New York State Motorcycle Safety Program Manual

and use

recreational A Message from the Governor

Motorcycling travel. is a Morepopular than choice 241,000 for economicalNew Yorkers convenient for commuting, touring and motorcycles activities. The New York State Motorcycle Safety Program is dedicated to improving motorcycle safety. We recognize the need to promote rider education and motorcycle awareness for all motorists. Through education and greater public awareness, motorcycling can be a safe and enjoyable activity. This manual will help to make your motorcycle traveling safer. I urge you to read it carefully and to follow its good advice: keep your motorcycle in good condition, wear a helmet and protective clothing, drive defensively, always obey the rules of the road and never drink and drive.

Andrew M. Cuomo

Governor

NYS Department of Motor Vehicles Motorcycle Safety Program 6 Empire State Plaza, Room 336 Albany, New York 12228

Visit our Internet Office at: www.dmv.ny.gov Table Of Contents

MOTORCYCLE LICENSES, OWNERSHIP, SPECIAL RULES

Licenses ...... 1 Registration, Inspection, Insurance ...... 2 Special Rules and Required Equipment ...... 3 Children As Passengers ...... 3

HOW TO PREPARE TO RIDE

Wear the Right Gear ...... 4 Helmet Use ...... 4 Helmet Selection ...... 4 Eye and Face Protection ...... 5 Clothing ...... 6 Know Your Motorcycle ...... 6 The Right Motorcycle For You ...... 6 Receive and Lend ...... 7 Know Your Motorcycle Controls ...... 7 Check Your Motorcycle ...... 7 Know Your Responsibilities ...... 9

RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Vehicle Control ...... 10 Body Position ...... 10 Gear Shift ...... 10 Brakes ...... 11 Turns ...... 12 Keep Your Distance ...... 13 Lane Positions ...... 14 When You Follow Another Vehicle ...... 15 When You Are Followed ...... 16 Pass and Being Passed ...... 17 Lane Share ...... 17 Merging Cars ...... 18 Cars Next to You ...... 18 SEE ...... 18 Intersections ...... 19 Blind Intersections ...... 19 When You Pass Parked Cars ...... 20 When You Park at the Roadside ...... 20 Be Seen ...... 21 Clothes ...... 21 Headlight ...... 21 Signals ...... 21 Brake Light ...... 22 Mirror Use ...... 22 Head Checks ...... 22 Horn ...... 23 When You Ride at Night ...... 24 Crash Prevention ...... 24 Quick Stops ...... 24 Swerves or Quick Turns ...... 25 When You Ride a Curve ...... 27 How to Handle Dangerous Surfaces ...... 27 Difficult Surfaces ...... 27 Wet Surfaces ...... 28 Railroad Tracks, Grooves and Gratings ...... 29 Mechanical Problems ...... 30 Tire Failure ...... 30 Stuck Throttle ...... 30 Wobble ...... 30 Chain Problems ...... 31 Engine Failure ...... 31 Animals ...... 31 Flying Objects ...... 32 How to Get Off The Road ...... 32 How to Carry Passengers and Cargo ...... 32 Equipment ...... 32 Passenger Instructions ...... 33 How to Ride with Passengers ...... 33 How to Carry Loads ...... 33 Group Rides ...... 34 Keep the Group Small ...... 34 Keep the Group Together ...... 34 Keep Your Distance ...... 34

PHYSICAL SHAPE TO RIDE

Why this Information is Important ...... 36 Alcohol and Other Drugs in Motorcycle Operation ...... 36 Alcohol in the Body ...... 36 Blood Alcohol Concentration ...... 37 Alcohol and the Law ...... 38 Results of Conviction ...... 38 Decrease the Risks ...... 39 Do Not Drink ...... 39 Do Not Ride ...... 39 Get Involved to Protect Friends ...... 40 Fatigue ...... 40

HOW TO EARN YOUR MOTORCYCLE LICENSE

Knowledge and Skill ...... 42 Knowledge Test ...... 42 On-Cycle Skill Test ...... 43

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM

Rider Training ...... 45 Motorcycle Licenses, Ownership, Special Rules

LICENSES driver can be a passenger. The learner and supervising driver To operate a motorcycle in New York should remain within sight of one State, you must have a motorcycle oper- another at all times and discuss the ator’s license (Class M) or a motorcycle learner’s performance after prac- junior operator’s license (Class MJ). You tice. We recommend at least 30 can drive a motorcycle in New York if hours of practice, with at least 10 in you are a resident of another state or moderate to heavy traffic. country and have a valid motorcycle license from there. If you are less than I Your road test will include left and 18, you must obey the restrictions for right circles and figure-eights on both the out-of-state jurisdiction and public streets. In addition to normal New York State. The instructions to apply driving maneuvers, you must be for a driver license, which includes a able to accomplish these while motorcycle license, are in Chapter One of being alert for other traffic. If you the NYS Driver’s Manual. You can study take the test on a three-wheeler, that manual as well as this one, even if your motorcycle license will be you already have a license. Your motor- restricted to driving three-wheelers. cycle license written test will be based I on information from both manuals. The You must provide road test trans- Driver’s Manual also contains the junior portation for the license examiner operator and learner permit restrictions, in a properly registered and information on license suspension and inspected car or truck, and a driver revocation and vehicle registration, title at least 21 years old who is and insurance. The Driver’s Manual licensed to drive both this vehicle describes the junior operator and learner and the motorcycle you will drive permit restrictions, information about during the test. license suspension and revocation, and I If you have a driver license, your vehicle registration, title and insurance. current class and motorcycle class Junior motorcycle operators are also will both be listed on one license subject to the New York State graduated document (for example, Class DM). license requirements that apply to other drivers. In addition to the information in I If you already have another class of the Driver’s Manual, motorcycle opera- driver license and a motorcycle tors must know that: operator’s learner permit, the DMV will waive your motorcycle road I When a motorcycle learner prac- test if you complete the Motorcycle tices the supervising driver must Safety Foundation’s (MSF) hold a valid motorcycle license, be Motorcycle Basic RiderCourse® at least 21 and remain within 1/4 mile of the learner at all times. Additional restrictions apply to junior I To qualify for the waiver, the course learners. The supervising driver must be given by an approved need not ride on the motorcycle of training provider in New York State. the learner, but only the supervising 1 For information about the nearest MSF SPECIAL RULES AND course, call 1-800- 446-9227. REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

REGISTRATION, INSPECTION, All motorcycle operators and passen- INSURANCE gers must wear approved motorcycle helmets as defined by USDOT Federal Unlike most other motor vehicles, Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (section motorcycles are registered for one year 218). To improve the visibility of the rather than two, and all motorcycle motorcyclist, we recommend that hel- registrations expire on April 30. mets have at least four square inches of reflective material on both sides. Motorcycles must be inspected at least once every 12 months at a station All motorcycle operators must wear licensed by the DMV to perform motor- approved eye protection even if the cycle safety inspections. The station will motorcycle has a windshield. Any wind- display a yellow and black sign reading shield must also be of an approved type. "Official NYS Motorcycle Inspection Prescription or made-to order safety Station." Dealerships must inspect glasses may be used if the user can pre- motorcycles prior to delivery. If pur- sent written certification that they meet chased in a private sale, you will be DMV standards. The eye protection must given 10 days from the date of registra- be made in a way that conforms with the tion to have the motorcycle inspected. regulations established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI - Motorcycles are not included in the Z87.1). However, the DMV recommends "no fault" insurance provisions that cover approved goggles or a face shield for full other motor vehicles in New York State. protection. Motorcycle owners and operators should know and understand the extent The headlight and rear light of the and limitations of their insurance cover- motorcycle must be on at all times when age for themselves and you operate on the road. their passengers. Motorcyclists can use a full lane and Unlike other motor vehicles, liability can ride two abreast in a single lane. You insurance may be terminated on a can not ride abreast of another vehicle in motorcycle without a turn-in of the the same lane, between lanes or license plate at a DMV office. This between traffic and parked cars. makes it easier to put the motorcycle Motorcyclists are subject to all rules of back on the road after winter storage. the road. This includes signals for all Under no circumstances may a motorcy- turns and lane changes and pass only cle be operated on public highways where it is allowed for other vehicles. without liability coverage. This also applies to motorcycles registered out- of-state.

2 CHILDREN AS PASSENGERS I A seat for the operator and a passenger seat in the rear if a passenger is A child of any age can be a motorcycle carried (no more than one passenger passenger in New York State. Every pas- is permitted) senger must wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet, and ride upon a per- For more information, please see manent, seat on a motorcycle that can "https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv529b.pdf," form carry more than one person. The passen- MV-529-B, available from the DMV Web site ger must sit with his face forward, one www.dmv.ny.gov, by request from a DMV leg on each side of the motorcycle, with Call Center, and at any motor vehicle office. each foot on a foot peg, unless he or she is seated in a properly attached sidecar. It is illegal for an operator to carry a passenger, or for the passenger to ride, in a position that will interfere with the operation or control of the motorcycle or the vision of the operator.

A MOTORCYCLE MUST HAVE ALL OF THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT IN GOOD WORKING ORDER:

I Approved lights, that include headlight, rear light, stop lamp and license plate lamp, at least one red reflector on the rear and directional signals if the motorcycle was origi- nally equipped with turn signals or is a 1985 or newer model.

I Brakes, on 1971 and newer motorcycles brakes are required on both wheels

I A horn or other warning device

I At least one mirror mounted on a handle bar, although mirrors on both handlebars are recommended

I A suitable muffler. "Cutouts" or muf- flers with removable baffles are pro- hibited

I Handlebars no higher than the shoulder height of the operator

3 Preparing To Ride

What you do before you start a trip far to the sides as necessary. Determines if you will get where you A study of more than 900 want to go safely. Before any trip, a safe motorcycle crashes, where 40% of rider makes a point to: the riders wore helmets, did not find even one case in which a helmet 1. Wear the right gear. kept a rider from spotting danger. 2. Become familiar with the motorcycle. 3. Check the motorcycle equipment. I Most crashes happen on short 4. Be a responsible rider. trips (less than five miles long), just a few minutes after starting out. WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR I Most riders are riding slower than 30 When you ride, your gear is “right” if it mph when a crash occurs. At these protects you. In any crash, you have a speeds, helmets can cut both the better chance to avoid serious injury if number and the severity of head you wear: injuries by half.

I An approved helmet. No matter what the speed, helmeted riders are three times more likely to I Face or eye protection. survive head injuries than those not I Protective clothes. wearing helmets at the time of the crash.

HELMET USE HELMET SELECTION

Crashes are not rare events — There are two primary types of helmets particularly among beginning riders. that provide two different levels of cover- And one out of every five motorcycle age: three-quarter and full face. crashes results in head or neck injuries. Whichever style you choose, you can get Head injuries are just as severe as neck the most protection by making sure that injuries — and far more common. Crash the helmet: analysis shows that head and neck I Meets U.S. Department of injuries account for a majority of serious Transportation (DOT) and state stan- and fatal injuries to motorcyclists. dards. (Helmets with a label from the Research also shows that, with few Snell Memorial Foundation give you exceptions, head and neck injuries are an added assurance of quality.) reduced by the proper wearing of an approved helmet. I Fits snugly, all the way around.

Some riders do not wear helmets I Has no obvious defects such as because they think helmets will limit cracks, loose pads or frayed straps. their view to the sides. Others wear Whatever helmet you decide on, helmets only on long trips or when keep it securely fastened on your riding at high speeds. Here are some head when you ride. Otherwise, if facts to consider: you are involved in a crash, it is likely to fly off your head before it gets a I An approved helmet lets you see as chance to protect you. 4 HELMETS

EYE AND FACE PROTECTION I Permit enough room for glasses or sunglasses, if needed. Tinted eye A plastic shatter-resistant face shield protection should not be worn at can help protect your whole face in a night or any other time when little crash. It also protects you from wind, light is available. dust, dirt, rain, insects and pebbles thrown from cars ahead. These problems can distract you and can be painful. If you have to deal with them, you cannot devote your full attention to the road. Goggles protect your eyes, though they will not protect the rest of your face like a face shield does. A windshield is not a substitute for a face shield or goggles. Most windshields will not protect your eyes from the wind. Neither will glasses or sunglasses. Glasses will not keep your eyes from watering, and they might blow off when you turn your head. To be effective, eye or face shield protection must:

I Be free of scratches.

I Be resistant to penetration.

I Give a clear view to either side.

I Fasten securely, so it does not blow off.

I Permit air to pass through to reduce fog.

5 CLOTHING KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE

The right clothing protects you in a col- There are plenty of things on the high- lision. It also provides comfort, as well as way that can cause you trouble. Your protection from heat, cold, debris and hot motorcycle should not be one of them. parts of the motorcycle. To make sure that your motorcycle will not let you down: I Jacket and pants should cover arms and legs completely. They should fit I Read the owner manual first. snugly enough to keep from flapping I in the wind, yet loosely enough to Start with the right motorcycle move freely. Leather offers the most for you. protection. Sturdy synthetic material I Be familiar with the motorcycle provides a lot of protection as well. controls. Wear a jacket even in warm weather to prevent dehydration. Many jackets I Check the motorcycle before are designed to protect without get- every ride. ting you overheated, even on sum- I mer days. Keep it in safe condition between rides. I Boots or shoes should be high and I sturdy enough to cover your ankles Avoid modifications that make your and give them support. Soles should motorcycle more difficult to handle. be made of hard, durable slip- resis- THE RIGHT tant material. Keep heels short so they do not catch on rough surfaces. MOTORCYCLE FOR YOU Tuck laces in so they will not catch First, make sure your motorcycle is right on your motorcycle. for you. It should “fit” you. Your feet I Gloves allow a better grip and help should reach the ground while you are protect your hands in a crash. Your seated on the motorcycle. At minimum, gloves should be made of leather or your street-legal motorcycle should have: similar durable material. In cold or wet weather, your clothes should keep you warm and dry, as well as protect you from injury. You cannot control a motorcycle well if you are numb. Riding for long periods in cold 1 Test Yourself weather can cause severe chill and fatigue. A winter jacket should resist A plastic shatter-resistant face shield: wind and fit snugly at the neck, A. Is not necessary if you have a wind shield. wrists, and waist. Quality rain suits B. Only protects your eyes. designed for motorcycle use resist C. Helps protect your whole face. D. Does not protect your face as well as tearing or ballooning at high speeds. goggles. Answer - page 42

6 I Headlight, taillight and brake light. and engine cut-off switch. Find and operate these items without having I Front and rear brakes. to look for them. I Turn signals. I Know the gear pattern. Work the I Horn. throttle, clutch, and brakes a few times before you start riding. All I State law requires only one controls react a little differently. mirror, though two mirrors I are recommended. Ride very cautiously and be aware of surroundings. Accelerate gently, UNFAMILIAR VEHICLE take turns more slowly and leave extra room for stopping. Those who borrow and lend motorcycles, beware. Crashes are fairly common CHECK YOUR MOTORCYCLE among novice riders—especially in the first months. When you ride an unfamiliar A motorcycle needs more frequent motorcycle it adds to the problem. If you attention than a car. borrow a motorcycle, make sure you A minor technical failure in a car have its insurance identification card or seldom leads to anything more than that it is properly insured. No matter how an inconvenience for the driver. experienced you may be, ride extra carefully on any motorcycle that is new or If something is wrong with the motor- unfamiliar to you. More than half of all cycle, you’ll want to find out about it crashes occur on motorcycles ridden by before you get in traffic. Make a the operator for less than six months. complete check of your motorcycle before every ride. KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS Before mounting the motorcycle make these checks: Make sure you are completely I Tires—Check the air pressure, familiar with the motorcycle before general wear and tread. you take it out on the street. Be sure to review the owner’s manual. This I Fluids—Oil and fluid levels. At a is particularly important if you are minimum, check hydraulic fluids riding a borrowed motorcycle. and coolants weekly. Look under the motorcycle for signs of an oil or If you are going to use an unfamiliar gas leak. motorcycle: I Headlights and Taillight—Check I Make all the checks you would on them both. Test your switch to make your own motorcycle. sure both high and low beams work. I Find out where everything is, I Turn Signals—Turn on both right and particularly the turn signals, horn, left turn signals. Make sure all lights headlight switch, fuel-control valve work properly. 7 MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS MOTORCYCLE

I Brake Light—Try both brake con- one feels firm and holds the motor- trols, and make sure each one turns cycle when the brake is fully applied. on the brake light. Once you have I mounted the motorcycle, complete Horn—Try the horn. Make sure it these checks before you begin works. In addition to the checks you to ride: should make before every trip, check these items at least once a week: I Clutch and Throttle—Make sure they Wheels, cables, fasteners and fluids. work smoothly. The throttle should Follow your owner manual to get snap back when you let go. The recommendations. clutch should feel tight and smooth.

I Mirrors—Clean and adjust both mirrors before you start. It is difficult to ride with one hand while you try to adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror so you can see the lane behind and as much as possible of the lane next 2 Test Yourself to you. When properly adjusted, a mirror may show the edge of your More than half of all crashes: arm or shoulder—but it is the road A. Occur at speeds greater than 35 mph. behind and to the side that is B. Happen at night. most important. C. Are caused by worn tires. D. Involve riders who have ridden their I Brakes—Try the front and rear brake motorcycles less than six months. levers one at a time. Make sure each Answer - page 42 8 KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES I Be prepared to act—remain alert and know how to carry out proper “Accident” implies an unforeseen crash-avoidance skills. event that occurs without fault or negli- gence. Most often in traffic, that is not Blame does not matter when someone the case. In fact, most drivers involved in is injured in a crash. There is rarely a sin- a crash can usually claim some respon- gle cause of any crash. The ability to ride sibility for what takes place. Consider a aware, make critical decisions, and carry situation where someone decides to try them out separates responsible riders to squeeze through an intersection on a from all the rest. Remember, it is up to yellow light about to turn red. Your light you not to be the cause of or an unpre- turns green. You pull into the intersection pared participant in, any crash. without checking for vehicles that may come late into the intersection. That is all it takes for the two of you to tangle. It was the driver of the vehicle who is responsible to stop. And it was your responsibility to look before you pulled out. Neither of you held up your end of the deal. Just because someone else is the first to start the chain of events that lead to a crash, you are not free of responsibility. As a rider you cannot be sure that other operators will see you or yield the right of way. To lessen your chances of a crash:

I Be visible—wear proper clothes, use your headlight, ride in the best lane position to see and be seen.

I Communicate your intentions—use the proper signals, brake light and lane position.

I Maintain an adequate space cushion—when you follow, when you are followed, when you share a lane, when you pass and are passed.

I Scan your path of travel 12 seconds ahead.

I Identify and separate multiple hazards.

9 Ride Within Your Abilities

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL proper muscles to steer with precision. This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance. That I Knees—Keep your knees against the is something you can learn only through gas tank to help you keep your bal- practice. But control begins with knowl- ance as the motorcycle turns. edge of your abilities and to ride within I them, along with knowledge of the rules Feet—Keep your feet firmly on the of the road. Foot pegs to maintain balance. Do not drag your feet. If your foot catch- BODY POSITION es on something, you can be injured and it could affect your control of the To control a motorcycle well: motorcycle. Keep your feet near the controls so you can get to them fast . I Posture—Sit so you can use your Also, do not let your toes point arms to steer the motorcycle rather downward—they may get caught than to hold yourself up. between the road and the foot pegs. I Seat—Sit far enough forward so that GEAR SHIFTS arms are slightly bent when you hold the handle grips. When you bend There is more when you change gears your arms it permits you to press than a simple smooth pickup of speed. on the handlebars without having to stretch. The ability to use the gears when you downshift, turn or start on hills is impor- I Hands—Hold the handle grips firmly tant for safe motorcycle operation. to keep your grip over rough surfaces. Start with your right wrist flat. Shift down through the gears with the This will help you keep from acci- clutch as you slow or stop. Remain in dentally using too much throttle. first gear while you are stopped so that Also, adjust the handlebars so your you can move out quickly if you need to. hands are even with or below your elbows. This permits you to use the Make certain you are riding slowly enough when you shift into a lower gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, and the rear wheel may skid. When you ride downhill or shift into first gear you may need to use the brakes to slow enough before you downshift safely. Work toward a smooth, even clutch release, especially when you downshift.

It is best to change gears before you enter a turn. However, sometimes a shift while in the turn is necessary. If so, remember to do so smoothly. HOLDING HANDLEGRIPS HOLDING

10 A sudden change in power to the rear wheel can cause a skid.

BRAKES

Your motorcycle has two brakes: one each for the front and rear wheel. Use both of them at the same time. The front brake is more powerful and can provide at least three-quarters of your total power to stop. The front brake is safe to use if you use it properly. Remember:

I Use both brakes every time you slow or stop. When you use both brakes for even “normal” stops it will permit you to develop the habit or skill of using both brakes properly in an emergency. Squeeze the front brake and press down on the rear. If you grab at the front brake or jam down on the rear, you can cause the brakes to lock. This results in control problems.

I If you know the technique, you can use both brakes in a turn, although it should be done very carefully. When you lean on the motorcycle some of the traction is used for when you corner. Less traction is available for stopping. A skid can occur if you apply too much brake. Also, if you use the front brake incorrectly on a slippery surface, it can be hazardous. Use caution and squeeze the brake lever, never grab.

I Some motorcycles have integrated brake systems that link the front and rear brakes together when you apply the rear brake pedal. (Consult the owner manual for a detailed expla- nation on the operation and use of these systems.)

11 TURNS

Riders often try to take curves or turns too fast. When they cannot hold the turn, they end up in another lane of traffic or off the road. Or, they overreact and brake too hard, which causes a skid and loss of control. Approach turns and curves with caution.

Use four steps for better control: NORMAL TURNING NORMAL I SLOW

I LOOK

I LEAN

I ROLL

SLOW — Reduce speed before the turn. Close the throttle and, if necessary, apply both brakes.

LOOK — Look through the turn to where you want to go. Turn just your head, not your shoulders, and keep your eyes level with the horizon. SLOW TURNING SLOW LEAN — To turn, the motorcycle must lean. To lean the motorcycle, press on the handgrip in the direction of the turn. Press left—lean left—go left. Press right—lean right—go right. Higher speeds and/or tighter turns require the motorcycle to lean more.

3 Test Yourself When you ride, 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 42 12 LANE POSITION LANE

ROLL — Roll on the throttle through the LANE POSITIONS turn to stabilize suspension. Maintain steady speed or accelerate gradually In some ways the size of the motorcy- through the turn. This will help keep the cle can work to your advantage. Each motorcycle stable. In normal turns, the traffic lane gives a motorcycle three rider and the motorcycle should lean paths of travel, as indicated in the illus- together at the same angle. tration.

In slow tight turns, lean the motorcycle Your lane position should: only and keep your body straight. In I Increase your ability to see and slow tight turns, counterbalance by lean- be seen. ing the motorcycle only and keeping your body straight. I Avoid others’ blind spots.

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE I Avoid surface hazards.

The best protection you can have is I Protect your lane from other drivers. distance—a “cushion of space”—all I Communicate your intentions. around your motorcycle. If someone else makes a mistake, distance permits you: I Avoid wind blast from other vehicles.

I Time to react. I Provide an escape route.

I Space to maneuver. Select the appropriate path to maximize your space cushion and make yourself more easily seen by others on the road.

In general, there is no single best position for riders to be seen and to maintain a space cushion around the motorcycle. No portion of the lane need be avoided — including the center.

13 FOLLOWING

Position yourself in the portion of the To gauge your following distance: lane where you are most likely to be I seen and you can maintain a space Pick out a marker, such as a pave- cushion around you. Change position as ment marking or lamppost, on or traffic situations change. Ride in path 2 near the road ahead. or 3 if vehicles and other potential prob- I When the rear bumper of the vehicle lems are on your left only. Remain in path ahead passes the marker, count off 1 or 2 if hazards are on your right only. If the seconds: “one-thousand-one, vehicles are being operated on both one-thousand-two.” sides of you, the center of the lane, path 2, is usually your best option. I If you reach the marker before you reach “two,” you are too close. A The oily strip in the center portion that two-second following distance collects drippings from cars is usually no leaves a minimum amount of space more than two feet wide. Unless the road to stop or swerve if the driver ahead is wet, the average center strip permits suddenly stops. It also permits a bet- adequate traction to ride on safely. You ter view of potholes and other haz- can operate to the left or right of the grease strip and still be within the center portion of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big buildups of oil and grease usually found at busy intersections or toll booths.

WHEN YOU FOLLOW ANOTHER VEHICLE

“Following too closely” is a major fac- tor in crashes that involve motorcyclists. In traffic, motorcycles need as much dis- PASSING tance to stop as cars. Normally, a minimum of two seconds distance should be maintained behind the vehicle ahead.

14 ards in the road. A larger cushion of ror. If the traffic situation allows, the cen- space is needed if your motorcycle ter portion of the lane is usually the best will take longer than normal to stop. place for you to be seen by the drivers If the pavement is slippery, if you ahead and to prevent lane sharing cannot see through the vehicle by others. ahead or if traffic is heavy and someone may squeeze in front of you, WHEN YOU ARE BEING FOLLOWED open up a three-second or more dis- Speeding up to lose someone who tance. Keep well behind the vehicle follows too closely only ends up with ahead even when you are stopped. someone trying to tailgate you at a high- This will make it easier to get out of er speed. A better way to handle tail- the way if someone bears down on gaters is to get them in front of you. you from behind. It will also give you When someone follows too closely, a cushion of space if the vehicle change lanes and let them pass. If you ahead starts to back up for some cannot do this, slow down and open up reason. When behind a car, ride extra space ahead of you to allow room where the driver can see you in the for both you and the tailgater to stop. rearview mirror. Riding in the center This will also encourage them to pass. portion of the lane should put your If they do not pass, you will have given image in the middle of the rearview yourself and the tailgater more time mirror—where a driver is most likely and space to react in case an to see you. emergency does develop ahead. Riding at the far side of a lane may permit a driver to see you in a side view mirror. But remember that most drivers do not look at their side view mirrors nearly as often as they check the rearview mir- BEING PASSED BEING

15 THE ART OF PASSING, BEING PASSED BLIND SPOTS BLIND MERGING

Remember, passes must be completed within posted speed limits, and only When you pass or are passed by where permitted. Know your signs and another Vehicle, it is not much different road markings! than with a car. However, visibility is more critical. Be sure other drivers see BEING PASSED you, and that you see potential hazards. When you are being passed from PASSING behind or by a vehicle from the opposite direction, stay in the center portion of 1. Ride in the left portion of the lane at a your lane. Riding any closer to them safe distance to increase your line of could put you in a hazardous situation. sight and make you more visible. Avoid being hit by: Signal and check for oncoming traffic. Use your mirrors and turn your I The other vehicle—A slight mistake head to look for traffic behind. by you or the passing driver could cause a sideswipe. 2. When safe, move into the left lane and accelerate. Select a lane posi- I Extended mirrors—Some drivers for- tion that does not crowd the car as you pass and provides space to avoid hazards in your lane. 4 Test Yourself Usually, a good way to handle tailgaters is to: 3. Ride through the blind spot as quickly as possible. A.Change lanes and let them pass. B.Use your horn and make obscene gestures. 4. Signal again, and complete mirror C.Speed up to put distance between you and and head checks before you return the tailgater. to your original lane and then D.Ignore them. cancel signal. Answer - page 42 16 get that their mirrors hang out farther WHEN CARS MERGE than their fenders. Drivers on an entrance ramp may not I Objects thrown from windows— see you on the highway. Give them plenty Even if the driver knows you’re there, of room. Change to another lane if one is a passenger may not see you and open. If there is no room for a lane might toss an object on you or the change, adjust speed to open up space road ahead of you. for the driver making the merge.

I Blasts of wind from larger vehicles— CARS ALONGSIDE They can affect your control. You have more room for error if you are Do not ride next to cars or trucks in in the middle portion when hit by this other lanes if you do not have to. You blast than if you are on either side of might be in the blind spot of a car in the the lane. next lane, which could switch into your lane without warning. Cars in the next Do not move into the portion of the lane lane also block your escape if you come farthest from the passing vehicle. It might upon danger in your own lane. Speed up invite the other driver to cut back into or drop back to find a place clear of your lane too early. traffic on both sides. WHEN YOU SHARE A LANE

Cars and motorcycles cannot share a lane safely. Lane sharing is permitted only for two motorcycles. When you ride between rows of stopped or moving cars in the same lane, it can leave you vulner- able to the unexpected. A hand could come out of a window; a door could open; a car could turn suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by others. Keep a center-portion position whenever drivers might be tempted to squeeze by you. Drivers are most tempted to do this:

I In heavy, bumper-to-bumper traffic.

I When they want to pass you.

I When you prepare to turn at an intersection.

I When you are move into an exit lane or leave a highway.

17 SEE I Hazardous road conditions. Be especially alert in areas with limited Good experienced riders remain aware visibility. Visually “busy” surround- of what is going on around them. They ings could hide you and your improve their riding strategy with SEE, a motorcycle from others. three-step process used to make appropriate judgments, and apply them cor- EVALUATE rectly in different traffic situations: I Search Think about how hazards can interact to create risks for you. Anticipate I Evaluate potential problems and have a plan to reduce risks. I Execute I Stationary Objects— potholes, guardrails, bridges, telephone poles Let’s examine each of these steps. and trees won’t move into your path but may influence your strategy as SEARCH you ride. Search aggressively ahead, to the I Traffic control devices— Look for sides and behind to avoid potential haz- traffic signals. This includes regula- ards even before they arise. How tory signs, warning signs, and pave- assertively you search, and how much ment mark, to help you evaluate time and space you have, can eliminate circumstances ahead. or reduce harm. Focus even more on finding potential escape routes in or I around intersections, shopping areas Other vehicles, pedestrians and ani- and school and construction zones. mals—may suddenly into your path and increase the likelihood of a Search for factors such as: crash. Think about your time and

I Traffic from the other direction may turn left in front of you.

I Traffic from the left and right.

I Traffic from behind.

5 Test Yourself

To reduce your reaction time, you should: A.Ride slower than the speed limit. B.Cover the clutch and the brakes. C.Shift into neutral when slowing.

D.Pull in the clutch when turning. INTERSECTIONS SMALL Answer - page 42

18 LARGE INTERSECTIONS LARGE

EXECUTE

Carry out your decision. To create more space and minimize harm from any hazard:

I Communicate your presence with lights and/or horn.

I Adjust your speed with acceleration, a stop or going slowly.

I Adjust your position and/or direction.

Apply the old adage “one step at a time” to handle two or more hazards. Adjust speed to permit two hazards to BLIND INTERSECTIONS BLIND separate. Then deal with them one at a time as single hazards. Decisions become more complex with three or space requirements in order to main- more hazards. Weigh consequences of tain a margin of safety. You must each and give equal distance to the haz- leave yourself time to react if an ards. In potential high risk areas, such as emergency arises. intersections, store areas, school and construction zones, cover the clutch and both brakes to reduce the time you need to react. 19 STOP SIGNS STOP PARKED CARS PARKED

WHEN YOU PASS PARKED CARS

When pass parked cars, stay toward Sound your horn and continue the left of your lane. You can avoid prob- with caution. lems caused by doors that may open, drivers who get out of cars or people WHEN YOU PARK AT THE ROADSIDE who step out from between cars. If traffic from the other direction is present, it Park at a 90-degree angle to the curb. is usually best to remain in the center- Your rear wheel should touch the curb. lane position to maximize your space cushion. A bigger problem can occur if a BE CONSPICUOUS driver does not check for traffic behind as he pulls away from the curb. Even if In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers he does look, he may fail to see you. In often say they never saw the motorcycle. either event, the driver might cut into From ahead or behind, a motorcycle out- your path. Slow down or change lanes to line is much smaller than that of a car. make room for someone who may cut in. Also, it is hard to see an object you do Cars that make a sudden U-turn are the not look for, and most drivers do not look most dangerous. They may cut you off for motorcycles. More likely, they will entirely and block the entire roadway look through the skinny, two-wheeled sil- and leave you with no place to go. Since houette in search of cars that may pose you can not tell what a driver will do, a problem to them. slow down and get his attention.

6 Test Yourself

Making eye contact with other drivers: A. Is a good sign they see you. B. Is not worth the effort it takes. C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will yield. D. Guarantees that the other driver will yield to you. Answer - page 42 CURBS AT PARKING

20 Even if a driver does see you, you are increases the likelihood that drivers from not necessarily safe. Smaller vehicles the other direction will see you. Use the appear farther away, and seem to be low beam at night and in cloudy weather. travel slower than they actually are. It is common for drivers to pull out in front of SIGNALS motorcyclists, as they think they have The signals on a motorcycle are similar plenty of time. Too often, they are wrong. to those on a car. They tell others what However, you can do many things to you plan to do. However, due to a rider’s make it easier for others to recognize added vulnerability, signals are even you and your motorcycle. more important. Use them anytime you CLOTHES plan to change lanes or turn. Use them even when you think no one else is Most crashes occur in broad daylight. around. It is the car you do not see that is Wear bright colored clothes to help you going to give you the most trouble. Your be seen. Remember, your body is half of signal lights also make you easier to the visible surface area of the rider/ spot. That is why it is a good idea to use motorcycle unit. your turn signals even when what you plan to do is obvious. Bright orange, red, yellow or green jackets or vests are your best bets for When you enter onto a freeway, drivers visibility. Your helmet can do more than who approach from behind are more protect you in a crash. Brightly colored likely to see your signal and make room helmets can also help others see you. for you.

Any bright color is better than drab or When you turn your signal light on dark colors. Reflective, bright colored before each turn it reduces confusion clothes (helmet and jacket or vest) is and frustration for the traffic around you. best. Reflective material on a vest and on Once you turn, make sure your signal is the sides of the helmet will help drivers who come from the side spot you.

Reflective material can also be a big help for drivers from the other direction or from behind.

HEADLIGHT

The best way to help others see your motorcycle is to keep the headlight on— at all times ( motorcycles sold in the U.S. since 1978 have the headlights on auto- SIGNALING matically when running.) Studies show that, during the day, a motorcycle with its light on is twice as likely to be noticed. Use of the high beam during the day

21 off or a driver may pull directly into your I When you are stopped at an inter- path, because he thinks you plan to turn section. Watch cars that approach again. Use your signals at every turn so from behind. If the driver is not atten- drivers can react accordingly. Do not tive, he could be on top of you before make them guess what you intend to do. he sees you.

BRAKE LIGHT I Before you change lanes. Make sure no one is about to pass you. Your motorcycle brake light is usually not as noticeable as the brake lights on a I Before you slow down. The driver car—particularly when your taillight is behind may not expect you to slow, on. (It goes on with the headlight.) If the or may be unsure about where you situation permits, flash your brake light will slow. For example, you signal a before you slow down to help others turn and the driver thinks you plan to notice you . It is especially important to turn at a distant intersection, rather flash your brake light before: than at a nearer driveway.

I You slow more quickly than others Some motorcycles have rounded (con- might expect (when you turn off a vex) mirrors. These provide a wider view high-speed highway). of the road behind than do flat mirrors. They also make cars seem farther away I You slow where others may not than they really are. If you are not used expect it (in the middle of a block or to convex mirrors, get familiar with them. at an alley). If you are being followed (While you are stopped, pick out a closely, it is a good idea to flash your parked car in your mirror. Form a mental brake light before you slow. The tail- image of how far away it is. Then, turn gater may be watching you and not around and look at it to see how close see something ahead that will make you came.) Practice with your mirrors you slow down. This may discourage until you become a good judge of dis- them from tailgating and warn them tance. Even then, allow extra distance of hazards ahead they may not see. before you change lanes.

MIRROR USE HEAD CHECKS

While it is most important to keep track It is not enough to check your mirrors. of what goes on ahead, you cannot Motorcycles have “blind spots” like cars. afford to ignore situations behind. Traffic Before you change lanes, turn your head conditions change quickly. Knowledge of and look to the side for other vehicles. what is going on behind is essential for On a road with several lanes, check the you to make a safe decision about how far lane and the one next to you. A driver to handle trouble ahead. Frequent mirror in the distant lane may head for the same checks should be part of your normal space you plan to take. Frequent head routine. checks should be your normal routine. Know the situation all around you. Make a special point to use your mirrors:

22 USING MIRRORS USING

HORN

Be ready to use your horn to get the attention of someone quickly. It is a good idea to give a quick beep before you pass anyone that may move into your lane. Here are some situations:

I A driver in the lane next to you is driving too closely to the vehicle ahead and may want to pass.

I A parked car has someone in the driver seat.

I Someone is in the street, riding a bicycle or on foot. In an emergency, press the horn button loud and long. Be ready to stop or swerve away from the danger. Keep in mind that a motorcycle horn is not as loud as a car horn, therefore, use it but do not rely on it. Other strategies may be appropriate along with the horn.

23 WHEN YOU RIDE AT NIGHT Be visible, wear reflective materials when you ride at night. At night it is harder for you to see and be seen. The ability to pick your headlight Be Flexible About Lane Position. or taillight out of the car lights around Change to whatever portion of the lane you is not easy for other drivers. is best able to help you see, be seen To compensate, you should: and keep an adequate space cushion.

Reduce Your Speed—Ride even slower CRASH AVOIDANCE than you would during the day—particularly on roads you do not know well. No matter how careful you are, there This will increase your chances of will be times when you find yourself in a avoiding a hazard. tight spot. Your chances of getting out safely depend on your ability to react Increase Distance—Distances are quickly and properly. Often, a crash harder to judge at night than in day- occurs because a rider is not prepared light. Your eyes rely upon shadows and or skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers. light contrasts to determine how far away an object is and how fast it is in crash-avoidance maneuvers. Know coming. These contrasts are missing or when and how to stop or swerve, two distorted under artificial lights at night. skills critical to avoid a crash. It is not Open up a three-second distance or always desirable or possible to stop more when you follow. And allow more quickly to avoid an obstacle. Riders must distance to pass and be passed. also be able to swerve around an obstacle. How you determine the skill neces- Use the Car Ahead—The headlights of sary for the situation is important as well. the car ahead can give you a better Studies show that most riders involved in view of the road than even your high crashes: beam can. Its taillights bouncing up and down can alert you to bumps or I Underbrake the front tire and rough pavement. overbrake the rear.

Use Your High Beam—Get all the light I Did not separate using brakes from you can. Use your high beam whenever a swerve or did not choose to you are not following or meeting a car. swerve when it was appropriate. The following information offers some good advice. 7 Test Yourself QUICK STOPS Reflective clothing should: To stop quickly, apply both brakes at A. Be worn at night. the same time. Do not be shy about using B. Be worn during the day. the front brake, but do not “grab” it, C. Not be worn. either. Squeeze the brake lever firmly and D. Be worn day and night. progressively. If the front wheel locks, Answer - page 42 release the front brake immediately 24 the throttle. As you slow, you can reduce your lean angle and apply more brake pressure until the motorcycle is straight and maximum brake pressure is possible. You should “straighten” the handlebars in the last few feet of stopping, the motorcycle should then be straight up and in balance.

SWERVES OR QUICK TURNS STOPPING DISTANCE STOPPING Sometimes you may not have enough room to stop, even if you use both brakes then reapply it firmly. At the same time, properly. An object might appear sud- press down on the rear brake. If you denly in your path. Or the car ahead accidentally lock the rear brake on a might squeal to a stop. The only way to good traction surface, keep it locked until avoid a crash may be to turn quickly, or you have completely stopped. Even with swerve around it. A swerve is any sud- a locked rear wheel, you can control the den change in direction. It can be two motorcycle on a straightaway if it is quick turns, or a rapid shift to the side. upright and going in a straight line. Apply a small amount of hand pressure Always use both brakes at the same time to the handgrip located on the side of to stop. The front brake can provide 70 your intended direction of escape. This percent or more of the potential stopping will cause the motorcycle to lean quickly. power. If you must stop quickly when you The sharper the turn(s), the more the turn or ride a curve, the best technique is motorcycle must lean. Keep your body to straighten the bike upright first and upright and allow the motorcycle to lean then brake. However, it may not always in the direction of the turn while you be possible to straighten the motorcycle keep your knees against the tank and and then stop. If you must brake while your feet solidly on the foot rests. Let the you lean, apply light brakes and reduce SWERVE, THEN BRAKE THEN SWERVE, BRAKE, THEN SWERVE THEN BRAKE,

25 motorcycle move underneath you. Make RIDING A CURVE your escape route the target of your vision. Press on the opposite handgrip A primary cause of single-vehicle once you clear the obstacle to return you crashes is motorcyclists who run wide in to your original direction of travel. To a curve or turn and collide with the road- swerve to the left, press the left hand- way or a fixed object. Every curve is dif- grip, then press the right to recover. To ferent. Be alert to whether a curve swerve to the right, press right, then left remains constant, gradually widens, gets tighter or involves multiple turns. Ride IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, within your skill level and posted speed SEPARATE IT FROM SWERVING. limits. Your best path may not always follow the curve of the road. Change lane Brake before or after — never position as traffic, road conditions and while swerving. curve of the road dictate. If no traffic is present, start at the outside of a curve to MULTIPLE CURVES MULTIPLE CONSTANT CURVES CONSTANT (TIGHTER TURNS) (TIGHTER WIDENING CURVES WIDENING DECREASING CURVES DECREASING

26 increase your line of sight and the effec- I Railroad tracks. tive radius of the turn. As you turn, move I toward the inside of the curve, and as Grooves and gratings. you pass the center, move to the outside UNEVEN SURFACES to exit. Another alternative is to move to the center of your lane before you enter AND OBSTACLES a curve—and stay there until you exit. Watch for uneven surfaces such as This permits you to spot traffic that bumps, broken pavement, potholes or approaches as soon as possible. You can small pieces of highway trash. The best also adjust for traffic that crowds the way to avoid obstacles is to slow down center line, or debris that blocks part of or go around them. If you must go over your lane. the obstacle, first, determine if it is possible. Approach it at as close to a 90° HOW TO HANDLE angle as possible. Look where you want DANGEROUS SURFACES to go to control your path of travel. If Your chance of a fall or being involved you have to ride over the obstacle, in a crash increases whenever you ride you should: across: I Slow down as much as possible I Uneven surfaces or obstacles. before contact. I I Slippery surfaces. Make sure the motorcycle is straight. I Rise slightly off the seat with your weight on the foot pegs to absorb 8 Test Yourself the shock with your knees and elbows, and avoid being thrown The best way to stop quickly is to: off the motorcycle. A. Use the front brake only. B. Use the rear brake first. I Just before contact, roll on the throt- C. Throttle down and use the front brake. tle slightly to lighten the front end. If D. Use both brakes at the same time. you ride over an object on the street, Answer - page 42 pull off the road and check your tires OBSTACLES

27 and rims for damage before you ride cars. Often, the left tire track will be any farther. the best position. This depends on traffic and other road conditions SLIPPERY SURFACES as well.

Motorcycles handle better when ridden I Watch for oil spots when you put on surfaces that permit good traction. your foot down to stop or park. You Surfaces that provide poor traction may slip and fall. include: I Dirt and gravel collect along the I Wet pavement, particularly just after sides of the road—especially on it starts to rain and before surface oil curves and ramps that lead to and washes to the side of the road. from highways. Be aware of what is on the edge of the road, particularly I Gravel roads, or where sand and when you make sharp turns and get gravel collect. on or off freeways at high speeds. I Mud, snow, and ice. I Rain dries and snow melts faster on I Lane markings, steel plates and man- some sections of a road than on oth- hole covers, especially when wet. ers. Patches of ice tend to crop up in low or shaded areas and on bridges To ride safely on slippery surfaces: and overpasses. Wet surfaces or wet leaves are just as slippery. Ride I Reduce Speed—Slow down before on the least slippery portion of the you get to a slippery surface to lane and reduce speed. Cautious rid- lessen your chances of skidding. ers steer clear of roads covered with Your motorcycle needs more dis- ice or snow. If you cannot avoid a tance to stop. And, it is particularly slippery surface, keep your motorcy- important to reduce speed before cle straight up and proceed as slow- you enter wet curves. ly as possible. If you encounter a I Avoid Sudden Moves—Any sudden large surface so slippery that you change in speed or direction can must coast, or travel at a slow pace, cause a skid. Be as smooth as possi- consider letting your feet skim along ble when you speed up, shift gears, the surface. If the motorcycle starts turn or brake. to fall, you can catch yourself. Be sure to keep off the brakes. If possi- I Use Both Brakes—The front brake is ble, squeeze the clutch and coast. If still effective, even on a slippery sur- you attempt this maneuver at any- face. Squeeze the brake lever gradu- thing other than the slowest of ally to avoid a lock of the front speeds it could prove hazardous. wheel. Remember, gentle pressure on the rear bake.

I The center of a lane can be hazardous when wet. When it starts to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by 28 RAILROAD TRACKS, TROLLEY TRACKS could catch your tires and throw you AND PAVEMENT SEAMS off balance.

Usually it is safer to ride straight within GROOVES AND GRATINGS your lane to cross tracks. If you try to turn to take tracks head-on (at a 90° angle), it Riding over rain grooves or bridge gratings may cause a motorcycle to weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling generally is not hazardous. Relax, maintain a steady speed and ride straight across. Crossing at an angle forces rid-

(RIGHT) ers to zigzag to stay in the lane. The

CROSSTRACKS CROSSTRACKS zigzag is far more hazardous than the wandering feeling. (WRONG) (RIGHT) CROSSTRACKS GRATE CROSSINGS CROSSINGS GRATE can be more dangerous—your path may carry you into another lane of traffic. For track and road seams that run parallel to your course, move far enough away from tracks, ruts, or pavement seams to cross at an angle of at least 45°. Then, make (WRONG)

a quick, sharp turn. Edging across CROSSINGS GRATE (RIGHT) PARALELL TRACKS TRACKS PARALELL 9 Test Yourself

When it starts to rain it is usually best to: A. Ride in the center of the lane. B. Pull off to the side until the rain stops. C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars.

(WRONG) D. Increase your speed. Answer - page 42 PARALELL TRACKS PARALELL

29 MECHANICAL PROBLEMS STUCK THROTTLE

You can find yourself in an emergency Twist the throttle back and forth several the moment something goes wrong with times. If the throttle cable is stuck, this your motorcycle. With any mechanical may free it. If the throttle remains stuck problem, take into account the road and immediately operate the engine cut-off traffic conditions you face. Here are switch and pull in the clutch at the same some guidelines that can help you han- time. This will remove power from the dle mechanical problems safely. rear wheel, though engine noise may not immediately decline. Once the motorcy- TIRE FAILURE cle is “under control,” pull off and stop.

You will seldom hear a tire go flat. If the After you have stopped, check the motorcycle starts to handle in a different throttle cable carefully to find the source manner, it may be a tire failure. This can of the trouble. Make certain the throttle be dangerous. You must be able to tell works freely before you start to from the way the motorcycle reacts. If ride again. one of your tires suddenly loses air, react quickly to keep your balance. Pull off and WOBBLE check the tires. If the front tire goes flat, the steering will feel “heavy.” A front- A “wobble” occurs when the front wheel flat is particularly hazardous wheel and handlebars start to shake because it affects how you steer. You suddenly from side to side at any speed. have to steer well to keep your balance. Most wobbles can be traced to improper If the rear tire goes flat, the back of the loading, unsuitable accessories or incor- motorcycle may jerk or sway from side to rect tire pressure. If you have a heavy side. load, lighten it. If you cannot, shift it. Center the weight lower and farther for- If either tire goes flat while riding: ward on the motorcycle. Make sure tire pressure, spring pre-load air shocks and I Hold handle grips firmly, ease off the dampers are at the settings recommend- throttle, and keep a straight course. ed for that much weight. Make sure I If you must brake, however, gradual- windshields and fairings are mounted ly apply the brake of the tire that is properly. Check for poorly adjusted steer- not flat, if you are sure which one it ing; worn steering parts; a front wheel is. that is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; loose wheel bearings or spokes; I When the motorcycle slows, edge to and swing arm bearings. If none of these the side of the road, squeeze the are determined to be the cause, have the clutch and stop. motorcycle checked out thoroughly by a qualified professional. Trying to “accelerate out of a wobble” will only make the motorcycle more unstable. Instead:

I Grip the handlebars firmly, but do not fight the wobble. 30 I Close the throttle gradually to slow ENGINE SEIZURE down. Do not apply the brakes; this could make the wobble worse. When the engine “locks” or “freezes” it is usually low on oil. The moving parts I Move your weight as far forward and of the engine cannot move smoothly down as possible. against each other, and the engine over- heats. The first sign may be a loss of I Pull off the road as soon as you can engine power or a change in the engine to fix the problem. sound. Squeeze the clutch lever to disen- gage the engine from the rear wheel. Pull CHAIN PROBLEMS off the road and stop. Check the oil. If A chain that slips or breaks while you needed, oil should be added as soon as possible or the engine will seize. When this happens, the effect is the same as a 10 Test Yourself locked rear wheel. Let the engine cool If your motorcycle starts to wobble: before restarting. A. Accelerate out of the wobble. B. Use brakes gradually. ANIMALS C. Grip the handlebars firmly and close the Naturally, you should do everything you throttle gradually. safely can to avoid a collision with an D. Downshift. animal. If you are in traffic, however, Answer - page 42 remain in your lane. A collision with a small animal is less dangerous to you operate the motorcycle could lock the than a collision with big animal or rear wheel and cause your cycle to skid. object—like a car. Motorcycles seem to Chain slippage or breakage can be attract dogs. If you are chased, down- avoided by proper maintenance. shift and approach the animal slowly. As Slippage—If the chain slips when you you approach it, accelerate away and try to speed up quickly or ride uphill, pull leave the animal behind. Do not kick at off the road. Check the chain and sprock- an animal. Keep control of your motorcy- ets. It may help to tighten the chain. If the cle and look to where you want to go. problem is a worn or stretched chain or For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle) worn or bent sprockets, replace the brake and prepare to stop, they are chain, the sprockets or both before unpredictable. riding again.

Breakage—You will notice an instant 11 Test Yourself loss of power to the rear wheel. Close If you are chased by a dog: the throttle and brake to a stop. A. Kick it away. B. Stop until the animal loses interest. C. Swerve around the animal. D. Approach the animal slowly, then speed up. FLYING OBJECTSAnswer - page 42 31 FLYING OBJECTS HOW TO CARRY PASSENGERS AND CARGO From time to time riders are struck by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars or Only experienced riders should carry pebbles kicked up by the tires of the passengers or large loads. The extra vehicle ahead. If you are wearing face weight changes the way the motorcycle protection, it might get smeared or handles, balances, turns, speeds up and cracked. This makes it difficult to see. slows down. Before you take a passen- Without face protection, an object could ger or heavy load on the street, practice hit you in the eye, face or mouth. away from traffic. Whatever happens, keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the handle- EQUIPMENT bars. When safe, pull off the road and repair the damage. To carry passengers safely: I Equip and adjust your motorcycle HOW TO GET OFF THE ROAD to carry passengers. If you need to leave the road to check I Instruct the passenger before the motorcycle (or just to rest for a you start. while), be sure you: I Adjust your riding technique for the I Check the roadside—Make sure the added weight. surface of the roadside is firm enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, Equipment should include: loose sand, or if you are just not sure about it, slow way down before you I A proper seat—large enough to hold turn onto it. both of you without crowding. You should not sit any farther forward I Signal—Drivers behind might not than you usually do. expect you to slow down. Give a clear signal that you will slow down I Foot rests—for the passenger. Firm and change direction. Check your footing prevents your passenger mirror and make a head check from a fall off the cycle, which could before you take any action. possibly pull you off too.

I Pull off the road—Get as far off the I Protective equipment—the same road as you can. It can be very hard protective gear recommended for to spot a motorcycle by the side of operators. Adjust the suspension to the road. You do not want someone handle the additional weight. You will else to pull off at the same place probably need to add a few pounds you are. of pressure to the tires if you carry a passenger. (Check your owner’s I Park carefully—Loose and sloped manual for appropriate settings.) shoulders can make setting the side While your passenger sits on the or center stand difficult. seat with you, adjust the mirror and headlight according to the change in

32 the motorcycle’s angle. WHEN YOU RIDE WITH PASSENGERS HOW TO INSTRUCT PASSENGERS Your motorcycle will respond more slowly with a passenger on board. The Even if your passenger is a motorcycle heavier your passenger, the longer it will rider, provide complete instructions take to slow down, speed up, or turn— before you start. Tell your passenger to: especially on a light motorcycle.

I Get on the motorcycle only after you I Ride a little slower, especially when have started the engine. taking curves, corners, or bumps.

I Sit as far forward as possible with- I Start slowing earlier as you out crowding you. approach a stop.

I Hold firmly to your waist, hips or belt. I Open up a larger cushion of space ahead and to the sides. I Keep both feet on the pegs, even when stopped. I Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, or merge in traffic. I Keep legs away from the muffler(s), chains or parts that move. Warn your passenger of special conditions—when you will pull out, stop I Stay directly behind you, and lean as quickly, turn sharply or ride over a bump. you lean. Turn your head slightly to make yourself I Avoid unnecessary talk or motion. * understood, but keep your eyes on the Also, tell your passenger to tighten road ahead. his or her hold when you: WHEN YOU CARRY LOADS I Approach surface problems. Most motorcycles are not designed I Are about to start from a stop. to carry much cargo. Small loads can be carried safely if positioned and I Warn that you will make a fastened properly. sudden move. I Keep the Load Low—Fasten loads securely or put them in saddle bags. Piling loads against a sissy bar or frame on the back of the seat raises 12 Test Yourself the motorcycle’s center of gravity and disturbs its balance. Passengers should: A. Lean as you lean. I Keep the Load Forward—Place the B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat. load over, or in front of, the rear axle. C. Sit as far back as possible. Tank bags keep loads forward, but D. Never hold onto you. use caution when you load hard or Answer - page 42 sharp objects. Make sure the tank

33 bag does not interfere with the han- time. Start lane changes early to dlebars or controls. When you put permit everyone to complete loads behind the rear axle, it can the change. affect how the motorcycle turns and I brakes. It can also cause a wobble. Put Beginners Up Front -—Place inexperienced riders just behind the I Distribute the Load Evenly—Load leader. That way the more experi- saddlebags with about the same enced riders can watch them from weight. An uneven load can cause the back. the motorcycle to drift to one side. I Follow Those Behind—Let the last I Secure the Load—Fasten the load rider set the pace. Use your mirrors securely with elastic cords (bungee to keep an eye on the person behind. cords or nets). Elastic cords with If a rider falls behind, everyone more than one attachment point per should slow down a little to stay with side are more secure. A tight load that rider. will not catch in the wheel or chain, I which can cause it to lock up and Know the Route—Make sure every- skid. Rope tends to stretch and knots one knows the route. Then, if some- come loose, which permits the load one is separated he or she will not to shift or fall. have to hurry to try to catch up. Plan frequent stops on long rides. • Checkthe Load—Stop and check the load every so often to make sure KEEP YOUR DISTANCE it has not worked loose or moved. Maintain close ranks but at the same GROUP RIDES time keep a safe distance to allow each rider in the group time and space to If you ride with others, do it in a way react to hazards. A close group takes up that promotes safety and does not inter- less space on the highway, is easier to fere with the flow of traffic. see and is less likely to be separated. However, it must be done properly. KEEP THE GROUP SMALL Don’t Pair Up—Never operate directly Small groups make it easier and safer for car drivers who need to get around them. A small number is not separated as easily by traffic or red lights. If your group is larger than four or five riders, divide it up into two or more smaller groups.

KEEP THE GROUP TOGETHER • Plan—The leader should look ahead for road changes and signal early so FORMATION STAGGERED “the word gets back” in plenty of 34 alongside another rider. There is no for the next rider. Some people sug- place to go if you have to avoid a car or gest the leader should move to the something on the road. To talk, wait until right side after he passes a vehicle. you are both stopped. This is not a good idea. It encour- ages the second rider to pass and Staggered Formation—This is the best cut back in before there is a large way to keep ranks close yet maintain an enough space cushion in front of the adequate space cushion. The leader passed vehicle. It is simpler and rides in the left side of the lane, while the safer to wait until there is enough second rider stays one second behind in room ahead of the passed vehicle to the right side of the lane. A third rider allow each rider to move into the maintains in the left position, two sec- same position held before the pass. onds behind the first rider. The fourth rider would keep a two-second distance Single-File Formation—It is best to behind the second rider. This formation move into a single-file formation when keeps the group close and permits each riding curves, turning, entering or leaving rider a safe distance from others ahead, a highway. behind and to the sides. After the first rider passes safely, the I Passing in Formation—Riders in a second rider should move up to the left staggered formation should pass one position and watch for a safe chance to at a time. pass. After passing, this rider should return to the right position and open up I First, the lead rider should pull out room for the next rider. and pass when it is safe. After he passes, the leader should return to the left position and continue at passing speed to open room for the next rider. After the first rider passes safely, the second rider should move up to the left position and watch for a safe chance to pass. After he passes, this rider should return to the right position and open up room GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2) (STAGE PASSING GROUP

13 Test Yourself

When riding in a group, inexperienced riders should position themselves: A. Just behind the leader. B. In front of the group. C. At the tail end of the group. D. Beside the leader. GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1) (STAGE PASSING GROUP Answer - page 42 35 In Shape To Ride

Operation of a motorcycle is a complex severely injured in a crash. Injuries occur task. Skilled riders pay attention to the in 90 percent of motorcycle crashes and environment and to the operation of the 33 percent of automobile crashes that motorcycle. They try to identify potential involve abuse of substances. On a yearly hazards, make good judgments and basis, 2,100 motorcyclists are killed and execute decisions quickly and skillfully. about 50,000 seriously injured in this Your ability to perform and respond to same type of crash. These statistics are road and traffic conditions that constant- too significant to ignore. ly change is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and other drugs, By becoming knowledgeable about the more than any other factors, degrade effects of alcohol and other drugs you your ability to think clearly and to ride will see that operation of a motorcycle safely. As little as one drink can have a and substance abuse do not mix. significant effect on your performance. Take positive steps to protect yourself This section looks at the risks involved and prevent others from injuries. in the operation of a motorcycle after you ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS IN drink or use drugs. What to do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is MOTORCYCLE OPERATION also examined. No one is immune to the effects of alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag about WHY THIS INFORMATION their ability to hold their liquor or perform IS IMPORTANT better on drugs, but alcohol or drugs Alcohol is a major contributor to motor- make them less able to think clearly and cycle crashes, particularly fatal crashes. perform physical tasks skillfully. Studies show that 40 percent to 45 per- Judgment and the decision-making cent of all riders killed in motorcycle processes needed for vehicle operation crashes had used alcohol. Only one-third are affected long before legal limitations of those riders had a blood alcohol con- are reached. centration above legal limits. The rest Many over-the-counter, prescription, had only a few drinks in their systems— and illegal drugs have side effects that enough to impair skills. In the past, drug increase the risk of motorcycle opera- levels have been harder to distinguish or tion. It is difficult to accurately measure have not been separated from alcohol the involvement of particular drugs in violations for the traffic records. But motorcycle crashes. But we do know operation of a motorcycle “under the what effects various drugs have on the influence” of either alcohol or drugs process involved in riding a motorcycle. poses physical and legal hazards for We also know that the combined effects every rider. of alcohol and other drugs are more dan- Alcohol and drug use is as big a prob- gerous than either is alone. lem among motorcyclists as it is among automobile drivers. Motorcyclists, however, are more likely to be killed or

36 ALCOHOL IN THE BODY your system. Your sex, physical condition and food intake are just a few Alcohol enters the bloodstream quickly. that may cause your BAC level to be Unlike most foods and beverages, it even higher. But the full effects of does not need to be digested. Within min- these are not completely known. utes after being consumed, it reaches the brain and begins to affect the drinker. The Alcohol may still accumulate in your major effect alcohol has is to slow down body even if you are drinking at a rate of and impair bodily functions— both men- one drink per hour. Abilities and judg- tal and physical. Whatever you do, you ment can be affected by that one drink. do less well after consuming alcohol. A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed drink BLOOD ALCOHOL with one shot of liquor, a 5-ounce glass of wine and a 12-ounce bottle of wine CONCENTRATION cooler all contain the same amount Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC is of alcohol. the amount of alcohol in relation to blood The quicker you drink, the more alcohol in the body. Generally, alcohol can be accumulates in your body. If you drink eliminated in the body at the rate of two drinks in an hour, at the end of that almost one drink per hour. But a variety of hour, at least one drink will remain in other factors may also influence the level your bloodstream. of alcohol retained. The more alcohol in your blood, the greater the degree of Without any of the other factors, the impairment. formula below illustrates the LEAST amount of drinks remaining in the blood- Three factors play a major part to stream: A person drinking: determine BAC:

I The amount of alcohol you consume.

I How quickly you drink. Total # of hours Drinks drinks since last left in consumed drink body I Your body weight. Other factors also - = contribute to the way alcohol affects

= = = ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION ALCOHOL

Beer Liquor Wine Wine Cooler

37 I 7 drinks in 3 hours would have CONSEQUENCES at least 4 drinks that remain in OF CONVICTION their system. The laws of most states impose stiff I 4 drinks in 2 hours would have penalties on operators who use alcohol. at least 2 drinks that remain in And those penalties are mandatory, their system. meaning that judges must impose them. If you are convicted of the operation of a There are times when a larger person motorcycle under the influence of alco- may not accumulate as high a concen- hol or drugs, you may receive any of the tration of alcohol for each drink con- following penalties: sumed. They have more blood and other bodily fluids. But because of individual I Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or differences it is better not to take the .08% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) – chance that abilities and judgment have minimum 6 month license revocation; not been affected. Whether or not you Driving While Ability Impaired by a are legally intoxicated is not the real Drug (DWAI-Drug) – 6-month sus- issue. Impairment of judgment and skills pension. Minimum 1-year revocation begins well below the legal limit. for conviction of these offenses committed within 10 years of any ALCOHOL AND THE LAW previous alcohol or drug violation.

In New York State, a driver with a BAC I DWAI or .05% BAC – 90-day suspen- of .08 percent or above is legally intoxi- sion. Minimum 6-month revocation cated. In other states, the legal limit may for conviction of these offenses be .10 percent .08 percent or .05 percent. committed within 5 years of any It does not matter how sober you may previous alcohol or drug violation. look or act. The breath or urine test usually determines whether the operation of I First alcohol or drug-related viola- your motorcycle is legal illegal. tion, except Zero Tolerance, by a driver under age 21 – minimum 1- The chances are greater than ever that year revocation. Second violation by you could be stopped when you operate a driver under age 21 – minimum under the influence of alcohol. 1-year revocation or until 21, Throughout the nation, law enforcement whichever is longer. response to the senseless deaths and injuries caused by operators and drivers I Chemical test refusal – minimum 1 consuming alcohol is on the increase. year revocation for most drivers; minimum 1-year revocation for a Your insurance company may refuse to driver under 21. Chemical test pay the injury or medical costs caused refusal revocations are separate by a traffic crash in which you were from, and in addition to, those for operating a motorcycle while under the alcohol or drug-related violations. influence of alcohol or drugs. I Zero Tolerance Law for drivers under 21, (BAC .02% to .07%) – First viola-

38 tion, 6-month suspension. Second MINIMIZE THE RISKS violation, minimum 1-year revocation or until 21, whichever is longer. Your ability to judge how well you ride is affected first. Although you may ride I Driving Under the Influence (DUI) more and more poorly, you think you are conviction outside New York State – doing better and better. The result is that For drivers over 21 years old: 90-day you ride confidently, taking greater and revocation for alcohol; 6-month sus- greater risks. Minimize the risks of alco- pension for drug. For drivers under hol and riding by taking steps before you 21: 1-year revocation for alcohol drink. Control how much you drink or or drug. control the operation of your motorcycle.

I The court must levy a mandatory fine DO NOT DRINK in addition to a license revocation or suspension for an alcohol or drug Don’t Drink — Once you start, your conviction. It depends on the convic- resistance becomes weaker. tion, but the fine will be from $300 to $10,000. A Zero Tolerance Law viola- A set limit or pace are poor alternatives tion will result in a civil penalty of at at best. Your ability to exercise good least $125. judgment is one of the first things affected by alcohol. Even if you have tried to I Community Service – such as the drink in moderation, you may not realize pickup of litter along the highway, to what extent your skills have suffered keeping cars washed in the motor- from the effects of alcohol.If you haven’t vehicle pool, or work at an controlled your intake of alcohol, emergency ward. you must control your operation of a motorcycle. I Other costs – this can include lawyer’s fees, time lost from work I Leave the motorcycle home—so you due to court appearances or atten- won’t be tempted to operate it. dance in alcohol/drug-education Arrange another way to get home. programs, public transportation Wait—If you exceed your limit, while your license is revoked or sus- I pended, higher insurances rates for wait until your system eliminates the years, and being known as a "drunk alcohol and its effects. driver" in your family and community. The law and consequences of conviction for driving while intoxicated or ability impaired in New York State 14 Test Yourself are summarized in the "ALCOHOL If you wait an hour for each drink before you ride: AND OTHER DRUGS" section of the A.You cannot be arrested for drinking NYS Driver’s Manual. and riding. B.Your skills will not be affected. C.Side effects may still remain. D. You will be okay as long as you ride slowly. Answer - page 42 39 STEP IN TO PROTECT FRIENDS I Protect yourself from the elements —Wind, cold, and rain make you tire People who have had too much to drink quickly. Dress warmly. A windshield are unable to make a responsible deci- is worth its cost if you plan to ride sion. It is up to others to step in and keep long distances. them from taking too great a risk. No one wants to do this—it is uncomfortable I Limit your distance—Experienced and thankless. You are rarely thanked for operators seldom try to ride more your efforts at the time. But the alterna- than about six hours a day. tives are often worse. There are several I ways to keep friends from possible injury Take frequent rest breaks—Stop, to themselves: and get off the motorcycle at least every two hours. I Arrange a safe ride—Provide alter- I native ways for them to get home. Don’t drink or use drugs—Artificial stimulants often result in extreme I Slow the pace of alcohol intake— fatigue or depression when they Involve them in other activities. * start to wear off. Drivers and riders are unable to concentrate on the I Keep them there—Use any excuse task at hand. to keep them from their motorcycle. Serve them food and coffee to pass the time. Explain your concerns for their risks of possible arrest or injury to themselves or someone else.

I Get friends involved—Use peer pressure from a group of friends to intervene. It helps to enlist support from others when you decide to step in.

The more people on your side, the easier it is to be firm and the harder it is for the rider to resist. While you may not be thanked at the time, you will never have to say, “If only I had...”

FATIGUE

Operation of a motorcycle is more tiring than the operation of a car. On a long trip, you’ll tire sooner than you would in a car. Avoid operation of a cycle when tired. Fatigue can affect your control of the motorcycle.

40 How to Earn Your License

41 Knowledge And Skill

Safe operation of a motorcycle of the turn. requires knowledge and skill. License D. Press the handgrip in the opposite tests are the best measurement of the direction of the turn. skills necessary to operate safely in traffic. The assessment of your own skills is 4. If a tire goes flat while you ride and not enough. People often overestimate you must stop, it is usually best to: their own abilities. It is even harder for A. Relax on the handle grips. friends and relatives to be totally honest B. Shift your weight toward the about your skills. License exams are good tire. designed to be scored more objectively. C. Brake on the good tire and steer to To earn your license, you must pass a the side of the road. knowledge test and an on-cycle skill test. D. Use both brakes and stop quickly. Knowledge test questions are based on 5. The car below waits to enter the information, practices and ideas from intersection. It is best to: this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules and safe A. Make eye contact with the driver. practices. An on-cycle skill test will B. Reduce speed and be ready to react. either be conducted in an actual traffic C. Maintain speed and position. environment or in a controlled, D. Maintain speed and move right. off-street area.

KNOWLEDGE TEST

(Sample Questions)

1. It is MOST important to flash your brake light when:

A. Someone follows too closely. B. You will slow down suddenly. C. There is a stop sign ahead. D. Your signals do not work.

2. The FRONT brake supplies how much of the potential power to stop?

A. About one-quarter.

B. About one-half.

B 5- C, 4- C, 3- C, 2- B, C. About three-quarters. 1- D. All of the power. test: Knowledge above the to Answers

3. To swerve correctly: Answers to Test Yourself (previous pages) A. Shift your weight quickly. 1-C, 2-D, 3-D, 4-A, 5-B B. Turn the handlebars quickly. 6-C, 7-D, 8-D, 9-C, 10-C, C. Press the hand grip in the direction 11-D, 12-A, 13-A, 14-C 42 ON-CYCLE SKILL TEST I Selection of the correct path and staying within boundaries. Basic vehicle control and crash-avoidance skills are included in on-cycle tests I Completion of normal and quick to determine your ability to handle nor- stops. mal and hazardous traffic situations. You I may be tested for your ability to: Completion of normal and quick turns, or swerves. I Know your motorcycle and your riding limits.

I Accelerate, brake, and turn safely.

I See, be seen and communicate with others.

I Adjust speed and position to the traffic situation.

I Stop, turn and swerve quickly.

I Make critical decisions and carry them out.

Examiners may score on factors related to safety such as:

I Selection of safe speeds to perform maneuvers.

TO RECEIVE A MOTORCYCLE LICENSE WITH FULL PRIVILEGES, MOST STATES REQUIRE THAT MANEUVERS BE PERFORMED AS DESIGNED. On-motorcycle skill tests are not designed for sidecars or three-wheeled vehicles. Those vehicles maneuver differently than a two-wheeled motorcycle. It depends on the state, but an examiner may follow you on a car test-route. Restrictions (sidecar, three-wheeled vehicle) may be added until completion of a two-wheeled motorcycle test.

Diagrams used in this manual are for reference only and are not to correct scale for size of vehicles and distances. 43 Motorcycles Make Sense So Does Professional Training

Motorcycles are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and easy to park. Unfortunately, many riders never learn the critical skills needed to ride safely.

Professional training prepares beginning and experienced riders for traffic situations in the real world. Motorcycle RiderCourses® teach and improve such skills as: I Effective turning I Braking maneuvers • Protective apparel selection I Obstacle avoidance I Traffic strategies I Maintenance

For the location of the basic or experienced Motorcycle RiderCourse® nearest you in New York State call toll-free: 800-446-9227 The information contained in this publication is offered for the benefit of those who have an interest in riding motorcycles. The information has been compiled from publications, interviews and observations of individuals and The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s organizations familiar with the use of purpose is improving safety of motorcy- motorcycles, accessories, and training. cles on the nation’s streets and highways. In an attempt to reduce Because there are many differences in motorcycle accidents and injuries, the product design, riding styles, Federal, Foundation has programs in rider educa- State and local laws, there may be tion, licensing improvement, public infor- organizations and individuals who hold mation and statistics. These programs differing opinions. Consult your local are designed for both motorcyclists and regulatory agencies for information motorists. A national not-for-profit orga- concerning the operation of motorcycles nization, MSF is sponsored by the U.S. in your area. Although the Motorcycle motorcycle Safety Foundation will continue to distributors or manufacturers: BMW, research, field test and publish responsi- Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio/Vespa, Suzuki, ble viewpoints on the subject, it dis- Vengeance, Victory and Yamaha. claims any liability for the views expressed herein.

Content & Illustrations courtesy of Motorcycle Safety Foundation 2 Jenner Street, Suite 150, Irvine, CA 92618-3806 http://www.msf-usa.org Revised ...... May 2004

44 Motorcycle Safety Program Rider Education

Rider education is one part of a comprehensive motorcycle safety program supported by the Department of Motor Vehicles. To locate the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Rider Course nearest you, call 1-800-446-9227, or visit the web site at www.msf-usa.org

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY FOUNDATION - MOTORCYCLE RIDER COURSES:

For many people, motorcycling is a fun and energy-efficient means of transportation or recreation. However, motorcycling requires skill, concentration and reasonable precautions. Although it is possible to ride a motorcycle on your own, trial and error is a tough teacher of motorcycling skills. That is why nearly all motorcycle groups have endorsed the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Motorcycle RiderCourses®: the Basic RiderCourse® (BRC) for beginning riders and the Experienced RiderCourse® (ERC) for advanced riding skills.

THE COURSE

The BRC is designed for beginning riders. It was developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and approved by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. It con- sists of a combined 18 hours classroom, online and on-motorcycle instruction including the following:

1. Preparation to ride. 2. Shifts, turns, brakes. 3. Street strategies. 4. Special situations. 5. Enhanced riding skills. 6. Maintenance and insurance.

INSTRUCTORS

Instructors for the course are all certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. All are motorcycle riders and have completed 80+ hours of instructor training.

PROVIDED FOR YOU

The BRC is taught using lightweight (100 - 350cc) motorcycles provided for class use. These will be used off-street only.

YOU PROVIDE

Students provide this protective clothing:

45 1. Boots with walking heels, high enough to cover ankles; 2. Long pants of denim or other heavy material; 3. Leather gloves - unlined but not too thin; 4. Long-sleeved jacket or shirt, made from denim or other heavy material; 5. Eye protection; 6. USDOT-approved motorcycle helmet. Some sites have loaner helmets available, check with the site for information.

WAIVER OF SKILLS TEST

The motorcycle skills test, ordinarily required for a Class M license, may be waived if a student successfully completes an approved Basic Rider (BRC) Course at a Motorcycle Safety Foundation training site approved under the New York State Motorcycle Safety program. To be eligible for the motorcycle road test waiver, you must also possess a current and valid New York State driver license and a motorcycle learner permit. You must have a valid motorcycle permit before you apply for the road test waiver and motorcycle license.

“The Basic Rider Course 2 License/Waiver Course (BRC2-LW) is a condensed version of the BRC geared toward riders who have had a motorcycle permit for at least one year and who have on-road experience and basic street-riding skills. Riders will use their own motorcycle for this intensive 8 hour training program. BRC2-LW provides the same road test waiver benefit as the BRC. For more information, visit www.NYSMSP.org or www.MSF- USA.org.”

BASIC RIDERCOURSE 2

The BRC2 is designed for experienced motorcyclists who already have a motorcycle license and want to improve their riding skills on their own motorcycles. This half-day course will enable riders to hone the physical and mental skills necessary for surviving traffic. The BRC2 includes:

1. Physical aspects of a safe ride. 2. Risk management 3. Increased visibility and optimum lane position. 4. Personal protective gear. 5. Rider responsibility. 6. Motorcycle inspection and care. 7. The effects of alcohol and other drugs on operation.

ADVANCED TRAINING

DMV and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage riders to maintain their skills by continuing to participate in rider training programs throughout their riding lifetime. Remember – Learning is for Life.” MSF offers a variety of courses to meet the training needs of every motorcyclist at every level of experience. For more information, visit www.NYSMSP.org or www.MSF-USA.org

46 Notes

NOTES

47 48 Class A B C Top speed range mph (km/h) Over 30 to 40 Over 20 to 30 20 or less (Over 48 to 64) (over 32 to 48) (32 or less)

Type of license or learner permit required 4 M ANY CLASS4 ANY CLASS4 Registration required YES (A Plate) YES (B Plate) YES (C Plate) Headlight to be on when operating YES YES YES

Helmet & eye protection required when operating 5 YES YES Recommended

Where operation is permitted Any Traffic Lane Right Hand Lane Right Hand Lane Only1 & Shoulder Only1 & Shoulder or Shoulder

Mandatory insurance required YES YES Recommended2

Safety responsibility3 applies YES YES YES Annual inspection required YES Recommended Recommended Title required NO NO NO

1 Except when making a left hand turn.

2 If a Class C limited use motorcycle is used in a rental business, insurance is mandatory.

3 Safety responsibility is the requirement to pay for or post security for damage or personal injury you may cause in a traffic crash.

4 Usual learner permit and junior license restrictions apply.

5 Motorcyclists must wear approved motorcycle helmets, as defined by USDOT federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS 218). To improve the motorcyclist’s visibility, the DMV recommends that helmets have at least four square inches of reflective material on both sides. Motorcyclists must also wear approved eye protection, even if the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. Prescription or made-to-order safety glasses may be used if the user can present written certification that they meet DMV standards. The eye protection must be manufactured in conformity with the regulations issued by the Vehicle Equipment Safety Commission (VESC-8).

Motorcyclists can get an Enhanced Motorcycle License too! For more information visit: www.dmv.ny.gov

47 GUIDE TO LIMITED USE MOTORCYCLE (MOPEDS) OPERATION Class ABC Top speed range mph (km/h) Over 30 to 40 Over 20 to 30 20 or less (Over 48 to 64) (over 32 to 48) (32 or less) Type of license or learner permit required4 M ANY CLASS4 ANY CLASS4 Registration required YES (A Plate) YES (B Plate) YES (C Plate) Headlight to be on when operating YES YES YES Helmet & eye protection required when operating5 YES YES Recommended Where operation is permitted Any Traffic Lane Right Hand Lane Right Hand Lane1 Only & Shoulder Only1 & Shoulder or Shoulder Mandatory insurance required YES YES Recommended2 Safety responsibility3 applies YES YES YES Annual inspection required YES Recommended Recommended Title required NO NO NO

1Except when making a left hand turn. standards (FMVSS 218). To improve the motorcyclist’s

2If a Class C limited use motorcycle is used in a rental visibility, the DMV recommends that helmets have at business, insurance is mandatory. least four square inches of reflective material on both

3Safety responsibility is the requirement to pay sides. Motorcyclists must also wear approved eye for or post security for damage or personal injury you protection, even if the motorcycle is equipped with a may cause in a traffic crash. windshield. Prescription or made-to-order safety

4Usual learner permit and junior license glasses may be used if the user can present written restrictions apply. certification that they meet DMV standards. The eye

5Motorcyclists must wear approved motorcycle hel- protection must be manufactured in conformity with mets, as defined by USDOT federal motor vehicle the regulations issued by the Vehicle Equipment safety Safety Commission (VESC-8).

48 TAKETAKE YOURYOUR PRIDEPRIDE FORFOR AA RIDE!RIDE!

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