2012-2014

Schedule your test online: www.dojmt.gov/driving

Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division Driver License Bureau 302 North Roberts PO Box 201430 Helena, MT 59620-1430

(406) 444-3933 It is illegal to operate a motor scooter, motorcycle or any other motor-driven cycle on a It should be noted that the motorcycle test is diffi cult. It has been designed to public street or highway in Montana unless you have a motorcycle endorsement on a be comprehensive, and thus diffi cult, because the number of motorcycle-related valid driver license. accidents is increasing and most of these accidents involve new and inexperienced cyclists. Further, in most cases, the person who is injured or killed - regardless of In order to obtain a motorcycle endorsement, you must: fault - is the cyclist. Therefore, in order to contribute to safe motorcycle driving, the examination is designed to increase your knowledge of particular motorcycle-  Be at least 16 years of age or 15 years of age and have passed a driver’s driving situations you will encounter. education course approved by the Montana Department of Justice and the Superintendent of Public Instruction (online courses are not approved) The skills test is an important part of the examination because it gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to drive safely. You must provide a properly-  Have in possession a valid Montana driver license or obtain one registered motorcycle to be used in the test. Make certain you are familiar with it.

 Successfully complete the motorcycle knowledge and skills tests  Your motorcycle must have at least 1 headlamp (but not more than two) that illuminates at least 500 feet, which must be illuminated at all times.  Pay the required additional fee of $0.50 cents per year  The taillight and refl ector must be visible for at least 500 feet. After successfully passing the knowledge test, you will be issued a motorcycle learner license. This allows you to operate any motor-driven cycle while under the immediate  The stoplight must be visible for 100 feet in normal sunlight. supervision of a responsible licensed driver who has a valid license for motor-driven cycles. It is valid for one year from the date you pass the knowledge test. If the permit  The rearview mirror must be located so that you have a clear view of the road expires before you pass the skills test, you will forfeit the fee. To get a new permit you for at least 200 feet to the rear. will have to repay the fee and pass the full examination.  Your cycle must be equipped with at least one brake that can be operated by The driver examination consists of fi ve parts: foot or hand.

1. Driving record review  If your cycle is equipped with directional signals, they must be operable.

2. Physical aptitude review  Your bike must have a muffl er. There should be no modifi cations to the muffl er that would increase the sound of your cycle. If you intend to ride in a national 3. Vision test park, you must have a spark arrestor on your muffl er.

4. Knowledge test In addition to the required equipment listed above, the cycle should be equipped with: 5. Skills test  Footrests or pegs for passengers The knowledge test consists of questions specifi cally geared toward motorcycle drivers. The material necessary to pass the motorcycle test is covered in this supplement to  A horn audible for at least 200 feet the regular Driver License Manual. The questions on the motorcycle test are similar to those outlined throughout this supplement.  A license plate light

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 22 PREFACE CONTENTS 3

Welcome to the Sixteenth Edition of This latest edition has undergone THE RIDER AND BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE significant improvements, and contains the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual THE MOTORCYCLE ...... 4 Why This Information Is (MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely new, more in-depth information, Important ...... 42 in traffic requires special skills and designed to: PREPARING TO RIDE Alcohol and Other Drugs in knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety t
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Wear the Right Gear ...... 5 Motorcycle Operation ...... 42 Foundation (MSF) has made this manual safely available to help novice motorcyclists Know Your Motorcycle ...... 7 Alcohol in the Body ...... 42 reduce their risk of having a crash. The t
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Minimize the Risks ...... 44 information and has been designed understanding of safe group riding RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES Step in to Protect Friends ...... 45 for use in licensing programs. While practices Basic Vehicle Control ...... 11 designed for the novice, all motorcyclists Fatigue ...... 45 t
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Keeping Your Distance ...... 15 can benefit from the information this carrying passengers and cargo manual contains. SEE ...... 20 EARNING YOUR LICENSE ...... 46 In promoting improved licensing The original Motorcycle Operator Intersections ...... 21 programs, the MSF works closely with THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT Manual was developed by the National Increasing Conspicuity ...... 24 state licensing agencies. The Foundation Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI) Supplementary Information has helped more than half the states Crash Avoidance ...... 27 for Three-Wheel Motorcycles ...... 48 under contract to the National Highway in the nation adopt the Motorcycle Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Handling Dangerous Surfaces ...... 30 Know Your Vehicle ...... 48 Operator Manual for use in their and within the terms of a cooperative Mechanical Problems ...... 33 licensing systems. Basic Vehicle Control ...... 50 agreement between NHTSA and the Animals ...... 34 Carrying Passengers and Cargo ...... 53 MSF. The manual and related tests Improved licensing, along with high Flying Objects ...... 35 were used in a multi-year study of quality motorcycle rider education and HAND SIGNALS ...... 55 improved motorcycle operator licensing increased public awareness, has the Getting Off the Road ...... 35 potential to reduce crashes. Staff at the procedures, conducted by the California Carrying Passengers T-CLOCS PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST ....57 Department of Motor Vehicles under Foundation are available to assist state, and Cargo ...... 35 contract to NHTSA. private and governmental agencies in Group Riding ...... 38 efforts to improve motorcycle safety. The purpose of this manual is to educate riders and to help them avoid crashes while safely operating either a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a To assist you in becoming a safe and responsible rider, take a three-wheel motorcycle. Tim Buche President, Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety Course. Motorcycle Safety Foundation Successful completion of the MT Motorcycle Basic Rider Course earns you a skills test waiver from the Motor Vehicle Division, provided the motorcycle endorsement on your driver license is obtained within one year of course completion.

Check it out and increase your skills and safety! Motorcycle.msun.edu or 1-800-922-2453

2 Jenner, Suite 150 Irvine, CA 92618-3806 www.msf-usa.org

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 4 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE PREPARING TO RIDE 5

Motorcycling is a RIDING ENVIRONMENT What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining unique experience. whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on any Compared to a car, trip, a safe rider makes a point to: you don’t sit in a motorcycle, you 1. Wear the right gear. become part of it. 2. Become familiar with the motorcycle. Not as a passive 3. Check the motorcycle equipment. driver, but as an active rider arcing 4. Be a responsible rider. into a string of smooth corners, WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR a helmet kept a rider from spotting playing along with danger. When you ride, your gear is “right” the rhythm of the if it protects you. In any crash, you have t
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64 helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation The diagram above illustrates the managed through study, training, and riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards. Helmets complex environment that awaits you, practice. some facts to consider: with a label from the Snell Memorial Foundation also give you an t
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reduces Your motorcycle should not be one crash, it’s likely to fly off noise while allowing you to hear of them. To make sure that your your head before it gets a important sounds such as car horns motorcycle won’t let you down: chance to protect you. or sirens. Long term exposure to Eye and Face engine and wind noise can cause t
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 8 PREPARING TO RIDE 9

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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 10 PREPARING TO RIDE RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 11

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leave any of us free of responsibility. your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules there is no binding. The rear shocks of the road. and springs should move smoothly. As a rider you can’t be sure that other operators will see you or yield the right BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars t

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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 12 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 13

for neutral, which is selected by either enough before downshifting safely. slow or stop. The front brake is more To stop as quickly and as safely as a “half lift” from 1st gear or a “half powerful and can provide at least 70% possible in a curve, and depending on 8IFO
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stopped so that you can move out forward less traction is available detailed explanation on the operation process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you quickly if you need to. at the rear. Use less rear brake and effective use of these systems. squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the Work toward a smooth, even clutch pressure. shift lever firmly as far as it will go, 3) Anti-Lock Braking Systems release, especially when downshifting. It Using both brakes for even “normal” smoothly ease out the clutch and adjust is best to change gears before entering stops will permit you to develop the (ABS) the throttle. Once the shift is completed, a turn. However, sometimes shifting proper habit or skill of using both brakes release the shift lever to permit it to ABS is designed to prevent wheel while in the turn is necessary. If so, properly in an emergency. Squeeze the reset for the next shift. lock-up and avoid skids when stopping remember to do so smoothly. A sudden front brake and press down on the rear. in straight-line, panic situations. ABS You should shift down through the change in power to the rear wheel can (SBCCJOH
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operates when maximum pressure on gears with the clutch as you slow or cause a skid. down on the rear can cause the brakes both the front and rear brake controls stop, and can also shift down when you Braking to lock, resulting in control problems. is applied. If electronic sensors detect need more power to accelerate. the possibility of a wheel lock, brake Braking in a Corner Make certain you are riding slowly Improper braking technique remains hydraulic pressure, is released then enough when you shift into a lower a significant contributing factor in many Any time a motorcycle is leaned over, reapplied to maintain maximum braking gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle the amount of traction available for effectiveness. has two brake controls: one for the braking is reduced. The greater the lean and the rear wheel may skid. When The system is capable of releasing and front wheel and one for the rear wheel. angle, the more the possibility of the riding downhill or shifting into first gear reapplying pressure more than 15 times Always use both brakes every time you tires losing traction. you may need to use the brakes to slow per second. 2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 14 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 15

Turning In normal turns, the rider and the KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE t
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— Reduce speed before the an escape route if necessary. of the lane need be avoided — turn by closing the throttle and, if including the center. necessary, applying both brakes. Lane Positions You should position yourself in the t
-00, — Look through the turn Successful motorcyclists know that portion of the lane where you are most to where you want to go. Turn they are safer when clearly seen. In likely to be seen and you can maintain just your head, not your shoulders, some ways the size of the motorcycle a space cushion around you. Change and keep your eyes level with the can work to your advantage. Each traffic position as traffic situations change. lane gives a motorcycle three paths of Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other horizon. travel, as indicated in the illustration. potential problems are on your left t
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— To turn, the motorcycle Your lane position should help you: only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards must lean. To lean the motor- are on your right only. If vehicles are cycle, press on the handgrip in In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by t
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TEST YOURSELF 3

When riding, you should: A. Turn your head and shoulders to look through turns. B. Keep your arms straight. C. Keep your knees away from the gas tank. D. Turn just your head and eyes to look where you are going. Answer - page 47

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 16 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 17

When behind a car, ride where the Passing FOLLOWING driver can see you in the rearview mirror. Riding in the center portion of the lane 1. Ride in the left portion of the should put your image in the middle of lane at a safe following distance the rearview mirror — where a driver is to increase your line of sight and most likely to see you. make you more visible. Signal and check for oncoming traffic. Riding at the far side of a lane may Use your mirrors and turn your permit a driver to see you in a sideview head to look for traffic behind. mirror. But remember that most drivers don’t look at their sideview mirrors 

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traction to ride on safely. You can thousand-one, one-thousand-two.” someone is following too closely, Know your signs and road markings! operate to the left or right of the grease change lanes and let them pass. If you t
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 18 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 19

Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the Merging Cars Cars Alongside lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It When you are being passed from might invite the other driver to cut back Drivers on an entrance ramp may Do not ride next to cars or trucks in behind, stay in the center portion of into your lane too early. OPU
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other lanes if you do not have to. You your lane. Riding close to the passing plenty of room. Change to another lane might be in the blind spot of a car in the vehicle could put you in a hazardous Lane Sharing if one is open. If there is no room for a next lane, which could switch into your situation. Cars and motorcycles need a full lane lane change, adjust speed to open up lane without warning. Cars in the next Avoid being hit by: to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually space for the merging driver. lane also block your escape if you come t
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suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by — Even if the driver knows you’re others. Keep a center-portion position there, a passenger may not see you whenever drivers might be tempted and might toss something on you or to squeeze by you. Drivers are most the road ahead of you. tempted to do this: t
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TEST YOURSELF 4

Usually, a good way to handle tailgaters is to: A. Change lanes and let them pass. B. Use your horn and make obscene gestures. C. Speed up to put distance between you and the tailgater. D. Ignore them. Answer - page 47

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 20 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 21

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Hazardous road conditions that Apply the old adage “one step at a RIDER RADAR require you to be alert, especially in time” to handle two or more hazards. (PPE
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areas with limited visibility. Visually Adjust speed to permit two hazards riders are always aware of “busy” surroundings could hide you to separate. Then deal with them one what is going on around and your motorcycle from others. at a time as single hazards. Decision- them. They reduce their making becomes more complex with risk by using MSF’s three- Evaluate three or more hazards. Evaluate the step SEESM strategy: Evaluate means to think about how consequences of each and give equal t
4earch hazards can interact to create risks for distance to the hazards. you. Anticipate potential problems and t
&valuate In potential high-risk areas, such as have a plan to reduce risks, particularly intersections, shopping areas and school t
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including intersections. An intersection can be steps. traffic signals, warning signs, and pavement markings, which will in the middle of an urban area or at Search require you to carefully evaluate a driveway on a residential street — anywhere traffic may cross your path of How assertively you circumstances ahead. travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car search, and how much t
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USBGmD that crashes are caused by drivers entering a time and space you have, may move into your path and rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in can eliminate or minimize increase the likelihood of a crash. front of you, including cars turning left risk. As you search, focus considered enough time and space to Think about your time and space from the lane on your right, and cars on on finding potential escape routes, swerve and/or brake for fixed hazards or requirements in order to maintain a side streets that pull into your lane, are especially in or around intersections, for someone or something entering your margin of safety, and give yourself the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE shopping areas and school and path of travel. time to react if an emergency arises. at intersections is critical. construction zones. Finally, experienced riders search for &YFDVUF One way to search is to use your hazards that are further out, looking “RiderRadar” to aggressively scan the Finally, &YFDVUF your decision. To ahead to an area it would take about TEST YOURSELF 5 environment ahead of you, to the sides, create more space and minimize harm 12 seconds to reach. This provides and behind you to avoid potential from any hazard: time to prepare for a situation before it To reduce your reaction time, you hazards even before they arise. There should: becomes immediate. t
$PNNVOJDBUF your presence with are three “lead times” experienced lights and/or horn. A. Ride slower than the speed riders consider. First, be alert and scan Using the SEE strategy will help you to limit. for hazards that are about 2 seconds Search for a variety of factors such as: t
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Traffic coming from the left and lanes, or moving to another position go wrong. Anything that is within 4 from the right. within your lane. Answer - page 47 seconds of your path is considered t
Traffic approaching from behind. immediate because 4 seconds is

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 22 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 23

the intersection, move away from the LARGE INTERSECTIONS vehicle. Do not change speed or position BLIND INTERSECTIONS radically, as drivers might think you are preparing to turn. Be prepared to brake hard and hold your position if an oncoming vehicle turns in front of you, especially if there is other traffic around you. This strategy should also be used whenever a vehicle in the oncoming lane of traffic is signaling for a left turn, whether at an intersection or not. Blind Intersections If you approach a blind intersection, move to the portion of the lane that will bring you into another driver’s field of vision at the earliest possible moment. In this picture, the rider has moved to the left portion of the lane — away from the parked car — so the driver on STOP SIGNS the cross street can see him as soon as possible. Remember, the key is to see as much There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being as possible and remain visible to others others see you. Never count on “eye seen at intersections. Ride with your while protecting your space. contact” as a sign that a driver will headlight on and in a lane position that yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a provides the best view of oncoming If you have a stop sign or stop line, motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him traffic. Provide a space cushion around stop there first. Then edge forward or her. The only eyes that you can count the motorcycle that permits you to and stop again, just short of where the on are your own. If a car can enter your take evasive action. When approaching cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From QBUI
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an intersection where a vehicle driver that position, lean your body forward are always “looking for trouble” — not is preparing to cross your path, slow and look around buildings, parked cars to get into it, but to stay out of it. down and select a lane position to or bushes to see if anything is coming. PARKED CARS increase your visibility to that driver. Just make sure your front wheel stays Cover the clutch lever and both brakes out of the cross lane of travel while SMALL INTERSECTION to reduce reaction time. As you enter you’re looking. Passing Parked Cars TEST YOURSELF 6 When passing parked cars, stay Making eye contact with other toward the left of your lane. You drivers: can avoid problems caused by doors A. Is a good sign they see you. opening, drivers getting out of cars B. Is not worth the effort it takes. or people stepping from between C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it yield. is usually best to remain in the center- %
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lane position to maximize your space yield to you. Answer - page 47 cushion.

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 24 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 25

A bigger problem can occur if the Once you turn, make sure your signal is driver pulls away from the curb without PARKING AT CURBS SIGNALING off or a driver may pull directly into your checking for traffic behind. Even if he path, thinking you plan to turn again. does look, he may fail to see you. Use your signals at every turn so drivers can react accordingly. Don’t make them In either event, the driver might cut guess what you intend to do. into your path. Slow down or change lanes to make room for someone Brake Light cutting in. Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually Cars making a sudden U-turn are not as noticeable as the brake lights on the most dangerous. They may cut a car — particularly when your taillight you off entirely, blocking the whole is on. (It goes on with the headlight.) roadway and leaving you with no If the situation will permit, help others place to go. Since you can’t tell what a notice you by flashing your brake light driver will do, slow down and get the before you slow down. It is especially driver’s attention. Sound your horn and However, you can do many things to important to flash your brake light continue with caution. make it easier for others to recognize before: Parking at the Roadside you and your motorcycle. have the headlights on when running). t
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ZPV
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TUPQQFE intersection. Watch cars coming up 2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 26 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 27

from behind. If the drivers aren’t Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE paying attention, they could be on USING MIRRORS isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use it, top of you before they see you. but don’t rely on it. Other strategies, like No matter how careful you are, there having time and space to maneuver, may will be times when you find yourself in a t
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The driver Riding at Night quickly and properly. Often, a crash behind may not expect you to slow, At night it is harder for you to see occurs because a rider is not prepared or or may be unsure about where you and be seen. Picking your headlight skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers. will slow. For example, you signal a or taillight out of the car lights around Know when and how to stop or turn and the driver thinks you plan you is not easy for other drivers. To swerve, two skills critical in avoiding to turn at a distant intersection, compensate, you should: a crash. It is not always desirable or rather than at a nearer driveway. t
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— Ride even possible to stop quickly to avoid an Most motorcycles have rounded slower than you would during the obstacle. Riders must also be able to (convex) mirrors. These provide a day — particularly on roads you swerve around an obstacle. Deter- wider view of the road behind than don’t know well. This will increase mining which skill is necessary for the do flat mirrors. They also make cars your chances of avoiding a hazard. situation is important as well. seem farther away than they really are. t
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— The someone’s attention quickly. Quick Stops Head Checks headlights of the car ahead can give It is a good idea to give a quick beep you a better view of the road than To stop quickly, apply both brakes Checking your mirrors is not enough. before passing anyone that may move even your high beam can. Taillights at the same time. Don’t be shy about Motorcycles have “blind spots” like cars. into your lane. bouncing up and down can alert using the front brake, but don’t “grab” Before you change lanes, turn your head, you to bumps or rough pavement. it, either. Squeeze the brake lever Here are some situations: firmly and progressively. If the front and look to the side for other vehicles. t
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 28 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 29

Stopping Quickly Front-Wheel Skids locks, your ability to change direction is STOPPING DISTANCE lost. To regain control the brake must in a Curve If the front wheel locks, release the be released. However, if the rear wheel front brake immediately and completely. If you know the is out of alignment with the front, there technique, using both Reapply the brake smoothly. Front- is a risk of a high-side crash. This occurs brakes in a turn is possible, wheel skids result in immediate loss of when the wheels are out of alignment although it should be done steering control and balance. Failure to and a locked rear wheel is released. The very carefully. When leaning fully release the brake lever immediately motorcycle can abruptly snap upright the motorcycle some of will result in a crash. and tumble, throwing the rider into the the traction is used for air ahead of the motorcycle’s path. Even cornering. Less traction is Rear-Wheel Skids slight misalignment can result in a high- available for stopping. A A skidding rear tire is a dangerous side crash. skid can occur if you apply condition that can result in a violent too much brake. Also, using Cornering can be applied. Always straighten crash and serious injury or death. Too the front brake incorrectly on a slippery the handlebars in the last few feet of much rear brake pressure causes rear- A primary cause of single-vehicle surface may be hazardous. Use caution stopping to maintain your balance and wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel crashes is motorcyclists running wide in and squeeze the brake lever, never grab. remain upright. If you must stop quickly while turning CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES in a curve, first straighten and square .BYJNVN
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the handlebars, then stop. If you find Braking yourself in a situation that does not Maximum straight-line braking is allow straightening first, such as when accomplished by fully applying front there is a danger of running off the and rear brakes without locking either road in a left-hand curve, or when wheel. Keep your body centered over facing oncoming traffic in a right- the motorcycle and look well ahead, hand curve, apply the brakes smoothly not down. This will help you keep and gradually. As you slow, you can the motorcycle in as straight a line as reduce your lean angle and apply more possible, minimizing lean angle and the brake pressure until the motorcycle is likelihood of the wheels losing traction. straight and maximum brake pressure

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE DECREASING CURVES (TIGHTER TURNS) WIDENING CURVES

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 30 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 31

a curve or turn and colliding with the possible. Approach it at as close to a 90˚ roadway or a fixed object. angle as possible. Look where you want OBSTACLES to go to control your path of travel. If you Every curve is different. Be alert to have to ride over the obstacle, you should: whether a curve remains constant, gradually widens, gets tighter or t
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For track and road seams that run MECHANICAL PROBLEMS power from the rear wheel, though and Pavement Seams parallel to your course, move far enough engine sound may not immediately away from tracks, ruts, or pavement You can find yourself in an emergency decline. Once the motorcycle is “under Usually it is safer to ride straight within seams to cross at an angle of at least the moment something goes wrong control,” pull off and stop. your lane to cross tracks. Turning to take 45˚. Then, make a deliberate turn. with your motorcycle. In dealing with tracks head-on (at a 90˚ angle) can be Edging across could catch your tires and any mechanical problem, take into After you have stopped, check the more dangerous — your path may carry throw you off balance. account the road and traffic conditions throttle cable carefully to find the source you into another lane of traffic. you face. Here are some guidelines of the trouble. Make certain the throttle Grooves and Gratings works freely before you start to ride again. Riding over rain grooves or bridge that can help you handle mechanical gratings may cause a motorcycle to problems safely. Wobble CROSSTRACKS—RIGHT weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling is Tire Failure generally not hazardous. Relax, maintain A “wobble” occurs when the front a steady speed and ride straight across. You will seldom hear a tire go flat. wheel and handlebars suddenly start Crossing at an angle forces riders to If the motorcycle starts handling to shake from side to side at any zigzag to stay in the lane. The zigzag is differently, it may be a tire failure. This speed. Most wobbles can be traced to far more hazardous than the wandering can be dangerous. You must be able to improper loading, unsuitable accessories feeling. tell from the way the motorcycle reacts. or incorrect tire pressure. If you are If one of your tires suddenly loses air, carrying a heavy load, lighten it. If you GRATE CROSSINGS—RIGHT react quickly to keep your balance. Pull can’t, shift it. Center the weight lower CROSSTRACKS—WRONG off and check the tires. and farther forward on the motorcycle. Make sure tire pressure, spring pre- If the front tire goes flat, the steering load, air shocks and dampers are at the will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel flat is settings recommended for that much particularly hazardous because it affects weight. Make sure windshields and your steering. You have to steer well to fairings are mounted properly. keep your balance. Check for poorly adjusted steering; If the rear tire goes flat, the back of worn steering parts; a front wheel that the motorcycle may jerk or sway from is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; PARALLEL TRACKS—RIGHT GRATE CROSSINGS—WRONG side to side. loose wheel bearings or spokes; and If either tire goes flat while riding: worn swingarm bearings. If none of these is determined to be the cause, t
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manual for adjustment procedures and Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If the throttle gradually. instruct your passenger on cycling basics you are being chased, downshift and specifications. prior to starting the trip, even if your D. Downshift. approach the animal slowly. As you Answer - page 47 Headlight – Prior to loading, position passenger is a motorcycle rider. 2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 36 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 37

As you prepare for your ride, tell your t
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Pre-Ride Test Plan Keep Your Distance Interstate Highways and Prior to starting out, take a test Before starting out, hold a rider’s Maintain close ranks, but at the Freeways ride with your fully loaded motorcycle meeting to discuss the route, length of same time, maintain an adequate space A staggered formation is essential through some familiar neighborhood riding segments, rest stops and locations cushion to allow each rider in the group when riding on freeways and interstates. roads to get a feel for the operation of for fuel, meals and lodging. Make sure time and distance to react to hazards. However, enter in single file and form up everyone knows the route. That way, A close group takes up less space on your motorcycle. Be sure the suspension only after all riders have safely merged if someone becomes separated, he or the highway, is easier to see, and is less in traffic. The lead rider should move the settings are correct, and that the side she won’t have to hurry to keep from likely to become separated. This must, stand, footrests, and exhaust pipes don’t group over at least one lane to prevent getting lost or making the wrong turn. however, be done properly. vehicles that are entering and exiting scrape over bumps and in turns. Ensure Choose a lead rider and a sweep rider. from disrupting your formation. In heavy the tank bag does not get in the way of These should be the most experienced %POU
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 40 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 41

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TEST YOURSELF 13 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. Answer - page 47

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 42BEING IN SHAPEBEING TO INRIDE SHAPE TO RIDE42 4343

Blood Alcohol Concentration A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed drink Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders with one shot (1.5 ounces) of liquor, pay attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle, Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC and a 5-ounce glass of wine all contain identifying potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions is the amount of alcohol in relation to the same amount of alcohol. quickly and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road and CMPPE
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traffic conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and drugs, be eliminated in the body at the rate of The faster you drink, the more alcohol more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and to ride almost one drink per hour. But a variety accumulates in your body. If you drink safely. As little as one drink can have a significant effect on your performance. of other factors may also influence two drinks in an hour, at the end of that the level of alcohol retained. The more hour, at least one drink will remain in Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What to alcohol in your blood, the greater the your bloodstream. do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined. degree of impairment. Without taking into account any Three factors play a major part in other factors, these examples illustrate WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND DRUGS determining BAC: why time is a critical factor when a rider decides to drink. IS IMPORTANT IN MOTORCYCLE t
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 44 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE 45

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On-Motorcycle Skill Test t
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 48 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT 49

SUPPLEMENTARY t
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TFBUJOH Three-Wheel handlebars without excessive upper INFORMATION – Seating in which the rider/ Motorcycle Designs body movements that could jeopardize FOR THREE-WHEEL passenger straddles the stability and control. vehicle. Three-wheel motorcycle designs MOTORCYCLES vary among manufacturers. Unlike Borrowing and Lending – If designed for a passenger, traditional motorcycles, which are Borrowers and lenders, beware. Many states require a separate license the passenger must be considered single-track motorcycles, seated behind the operator endorsement to operate a three-wheel three-wheel motorcycles could be either Crashes are fairly common among motorcycle. This requires the rider to (or in a separate passenger beginning operators, especially in compartment in the case of a dual or triple track design. Dual track pass both a written and a skills test. The the first months of riding. Operating motorcycle with sidecar). vehicles are motorcycles with sidecars, purpose of this supplement is to help while triple track motorcycles can be an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the 3. Turning diameter of the vehicle prepare riders to complete the written configured either with dual front wheels problem. If you borrow a three-wheel at its widest point must be less exam for a three-wheel motorcycle or dual rear wheels. motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar, license or endorsement. This information than 40’. get familiar with it in a controlled area is provided in addition to that offered in 4. The vehicle meets all applicable first. If you lend your three-wheel the first part of this Motorcycle Operator federal on-road vehicle standards. MOTORCYCLE motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar AND THREE-WHEEL Manual (MOM), so when preparing The following vehicles are not to friends, make sure they are licensed MOTORCYCLE DESIGNS to take the written test, begin by included in this definition, and and know how to ride before you reading the information on two-wheel therefore testing requirements may allow them to operate in traffic. Such motorcycles thoroughly. It provides not be applicable. Always refer to your motorcycles operate very differently information on safe operation of your state Department of Motor Vehicles, than two-wheel motorcycles. motorcycle in traffic. This supplement Department of Licensing or other No matter how experienced you may contains information specific to the safe appropriate state regulatory agency for be, be extra careful on any vehicle that operation of a three-wheel motorcycle, exact regulations regarding testing for: is unfamiliar or new to you. including both three-track motorcycles Automotive hybrids or and motorcycles with sidecars. t
Get Familiar with automotive conversions Motorcycle Controls KNOW YOUR VEHICLE t
Vehicles with automotive controls or seating Be sure you are familiar with the There are many types of three-wheel controls of the three-wheel motorcycle t
Vehicles with front or rear motorcycles available on the market or motorcycle with a sidecar before today. Requirements for licensing mounted engines (engines must be mounted mid-frame below the attempting to operate it on any three-wheel motorcycles vary by state. highway, since some controls may differ In general, three-wheel motorcycles will rider to be considered motorcycle- based) from those found on other motorcycles. have the following characteristics: This is especially important if you are t
Vehicles with enclosed or semi- 1. Three wheels leaving two or enclosed riding compartments riding on a borrowed motorcycle. Before three separate tracks during beginning the ride: straight line operation. t
Motorcycles or scooters with two close-set wheels in front (contact t Make all the checks you would on 2. Motorcycle-based conversion or patches less than 18.1 inches your own motorcycle. design with: apart) that lean and maneuver like t
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Anticipate the degree of turn throttle, clutch and brakes a few in contact with the road surface. This The weight of a three-track required. times. Controls react differently could occur during turning or tight motorcycle is distributed almost equally t
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Roll off the throttle before entering a rate of speed, there is a tendency BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL handlebar movement is necessary than the turn. for the motorcycle rear suspension to when riding a two-wheel motorcycle. extend, and this may cause the rear Steering & Tip While it is not necessary for the rider t
Apply the brakes enough to slow the motorcycle to a speed at which wheel of the motorcycle to lift off the Three-wheel motorcycles handle of a three-wheel motorcycle to move you can ride safely through the ground. differently than two-wheel motorcycles. drastically during operation, shifting turn, then release the brakes before When turning left on a motorcycle With three wheels on the ground, weight in the direction of the turn can the turn. they are naturally more stable than a improve control. with sidecar: t
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Roll on the throttle to pull the rider wants the motorcycle to go. Motorcycle and sidecar tires have limited motorcycle through the turn. Hills traction or grip on the road surface, and On the other hand, because the When riding uphill on a three-wheel traction is greater when the motorcycle center of gravity of a motorcycle with motorcycle or motorcycle with a sidecar, is rolling, not skidding or slipping. sidecar is close to the motorcycle itself, some weight will shift to the rear, During turning, some of the available the behavior of the vehicle when causing the front of the motorcycle TIP-OVER LINES tire traction is used for cornering, so less turning right and when turning left is to become lighter. This weight shift is available for stopping. Thus, a skid quite different. reduces the traction on the front tire/ can occur if you brake too hard. tires for steering and tire grip. During a right turn, a slight sideways Turning movement of the center of gravity When riding downhill, gravity The tendency of the rear inside creates a greater tendency for the increases the amount of braking force wheel to lift during turning is greater sidecar wheel to lift. The lift will be required to slow or stop the motorcycle. with increased speed and tighter curve greater if the sidecar is empty or lightly It is important, therefore, to begin radii. During a turn, inertia causes the loaded. slowing earlier for cornering and center of gravity of the motorcycle to stopping. shift sideways and outward toward the

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 52 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT 53

Lane Position the sidecar will feel as though it is Many three-track motorcycles will have lagging behind you, causing the vehicle PATH THROUGH A CURVE built-in storage compartments for cargo, The track of the dual wheels of a to feel as though it is being steered either in front of, or behind the rider. three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle to the right. During deceleration or On these motorcycles, center the load with a sidecar is almost the same braking, the momentum of the sidecar and keep it low in the storage areas so width as some automobiles. Unlike a continues to carry it forward, giving it is positioned within the tip-over lines motorcycle, you are limited, therefore, in the feeling that the sidecar is trying to and balanced side-to-side. If a passenger lane positioning. Keep toward the center pass you, making the motorcycle feel as is being carried, the passenger will sit of the lane to be sure the track of the though it is being steered left. directly behind the rider. dual wheels does not cross the painted lines into opposing traffic. Riding too far t
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 54 HAND SIGNALS 55

1 Single File – 2 Double File – arm and index arm with index finger extended and middle finger straight up. extended straight up.

3 Stop – 4 Speed Up – arm extended arm extended straight down, straight out, palm facing palm facing up, back. swing upward.

5 Slow Down – 6 Follow Me – arm extended arm extended straight out, palm straight up facing down, swing from shoulder, down to your side. palm forward.

7 You Lead/Come– arm extended upward 45 degrees, palm forward pointing with index finger, swing in arc from back to front.

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement HAND SIGNALS 56 57 LeftLeft Right Right CHECK-OFF 8 Hazard in Roadway – on the left, point with left hand; on the right, point with right foot. ______WHAT TO LOOK FOR TO WHAT 9 Highbeam – 10 Fuel – tap on top of arm out to side helmet with open pointing to EMERGENCY INFORMATION palm down. tank with finger Raise rear wheel, check for play by pushing/pulling swingarm. pushing/pulling by check for play wheel, Raise rear Contact this person if rider is injured extended. Clips missing. Broken, Tension point. tightest Check at Threaded nuts. missing bolts, Tight, Sprockets mounted securely not hooked, Teeth Condition (safety bent cut-out or pad equipped). Cracks, switch Condition lifting. look for paint accessory gussets, mounts, at Cracks Condition bent. Cracks, Retention hold position. to tension Springs in place, Retention hold position. to tension Springs in place, Cotter PinsCotter missing. Broken, Front ForksFront anti-dive settings. equal air pressure/damping, Smooth travel, Lubrication belts. do not lubricate Note: when hot. Side plates Rear Shock(s) and is lubricated. freely linkage moves settings, equal pre-load/air pressure/damping Smooth travel, Bearings Swingarm Bushings/ Swingarm Steering-Head BearingsSteering-Head pulling/pushing forks. by check for play wheel, front raise full travel, spots through or tight No detent

11 Comfort 12 Refreshment Suspension Side stand C-CHASSIS Frame Chain or Belt S-STANDS stand Center Fasteners Name ______Name Home Phone ______Phone Work Cell Phone Stop – fingers ______Rider's Name ______Blood Type ______Allergies/Medical Conditions Doctor's Name/Phone ______Cycle Insurer Name/Phone ______

Stop – forearm ITEMT-CLOCS CHECK TO WHAT extended, fist closed, thumb to clenched with mouth. short up and down FrontFront Rear Rear Front Rear FrontFront Rear Front Rear Front Rear Front Rear Rear CHECK-OFF Rear left Rear right motion. Front leftright Front

13 Turn Signal On – T-CLOCS: Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist Pre-Ride T-CLOCS: open and close hand with fingers you when you ride. can tear this page out and keep it with You and thumb extended. WHAT TO LOOK FOR TO WHAT Height and right/left. Height Out of round/true = 5mm. Spin wheel, index against stationary index pointer. = 5mm. Spin wheel, Out of round/true Grab top and bottom of tire and flex: No freeplay (click) between hub and axle, no growl when spinning. no growl hub and axle, (click) between No freeplay and flex: of tire and bottom top Grab Gaskets, seals, breathers. seals, Gaskets, Transmission, rear drive, shaft. drive, rear Transmission, Cracks, dents. Cracks, Cracked, cut or torn, excessive grease on outside, reddish-brown around outside. around reddish-brown on outside, grease excessive cut or torn, Cracked, Hi beam/low beam operation. Hi beam/low application. brake brake/rear upon front Activates correctly. Flashes Cracks, reflector, mounting and adjustment system. and adjustment mounting reflector, Cracks, 14 Pull Off – = loose spoke “thud” = OK — “ring” of wheel: top check at tension, missing, broken, Bent, clean and tight. Cracks, arm positioned as for right turn, forearm Aim on bike. when seated Adjust Aim Cast Fuel carbs. fuel valve, Lines, Fuel or gauge. Tank Rims Seals Pivots Lubricated. Spokes Coolant pipes. fittings, tanks, hoses, Radiator, Coolant tank — check only when cool. Reservoir recovery and/or coolant RoutingRouting supports wire in place. suspension, no sharp angles, head, steering or pulling at No interference hose supports suspension, no sharp angles, in place. head, steering or pulling at No interference Routing clean. connectors tight, looms and ties in place, head or suspension, wire steering or pulling at no interference Pinched, Bearings Function rolling. from bike alone keeps Each brake Condition embedded objects. bulges, seated, evenly weathering, depth, wear, Tread ConditionCondition adjustment. proper ball ends on handlebar levers, tight, mounts cracked, bent, Broken, Condition ends and interior. lubrication: kinks, Fraying, deterioration. chafing, bulges, leaks, cracks, Cuts, ConditionCondition securely. held down level, electrolyte clean and tight, Terminals; ConditionCondition joints. and swivel mounts clean, tight Cracks, Condition condensation. excessive mounted, securely broken, Cracked, insulation. chafing, Fraying, Condition Vent Tube Vent not plugged. properly, routed Not kinked, Operation turned. no revving when handlebars are snaps closed, freely, Moves Operation Operation Operation Engine Oil seals. housings, Gaskets, Engine Oil dipstick, glass. sight ground, stand on level on center warm Check Air Pressure load. adjust to when cold, Check Hydraulic FluidHydraulic cylinders, calipers. master Hoses, Hydraulic FluidHydraulic glass. or sight reservoir clutch, Brakes, Hypoid Gear Oil, Hypoid Gear Oil, Hypoid Gear Oil, Hypoid Gear Oil, Shaft Drive swung toward Shaft Drive shoulder. Leaks Hoses Throttle T-TIRES & WHEELS & T-TIRES Tires Wheels Brakes C-CONTROLS and Levers Pedal Cables L-LIGHTS Battery Headlamp Mirrors &Lenses Reflectors Wiring O-OIL Levels Tail lamp/ Tail lamp brake signals Turn

2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement ITEMT-CLOCS CHECK TO WHAT ihhRvso ...... Jnay19 SxenhRvso ..... January2011 SixteenthRevision ...... NinthRevision 2000 ...... March FifteenthRevision 2009 ...... June .January1999 EighthRevision ...... FourteenthRevision March 2008 ...... September1992 SeventhRevision ...... ThirteenthRevision 2007 ...... June April1991 SixthRevision ...... May2004 Twelfth Revision ...... October1987 FifthRevision ...... EleventhRevision July2002 ...... January1983 FourthRevision ...... Tenth January2002 Revision ...... Third Revision ...... February 1981 December1978 SecondRevision ...... real-world traffic situations.Motorcycle SafetyFoundationRiderCourses Unfortunately, criticalskillsneededtoridesafely. manyridersneverlearn expressed herein. publish responsible viewpoints onthesubject,itdisclaimsanyliabilityforviews cycles inyourarea. Although theMSFwillcontinuetoresearch, fieldtestand your localregulatory agencies forinforma theoperationofmotor-tion concerning there maybeorganizations andindividualswhoholddiffering opinions.Consult many differences inproduct design,ridingstyles,federal,stateandlocallaws, familiar withtheuseofmotorcycles, accessories,andtraining.Becausethere are from publications,interviews andobserva tions ofindividualsand organizations who haveaninterest inriding motorcycles. Theinfor mation hasbeencompiled Kawasaki, KTM,Piaggio/Vespa, Suzuki,Triumph, andYamaha. Victory organization, theMSFissponsored byBMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson,Honda, are designedforbothmotorcyclists andmotorists.Anationalnot-for-profit licensing improve ment, publicinformationandstatistics.Theseprograms motorcycle crashesandinju ries, theFoundationhasprograms inridereducation, of motorcyclists onthenation’s streets andhighways.Inanattempttoreduce t
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2012-2014 Montana Motorcycle Supplement 2012-2014

1,200 copies of this public document were published at an estimated cost of $0.49 per copy, for a total cost of $583 for printing and $0.00 for distribution.