.
braking. To use engine braking, shift t"TUIFNPUPSDZDMFTXFJHIU
Linked and Integrated
down one gear at a time and ease out transfers forward, more traction
becomes available at the front Braking Systems
the clutch through the friction zone
between each downshift. Keep the wheel, so the front brake can be Some motorcycles have linked braking
As your motorcycle increases clutch in the friction zone until the applied harder after braking begins. which connects the front and rear
speed, you will need to shift up to a engine speed stabilizes. Then ease out t,FFQZPVSLOFFTBHBJOTUUIF brakes on the motorcycle and applies
higher gear. Shift up well before the the lever fully until ready for the next tank and your eyes up, looking braking pressure to both brakes when
engine RPM reaches its maximum downshift. Usually you shift gears one at well ahead. This helps you stop the either the front lever or rear pedal is
recommended speed. As a general rule, a time, but it is possible to shift through motorcycle in a straight line. applied. An integrated braking system
shift up soon enough to avoid over- more than one gear while the clutch is is a variation of the linked system in
squeezed. t"QQMZMJHIUUPMJHIUFSQSFTTVSF which partial front braking is applied
revving the engine, but not so soon to
to the rear brake pedal to prevent a whenever the rear brake is activated.
cause the engine to lug. Remain in first gear while you are rear wheel skid. As weight transfers Consult your owner’s manual for a
8IFOVQTIJGUJOH VTFBTUFQ stopped so that you can move out forward less traction is available detailed explanation on the operation
process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you quickly if you need to. at the rear. Use less rear brake and effective use of these systems.
squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the Work toward a smooth, even clutch pressure.
shift lever firmly as far as it will go, 3) release, especially when downshifting. It Anti-Lock Braking Systems
Using both brakes for even “normal”
smoothly ease out the clutch and adjust is best to change gears before entering (ABS)
stops will permit you to develop the
the throttle. Once the shift is completed, a turn. However, sometimes shifting proper habit or skill of using both brakes ABS is designed to prevent wheel
release the shift lever to permit it to while in the turn is necessary. If so, properly in an emergency. Squeeze the lock-up and avoid skids when stopping
reset for the next shift. remember to do so smoothly. A sudden front brake and press down on the rear. in straight-line, panic situations. ABS
You should shift down through the change in power to the rear wheel can (SBCCJOHBUUIFGSPOUCSBLFPSKBNNJOH operates when maximum pressure on
gears with the clutch as you slow or cause a skid. down on the rear can cause the brakes both the front and rear brake controls
stop, and can also shift down when you to lock, resulting in control problems. is applied. If electronic sensors detect
need more power to accelerate. Braking
the possibility of a wheel lock, brake
Improper braking technique remains Braking in a Corner hydraulic pressure, is released then
Make certain you are riding slowly
enough when you shift into a lower a significant contributing factor in many Any time a motorcycle is leaned over, reapplied to maintain maximum braking
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle the amount of traction available for effectiveness.
and the rear wheel may skid. When has two brake controls: one for the braking is reduced. The greater the lean
front wheel and one for the rear wheel. The system is capable of releasing and
riding downhill or shifting into first gear angle, the more the possibility of the
Always use both brakes every time you reapplying pressure more than 15 times
you may need to use the brakes to slow tires losing traction.
per second.
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1514 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 15
Turning In normal turns, the rider and the KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE t "WPJEXJOECMBTUGSPNPUIFS
motorcycle should lean together at the vehicles.
Approach turns and curves with The best protection you can have is
same angle. t 1SPWJEFBOFTDBQFSPVUF
caution. Riders often try to take curves distance — a “cushion of space” —
or turns too fast. When they can’t hold separating yourself from other vehicles
NORMAL TURNS t 4FUVQGPSUVSOT
the turn, they end up crossing into on the roadway. This will provide you
with a clear view of emerging traffic Many motorcyclists consider the left
another lane of traffic or going off the
situations, so that if someone else third of the lane – the left tire track of
road. Or, they overreact and brake too automobiles – to be their default lane
makes a mistake, you will have:
hard, causing a skid and loss of control. position. You should then consider
t.PSFUJNFUPSFTQPOE varying your lane position as conditions
Use four steps for better control:
t.PSFTQBDFUPNBOFVWFS JODMVEJOH warrant, keeping mind that no portion
t4-08— Reduce speed before the an escape route if necessary. of the lane need be avoided —
turn by closing the throttle and, if including the center.
necessary, applying both brakes. Lane Positions You should position yourself in the
t-00, — Look through the turn Successful motorcyclists know that portion of the lane where you are most
to where you want to go. Turn they are safer when clearly seen. In likely to be seen and you can maintain
just your head, not your shoulders, some ways the size of the motorcycle a space cushion around you. Change
and keep your eyes level with the can work to your advantage. Each traffic position as traffic situations change.
lane gives a motorcycle three paths of Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other
horizon.
travel, as indicated in the illustration. potential problems are on your left
t13&44— To turn, the motorcycle Your lane position should help you: only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards
must lean. To lean the motor- are on your right only. If vehicles are
cycle, press on the handgrip in In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by t *ODSFBTFZPVSBCJMJUZUPTFFBOECF being operated on both sides of you,
the direction of the turn. Press left leaning the motorcycle only and keeping seen. the center of the lane, path 2, is usually
your body straight. your best option.
handgrip — lean left — go left. t "WPJEPUIFSTCMJOETQPUT
Press right handgrip — lean right — Remember, the center third of the
t "WPJETVSGBDFIB[BSET lane is the place where debris and oil
go right. The higher the speed in a SLOW, TIGHT TURNS
turn, the greater the lean angle. t 1SPUFDUZPVSMBOFGSPNPUIFSESJWFST drippings from cars collect and where
hazards such as manhole covers are
t ROLL — Roll on the throttle to t $PNNVOJDBUFZPVSJOUFOUJPOT located. Unless the road is wet, the
maintain or slightly increase speed.
This helps stabilize the motorcycle.
LANE POSITIONS
TEST YOURSELF 3
When riding, you should:
A. Turn your head and shoulders
to look through turns.
B. Keep your arms straight.
C. Keep your knees away from
the gas tank.
D. Turn just your head and eyes
to look where you are going.
Answer - page 47
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1516 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 17
When behind a car, ride where the Passing
FOLLOWING driver can see you in the rearview mirror.
Riding in the center portion of the lane 1. Ride in the left portion of the
should put your image in the middle of lane at a safe following distance
the rearview mirror — where a driver is to increase your line of sight and
most likely to see you. make you more visible. Signal
and check for oncoming traffic.
Riding at the far side of a lane may Use your mirrors and turn your
permit a driver to see you in a sideview head to look for traffic behind.
mirror. But remember that most drivers
don’t look at their sideview mirrors 8IFOTBGF move into the left
nearly as often as they check the lane and accelerate. Select a lane
rearview mirror. If the traffic situation position that doesn’t crowd the
allows, the center portion of the lane is car and provides space to avoid
usually the best place for you to be seen hazards in your lane.
by the drivers ahead and to prevent lane 3. Ride through the blind spot as
sharing by others. quickly as possible.
Being Followed 4JHOBMBHBJO and complete
mirror and headchecks before
Speeding up to lose someone following returning to your original lane
too closely only ends up with someone and then cancel the signal.
tailgating you at a higher speed.
3FNFNCFS QBTTFTNVTUCF
A better way to handle tailgaters completed within posted speed
average center strip permits adequate count off the seconds: “one- is to get them in front of you. When MJNJUT BOEPOMZXIFSFQFSNJUUFE
traction to ride on safely. You can thousand-one, one-thousand-two.” someone is following too closely, Know your signs and road markings!
operate to the left or right of the grease change lanes and let them pass. If you
t*GZPVSFBDIUIFNBSLFS before can’t do this, slow down and open up
strip and still be within the center third you reach “two,” you are following
of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big extra space ahead of you to allow room
too closely. for both you and the tailgater to stop.
buildups of oil and grease usually found PASSING
at busy intersections or tollbooths. A two-second following distance This will also encourage them to pass.
leaves a minimum amount of space to If they don’t pass, you will have given
Experienced riders rely on their own stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops yourself and the tailgater more time and
best judgment and instincts. One suddenly. It also permits a better view of space to react in case an emergency
absolute, however, is to avoid riding in potholes and other hazards in the road. does develop ahead.
another vehicle’s blind spot.
A larger cushion of space is needed Passing and Being Passed
Following Another Vehicle if your motorcycle will take longer
than normal to stop. If the pavement Passing and being passed by another
“Following too closely” is a factor in vehicle is not much different than with a
crashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic, is slippery, if you cannot see through
the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy car. However, visibility is more critical. Be
motorcycles need as much distance sure other drivers see you, and that you
to stop as cars. Normally, a minimum and someone may squeeze in front of
you, open up a three-second or more see potential hazards.
of two seconds distance should be
maintained behind the vehicle ahead. following distance.
To gauge your following distance: Keep well behind the vehicle ahead
even when you are stopped. This will
t1JDLPVUBNBSLFS such as a make it easier to get out of the way
pavement marking or lamppost, on if someone bears down on you from
or near the road ahead. behind. It will also give you a cushion of
t8IFOUIFSFBSCVNQFS of the space if the vehicle ahead starts to back
vehicle ahead passes the marker, up for some reason.
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1518 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 19
Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the Merging Cars Cars Alongside
lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It
When you are being passed from might invite the other driver to cut back Drivers on an entrance ramp may Do not ride next to cars or trucks in
behind, stay in the center portion of OPUTFFZPVPOUIFIJHIXBZ(JWFUIFN other lanes if you do not have to. You
into your lane too early.
your lane. Riding close to the passing plenty of room. Change to another lane might be in the blind spot of a car in the
vehicle could put you in a hazardous Lane Sharing if one is open. If there is no room for a next lane, which could switch into your
situation.
Cars and motorcycles need a full lane lane change, adjust speed to open up lane without warning. Cars in the next
Avoid being hit by: to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually space for the merging driver. lane also block your escape if you come
t5IFPUIFSWFIJDMF— A slight prohibited. upon danger in your own lane. Speed
mistake by you or the passing driver up or drop back to find a place clear of
could cause a sideswipe. Riding between rows of stopped or traffic on both sides.
moving cars in the same lane can leave
t&YUFOEFENJSSPST— Some drivers you vulnerable to the unexpected. A
forget that their mirrors hang out hand could come out of a window; MERGING BLIND SPOTS
farther than their fenders.
a door could open; a car could turn
t0CKFDUTUISPXOGSPNXJOEPXT suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by
— Even if the driver knows you’re others. Keep a center-portion position
there, a passenger may not see you whenever drivers might be tempted
and might toss something on you or
to squeeze by you. Drivers are most
the road ahead of you.
tempted to do this:
t#MBTUTPGXJOEGSPNMBSHFS
vehicles — They can affect your t*OIFBWZ bumper-to-bumper
control. You have more room for traffic.
error if you are in the middle portion t8IFOUIFZ want to pass you.
when hit by this blast than if you
t8IFOZPV are preparing to turn at
are on either side of the lane.
an intersection.
t8IFOZPV are moving into an exit
BEING PASSED lane or leaving a highway.
TEST YOURSELF 4
Usually, a good way to handle
tailgaters is to:
A. Change lanes and let them pass.
B. Use your horn and make
obscene gestures.
C. Speed up to put distance
between you and the tailgater.
D. Ignore them.
Answer - page 47
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1520 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 21
SEE tHazardous road conditions that Apply the old adage “one step at a
RIDER RADAR require you to be alert, especially in time” to handle two or more hazards.
(PPE FYQFSJFODFE areas with limited visibility. Visually Adjust speed to permit two hazards
riders are always aware of “busy” surroundings could hide you to separate. Then deal with them one
what is going on around and your motorcycle from others. at a time as single hazards. Decision-
them. They reduce their
making becomes more complex with
risk by using MSF’s three- Evaluate three or more hazards. Evaluate the
step SEESM strategy: Evaluate means to think about how consequences of each and give equal
t4earch hazards can interact to create risks for distance to the hazards.
t&valuate you. Anticipate potential problems and
In potential high-risk areas, such as
have a plan to reduce risks, particularly
t&xecute intersections, shopping areas and school
when faced with:
and construction zones, cover the clutch
SEE will help you t3PBEBOETVSGBDFDIBSBDUFSJTUJDT and both brakes to reduce the time you
assess what is going on such as potholes, guardrails, need to react.
in traffic so you can plan bridges, telephone poles and trees
and implement the safest that won’t move into your path, but INTERSECTIONS
course of action as traffic may influence your riding strategy. The greatest potential for conflict
situations change. Let’s
t5SBGmDDPOUSPMEFWJDFTincluding between you and other traffic is at
look at each of these
traffic signals, warning signs, and intersections. An intersection can be
steps.
pavement markings, which will in the middle of an urban area or at
Search require you to carefully evaluate a driveway on a residential street —
circumstances ahead. anywhere traffic may cross your path of
How assertively you
travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car
search, and how much t7FIJDMFTBOEPUIFSUSBGmD that crashes are caused by drivers entering a
time and space you have, may move into your path and rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in
can eliminate or minimize increase the likelihood of a crash. front of you, including cars turning left
risk. As you search, focus Think about your time and space
considered enough time and space to from the lane on your right, and cars on
on finding potential escape routes, requirements in order to maintain a
swerve and/or brake for fixed hazards or side streets that pull into your lane, are
especially in or around intersections, margin of safety, and give yourself
for someone or something entering your the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE
shopping areas and school and time to react if an emergency arises.
path of travel. at intersections is critical.
construction zones.
Finally, experienced riders search for &YFDVUF
One way to search is to use your
hazards that are further out, looking Finally, &YFDVUF your decision. To
“RiderRadar” to aggressively scan the
ahead to an area it would take about create more space and minimize harm TEST YOURSELF 5
environment ahead of you, to the sides,
12 seconds to reach. This provides from any hazard:
and behind you to avoid potential To reduce your reaction time, you
time to prepare for a situation before it
hazards even before they arise. There t$PNNVOJDBUF your presence with should:
becomes immediate.
are three “lead times” experienced lights and/or horn. A. Ride slower than the speed
riders consider. First, be alert and scan Using the SEE strategy will help you to limit.
for hazards that are about 2 seconds Search for a variety of factors such as: t"EKVTUZPVSTQFFE by accelerating,
ahead of you, or within your following stopping or slowing. B. Cover the clutch and the brakes.
tOncoming traffic that may turn left
distance. Scanning your 4-second in front of you. t"EKVTUZPVSQPTJUJPO and/or C. Shift into neutral when slowing.
immediate path can allow you time for direction by swerving, changing
tTraffic coming from the left and D. Pull in the clutch when turning.
a quick response if something should lanes, or moving to another position
go wrong. Anything that is within 4 from the right. within your lane. Answer - page 47
seconds of your path is considered tTraffic approaching from behind.
immediate because 4 seconds is
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1522 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 23
the intersection, move away from the
LARGE INTERSECTIONS vehicle. Do not change speed or position BLIND INTERSECTIONS
radically, as drivers might think you
are preparing to turn. Be prepared to
brake hard and hold your position if an
oncoming vehicle turns in front of you,
especially if there is other traffic around
you. This strategy should also be used
whenever a vehicle in the oncoming
lane of traffic is signaling for a left turn,
whether at an intersection or not.
Blind Intersections
If you approach a blind intersection,
move to the portion of the lane that will
bring you into another driver’s field of
vision at the earliest possible moment.
In this picture, the rider has moved to
the left portion of the lane — away
from the parked car — so the driver on STOP SIGNS
the cross street can see him as soon as
possible.
Remember, the key is to see as much
There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being
as possible and remain visible to others
others see you. Never count on “eye seen at intersections. Ride with your
while protecting your space.
contact” as a sign that a driver will headlight on and in a lane position that
yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a provides the best view of oncoming If you have a stop sign or stop line,
motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him traffic. Provide a space cushion around stop there first. Then edge forward
or her. The only eyes that you can count the motorcycle that permits you to and stop again, just short of where the
on are your own. If a car can enter your take evasive action. When approaching cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From
QBUI BTTVNFUIBUJUXJMM(PPESJEFST an intersection where a vehicle driver that position, lean your body forward
are always “looking for trouble” — not is preparing to cross your path, slow and look around buildings, parked cars
to get into it, but to stay out of it. down and select a lane position to or bushes to see if anything is coming. PARKED CARS
increase your visibility to that driver. Just make sure your front wheel stays
Cover the clutch lever and both brakes out of the cross lane of travel while
SMALL INTERSECTION to reduce reaction time. As you enter you’re looking.
Passing Parked Cars
TEST YOURSELF 6 When passing parked cars, stay
Making eye contact with other toward the left of your lane. You
drivers: can avoid problems caused by doors
A. Is a good sign they see you. opening, drivers getting out of cars
B. Is not worth the effort it takes. or people stepping from between
C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it
yield. is usually best to remain in the center-
% (VBSBOUFFTUIBUUIFPUIFSESJWFSXJMM lane position to maximize your space
yield to you. Answer - page 47 cushion.
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1524 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 25
A bigger problem can occur if the Once you turn, make sure your signal is
driver pulls away from the curb without PARKING AT CURBS SIGNALING off or a driver may pull directly into your
checking for traffic behind. Even if he path, thinking you plan to turn again.
does look, he may fail to see you. Use your signals at every turn so drivers
can react accordingly. Don’t make them
In either event, the driver might cut
guess what you intend to do.
into your path. Slow down or change
lanes to make room for someone Brake Light
cutting in.
Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually
Cars making a sudden U-turn are not as noticeable as the brake lights on
the most dangerous. They may cut a car — particularly when your taillight
you off entirely, blocking the whole is on. (It goes on with the headlight.)
roadway and leaving you with no If the situation will permit, help others
place to go. Since you can’t tell what a notice you by flashing your brake light
driver will do, slow down and get the before you slow down. It is especially
driver’s attention. Sound your horn and important to flash your brake light
However, you can do many things to
continue with caution. before:
make it easier for others to recognize
Parking at the Roadside you and your motorcycle. have the headlights on when running). t:PVTMPXNPSFRVJDLMZ than
Studies show that, during the day, a others might expect (turning off a
If parking in a parallel parking space Clothing motorcycle with its light on is twice as high-speed highway).
next to a curb, position the motorcycle likely to be noticed. Use low beam at
Most crashes occur in broad daylight.
at an angle with the rear wheel to the night and in fog. t:PVTMPXXIFSF others may not
Wear bright-colored clothing to increase
curb. (Note: Some cities have ordinances expect it (in the middle of a block or
your chances of being seen. Remember,
that require motorcycles to park parallel
your body is half of the visible surface
Signals at an alley).
to the curb.) The signals on a motorcycle are similar If you are being followed closely, it’s
area of the rider/motorcycle unit.
Increasing Conspicuity to those on a car. They tell others what a good idea to flash your brake light
Bright orange, red, yellow or green
you plan to do. before you slow. The tailgater may be
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers jackets/vests are your best bets for being
However, due to a rider’s added watching you and not see something
often say that they never saw the seen. Your helmet can do more than
vulnerability, signals are even more ahead that will make you slow down.
motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a protect you in a crash. Brightly colored
important. Use them anytime you plan This will hopefully discourage them from
motorcycle’s outline is much smaller helmets can also help others see you.
to change lanes or turn. Use them even tailgating and warn them of hazards
than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see Any bright color is better than drab ahead they may not see.
something you are not looking for, when you think no one else is around.
or dark colors. Reflective, bright-colored
and most drivers are not looking for It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to Using Your Mirrors
clothing (helmet and jacket/vest) is best.
motorcycles. More likely, they are give you the most trouble. Your signal
Reflective material on a vest and on lights also make you easier to spot. While it’s most important to keep
looking through the skinny, two-
the sides of the helmet will help drivers That’s why it’s a good idea to use your track of what’s happening ahead, you
wheeled silhouette in search of cars that
coming from the side to spot you. turn signals even when what you plan can’t afford to ignore situations behind.
may pose a problem to them.
Reflective material can also be a big to do is obvious. Traffic conditions change quickly.
Even if a driver does see you coming, help for drivers coming toward you or Knowing what’s going on behind is
you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller When you enter a freeway, drivers essential for you to make a safe decision
from behind.
vehicles appear farther away and approaching from behind are more likely about how to handle trouble ahead.
seem to be traveling slower than they Headlight to see your signal blinking and make
room for you. Frequent mirror checks should be part
actually are. It is common for drivers The best way to help others see your of your normal searching routine. Make
to pull out in front of motorcyclists, motorcycle is to keep the headlight on Turning your signal light on before a special point of using your mirrors:
thinking they have plenty of time. Too — at all times (new motorcycles sold each turn reduces confusion and
often, they are wrong. frustration for the traffic around you. t8IFOZPVBSFTUPQQFE at an
in the USA since 1978 automatically
intersection. Watch cars coming up
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/1526 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 27
from behind. If the drivers aren’t
USING MIRRORS
Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE
paying attention, they could be on isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use it,
top of you before they see you. but don’t rely on it. Other strategies, like No matter how careful you are, there
having time and space to maneuver, may will be times when you find yourself in a
t#FGPSFZPVDIBOHFMBOFT Make tight spot. Your chances of getting out
sure no one is about to pass you. be appropriate along with the horn.
safely depend on your ability to react
t#FGPSFZPVTMPXEPXOThe driver Riding at Night quickly and properly. Often, a crash
behind may not expect you to slow, At night it is harder for you to see occurs because a rider is not prepared or
or may be unsure about where you and be seen. Picking your headlight skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers.
will slow. For example, you signal a or taillight out of the car lights around Know when and how to stop or
turn and the driver thinks you plan you is not easy for other drivers. To swerve, two skills critical in avoiding
to turn at a distant intersection, compensate, you should: a crash. It is not always desirable or
rather than at a nearer driveway. possible to stop quickly to avoid an
t3FEVDF:PVS4QFFE— Ride even
Most motorcycles have rounded slower than you would during the obstacle. Riders must also be able to
(convex) mirrors. These provide a day — particularly on roads you swerve around an obstacle. Deter-
wider view of the road behind than don’t know well. This will increase mining which skill is necessary for the
do flat mirrors. They also make cars your chances of avoiding a hazard. situation is important as well.
seem farther away than they really are. t*ODSFBTF%JTUBODF — Distances Studies show that most crash-
If you are not used to convex mirrors, are harder to judge at night than involved riders:
get familiar with them. (While you during the day. Your eyes rely upon
shadows and light contrasts to t6OEFSCSBLF the front tire and
are stopped, pick out a parked car in Frequent head checks should be
determine how far away an object overbrake the rear.
your mirror. Form a mental image of your normal scanning routine, also.
how far away it is. Then, turn around Only by knowing what is happening is and how fast it is coming. These t%JEOPU separate braking from
contrasts are missing or distorted swerving or did not choose
and look at it to see how close you all around you are you fully prepared
under artificial lights at night. swerving when it was appropriate.
came.) Practice with your mirrors until to deal with it. Open up a three-second following
you become a good judge of distance. distance or more. And allow more The following information offers
Even then, allow extra distance before
Horn some good advice.
distance to pass and be passed.
you change lanes. Be ready to use your horn to get
someone’s attention quickly.
t6TFUIF$BS"IFBE— The Quick Stops
Head Checks headlights of the car ahead can give
It is a good idea to give a quick beep you a better view of the road than To stop quickly, apply both brakes
Checking your mirrors is not enough. before passing anyone that may move even your high beam can. Taillights at the same time. Don’t be shy about
Motorcycles have “blind spots” like cars. into your lane. bouncing up and down can alert using the front brake, but don’t “grab”
Before you change lanes, turn your head, you to bumps or rough pavement. it, either. Squeeze the brake lever
and look to the side for other vehicles. Here are some situations: firmly and progressively. If the front
t6TF:PVS)JHI#FBN(FUBMMUIF
t"ESJWFS in the lane next to you light you can. Use your high beam wheel locks, release the front brake
On a road with several lanes, check
is driving too closely to the vehicle whenever you are not following immediately then reapply it firmly. At
the far lane and the one next to you. A
ahead and may want to pass. or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear the same time, press down on the
driver in the distant lane may head for
reflective materials when riding at rear brake. If you accidentally lock the
the same space you plan to take. t"QBSLFEDBS has someone in the night. rear brake on a good traction surface,
driver’s seat.
TEST YOURSELF 7 t#F'MFYJCMF"CPVU-BOF1PTJUJPO you can keep it locked until you have
t4PNFPOFJTJOUIFTUSFFU riding a Change to whatever portion of the completely stopped; but, even with a
Reflective clothing should:
bicycle or walking. lane is best able to help you see, be locked rear wheel, you can control the
A. Be worn at night. seen and keep an adequate space motorcycle on a straightaway if it is
In an emergency, sound your horn cushion.
B. Be worn during the day. upright and going in a straight line.
loud and long. Be ready to stop or
C. Not be worn.
swerve away from the danger.
D. Be worn day and night
Answer - page 47
Montana Motorcycle Supplement Revised 12/15You can also read
