MotorcyclMotorcyclMotorcyclee e Operator Manual

Ned Lamont Governor

Sibongile Magubane Commissioner Prepared By

Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Adapted with Permission

By

Connecticut Department of Motor

60 State Street

Wethersfield, Connecticut 06161

R-217 (Rev. 7-20) CONTENTS 3

GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT Swerving or Turning Quickly ...... 29 ENDORSEMENT Cornering ...... 30 Getting Your Endorsement ...... 4 Handling Dangerous Surfaces ...... 31 and Connecticut Law ...... 4 Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles ...... 31 Motorcycle Learner’s Permit ...... 6 Slippery Surfaces ...... 32 Sharing the Road ...... 7 Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks and Pavement Seams ...... 33 PREPARING TO RIDE Grooves and Gratings ...... 33 Wear the Right Gear ...... 8 Mechanical Problems ...... 34 Helmet Use ...... 8 Failure ...... 34 Helmet Selection ...... 8 Stuck ...... 34 Eye and Face Protection ...... 9 Wobble ...... 34 Clothing ...... 10 Drive Train Problems ...... 35 Know Your Motorcycle ...... 10 Seizure ...... 35 The Right Motorcycle for You ...... 10 Animals ...... 35 Borrowing and Lending ...... 11 Get Familiar with the Flying Objects ...... 36 Motorcycle Controls ...... 11 Getting Off the Road ...... 36 Check Your Motorcycle ...... 12 Carrying Passengers Know Your Responsibilities ...... 13 and Cargo ...... 36 Equipment ...... 36 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES Instructing Passengers ...... 37 Basic Control ...... 14 Riding With Passengers ...... 37 Body Position ...... 14 Carrying Loads ...... 37 Shifting Gears ...... 14 Group Riding ...... 38 Braking ...... 15 Keep the Group Small ...... 38 Turning ...... 15 Keep the Group Together ...... 38 Keeping Your Distance ...... 16 Keep Your Distance ...... 38 Lane Positions ...... 16 Following Another Vehicle ...... 17 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE Being Followed ...... 18 Why This Information Is Passing and Being Passed ...... 18 Important ...... 40 Lane Sharing ...... 20 Merging ...... 20 Alcohol and Other Drugs in Cars Alongside ...... 20 Motorcycle Operation ...... 40 SEE ...... 21 Alcohol in the Body ...... 40 Blood Alcohol Intersections ...... 22 Concentration ...... 41 Blind Intersections ...... 23 Passing Parked Cars ...... 24 Alcohol and the Law ...... 42 Parking at the Roadside ...... 24 Consequences of Conviction ...... 42 Increasing Conspicuity ...... 25 Clothing ...... 25 Minimize the Risks ...... 42 Headlight ...... 25 Step in to Protect Friends ...... 43 Signals ...... 25 Light ...... 26 Fatigue ...... 43 Using Your Mirrors ...... 26 Head Checks ...... 27 EARNING YOUR LICENSE Horn ...... 27 Knowledge Test ...... 44 Riding at Night ...... 28 On-Motorcycle Skill Test ...... 45 Crash Avoidance ...... 28 SUPPLEMENT FOR 3- Quick Stops ...... 28 Three-Wheel Supplement ...... 46 4 GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT ENDORSEMENT

GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT What is a Motorcycle Endorsement? A motorcycle endorsement, designated by the letter “M,” on a Connecticut driver’s license, allows operation of a motorcycle on public highways. What is a motorcycle learner’s permit? Before earning your motorcycle endorsement, you have the option to obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit. The permit allows you to drive a motorcycle with certain restrictions to help you gain experience as a skilled operator. Who needs a motorcycle endorsement? Any Connecticut motor vehicle driver’s license holder who operates a motorcycle. Who does not need a motorcycle endorsement from Connecticut? Any non-resident or temporary resident who holds a valid driver’s license issued by another jurisdiction, which authorizes the operation of a motorcycle. This may include: • Members of the Armed Forces • Students enrolled in a higher education institution • Non-residents employed in Connecticut. What is required to obtain a motorcycle endorsement? • A valid Connecticut Driver’s License. • A parental consent form (if under 18 years of age). • Fees for motorcycle knowledge and vision tests. • Successful completion of a motorcycle knowledge and vision tests by appointment only at a DMV branch office. Visit ct.gov/dmv to make an appointment. NOTE: Once you pass the motorcycle knowledge and vision tests, you have the option to get a motorcycle learner’s permit. Before earning your endorsement, the permit allows you to drive a motorcycle on the road with certain restrictions. • Complete a novice motorcycle-training course approved by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. This training includes classroom and skills training on a motorcycle. Once you have successfully completed this training, your proof of course completion must be presented to the DMV . A list of approved course providers may be found at ct.gov/dmv/mcsafetycourses. Once you have successfully completed this training, your proof of course completion must be presented to the DMV and an “M” endorsement will be added to your driver’s license. Motorcycling and Connecticut Law What is a motorcycle? Connecticut motor vehicle law defi nes a motorcycle as a motor vehicle having not more than three in contact with the ground and a saddle or seat on which the rider sits or a platform on which the rider stands, and with or without a side , except 5 any vehicle in which the driver’s seat is completely or partially enclosed and the motor on such vehicle is not within such enclosed area. Motor-Driven Cycles () Connecticut law distinguishes the diff erence between a motorcycle and a motor- driven cycle, commonly known as a . A motor-driven cycle is defi ned as any motorcycle, motor , or with an attached motor that has a seat height of at least 26 inches and a motor that produces no more than fi ve brake horsepower. You must have a valid driver’s license to operate a motor-driven cycle, but do not need a motorcycle endorsement. NOTE: Sixteen-and 17-year-olds must wear protective headgear when operating a motor-driven cycle or motorcycle. In addition, if the speed limit on a road is greater than the maximum speed of the motor-driven cycle, you may only operate that cycle in the right hand traffi c lane or on a usable shoulder on the right side of the road, except if preparing to turn left at an intersection or into or from a private road or driveway. A motor-driven cycle cannot be operated on a limited access highway or turnpike. Driver’s License Required To Operate Any Motor Vehicle To operate a motorcycle on the public streets and highways in the State of Connecticut, the motorcycle operator is required to have a valid driver’s license, with a motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle learner’s permit. To obtain a Connecticut Driver’s License, the applicant must be at least 16 years of age; be physically and mentally capable of operating a motor vehicle and have successfully completed both a written and on-road driver’s examination. All applicants who do not hold a driver’s license must complete an 8-hour safe driving course. Applicants 16 or 17 years of age must also hold a learner’s permit, have parental consent and pass a 25-question fi nal exam to obtain a driver’s license. For more detailed information on how to obtain a Connecticut Driver’s License, please visit the DMV website at ct.gov/dmv. Motorcycle Operator Required To Observe All Connecticut Traffi c Laws The operator of a motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle on the public streets and highways of the State of Connecticut is required to observe all Connecticut traffi c laws, regulations, and rules of the road. Any violation of Connecticut law while operating a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle results in the same penalties and fi nes as are other motorists. Motorcycle License Plate Connecticut law states that the motorcycle license plate is to be fastened immovably in an upright position to the rear of the motorcycle so that it is plainly visible and legible from behind the cycle. Passenger Restrictions for New “M” Endorsement Holders Drivers 18 years of age and older may not passengers for 90 days after obtaining a motorcycle endorsement. In addition, no 16-or 17-year-old may transport any passenger on a motorcycle for a period of six months after receiving his or her motorcycle endorsement. 6 GETTING YOUR CONNECTICUT ENDORSEMENT

Other Laws for 16-and 17-Year-Old Motorcycle Operators • Connecticut law prohibits 16-and 17 year-olds with a driver’s license from driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless they are traveling for employment, school, religious or medical-related reasons. This applies to the operation of a motorcycle. • No person under 18 years of age may operate a motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle, or be a passenger on a motorcycle, unless such operator or passenger is wearing protective headgear. Motorcycle Learner’s Permit What do you need to obtain the motorcycle learner’s permit? • You must possess a valid Connecticut Driver’s License. • You must pass the motorcycle knowledge and vision tests. • You must present a parental consent form if under 18 years of age. • Each applicant issued a motorcycle learner’s permit, regardless of age while operating a motorcycle, must wear U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) or National Highway Traffi c Safety Administration (NHTSA) approved protective headgear. • Pay the required fee for testing and the permit. Where do you apply to take the knowledge and vision tests? • You may take the knowledge and vision test to obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit at any full-service DMV branch offi ce on a “walk in” basis. No appointment is necessary. For offi ce hours visit the DMV website at ct.gov/dmv/offi ces. What will the knowledge and vision tests include? • The knowledge examination will consist of 16 questions taken from parts of this manual and the Connecticut Driver’s Manual for New Drivers. • The vision test will measure your visual acuity (how clearly you see) and your horizontal vision (how far you can see to either side while looking straight ahead) as well as depth and color perception. What you need to know about operating a motorcycle with a motorcycle learner’s permit: • You must have your motorcycle permit and your driver’s license in your possession while operating the motorcycle. • You cannot operate your motorcycle on a limited access highway. • You cannot operate your motorcycle at night. • You cannot operate your motorcycle out-of-state. • You cannot carry passengers on your motorcycle*. • You must wear U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) or National Highway Traffi c Safety Administration (NHTSA) approved protective headgear regardless of age. • Your permit is valid for 60 days and may be renewed once in a calendar year. *NOTE: You may not transport passengers for 90 days after obtaining a motorcycle endorsement. Sixteen and 17-year-old drivers are prohibited from carrying passengers for six months after obtaining a motorcycle endorsement. SHARE THE ROAD 7

Share the Road In an eff ort to increase safety on the road, the National Highway Traffi c Safety Administration (NHTSA) has compiled a list of facts for all motorists to remember when riding a motorcycle or driving near a motorcycle. Remember the following: • Motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the road. • Allow the motorcyclist a full lane width. Although it may seem as though there is enough room in the traffi c lane for an automobile and a motorcycle, remember the motorcycle needs room to maneuver safely. • Approximately one-half of all motorcycle crashes involve another motor vehicle. Nearly 40 percent were caused by the other vehicle turning left in front of the motorcyclist. • Motorcycles are small and may be diffi cult to see. Motorcycles have a much smaller profi le than vehicles, which can make it more diffi cult to judge the speed and distance of an approaching vehicle. • Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffi c. This allows the motorcyclist to anticipate traffi c fl ow and fi nd a safe lane position. • Remember that motorcyclists are often hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot or missed in a quick look due to their smaller size. Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffi c and at intersections. • Don’t be fooled by a fl ashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals usually are not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off . Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed. • Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances to you pose major hazards to motorcyclists. Motorcyclists may change speed or adjust their position within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffi c conditions such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings and grooved pavement. • Allow for three or four more seconds of following distance, when following a motorcycle to allow the motorcyclist enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. In dry conditions motorcycles can stop more quickly than a car. 8 PREPARING TO RIDE

What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on any trip, a safe rider makes a point to: 1. Wear the right gear. 2. Become familiar with the motorcycle. 3. Check the motorcycle equipment. 4. Be a responsible rider.

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR • A DOT compliant helmet lets When you ride, your gear is “right” you see as far to the sides as necessary. A study of more than if it protects you. In any crash, you have 900 motorcycle crashes, where a far better chance of avoiding serious 40% of the riders wore helmets, injury if you wear: did not fi nd even one case in which • A DOT compliant helmet. a helmet kept a rider from spotting danger. • Face or eye protection. • Most crashes happen on short • Protective clothing. trips (less than fi ve miles long), just Helmet Use a few minutes after starting out. Crashes can occur — particularly • Most riders are riding slower than 30 mph when a crash occurs. At among untrained, beginning riders. these speeds, helmets can cut both And one out of every fi ve motorcycle the number and the severity of head crashes results in head or neck injuries. injuries by half. Head injuries are just as severe as neck injuries — and far more common. Crash No matter what the speed, helmeted analyses show that head and neck riders are three times more likely to injuries account for a majority of serious survive head injuries than those not and fatal injuries to motorcyclists. wearing helmets at the time of the Research also shows that, with few crash. The single most important thing exceptions, head and neck injuries are you can do to improve your chances of reduced by properly wearing a quality surviving a crash is to wear a securely- helmet. fastened, quality helmet. Some riders don’t wear helmets Helmet Selection because they think helmets will limit There are two primary types of their view to the sides. Others wear helmets, providing two diff erent levels helmets only on long trips or when of coverage: three-quarter and full face. riding at high speeds. But, here are some facts to consider: Whichever style you choose, you can get the most protection by making sure that the helmet: 9

HELMETS

• Is designed to meet U.S. Goggles protect your eyes, though Department of Transportation they won’t protect the rest of your face (DOT) and state standards. Helmets like a faceshield does. A windshield with a label from the Snell Memorial is not a substitute for a faceshield or Foundation also give you an goggles. Most windshields will not assurance of quality. protect your eyes from the wind. Neither • Fits snugly, all the way around. will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses • Has no obvious defects such as won’t keep your eyes from watering, cracks, loose padding or frayed and they might blow off when you turn straps. your head while riding. Whatever helmet you decide on, keep To be eff ective, eye or faceshield it securely fastened on your head when protection must: you ride. Otherwise, if you are involved • Be free of scratches. in a crash, it’s likely to fl y off your head before it gets a chance to protect you. • Be resistant to penetration. • Give a clear view to either side. Eye and Face Protection • Fasten securely, so it does not A plastic shatter-resistant faceshield blow off . can help protect your whole face in a • Permit air to pass through, to crash. It also protects you from wind, reduce fogging. dust, dirt, rain, insects and pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. These • Permit enough room for problems are distracting and can be eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed. painful. If you have to deal with them, Tinted eye protection should not be you can’t devote your full attention to worn at night or any other time when the road. little light is available. 10 PREPARING TO RIDE

Clothing KNOW YOUR The right clothing protects you in MOTORCYCLE a collision. It also provides comfort, There are plenty of things on the as well as protection from heat, cold, highway that can cause you trouble. debris and hot and moving parts of the Your motorcycle should not be one motorcycle. It can also make you more of them. To make sure that your visible to others. motorcycle won’t let you down: • Jacket and pants should cover • Read the owner’s manual fi rst. arms and legs completely. They should fi t snugly enough to keep • Start with the right motorcycle for from fl apping in the wind, yet you. loosely enough to move freely. • Be familiar with the motorcycle Leather off ers the most protection. controls. Sturdy synthetic material provides a lot of protection as well. Wear • Check the motorcycle before every a jacket even in warm weather to ride. prevent dehydration. Many are • Keep it in safe riding condition designed to protect without getting between rides. you overheated, even on summer • Avoid add-ons and modifi cations days. that make your motorcycle harder • Boots or shoes should be high to handle. and sturdy enough to cover your ankles and give them support. Soles The Right Motorcycle For You should be made of hard, durable, First, make sure your motorcycle is slip-resistant material. Keep heels right for you. It should “fi t” you. Your short so they do not catch on rough feet should reach the ground while surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t you are seated on the motorcycle, and catch on your motorcycle. the controls should be easy to operate. • Gloves allow a better grip and help Smaller motorcycles are usually easier protect your hands in a crash. Your for beginners to operate. gloves should be made of leather or similar durable material. In cold or wet weather, your clothes should keep you warm and dry, as well as protect you from injury. You TEST YOURSELF 1 cannot control a motorcycle well if A plastic shatter-resistant face shield: you are numb. Riding for long periods A. Is not necessary if you have a in cold weather can cause severe chill windshield. and fatigue. A winter jacket should B. Only protects your eyes. resist wind and fi t snugly at the neck, C. Helps protect your whole face. wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits D. Does not protect your face as well as designed for motorcycle riding resist goggles. tearing apart or ballooning up at high speeds. Answer - page 45 11

At a minimum, your street-legal know how to ride before allowing them motorcycle should have: out into traffi c. • Headlight, taillight and No matter how experienced you brakelight. may be, ride extra carefully on any motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar • Front and rear . to you. More than half of all crashes • Turn signals. involve riders with less than fi ve months • Horn. of experience on their motorcycle. • Two mirrors. Get Familiar with the Borrowing and Lending Motorcycle Controls Make sure you are completely familiar Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, with the motorcycle before you take beware. Crashes are fairly common it out on the street. Be sure to review among beginning riders — especially the owner’s manual. This is particularly in the fi rst months of riding. Riding important if you are riding a borrowed an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the motorcycle. problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, get familiar with it in a controlled area. If you are going to use an unfamiliar And if you lend your motorcycle to motorcycle: friends, make sure they are licensed and MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS

Light Switch (high/low) Engine Cut-Off Switch Choke (varies) Electric Turn-Signal Start Switch Button Ignition Key (varies)

Horn Button Throttle

Clutch Lever Front Brake Lever Speedometer & Odometer Tachometer (if equipped)

Fuel Supply Valve (if equipped) Rear Brake Pedal Gear-Change Lever

Kick (if equipped) 12 PREPARING TO RIDE

• Make all the checks you would on lights are working properly. your own motorcycle. • Brake Light — Try both brake • Find out where everything is, controls, and make sure each one particularly the turn signals, horn, turns on the brake light. headlight switch, fuel-supply valve Once you have mounted the and engine cut-off switch. Find and motorcycle, complete the following operate these items without having checks before starting out: to look for them. • and Throttle — Make sure • Know the gear pattern. Work the they work smoothly. The throttle throttle, clutch and brakes a few should snap back when you let go. times before you start riding. All The clutch should feel tight and controls react a little diff erently. smooth. • Ride very cautiously and be aware • Mirrors — Clean and adjust both of surroundings. Accelerate gently, mirrors before starting. It’s diffi cult take turns more slowly and leave to ride with one hand while you try to adjust a mirror. Adjust each extra room for stopping. mirror so you can see the lane Check Your Motorcycle behind and as much as possible of the lane next to you. When properly A motorcycle needs more frequent adjusted, a mirror may show the attention than a car. A minor technical edge of your arm or shoulder—but failure in a car seldom leads to anything it’s the road behind and to the side more than an inconvenience for the that’s most important. driver. • Brakes — Try the front and rear If something’s wrong with the brake levers one at a time. Make motorcycle, you’ll want to fi nd out sure each one feels fi rm and holds the motorcycle when the brake is about it before you get in traffi c. Make fully applied. a complete check of your motorcycle before every ride. • Horn — Try the horn. Make sure it works. Before mounting the motorcycle, make the following checks: • Fuel Supply Valve — Make sure the valve is open. Your motorcycle • — Check the air pressure, may start with fuel still in the lines, general wear and tread. but it will stall once the lines are empty. • Fluids — Oil and fl uid levels. At a minimum, check hydraulic fl uids In addition to the checks you should and coolants weekly. Look under make before every trip, check the the motorcycle for signs of an oil or following items at least once a week: gas leak. Wheels, cables, fasteners and fl uid levels. Follow your owner’s manual to • Headlights and Taillight — Check get recommendations. them both. Test your switch to make sure both high and low beams are working. • Turn Signals — Turn on both right and left turn signals. Make sure all 13

KNOW YOUR and know how to carry out proper RESPONSIBILITIES crash-avoidance skills. Blame doesn’t matter when someone “Accident” implies an unforeseen is injured in a crash. There is rarely a event that occurs without anyone’s fault single cause of any crash. The ability to or negligence. Most often in traffi c, that ride aware, make critical decisions and is not the case. In fact, most people carry them out separates responsible involved in a crash can usually claim riders from all the rest. Remember, it is some responsibility for what takes place. up to you to keep from being the cause Consider a situation where someone of, or an unprepared participant in, any decides to try to squeeze through an crash. intersection on a yellow light turning red. Your light turns green. You pull into the intersection without checking for possible latecomers. That is all it takes for the two of you to tangle. It was the driver’s responsibility to stop. And it was your responsibility to look before pulling out. Neither of you held up your end of the deal. Just because someone else is the fi rst to start the chain of events leading to a crash, it doesn’t leave any of us free of responsibility. As a rider you can’t be sure that other operators will see you or yield the right of way. To lessen your chances of a crash occurring:

• Be visible — wear proper clothing, use your headlight, ride in the best lane position to see and be seen. • Communicate your intentions — use the proper signals, brake light and lane position. • Maintain an adequate space cushion — when following, being TEST YOURSELF 2 followed, lane sharing, passing and being passed. More than half of all crashes: A. Occur at speeds greater than 35 mph. • Search your path of 12 seconds ahead. B. Happen at night. C. Are caused by worn tires. • Identify and separate multiple D. Involve riders who have less than hazards. fi ve months of experience on their • Be prepared to act — remain alert motorcycle. Answer - page 45 14 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance. That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules of the road.

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL • Knees — Keep your knees against the gas tank to help you keep your Body Position balance as the motorcycle turns. To control a motorcycle well: • Feet — Keep your feet fi rmly on the • Posture — Sit so you can use your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t arms to steer the motorcycle rather drag your feet. If your foot catches than to hold yourself up. on something, you could be injured and it could aff ect your control of • Seat — Sit far enough forward so the motorcycle. Keep your feet near that arms are slightly bent when the controls so you can get to them you hold the handlegrips. Bending fast if needed. Also, don’t let your your arms permits you to press on toes point downward — they may the handlebars without having to get caught between the road and stretch. the footrests. • Hands — Hold the handgrips Shifting Gears fi rmly to keep your grip over rough surfaces. Start with your right There is more to shifting gears than wrist fl at. This will help you keep simply getting the motorcycle to pick from accidentally using too much up speed smoothly. Learning to use the throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars gears when downshifting, turning or so your hands are even with or starting on hills is important for safe below your elbows. This permits motorcycle operation. you to use the proper muscles for Shift down through the gears with precision . the clutch as you slow or stop. Remain in fi rst gear while you are stopped so HOLDING HANDGRIPS that you can move out quickly if you need to. Make certain you are riding slowly RIGHT enough when you shift into a lower gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, and the rear wheel may skid. When riding downhill or shifting into fi rst gear you may need to use the brakes to slow enough before downshifting safely. Work toward a smooth, even clutch WRONG release, especially when downshifting. It is best to change gears before entering a turn. However, sometimes 15 shifting while in the turn is necessary. operation and eff ective use of these If so, remember to do so smoothly. A systems.) sudden change in power to the rear wheel can cause a skid. Turning Riders often try to take curves or turns Braking too fast. When they can’t hold the turn, Your motorcycle has two brakes: one they end up crossing into another lane each for the front and rear wheel. Use of traffi c or going off the road. Or, they both of them at the same time. The overreact and brake too hard, causing a front brake is more powerful and can skid and loss of control. Approach turns provide at least three-quarters of your and curves with caution. total stopping power. The front brake is Use four steps for better control: safe to use if you use it properly. • SLOW — Reduce speed before the Remember: turn by closing the throttle and, if • Use both brakes every time you necessary, applying both brakes. slow or stop. Using both brakes for • LOOK — Look through the turn even “normal” stops will permit to where you want to go. Turn you to develop the proper habit or just your head, not your shoulders, skill of using both brakes properly and keep your eyes level with the in an emergency. Squeeze the horizon. front brake and press down on the rear. Grabbing at the front brake • PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle or jamming down on the rear can must lean. To lean the motor- cause the brakes to lock, resulting in cycle, press on the handgrip in control problems. the direction of the turn. Press left handgrip — lean left — go left. • If you know the technique, Press right handgrip — lean right — using both brakes in a turn is go right. The higher the speed in a possible, although it should be done turn, the greater the lean angle. very carefully. When leaning the motorcycle some of the traction is • ROLL — Roll on the throttle to used for cornering. Less traction maintain or slightly increase speed. is available for stopping. A skid This helps stabilize the motorcycle. can occur if you apply too much brake. Also, using the front brake incorrectly on a slippery surface may be hazardous. Use caution and squeeze the brake lever, never grab. • Some motorcycles have integrated braking systems that activate the front and rear brakes together when applying the rear brake pedal. (Consult the owner’s manual for a detailed explanation on the 16 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

In normal turns, the rider and the TEST YOURSELF 3 motorcycle should lean together at the same angle. When riding, you should: A. Turn your head and shoulders NORMAL TURNS 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 45 KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE The best protection you can have is distance — a “cushion of space” — all around your motorcycle. If someone else makes a mistake, distance permits you: • Time to react. • Space to maneuver. I n slow, tight turns, counterbalance by Lane Positions leaning the motorcycle only and keeping In some ways the size of the your body straight. motorcycle can work to your advantage. Each traffi c lane gives a motorcycle SLOW, TIGHT TURNS three paths of travel, as indicated in the illustration. Your lane position should: • Increase your ability to see and be seen. • Avoid others’ blind spots. • Avoid surface hazards. • Protect your lane from other drivers. • Communicate your intentions. • Avoid wind blast from other vehicles. • Provide an escape route. Select the appropriate path to maximize your space cushion and make yourself more easily seen by others on the road. 17

LANE POSITIONS

In general, there is no single best Following Another Vehicle position for riders to be seen and to maintain a space cushion around the “Following too closely” could be a motorcycle. No portion of the lane need factor in crashes involving motorcyclists. be avoided — including the center. In traffi c, motorcycles need as much distance to stop as cars. Normally, a Position yourself in the portion of minimum of two seconds distance the lane where you are most likely to should be maintained behind the vehicle be seen and you can maintain a space ahead. cushion around you. Change position as traffi c situations change. Ride in path To gauge your following distance: 2 or 3 if vehicles and other potential • Pick out a marker, such as a problems are on your left only. Remain pavement marking or lamppost, on in path 1 or 2 if hazards are on your or near the road ahead. right only. If vehicles are being operated on both sides of you, the center of the • When the rear bumper of the lane, path 2, is usually your best option. vehicle ahead passes the marker, count off the seconds: “one- The oily strip in the center portion thousand-one, one-thousand-two.” that collects drippings from cars is usually no more than two feet wide. • If you reach the marker before Unless the road is wet, the average you reach “two,” you are following center strip permits adequate traction too closely. to ride on safely. You can operate to A two-second following distance the left or right of the grease strip and leaves a minimum amount of space to still be within the center portion of the stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops traffi c lane. Avoid riding on big buildups suddenly. It also permits a better view of of oil and grease usually found at busy potholes and other hazards in the road. intersections or toll booths. A larger cushion of space is needed if your motorcycle will take longer 18 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

FOLLOWING

than normal to stop. If the pavement Being Followed is slippery, if you cannot see through the vehicle ahead, or if traffi c is heavy Speeding up to lose someone and someone may squeeze in front of following too closely only ends up with you, open up a three-second or more someone tailgating you at a higher following distance. speed. Keep well behind the vehicle ahead A better way to handle tailgaters even when you are stopped. This will is to get them in front of you. When make it easier to get out of the way someone is following too closely, if someone bears down on you from change lanes and let them pass. If you behind. It will also give you a cushion of can’t do this, slow down and open up space if the vehicle ahead starts to back extra space ahead of you to allow room up for some reason. for both you and the tailgater to stop. This will also encourage them to pass. When behind a car, ride where the If they don’t pass, you will have given driver can see you in the rearview mirror. yourself and the tailgater more time and Riding in the center portion of the lane space to react in case an emergency should put your image in the middle of does develop ahead. the rearview mirror — where a driver is most likely to see you. Passing and Being Passed Riding at the far side of a lane may Passing and being passed by another permit a driver to see you in a sideview vehicle is not much diff erent than with a mirror. But remember that most drivers car. However, visibility is more critical. Be don’t look at their sideview mirrors sure other drivers see you, and that you nearly as often as they check the see potential hazards. rearview mirror. If the traffi c situation allows, the center portion of the lane is usually the best place for you to be seen by the drivers ahead and to prevent lane sharing by others. 19

Passing Being Passed 1. Ride in the left portion of the When you are being passed from lane at a safe following distance behind or by an oncoming vehicle, to increase your line of sight and stay in the center portion of your lane. make you more visible. Signal Riding any closer to them could put you and check for oncoming traffi c. in a hazardous situation. Use your mirrors and turn your head to look for traffi c behind. Avoid being hit by: 2. When safe, move into the left • The other vehicle — A slight lane and accelerate. Select a lane mistake by you or the passing driver position that doesn’t crowd the could cause a sideswipe. car you are passing and provides • Extended mirrors — Some drivers space to avoid hazards in your forget that their mirrors hang out lane. farther than their fenders. 3. Ride through the blind spot as • Objects thrown from windows quickly as possible. — Even if the driver knows you’re 4. Signal again, and complete there, a passenger may not see you mirror and headchecks before and might toss something on you or returning to your original lane the road ahead of you. and then cancel the signal. • Blasts of wind from larger Remember, passes must be vehicles — They can aff ect your completed within posted speed control. You have more room for limits, and only where permitted. error if you are in the middle portion Know your signs and road markings! when hit by this blast than if you are on either side ofthe lane. Do not move into the portion of the lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It might invite the other driver to cut back into your lane too early.

PASSING BEING PASSED 20 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Lane Sharing if one is open. If there is no room for a lane change, adjust speed to open up Cars and motorcycles need a full lane space for the merging driver. to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually prohibited. Cars Alongside Riding between rows of stopped or Do not ride next to cars or trucks in moving cars in the same lane can leave other lanes if you do not have to. You you vulnerable to the unexpected. A might be in the blind spot of a car in the hand could come out of a window; a door next lane, which could switch into your could open; a car could turn suddenly. lane without warning. Cars in the next Discourage lane sharing by others. Keep a lane also block your escape if you come center-portion position whenever drivers upon danger in your own lane. Speed might be tempted to squeeze by you. up or drop back to fi nd a place clear of Drivers are most tempted to do this: traffi c on both sides. • In heavy, bumper-to-bumper traffi c. BLIND SPOTS • When they want to pass you. • When you are preparing to turn at an intersection. • When you are moving into an exit lane or leaving a highway. Merging Cars Drivers on an entrance ramp may not see you on the highway. Give them plenty of room. Change to another lane

MERGING

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 45 21

SEE • Road and surface characteristics — Potholes, guardrails, bridges, Good experienced riders remain telephone poles and trees won’t aware of what is going on around them. move into your path but may They improve their riding strategy by infl uence your riding strategy. using MSF’s SEESM strategy, a three- step process used to make appropriate • Traffi c control devices — Look for judgments, and apply them correctly in traffi c signals, including regulatory diff erent traffi c situations: signs, warning signs, and pavement markings, to help you evaluate • S earch circumstances ahead. • E valuate • Vehicles and other traffi c — May • E xecute move into your path and increase Let’s examine each of these steps. the likelihood of a crash. Search Think about your time and space requirements in order to maintain Search aggressively ahead, to the a margin of safety. You must leave sides and behind to avoid potential yourself time to react if an emergency hazards even before they arise. How arises. assertively you search, and how much time and space you have, can eliminate Execute or reduce harm. Focus even more on Carry out your decision. fi nding potential escape routes in or around intersections, shopping areas To create more space and minimize and school and construction zones. harm from any hazard: Search for factors such as: • Communicate your presence with lights and/or horn. • Oncoming traffi c that may turn left in front of you. • Adjust your speed by accelerating, stopping or slowing. • Traffi c coming from the left and right. • Adjust your position and/or direction. • Traffi c approaching from behind. Apply the old adage “one step at a • Hazardous road conditions. time” to handle two or more hazards. Be especially alert in areas with limited Adjust speed to permit two hazards visibility. Visually “busy” surroundings to separate. Then deal with them one could hide you and your motorcycle at a time as single hazards. Decision- from others. making becomes more complex with three or more hazards. Evaluate the Evaluate consequences of each and give equal Think about how hazards can interact distance to the hazards. to create risks for you. Anticipate potential problems and have a plan to reduce risks. 22 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

In potential high-risk areas, such as INTERSECTIONS intersections, shopping areas and school and construction zones, cover the clutch The greatest potential for confl ict and both brakes to reduce the time you between you and other traffi c is at need to react. intersections. An intersection can be in the middle of an urban area or at a driveway on a residential street — TEST YOURSELF 5 anywhere traffi c may cross your path of travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car To reduce your reaction time, you should: crashes are caused by drivers entering a rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in A. Ride slower than the speed front of you, including cars turning left limit. from the lane to your right, and cars on B. Cover the clutch and the brakes. side streets that pull into your lane, are C. Shift into neutral when slowing. the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE [p. 17] at intersections is critical. D. Pull in the clutch when turning. There are no guarantees that Answer - page 45 others see you. Never count on “eye contact” as a sign that a driver will yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him or her. The only eyes that you can count on are your own. If a car can enter your path, assume that it will. Good riders are always “looking for trouble” — not to get into it, but to stay out of it. Increase your chances of being seen at intersections. Ride with your headlight on and in a lane position that provides the best view of oncoming traffi c. Provide a space cushion around the motorcycle that permits you to take evasive action.

SMALL INTERSECTIONS 23

LARGE INTERSECTIONS

When approaching an intersection In this picture, the rider has moved to where a vehicle driver is preparing to the left portion of the lane — away cross your path, slow down and select from the parked car — so the driver on a lane position to increase your visibiity the cross street can see him as soon as to that driver. Cover the clutch lever and possible. both brakes to reduce reaction time. As Remember, the key is to see as much you enter the intersection, move away as possible and remain visible to others from the vehicle. Do not change speed while protecting your space. or position radically, as drivers might think you are preparing to turn. Be BLIND INTERSECTIONS prepared to brake hard and hold your position if an oncoming vehicle turns in front of you, especially if there is other traffi c around you. This strategy should also be used whenever a vehicle in the oncoming lane of traffi c 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 fi eld of vision at the earliest possible moment. 24 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

STOP SIGNS PARKED CARS

does look, he may fail to see you.

If you have a stop sign or stop line, stop In either event, the driver might cut there fi rst. Then edge forward and stop into your path. Slow down or change again, just short of where the cross-traffi c lanes to make room for someone cutting lane meets your lane. From that position, in. lean your body forward and look around Cars making a sudden U-turn are buildings, parked cars or bushes to see if the most dangerous. They may cut anything is coming. Just make sure your you off entirely, blocking the whole front wheel stays out of the cross lane of roadway and leaving you with no travel while you’re looking. place to go. Since you can’t tell what a Passing Parked Cars driver will do, slow down and get the driver’s attention. Sound your horn and When passing parked cars, stay continue with caution. toward the left of your lane. You can avoid problems caused by doors Parking at the Roadside opening, drivers getting out of cars If parking in a parallel parking space or people stepping from between next to a curb, position the motorcycle cars. If oncoming traffi c is present, it at an angle with the rear wheel to the is usually best to remain in the center- curb. (Note: Some cities have ordinances lane position to maximize your space that require motorcycles to park parallel cushion. to the curb.) A bigger problem can occur if the driver pulls away from the curb without PARKING AT CURBS checking for traffi c behind. Even if he

TEST YOURSELF 6

Making eye contact with other drivers: A. Is a good sign they see you. B. Is not worth the eff ort it takes. C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will yield. D. Guarantees that the other driver will yield to you.

Answer - page 45 25

INCREASING coming from the side to spot you. CONSPICUITY Refl ective material can also be a big help for drivers coming toward you or from In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers behind. often say that they never saw the motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a Headlight motorcycle’s outline is much smaller The best way to help others see your than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see motorcycle is to keep the headlight on something you are not looking for, — at all times (new motorcycles sold and most drivers are not looking for in the USA since 1978 automatically motorcycles. More likely, they are have the headlights on when ). looking through the skinny, two- Studies show that, during the day, a wheeled silhouette in search of cars that motorcycle with its light on is twice as may pose a problem to them. likely to be noticed. Use low beam at Even if a driver does see you coming, night and in fog. you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller Signals vehicles appear farther away and seem to be traveling slower than they actually The signals on a motorcycle are similar are. It is common for drivers to pull out to those on a car. They tell others what in front of motorcyclists, thinking they you plan to do. have plenty of time. Too often, they are wrong. However, you can do many things to SIGNALING make it easier for others to recognize you and your motorcycle. Clothing Most crashes occur in broad daylight. Wear bright-colored clothing to increase your chances of being seen. Remember, your body is half of the visible surface area of the rider/motorcycle unit. Bright orange, red, yellow or green jackets or vests are your best bets for being seen. Your helmet can do more than protect you in a crash. Brightly colored helmets can also help others see you. Any bright color is better than drab or dark . Refl ective, bright-colored clothing (helmet and jacket or vest) is best. Refl ective material on a vest and on the sides of the helmet will help drivers 26 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

However, due to a rider’s added • You slow where others may not vulnerability, signals are even more expect it (in the middle of a block or important. Use them anytime you plan at an alley). to change lanes or turn. Use them even If you are being followed closely, it’s when you think no one else is around. a good idea to fl ash your brake light It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to before you slow. The tailgater may be give you the most trouble. Your signal watching you and not see something lights also make you easier to spot. ahead that will make you slow down. That’s why it’s a good idea to use your This will hopefully discourage them from turn signals even when what you plan tailgating and warn them of hazards to do is obvious. ahead they may not see. When you enter a freeway, drivers approaching from behind are more likely Using Your Mirrors to see your signal blinking and make While it’s most important to keep room for you. track of what’s happening ahead, you Turning your signal light on before can’t aff ord to ignore situations behind. each turn reduces confusion and Traffi c conditions change quickly. frustration for the traffi c around you. Knowing what’s going on behind is Once you turn, make sure your signal is essential for you to make a safe decision off or a driver may pull directly into your about how to handle trouble ahead. path, thinking you plan to turn again. Frequent mirror checks should be part Use your signals at every turn so drivers of your normal searching routine. Make can react accordingly. Don’t make them a special point of using your mirrors: guess what you intend to do. • When you are stopped at an Brake Light intersection. Watch cars coming up from behind. If the drivers aren’t Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually paying attention, they could be on not as noticeable as the brake lights on top of you before they see you. a car — particularly when your taillight is on. (It goes on with the headlight.) • Before you change lanes. Make If the situation will permit, help others sure no one is about to pass you. notice you by fl ashing your brake light • Before you slow down. The driver before you slow down. It is especially behind may not expect you to slow, important to fl ash your brake light or may be unsure about where you before: will slow. For example, you signal a • You slow more quickly than turn and the driver thinks you plan others might expect (turning off a to turn at a distant intersection, high-speed highway). rather than at a nearer driveway. 27

On a road with several lanes, check USING MIRRORS the far lane and the one next to you. A driver in the distant lane may head for the same space you plan to take. Frequent head checks should be your normal scanning routine, also. Only by knowing what is happening all around you are you fully prepared to deal with it. Horn Be ready to use your horn to get someone’s attention quickly. It is a good idea to give a quick beep before passing anyone that may move into your lane. Here are some situations: • A driver in the lane next to you is driving too closely to the vehicle ahead and may want to pass. • A parked car has someone in the Some motorcycles have rounded driver’s seat. (convex) mirrors. These provide a wider view of the road behind than do fl at • Someone is in the street, riding a mirrors. They also make cars seem farther bicycle or . away than they really are. If you are not In an emergency, press the horn used to convex mirrors, get familiar with button loud and long. Be ready to stop them. (While you are stopped, pick out a or swerve away from the danger. parked car in your mirror. Form a mental Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn image of how far away it is. Then, turn isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use around and look at it to see how close it, but don’t rely on it. Other strategies, you came.) Practice with your mirrors like having time and space to maneuver, until you become a good judge of may be appropriate along with the distance. Even then, allow extra distance horn. before you change lanes.

Head Checks Checking your mirrors is not enough. Motorcycles have “blind spots” like cars. Before you change lanes, turn your head, and look to the side for other vehicles. 28 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Riding at Night CRASH AVOIDANCE At night it is harder for you to see No matter how careful you are, there and be seen. Picking your headlight will be times when you fi nd yourself in a or taillight out of the car lights around tight spot. Your chances of getting out you is not easy for other drivers. To safely depend on your ability to react compensate, you should: quickly and properly. Often, a crash • Reduce Your Speed — Ride even occurs because a rider is not prepared or slower than you would during the skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers. day — particularly on roads you Know when and how to stop or don’t know well. This will increase swerve, two skills critical in avoiding your chances of avoiding a hazard. a crash. It is not always desirable or • Increase Distance — Distances possible to stop quickly to avoid an are harder to judge at night than obstacle. Riders must also be able to during the day. Your eyes rely upon swerve around an obstacle. Deter- shadows and light contrasts to mining which skill is necessary for the determine how far away an object is and how fast it is coming. These situation is important as well. contrasts are missing or distorted Studies show that most crash- under artifi cial lights at night. involved riders: Open up a three-second fol lowing distance or more. And allow more • Underbrake the front tire and distance to pass and be passed. overbrake the rear. • Use the Car Ahead — The • Did not separate braking from headlights of the car ahead can give swerving or did not choose you a better view of the road than swerving when it was appropriate. even your high beam can. Taillights The following information off ers bouncing up and down can alert some good advice. you to bumps or rough pavement. • Use Your High Beam — Get all the Quick Stops light you can. Use your high beam To stop quickly, apply both brakes whenever you are not following at the same time. Don’t be shy about or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear using the front brake, but don’t “grab” refl ective materials when riding at it, either. Squeeze the brake lever night. fi rmly and progressively. If the front • Be Flexible About Lane Position. wheel locks, release the front brake Change to whatever portion of the immediately then reapply it fi rmly. At lane is best able to help you see, be the same time, press down on the seen and keep an adequate space cushion. rear brake. If you accidentally lock the rear brake on a good traction surface, TEST YOURSELF 7 you can keep it locked until you have completely stopped; but, even with a Refl ective clothing should: locked rear wheel, you can control the A. Be worn at night. motorcycle on a straightaway if it is B. Be worn during the day. upright and going in a straight line. C. Not be worn. D. Be worn day and night Answer - page 45 29

straight and maximum brake pressure STOPPING DISTANCE is possible. You should “straighten” the handlebars in the last few feet of stopping. The motorcycle should then be straight up and in balance. Swerving or Turning Quickly Sometimes you may not have enough room to stop, even if you use both brakes properly. An object might appear suddenly in your path. Or the car ahead might squeal to a stop. The only way to Always use both brakes at the same avoid a crash may be to turn quickly, or time to stop. The front brake can provide swerve around it. 70% or more of the potential stopping A swerve is any sudden change in power. direction. It can be two quick turns, or If you must stop quickly while turning a rapid shift to the side. Apply a small or riding a curve, the best technique is amount of pressure to the handgrip to straighten the bike upright fi rst and located on the side of your intended then brake. However, it may not always direction of escape. This will cause the be possible to straighten the motorcycle motorcycle to lean quickly. The sharper and then stop. If you must brake while the turn(s), the more the motorcycle leaning, apply light brakes and reduce must lean. the throttle. As you slow, you can Keep your body upright and allow reduce your lean angle and apply more the motorcycle to lean in the direction brake pressure until the motorcycle is of the turn while keeping your knees

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE 30 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES against the tank and your feet solidly on Cornering the footrests. Let the motorcycle move A primary cause of single-vehicle underneath you. Make your escape crashes is motorcyclists running wide in route the target of your vision. Press a curve or turn and colliding with the on the opposite handgrip once you roadway or a fi xed object. clear the obstacle to return you to your original direction of travel. To swerve to Every curve is diff erent. Be alert to the left, press the left handgrip, then whether a curve remains constant, press the right to recover. To swerve to gradually widens, gets tighter or the right, press right, then left. involves multiple turns. IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, SEPARATE Ride within your skill level and posted IT FROM SWERVING. Brake before or speed limits. after — never while swerving. Your best path may not always follow the curve of the road.

CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES

DECREASING CURVES (TIGHTER TURNS) WIDENING CURVES 31

Change lane position depending on HANDLING DANGEROUS traffi c, road conditions and curve of SURFACES the road. If no traffi c is present, start at the outside of a curve to increase your Your chance of falling or being line of sight and the eff ective radius of involved in a crash increases whenever the turn. As you turn, move toward the you ride across: inside of the curve, and as you pass the • Uneven surfaces or obstacles. center, move to the outside to exit. • Slippery surfaces. Another alternative is to move to the • Railroad tracks. center of your lane before entering a curve — and stay there until you exit. • Grooves and gratings. This permits you to spot approaching Uneven Surfaces and traffi c as soon as possible. You can also adjust for traffi c “crowding” the center Obstacles line, or debris blocking part of your lane. Watch for uneven surfaces such as bumps, broken pavement, potholes or small pieces of highway trash. Try to avoid obstacles by slowing or going around them. If you must go over the obstacle, fi rst determine if it is TEST YOURSELF 8 possible. Approach it at as close to a 90˚ angle as possible. Look where you want The best way to stop quickly is to: to go to control your path of travel. If A. Use the front brake only. you have to ride over the obstacle, you B. Use the rear brake fi rst. should: C. Throttle down and use the front • Slow down as much as possible brake. before contact. D. Use both brakes at the same time. • Make sure the motorcycle is Answer - page 45 straight.

OBSTACLES 32 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

• Rise slightly off the seat with your lever gradually to avoid locking the weight on the footrests to absorb front wheel. Remember, gentle the shock with your knees and pressure on the rear brake. elbows, and avoid being thrown off • The center of a lane can be the motorcycle. hazardous when wet. When it starts • Just before contact, roll on the to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by throttle slightly to lighten the front cars. Often, the left tire track will end. be the best position, depending on traffi c and other road conditions as If you ride over an object on the well. street, pull off the road and check your tires and rims for damage before riding • Watch for oil spots when you put any farther. your foot down to stop or park. You may slip and fall. Slippery Surfaces • Dirt and gravel collect along the Motorcycles handle better when sides of the road — especially on ridden on surfaces that permit good curves and ramps leading to and from highways. Be aware of what’s traction. Surfaces that provide poor on the edge of the road, particularly traction include: when making turns and • Wet pavement, particularly just getting on or off freeways at high after it starts to rain and before speeds. surface oil washes to the side of the • Rain dries and snow melts faster road. on some sections of a road than • Gravel roads, or where sand and on others. Patches of ice tend to gravel collect. develop in low or shaded areas and on bridges and overpasses. Wet • Mud, leaves, snow, and ice. surfaces or wet leaves are just as • Lane markings (painted lines), slippery. Ride on the least slippery steel plates and manhole covers, portion of the lane and reduce especially when wet. speed. To ride safely on slippery surfaces: Cautious riders steer clear of roads • Reduce Speed — Slow down covered with ice or snow. If you can’t before you get to a slippery avoid a slippery surface, keep your surface to lessen your chances of motorcycle straight up and proceed skidding. Your motorcycle needs as slowly as possible. If you encounter more distance to stop. And it is a large surface so slippery that you particularly important to reduce must coast, or travel at a walking pace, speed before entering wet curves. consider letting your feet skim along • Avoid Sudden Moves — Any the surface. If the motorcycle starts to sudden change in speed or direction fall, you can catch yourself. Be sure to can cause a skid. Be as smooth as keep off the brakes. If possible, squeeze possible when you speed up, shift the clutch and coast. Attempting this gears, turn or brake. maneuver at anything other than • Use Both Brakes — The front the slowest of speeds could prove brake is still eff ective, even on a hazardous. slippery surface. Squeeze the brake 33

For track and road seams that run CROSSTRACKS—RIGHT 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 a deliberate turn. Edging across could catch your tires and throw you off balance. Grooves and Gratings Riding over rain grooves or bridge gratings may cause a motorcycle to CROSSTRACKS—WRONG weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling is generally not hazardous. Relax, maintain a steady speed and ride straight across. Crossing at an angle forces riders to zigzag to stay in the lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous than the wandering feeling.

GRATE CROSSINGS—RIGHT Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks and Pavement Seams Usually it is safer to ride straight within your lane to cross tracks. Turning to take tracks head-on (at a 90˚ angle) can be more dangerous — your path may carry you into another lane of traffi c.

PARALLEL TRACKS—RIGHT GRATE CROSSINGS—WRONG

PARALLEL TRACKS—WRONG TEST YOURSELF 9

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. D. Increase your speed.

Answer - page 45 34 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

MECHANICAL PROBLEMS Stuck Throttle You can fi nd yourself in an emergency Twist the throttle back and forth the moment something goes wrong several times. If the throttle cable is with your motorcycle. In dealing with stuck, this may free it. If the throttle any mechanical problem, take into stays stuck, immediately operate the account the road and traffi c conditions engine cut-off switch and pull in the you face. Here are some guidelines clutch at the same time. This will remove that can help you handle mechanical power from the rear wheel, though problems safely. engine sound may not immediately decline. Once the motorcycle is “under Tire Failure control,” pull off and stop. You will seldom hear a tire go fl at. After you have stopped, check the If the motorcycle starts handling throttle cable carefully to fi nd the source diff erently, it may be a tire failure. This of the trouble. Make certain the throttle can be dangerous. You must be able to works freely before you start to ride tell from the way the motorcycle reacts. again. If one of your tires suddenly loses air, react quickly to keep your balance. Pull Wobble off and check the tires. A “wobble” occurs when the front If the front tire goes fl at, the steering wheel and handlebars suddenly start will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel fl at is to shake from side to side at any particularly hazardous because it aff ects speed. Most wobbles can be traced to your steering. You have to steer well to improper loading, unsuitable accessories keep your balance. or incorrect tire pressure. If you are carrying a heavy load, lighten it. If you If the rear tire goes fl at, the back of can’t, shift it. Center the weight lower the motorcycle may jerk or sway from and farther forward on the motorcycle. side to side. Make sure tire pressure, spring pre- If either tire goes fl at while riding: load, air shocks and dampers are at the • Hold handgrips fi rmly, ease off the settings recommended for that much throttle, and keep a straight course. weight. Make sure windshields and fairings are mounted properly. • If braking is required, however, gradually apply the brake of the tire Check for poorly adjusted steering; that isn’t fl at, if you are sure which worn steering parts; a front wheel that one it is. is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; loose wheel bearings or spokes; and • When the motorcycle slows, worn bearings. If none of edge to the side of the road, these is determined to be the cause, squeeze the clutch and stop. have the motorcycle checked out thoroughly by a qualifi ed professional. 35

Trying to “accelerate out of a Engine Seizure wobble” will only make the motorcycle When the engine “locks” or more unstable. Instead: “freezes” it is usually low on oil. The • Grip the handlebars fi rmly, but engine’s moving parts can’t move don’t fi ght the wobble. smoothly against each other, and the • Close the throttle gradually engine overheats. The fi rst sign may be to slow down. Do not apply the a loss of engine power or a change in brakes; braking could make the the engine’s sound. Squeeze the clutch wobble worse. lever to disengage the engine from the • Move your weight as far forward rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop. and down as possible. Check the oil. If needed, oil should be • Pull off the road as soon as you added as soon as possible or the engine can to fi x the problem. will seize. When this happens, the eff ect is the same as a locked rear wheel. Let the engine cool before restarting. TEST YOURSELF 10 ANIMALS If your motorcycle starts to wobble: A. Accelerate out of the wobble. Naturally, you should do everything you safely can to avoid hitting an B. Use the brakes gradually. animal. If you are in traffi c, however, C. Grip the handlebars fi rmly and close the throttle gradually. remain in your lane. Hitting something small is less dangerous to you than D. Downshift. Answer - page 45 hitting something big — like a car. Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If Drive Train Problems you are chased, downshift and approach the animal slowly. As you approach it, The drive train for a motorcycle uses accelerate away and leave the animal either a chain, , or to behind. Don’t kick at an animal. Keep transfer power from the engine to control of your motorcycle and look to the rear wheel. Routine inspection, where you want to go. adjustment, and maintenance makes failure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle) that slips or breaks while you’re riding brake and prepare to stop — they are could lock the rear wheel and cause unpredictable. your motorcycle to skid. If the chain or belt breaks, you’ll TEST YOURSELF 11 notice an instant loss of power to the rear wheel. Close the throttle and brake If you are chased by a dog: to a stop in a safe area. A. Kick it away. B. Stop until the animal loses interest. On models with a drive shaft, loss of oil in the rear diff erential can cause the C. Swerve around the animal. rear wheel to lock, and you may not be D. Approach the animal slowly, then speed up. able to prevent a skid. Answer - page 45 36 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

FLYING OBJECTS CARRYING PASSENGERS From time to time riders are struck AND CARGO by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars Only experienced riders should carry or pebbles kicked up by the tires of passengers or large loads. The extra the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing weight changes the way the motorcycle face protection, it might get smeared handles, balances, speeds up and slows or cracked, making it diffi cult to see. down. Before taking a passenger or a Without face protection, an object heavy load on the street, practice away could hit you in the eye, face or mouth. from traffi c. Whatever happens, keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the Equipment handlebars. When safe, pull off the road To carry passengers safely: and repair the damage. • Equip and adjust your motorcycle GETTING OFF THE ROAD to carry passengers. If you need to leave the road to check • Instruct the passenger before you the motorcycle (or just to rest for a start. while), be sure you: • Adjust your riding technique for the added weight. • Check the roadside — Make sure the surface of the roadside is fi rm Equipment should include: enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, • A proper seat — large enough to loose sand or if you’re just not sure hold both of you without crowding. about it, slow way down before you You should not sit any farther turn onto it. forward than you usually do. • Signal — Drivers behind might not • Footrests — for the passenger. expect you to slow down. Give a Firm footing prevents your clear signal that you will be slowing passenger from falling off and down and changing direction. pulling you off , too. Check your mirror and make a head check before you take any action. • Protective equipment — the same protective gear recommended for • Pull off the road — Get as far off operators. the road as you can. It can be very hard to spot a motorcycle by the Adjust the suspension to handle the side of the road. You don’t want additional weight. You will probably someone else pulling off at the need to add a few pounds of pressure same place you are. to the tires if you carry a passenger. • Park carefully — Loose and sloped (Check your owner’s manual for shoulders can make setting the side appropriate settings.) While your or center stand diffi cult. passenger sits on the seat with you, adjust the mirrors and headlight according to the change in the motorcycle’s angle. 37

Instructing Passengers • Ride a little slower, especially when taking curves, corners or Even if your passenger is a motorcycle bumps. rider, provide complete instructions before you start. Tell your passenger to: • Start slowing earlier as you approach a stop. • Get on the motorcycle only after you have started the engine. • Open up a larger cushion of space ahead and to the sides. • Sit as far forward as possible without crowding you. • Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter or merge in traffi c. • Hold fi rmly to your waist, hips, belt, or to the bike’s passenger Warn your passenger of special handholds. conditions — when you will pull out, • Keep both feet on the footrests, stop quickly, turn sharply or ride over a even when stopped. bump. Turn your head slightly to make yourself understood, but keep your eyes • Keep legs away from the on the road ahead. muffl er(s), chains or moving parts. • Stay directly behind you, leaning Carrying Loads as you lean. Most motorcycles are not designed • Avoid unnecessary talk or motion. to carry much cargo. Small loads can be carried safely if positioned and fastened Also, tell your passenger to tighten his properly. or her hold when you: • Keep the Load Low — Fasten • Approach surface problems. loads securely, or put them in • Are about to start from a stop. . Piling loads against a sissybar or frame on the back of the • Warn that you will make a sudden seat raises the motorcycle’s center move. of gravity and disturbs its balance. Riding With Passengers • Keep the Load Forward — Place Your motorcycle will respond more the load over, or in front of, the rear axle. Tankbags keep loads forward, slowly with a passenger on board. The but use caution when loading hard heavier your passenger, the longer it or sharp objects. Make sure the may take to slow down and speed up — tankbag does not interfere with especially on a light motorcycle. handlebars or controls. Mounting loads behind the rear axle can aff ect TEST YOURSELF 12 how the motorcycle turns and brakes. It can also cause a wobble. Passengers should: • Distribute the Load Evenly — A. Lean as you lean. Load saddlebags with about the B. Hold on to the . same weight. An uneven load can cause the motorcycle to drift to one C. Sit as far back as possible. side. D. Never hold onto you. Answer - page 45 38 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

• Secure the Load — Fasten the load • Know the Route — Make sure securely with elastic cords (bungee everyone knows the route. Then, if cords or nets). Elastic cords with someone is separated they won’t more than one attachment point have to hurry to keep from getting per side are more secure. A tight lost or taking a wrong turn. Plan load won’t catch in the wheel or frequent stops on long rides. chain, causing it to lock up and skid. Rope tends to stretch and knots Keep Your Distance come loose, permitting the load to Maintain close ranks but at the same shift or fall. time keep a safe distance to allow each rider in the group time and space to • Check the Load — Stop and check react to hazards. A close group takes the load every so often to make up less space on the highway, is easier sure it has not worked loose or to see and is less likely to be separated. moved. However, it must be done properly. GROUP RIDING Don’t Pair Up — Never operate directly alongside another rider. There is If you ride with others, do it in a no place to go if you have to avoid a car way that promotes safety and doesn’t or something on the road. To talk, wait interfere with the fl ow of traffi c. until you are both stopped. Keep the Group Small Staggered Formation — This is Small groups make it easier and safer the best way to keep ranks close yet for car drivers who need to get around maintain an adequate space cushion. The them. A small number isn’t separated leader rides in the left side of the lane, as easily by traffi c or red lights. Riders while the second rider stays one second won’t always be hurrying to catch up. behind in the right side of the lane. If your group is larger than four or fi ve riders, divide it up into two or more STAGGERED FORMATION smaller groups. Keep the Group Together • Plan — The leader should look ahead for changes and signal early so “the word gets back” in plenty of time. Start lane changes early to permit everyone to complete the change. • Put Beginners Up Front — Place inexperienced riders just behind the leader. That way the more experienced riders can watch them from the back. • Follow Those Behind — Let the tailender set the pace. Use your mirrors to keep an eye on the person behind. If a rider falls behind, everyone should slow down a little to stay with the tailender. 39

A third rider maintains in the left Some people suggest that the leader position, two seconds behind the fi rst should move to the right side after rider. The fourth rider would keep a passing a vehicle. This is not a good two-second distance behind the second idea. It encourages the second rider rider. This formation keeps the group to pass and cut back in before there close and permits each rider a safe is a large enough space cushion in distance from others ahead, behind and front of the passed vehicle. It’s simpler to the sides. and safer to wait until there is enough • Passing in Formation — Riders in room ahead of the passed vehicle to a staggered formation should pass allow each rider to move into the same one at a time. position held before the pass. • First, the lead rider should pull Single-File Formation — It is best out and pass when it is safe. After to move into a single-fi le formation passing, the leader should return to when riding curves, turning, entering or the left position and continue riding leaving a highway. at passing speed to open room for the next rider. TEST YOURSELF 13 • After the fi rst rider passes safely, When riding in a group, inexperienced the second rider should move up riders should position themselves: to the left position and watch for a A. Just behind the leader. safe chance to pass. After passing, B. In front of the group. this rider should return to the right position and open up room for the C. At the tail end of the group. next rider. D. Beside the leader. Answer - page 45

GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1) GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2) 40 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle, identifying potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions quickly and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road and traffi c conditions is infl uenced by how fi t and alert you are. Alcohol and other drugs, more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and to ride safely. As little as one drink can have a signifi cant eff ect on your performance. Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What to do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined.

WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND OTHER IS IMPORTANT DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE Alcohol is a major contributor to OPERATION motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal No one is immune to the eff ects of crashes. Studies show that nearly 40% alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag of all riders killed in motorcycle crashes about their ability to hold their liquor had been drinking. The rest had only a or perform better on drugs, but alcohol few drinks in their systems — enough or drugs make them less able to think to impair riding skills. In the past, drug clearly and perform physical tasks levels have been harder to distinguish or skillfully. Judgment and the decision- have not been separated from drinking making processes needed for vehicle violations for the traffi c records. But operation are aff ected long before legal riding “under the infl uence” of either limitations are reached. alcohol or drugs poses physical and legal hazards for every rider. Many over-the-counter, prescription and illegal drugs have side eff ects that Drinking and drug use is as big increase the risk of riding. It is diffi cult to a problem among motorcyclists accurately measure the involvement of as it is among automobile drivers. particular drugs in motorcycle crashes. Motorcyclists, however, are more likely But we do know what eff ects various to be killed or severely injured in a crash. drugs have on the processes involved in Injuries occur in 90% of motorcycle riding a motorcycle. We also know that crashes and 33% of automobile crashes the combined eff ects of alcohol and that involve abuse of substances. On other drugs are more dangerous than a yearly basis, 2,000 motorcyclists either is alone. are killed and about 50,000 seriously injured in this same type of crash. These ALCOHOL IN THE BODY statistics are too overwhelming to ignore. Alcohol enters the bloodstream quickly. Unlike most foods and By becoming knowledgeable about beverages, it does not need to be the eff ects of alcohol and other drugs digested. Within minutes after being you will see that riding and substance consumed, it reaches the brain and abuse don’t mix. Take positive steps to begins to aff ect the drinker. The major protect yourself and prevent others from eff ect alcohol has is to slow down and injuring themselves. impair bodily functions — both mental and physical. Whatever you do, you do less well after consuming alcohol. 41

Blood Alcohol Concentration A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed drink with one shot (1.5 ounces) of liquor, Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC and a 5- ounce glass of wine all contain is the amount of alcohol in relation to the same amount of alcohol. blood in the body. Generally, alcohol can be eliminated in the body at the rate of The faster you drink, the more alcohol almost one drink per hour. But a variety accumulates in your body. If you drink of other factors may also infl uence 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 alcohol in your blood, the greater the your bloodstream. degree of impairment. Without taking into account any Three factors play a major part in other factors, these examples illustrate determining BAC: why time is a critical factor when a rider decides to drink. • The amount of alcohol you consume. A person drinking: • How fast you drink. – Seven drinks over the span of three hours would have at least four (7 – 3 • Your body weight. = 4) drinks remaining in their system Other factors also contribute to the at the end of the three hours. They way alcohol aff ects your system. would need at least another four hours to eliminate the four remaining drinks Your sex, physical condition and before they consider riding. food intake are just a few that may cause your BAC level to be even higher. But the full eff ects of these are not completely known. Alcohol may still accumulate in your body even if you are drinking at a rate of one drink per hour. Abilities and judgment can be aff ected by that one drink.

ALCOHOL CONTENT 42 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

– Four drinks over the span of two If you are convicted of riding under hours would have at least two (4 – 2 = the infl uence of alcohol or drugs, 2) drinks remaining in their system at you may receive any of the following the end of the two hours. They would penalties: need at least another two hours to • License Suspension — Mandatory eliminate the two remaining drinks suspension for conviction, arrest or before they consider riding. refusal to submit to a breath test. There are times when a larger • Fines — Severe fi nes are another person may not accumulate as high aspect of a conviction, usually levied a concentration of alcohol for each with a license suspension. drink consumed. They have more • Community Service — Performing blood and other bodily fl uids. But tasks such as picking up litter along because of individual diff erences it the highway, washing cars in the is better not to take the chance that motor-vehicle pool or working at an abilities and judgment have not been emergency ward. aff ected. Whether or not you are • Costs — Additional lawyer’s fees to legally intoxicated is not the real issue. pay, lost work time spent in court or Impairment of judgment and skills alcohol-education programs, public begins well below the legal limit. transportation costs (while your license is suspended) and the added ALCOHOL AND THE LAW psychological costs of being tagged a “drunk driver.” In all states, an adult with a BAC of 0.08% or above is considered MINIMIZE THE RISKS intoxicated. For operators under the age of 21, lower BAC limits (0.00 to 0.02%, Your ability to judge how well you depending on state) apply. It doesn’t are riding is aff ected fi rst. Although matter how sober you may look or act. you may be performing more and more The breath or urine test is what usually poorly, you think you are doing better determines whether you are riding and better. The result is that you ride legally or illegally. confi dently, taking greater and greater risks. Minimize the risks of drinking and Your chances of being stopped for riding by taking steps before you drink. riding under the infl uence of alcohol are Control your drinking or control your increasing. Law enforcement is being riding. stepped up across the country in response to the senseless deaths and injuries caused Make an Intelligent Choice by drinking drivers and riders. Don’t Drink — Once you start, your Consequences of Conviction resistance becomes weaker. Setting a limit or pacing yourself are Years ago, fi rst off enders had a good poor alternatives at best. Your ability to chance of getting off with a small fi ne exercise good judgment is one of the and participation in alcohol-abuse fi rst things aff ected by alcohol. Even if classes. Today the laws of most states you have tried to drink in moderation, impose stiff penalties on drinking you may not realize to what extent operators. And those penalties are your skills have suff ered from alcohol’s mandatory, meaning that judges must fatiguing eff ects. impose them. 43

Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t fi rm and the harder it is for the rider to controlled your drinking, you must resist. While you may not be thanked at control your riding. the time, you will never have to say, “If • Leave the motorcycle — so you only I had ...” won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange another way to get home. FATIGUE • Wait — If you exceed your limit, Riding a motorcycle is more tiring wait until your system eliminates the than driving a car. On a long trip, you’ll alcohol and its fatiguing eff ects. tire sooner than you would in a car. Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can STEP IN TO PROTECT aff ect your control of the motorcycle. FRIENDS • Protect yourself from the elements People who have had too much to — Wind, cold, and rain make you tire quickly. Dress warmly. A drink are unable to make a responsible windshield is worth its cost if you decision. It is up to others to step in plan to ride long distances. and keep them from taking too great a risk. No one wants to do this — it’s • Limit your distance — Experi- uncomfortable, embarrassing and enced riders seldom try to ride more than about six hours a day. thankless. You are rarely thanked for your eff orts at the time. But the • Take frequent rest breaks — Stop alternatives are often worse. and get off the motorcycle at least every two hours. There are several ways to keep friends • Don’t drink or use drugs — from hurting themselves: Artifi cial stimulants often result in • Arrange a safe ride — Provide extreme fatigue or depression when alternative ways for them to get they start to wear off . Riders are home. unable to concentrate on the task at • Slow the pace of drinking — hand. Involve them in other activities. • Keep them there — Use any TEST YOURSELF 14 excuse to keep them from getting If you wait one hour per drink for the on their motorcycle. Serve them alcohol to be eliminated from your body food and coff ee to pass the time. before riding: Explain your concerns for their A. You cannot be arrested for drinking risks of getting arrested or hurt or and riding. hurting someone else. Take their B. Your riding skills will not be aff ected. key, if you can. C. Side eff ects from the drinking may • Get friends involved — Use peer still remain. pressure from a group of friends to D. You will be okay as long as you ride slowly. intervene. Answer - page 45 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 44 EARNING YOUR LICENSE

Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tests are the best measurement of the skills necessary to operate safely in traffi c. Assessing your own skills is not enough. People often overestimate their own abilities. It’s even harder for friends and relatives to be totally honest about your skills. Licensing exams are designed to be scored more objectively. To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill test. Knowledge test questions are based on information, practices and ideas from this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules and safe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual traffi c environment or in a controlled, off -street area.

Knowledge Test 4. If a tire goes fl at while riding and you must stop, it is usually best (Sample Questions) to: 1. It is MOST important to fl ash A. Relax on the handgrips. your brake light when: B. Shift your weight toward the A. Someone is following too closely. good tire. B. You will be slowing suddenly. C. Brake on the good tire and steer C. There is a stop sign ahead. to the side of the road. D. Your signals are not working. D. Use both brakes and stop quickly. 2. The FRONT brake supplies how 5. The car below is waiting to enter much of the potential stopping the intersection. It is best to: power? A. Make eye contact with the driver. A. About one-quarter. B. Reduce speed and be ready to B. About one-half. react. C. About three-quarters. C. Maintain speed and position. D. All of the stopping power. D. Maintain speed and move right. 3. To swerve correctly: A. Shift your weight quickly. B. Turn the handlebars quickly. C. Press the handgrip in the direction of the turn. D. Press the handgrip in the opposite direction of the turn. 45

On-Motorcycle Skill Test • Stop, turn and swerve quickly. Basic vehicle control and crash- • Make critical decisions and carry avoidance skills are included in on- them out. motorcycle tests to determine your Examiners may score on factors ability to handle normal and hazardous related to safety such as: traffi c situations. • Selecting safe speeds to perform You may be tested for your ability to: maneuvers. • Know your motorcycle and your • Choosing the correct path and riding limits. staying within boundaries. • Accelerate, brake and turn • Completing normal and quick safely. stops. • See, be seen and communicate • Completing normal and quick with others. turns or swerves. • Adjust speed and position to the traffi c situation.

To receive a motorcycle license with full privileges, most states require that maneuvers be performed as designed for single-track, two-wheeled motorcycles. On-motorcycle skill tests are not designed for or three-wheeled vehicles. Those vehicles maneuver diff erently than a two-wheeled motorcycle. Depending on the state, an examiner may follow you on a car test-route. Restrictions (, three-wheeled vehicle) may be added until completion of a two-wheeled motorcycle test.

Answers to Test Yourself (previous pages) 1-C, 2-D, 3-D, 4-A, 5-B, 6-C, 7-D 8-D, 9-C, 10-C, 11-D, 12-A, 13-A, 14-C Diagrams and drawings used in this manual are for reference only and are Answers to Knowledge Test (left): not to correct scale for size of vehicles and distances. 1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-C, 5-B 46 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

SUPPLEMENTARY • Saddle seating INFORMATION FOR – Seating in which the rider/ passenger straddles the THREE-WHEEL VEHICLES vehicle. Many states require a separate license – If designed for a passenger, endorsement to operate a three-wheel the passenger must be vehicle. This requires the rider to pass seated behind the operator both a written and a skills test. The (or in a separate passenger purpose of this supplement is to help compartment in the case of a prepare riders to complete the written motorcycle with sidecar). exam for a three-wheel vehicle license 3. Turning diameter of the vehicle or endorsement. This information is at its widest point must be less provided in addition to that off ered in than 40’. the fi rst part of this Motorcycle Operator 4. The vehicle meets all applicable Manual (MOM), so when preparing to federal on-road vehicle standards. take the written test, begin by reading The following vehicles are not the information on 2-wheel motocycles included in this defi nition, and thoroughly. It provides information on therefore testing requirements may not safe operation of your vehicle in traffi c. be applicable. Always refer to your This supplement contains information state Department of Motor Vehicles, specifi c to the safe operation of a three- Department of Licensing or other wheel vehicle, including both three-track appropriate state regulatory agency for vehicles and motorcycles with sidecars. exact regulations regarding testing for: KNOW YOUR VEHICLE • Automotive hybrids or Due to the many three-wheel vehicle automotive conversions designs available on the market today, • Vehicles with automotive standards suitable for testing may vary. controls or seating However, vehicles should conform to • Vehicles with front or rear standards determined by your state. In mounted (engines must general, three-wheel vehicles will have be mounted mid-frame below the the following specifi cations: rider to be considered motorcycle- based) 1. Three wheels leaving two or three separate tracks during • Vehicles with enclosed or semi- straight line operation. enclosed riding compartments 2. Motorcycle-based conversion or • Motorcycles or scooters with two design with: close-set wheels in front (contact patches less than 18.1 inches • Handlebar steering apart) that lean and maneuver like • Motorcycle-type controls standard, single-track, two-wheel arranged with the standard motorcycles layout. Convenience alterations or such as a single brake pedal or lever control, automatic clutch, • Vehicles with any other departure or automatic are from the above standards. allowed. 47

Three-Wheel Vehicle Designs Borrowing and Lending As shown below in the Figure, vehicle Borrowers and lenders, beware. designs vary among manufacturers. Crashes are fairly common among Unlike traditional motorcycles, which are beginning operators, especially in the considered single-track vehicles, three- fi rst months of riding. Operating an wheel vehicles could be either dual or unfamiliar vehicle adds to the problem. triple track design. Dual track vehicles If you borrow a three-wheel vehicle or are motorcycles with sidecars, while motorcycle with sidecar, get familiar triple track vehicles can be confi gured with it in a controlled area. If you lend either with dual front wheels or dual your three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle rear wheels. with sidecar to friends, make sure they are licensed and know how to MOTORCYCLE AND THREE- ride before you allow them to operate WHEEL VEHICLE DESIGNS in traffi c. Such vehicles operate very diff erently than 2-wheel motorcycles. No matter how experienced you may be, be extra careful on any vehicle that is unfamiliar or new to you. Get Familiar with Vehicle Controls Be sure you are familiar with the controls of the three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle with a sidecar before attempting to operate it on any highway, since some vehicle controls may diff er from those found on other three-wheel vehicles or motorcycles. This is especially important if you are riding on a borrowed vehicle. Before beginning the ride: • Make all the checks you would on The Right Vehicle for You your own vehicle. Make sure your three-wheel vehicle or • Familiarize yourself with all sidecar-equipped motorcycle is right for controls, such as the turn signals, you. You should be able to comfortably horn, headlight switch, fuel control reach and operate all of the controls, and valve, and cut-off switch. Locate be able to complete full vehicle turns and operate these items without using the handlebars without excessive having to search for them. upper body movements that could jeopardize stability and control. • Operate all the controls before you start riding. Know the gearshift pattern and operate the throttle, clutch and brakes a few times. Controls react diff erently 48 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

on diff erent vehicles, and exact three-wheel vehicles. Because of this locations of controls may vary tendency, careful load and passenger slightly. Additionally, some positioning inside the tip-over lines will motorcycle conversions may be help maintain maximum stability of the equipped with a single brake pedal vehicle. or lever control, automatic clutch, or automatic transmission. Body Position • As you begin to ride, start out As with any motor vehicle, operator slowly and carefully and be aware of position is important for control and your surroundings. Accelerate gently, for reducing or preventing fatigue. The take turns a little more slowly, and operator should be able to reach both leave extra room for stopping. handgrips comfortably, since more handlebar movement is necessary than BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL when riding a motorcycle. While it is not necessary for the rider of a three- Steering & Tip wheel vehicle to move drastically during Three-wheel vehicles handle diff erently operation, shifting weight in the direction than motorcycles. With three wheels of the turn can improve control. on the ground, they are naturally more Braking stable than a motorcycle. They also steer diff erently. Because conventional three- On a motorcycle with a sidecar, wheel vehicles cannot lean, they cannot during braking in a sharp turn, the countersteer. Instead, the front wheel is sidecar wheel may lift off the ground. pointed in the direction the rider wants Motorcycle and sidecar tires have limited the vehicle to go. traction or grip on the road surface and traction is greater when the vehicle is Under some conditions during the rolling, not skidding or slipping. During operation of a three-wheel vehicle, it turning, some of the available tire is possible to have only two wheels in traction is used for cornering, so less is contact with the road surface. This could available for stopping. Thus, a skid can occur during turning or tight maneuvers occur if you brake too hard. whenever enough weight is transferred outside of what are called tip-over lines. Turning The Figure shows the tip-over lines on The tendency of the rear, inside wheel to lift during turning is greater with TIP-OVER LINES increased vehicle speed and tighter curve radii. During a turn, inertia causes the center of gravity of the vehicle to shift sideways, and outward toward the tip-over line. The reduced weight over the opposite side wheel can cause it to lift slightly. 49

Because the weight of a three-track • Slightly lean your upper body in vehicle is distributed almost equally the direction you intend to turn. between the two front or two rear • Maintain speed as you enter the wheels, these vehicles handle the same curve. in left and right hand turns. • Accelerate gradually as you exit the When turning a three-track curve. vehicle: During a left hand turn, the sidecar • Approach a turn at speed with acts as a stabilizer, so the sidecar wheel your head up, and look through the stays on the ground. However, if the turn. turn is taken too sharply or at too high • Concentrate on pointing the front a rate of speed, there is a tendency wheel/wheels in the direction you for the motorcycle rear suspension to want the vehicle to go. extend, and this may cause the rear • Roll off the throttle before entering wheel of the motorcycle to lift off the the turn. ground. • Apply the brakes enough to slow When turning left on a motorcycle the vehicle to a speed at which you with sidecar: can ride safely through the turn, • Reduce speed prior to entering the then release the brakes before the turn turn. • Apply more pressure on the rear • Slightly lean your upper body in brake then on the front the direction you intend to turn. • Steer the front wheel/wheels Hills toward the turn. When riding uphill on a three- • Roll on the throttle to pull the wheel vehicle or motorcycle with a vehicle through the turn. sidecar, some weight will shift to the Because the center of gravity of a rear, causing the front of the vehicle motorcycle with sidecar is close to the to become lighter. This weight shift motorcycle itself, the behavior of the reduces the traction on the front tire/ vehicle when turning right and when tires for steering and tire grip. turning left are quite diff erent. When riding downhill, gravity During a right turn, a slight sideways increases the amount of braking force movement of the center of gravity required to slow or stop the vehicle. It creates a greater tendency for the is important, therefore, to begin slowing sidecar wheel to lift. The lift will be earlier for cornering and stopping. greater if the sidecar is empty or lightly Lane Position loaded. The track of the dual wheels of a When turning right on a three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle with motorcycle with sidecar: a sidecar is almost the same width as • Anticipate the degree of turn some automobiles. Unlike a motorcycle, required. you are limited, therefore, in lane • Reduce speed before entering the positioning. Keep toward the center of curve by downshifting or braking. the lane to be sure the track of the dual 50 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT wheels does not cross the painted lines • On acceleration, compensate for this into opposing traffi c. Riding too far to yaw tendency by steering slightly the right could cause loss of traction if in the opposite direction from the the tire leaves the pavement. sidecar. • On deceleration, compensate for this Lane positioning when riding tendency by steering slightly in the in groups is also an important direction of the sidecar. You can also consideration. You will not be able pull in the clutch when braking. to use a staggered formation, such as you would when riding motorcycles. Swerving Ride single fi le and always maintain a A quick stop may not always be safe margin, two seconds minimum, suffi cient to avoid an obstacle in your between vehicles. path, even if you properly apply both Parking at the Roadside brakes. Sometimes the only way to avoid a collision is to swerve. A swerve is any Because of the limitations on mobility sudden change of direction. It can be and vehicle length, it is not practical to two quick turns or a rapid shift to the side park your vehicle at a 90 degree angle when maneuvering the vehicle. Often, with your rear wheel touching the there is not much time to adjust your curb, as you would with a motorcycle. body position. Position your vehicle in a parking space so you are parked parallel to the curb A three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle and set the parking brake. Some three- with sidecar is not as maneuverable wheel vehicles have reverse, so you can as a motorcycle, so plan well ahead to more easily maneuver into a parking avoid the need for any sudden turns or space designed for an automobile. swerving. If braking is required, brake Parking parallel to the curb will facilitate either before or after the swerve, never pulling away from the curb and entering while swerving. the lanes of traffi c. Cornering & Curves Acceleration and Deceleration The cornering characteristics of a A three-wheel vehicle with two drive three-wheel vehicle or motorcycle with a wheels tends to be much more stable sidecar diff er from those of a motorcycle. during acceleration and braking than a Even with three wheels on the ground, a motorcycle with a sidecar. Attaching a sidecar can tip over if it is being turned sidecar to your motorcycle adds a non- too sharply or is going too fast for a powered, off -centered mass of weight. corner. Therefore, it is best to always slow So, during acceleration, the sidecar before entering a corner. will feel as though it is lagging behind The best path to follow in the curve you, causing the vehicle to feel as may not be the one that follows the though it is being steered to the right. curve of the road. Following the center During deceleration or braking, the of the lane may actually increase the momentum of the sidecar continues tip over forces. Check opposing traffi c to carry it forward, giving the feeling carefully, and if safe, enter the curve that the sidecar is trying to pass you, toward the outside of your lane, as shown making the vehicle feel as though it is in the Figure. This increases your line of being steered left. sight through the curve and reduces the 51 eff ective radius of the curve. As you turn, When loaded, you may fi nd move toward the inside of the curve, performance is reduced and that and as you pass the center, move to the stopping distances are longer, so allow outside to exit, always remembering to a little extra distance. The addition of a stay in your lane. sidecar passenger will greatly improve stability, and right hand turns can be CARRYING PASSENGERS AND made at a slightly higher speed. Turning CARGO left, however, will require more turning Three-wheel vehicles are designed to carry passengers and cargo, but always be sure not to exceed the tire or vehicle loading capacity. The extra weight could change the handling characteristics of the vehicle slightly, so you must give some thought to where the loads are positioned. Many three-track vehicles will have built-in storage compartments for cargo, either in front of, or behind the rider. On these vehicles, center the load and keep it low in the storage areas so it is positioned within the tip-over lines and balanced side-to-side. If a passenger is being carried, the passenger will sit directly behind the rider. On a motorcycle with a sidecar, the best place for a passenger is in the sidecar. Never put a single passenger on the saddle; the added weight on the tip-over-line will increase the instability of the vehicle. While a second passenger can be carried on the seat behind the rider, the heavier passenger should always be in the sidecar. The passenger sitting behind the rider should sit upright at all times. It is not necessary for the passenger to lean into curves with the rider. When carrying loads in a sidecar, secure the load fi rmly in place, since if the load shifts, handling will be aff ected. Loads should be distributed toward the rear of the sidecar to reduce tipping of the nose of the sidecar in the event of a sudden left turn. ORGAN DONOR INFORMATION

You have an opportunity now to make a decision that could, in the future, save someone’s life.

Heart, lungs, liver, kidney, pancreas, small bowel, skin, bone and cornea transplants take place successfully every day. But, the waiting list keeps growing and donors are desperately needed.

Make a decision to save someone’s life. When you get your driver’s license, designate yourself as an organ and tissue donor, then tell your friends and family what you have done and encourage them to do the same.

Someone else could be making a decision today that may someday even save your life.

Complete the donor information on your license and tell your family.

For more information, call:

New Organ Bank at 1-800-446-6362 or LifeChoice Donor Services at 1-800- 874-5215. The Foundation’s (MSF) purpose is to improve the safety of motorcyclists on the nation’s streets and highways. In an attempt to reduce motorcycle crashes and inju­ries, the Foundation has programs in rider education, licensing improvement,­ public information and statistics. These programs are designed for both motorcyclists and motorists. A national not-for-profit organization, the MSF is sponsored by BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, , Kawasaki, KTM, /Vespa, , Triumph, Victory and Yamaha. 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 organizations familiar with the use of motorcycles, accessories, and training. Because there are many differences in product design, riding styles, federal, state and local laws, there may be organizations and individuals who hold differing opinions. Consult your local regulatory agencies for informa­tion concerning the operation of motor-cycles in your area. Although the MSF will continue to research, field test and publish responsible viewpoints on the subject, it disclaims any liability for the views expressed herein.