WWW.RIDESAFEINDIANA.COM Motorcycle Operator Manual

JANUARY 1, 2017 BMV0005 2ND EDITION MOTORCYCLES MAKE SENSE – PREFACE SO DOES PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

Welcome to the Seventeenth Edition This latest edition has undergone Motorcycles are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and easy to park. of the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual significant improvements, and contains Unfortunately, many riders never learn critical skills needed to ride safely. (MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely new, more in-depth information, Professional training for beginning and experienced riders prepares them for in traffic requires special skills and designed to: real-world traffic situations. Motorcycle Safety FoundationRiderCourses SM teach and knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety • Guide riders in preparing to ride improve such skills as: Foundation (MSF) has made this manual safely available to help novice motorcyclists • Effective turning • Braking maneuvers • Protective apparel selection reduce their risk of having a crash. The • Develop effective street strategies • Obstacle avoidance • Traffic strategies • Maintenance manual conveys essential safe riding • Give riders more comprehensive information and has been designed understanding of safe group riding For the basic or experienced RiderCourse nearest you, for use in licensing programs. While practices designed for the novice, all motorcyclists call toll free: 800.446.9227 • Describe in detail best practices for can benefit from the information this or visit msf-usa.org carrying passengers and cargo manual contains. In promoting improved licensing The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) purpose is to improve the safety The original Motorcycle Operator of motorcyclists on the nation’s streets and highways. In an attempt to reduce programs, the MSF works closely with Manual was developed by the National motorcycle crashes and inju­ries, the Foundation has programs in rider education, state licensing agencies. The Foundation Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI) licensing improve­ment, public information and statistics. These programs has helped more than half the states under contract to the National Highway are designed for both motorcyclists and motorists. A national not-for-profit in the nation adopt the Motorcycle Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) organization, the MSF is sponsored by BMW, BRP, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Operator Manual for use in their and within the terms of a cooperative Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha. licensing systems. agreement between NHTSA and the The information contained in this publication is offered for the benefit of those MSF. The manual and related tests Improved licensing, along with high who have an interest in riding motorcycles. The infor­mation has been compiled were used in a multi-year study of quality motorcycle rider education and from publications, interviews and observa­tions of individuals and organizations improved motorcycle operator licensing increased public awareness, has the familiar with the use of motorcycles, accessories, and training. Because there are many differences in product design, riding styles, federal, state and local laws, procedures, conducted by the California potential to reduce crashes. Staff at there may be organizations and individuals who hold differing opinions. Consult the Foundation are available to assist Department of Motor Vehicles under your local regulatory agencies for informa­tion concerning the operation of motor- contract to NHTSA. governmental and private agencies in cycles in your area. Although the MSF will continue to research, field test and efforts to improve motorcycle safety. The purpose of this manual is to publish responsible viewpoints on the subject, it disclaims any liability for the views educate riders and to help them avoid expressed herein. crashes while safely operating either a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a three-wheel motorcycle. Tim Buche President, Motorcycle Safety Foundation

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Ride Safe Indiana

Ride Safe Indiana is the State of Indiana’s RIDE SAFE INDIANA MOTORCYCLE SKILLS MILITARY PERSONNEL approved motorcycle safety program within the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Our MOTORCYCLE SAFETY EXAM Active duty military members who are mission is to train more motorcyclists and TRAINING Applicants must possess a valid Indiana Indiana residents, but are stationed outside educate motorists in order to decrease driver’s license and motorcycle learner’s of the state, may obtain a motorcycle motorcycle fatalities and accidents. For more Approved Ride Safe Indiana providers permit. Applicants must provide the endorsement after completing the following offer courses for beginning and advanced information about Ride Safe Indiana, visit motorcycle used for the skills exam. Prior steps: motorcyclists who want to learn or improve RideSafeIndiana.com. to taking the motorcycle skills exam, the their riding skills. Five hours of classroom • Successfully complete a motorcycle applicant will be required to sign a Waiver of To operate a motorcycle on a public instruction prepares you for 10 hours of safety course through the military or a Liability. roadway, an individual must hold a valid practical riding exercises in a controlled, program where you are stationed within Indiana driver’s license with a motorcycle off-street environment. The course concludes The motorcycle skills exam consists of the last year; endorsement or possess a valid motorcycle with a knowledge and skills evaluation. several elements to measure an applicant’s • Submit a copy of a Ride Safe Indiana learner’s permit. An applicant is not eligible Motorcycles are provided free of charge basic control of the motorcycle and response Motorcycle Safety Course Completion for a motorcycle learner’s permit or a for your use during the course. Training to hazardous situations, to include: document proving successful motorcycle endorsement if the applicant’s course completion documents issued by an completion of motorcycle safety course; driving privileges are revoked, suspended or approved Ride Safe Indiana provider are valid • Overall control invalidated. for one year from date of issuance. For more • Starting • Submit a copy of Indiana driver’s license; information regarding motorcycle safety and • Sharp right turn training, visit RideSafeIndiana.com. • Submit a copy of military ID or orders MOTORCYCLE • Stopping at designated points • Cone weave ENDORSEMENT MOTORCYCLE LEARNER’S NEW INDIANA RESIDENTS A motorcycle endorsement may be • U-turn PERMIT New Indiana residents who hold a valid issued to Indiana residents who are at least • Quick stop 16 years and 180 days of age and hold To obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit, an motorcycle endorsement from another state a valid Indiana driver’s license. To add a applicant must pass a motorcycle knowledge • Obstacle swerve may transfer their motorcycle endorsement motorcycle endorsement to your Indiana exam and a vision screening. A motorcycle Points will be assessed if the applicant fails to their Indiana driver’s license after passing driver’s license, you must complete one of learner’s permit may only be renewed one to properly execute any of the maneuvers a motorcycle knowledge exam. the following two options: time. Anyone not obtaining a motorcycle above. The applicant will fail the motorcycle endorsement prior to the second permit skills exam if he or she: 1. Provide proof you have successfully expiring must wait for a period of one year completed an approved Ride Safe before applying for another permit to take a • Accumulates more than 10 points Indiana motorcycle safety training motorcycle skills exam. However, individuals • Falls or drops the motorcycle course can participate in an approved Ride Safe 2. Pass a motorcycle knowledge exam to Indiana motorcycle safety training course at • Commits an intentional unsafe act obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit. any time to receive an endorsement upon • Disregards or fails to understand Pass a motorcycle skills exam. successful completion. instructions of the examiners You may also be required to pass a A person operating a motorcycle while in Exams will be administered at a motorcycle standard vision screening exam. If you possession of a motorcycle learner’s permit skills exam site by an approved Ride Safe must, by law, abide by the following: are less than 18 years of age when you Indiana provider. apply for a motorcycle endorsement, you • Hold a valid Indiana driver’s license. Only one skills exam may be attempted must have a parent or guardian sign an • May operate a motorcycle on public during any business day. Applicants will Agreement of Financial Liability. roads for the duration of the one-year be required to pay an exam fee for each permit, under the following restrictions: attempt. Once an applicant successfully Must wear a helmet that meets the completes a motorcycle skills exam, the standards established by the United results are valid for the duration of the States Department of Transportation holder’s motorcycle learner’s permit. Each under 49CFR571.218. applicant is allowed three attempts to pass the skills exam. After the third failed attempt, Operate a motorcycle only during the applicant must wait two months from daylight hours. the date of the last failed skills exam before Must not carry passengers. taking another skills exam. THE RIDER AND BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE THE MOTORCYCLE ���������������������������1 Why This Information Is Important ���������������������������������������39 PREPARING TO RIDE Alcohol and Other Drugs in Wear the Right Gear ����������������������������2 Motorcycle Operation �������������������39 Know Your Motorcycle ������������������������4 Alcohol in the Body ����������������������������39 Know Your Responsibilities �����������������7 Alcohol and the Law ��������������������������41 Minimize the Risks �����������������������������41 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES Step in to Protect Friends ������������������42 Basic Vehicle Control ����������������������������8 Marijuana and Keeping Your Distance �����������������������12 Motorcycle Operation �������������������42 SEE �������������������������������������������������������17 Fatigue ������������������������������������������������43 Intersections ���������������������������������������18 ��������������44 Increasing Conspicuity �����������������������21 EARNING YOUR LICENSE Crash Avoidance ���������������������������������24 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT Handling Dangerous Surfaces �����������27 Supplementary Information Mechanical Problems �������������������������30 for Three-Wheel Motorcycles ���������46 Animals �����������������������������������������������31 Know Your Vehicle ������������������������������46 Flying Objects �������������������������������������32 Basic Vehicle Control ���������������������������48 Getting Off the Road �������������������������32 Carrying Passengers and Cargo ����������51 Carrying Passengers 52 and Cargo ���������������������������������������32 HAND SIGNALS...... Group Riding ���������������������������������������35 T-CLOCS PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST ����54 1 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE PREPARING TO RIDE 2

Motorcycling is a RIDING ENVIRONMENT What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining unique experience. whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on any Compared to a car, trip, a safe rider makes a point to: you don’t sit in a motorcycle, you 1. Wear the right gear. become part of it. 2. Become familiar with the motorcycle. Not as a passive 3. Check the motorcycle equipment. driver, but as an active rider arcing 4. Be a responsible rider. into a string of smooth corners, WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR a helmet kept a rider from spotting playing along with danger. When you ride, your gear is “right” the rhythm of the if it protects you. In any crash, you have • Most crashes happen on short road; shifting, trips (less than five miles long), just a far better chance of avoiding serious accelerating, a few minutes after starting out. injury if you wear: and braking • Most riders are riding slower than with precision. • A DOT-compliant helmet. 30 mph when a crash occurs. At Whether you • Face or eye protection. these speeds, helmets can cut both the number and the severity of head ride to and from • Protective clothing. work or prefer you, and supports the concept that, injuries by half. the camaraderie of a group ride on the as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Helmet Use No matter what the speed, helmeted weekend, motorcycling engages all your says, “Safe riding depends as much Crashes can occur — particularly riders are three times more likely to senses and creates an invigorating sense on the mental skills of awareness and among untrained, beginning riders. survive head injuries than those not of freedom. judgment as it does on a physical skill of And one out of every five motorcycle wearing helmets at the time of the Along with that freedom comes maneuvering the machine.” crashes results in head or neck injuries. crash. The single most important thing responsibility. All states require Successfully piloting a motorcycle is a Head injuries are just as severe as neck you can do to improve your chances of some form of license endorsement much more involved task than driving a injuries — and far more common. Crash surviving a crash is to wear a securely- demonstrating you possess a minimum car. Motorcycling requires a fine sense analyses show that head and neck fastened, quality helmet. level of skill and knowledge. This of balance and a heightened sense of injuries account for a majority of serious Helmet Selection booklet and other motorcycle awareness and position amidst other and fatal injuries to motorcyclists. publications can help prepare you to roadway users. A motorcycle responds Research also shows that, with few There are two primary types of be successful. You might also consider more quickly to rider inputs than a car, exceptions, head and neck injuries are helmets, providing two different levels taking a formal hands-on training but is also more sensitive to outside reduced by properly wearing a quality of coverage: three-quarter and full face. course, even if your state doesn’t require forces, like irregular road surfaces or helmet. Whichever style you choose, you can that you complete one. You’ll learn how crosswinds. A motorcycle is also less Some riders don’t wear helmets get the most protection by making sure to improve your riding skills and mental visible than a car due to its narrower because they think helmets will limit that the helmet: strategies, so you can be a safer, more profile, and offers far less protection by their view to the sides. Others wear • Is designed to meet U.S. alert rider. exposing its rider to other traffic and helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation The diagram above illustrates the the elements. All these risks can be riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards. Helmets complex environment that awaits managed through study, training, and some facts to consider: with a label from the Snell Memorial practice. Foundation also give you an • A DOT-compliant helmet lets assurance of quality. you see as far to the sides as necessary. A study of more than • Fits snugly, all the way around. 900 motorcycle crashes, where • Has no obvious defects such as 40% of the riders wore helmets, cracks, loose padding or frayed did not find even one case in which straps. 3 PREPARING TO RIDE3 4 PREPARING TO RIDE4

Whatever helmet you • Gloves allow a better grip and help HELMETS KNOW YOUR decide on, keep it securely protect your hands in a crash. Your MOTORCYCLE fastened on your head gloves should be made of leather or when you ride. Otherwise, similar durable material. There are plenty of things on the highway that can cause you trouble. if you are involved in a • Hearing protection reduces Your motorcycle should not be one crash, it’s likely to fly off noise while allowing you to hear of them. To make sure that your your head before it gets a important sounds such as car horns motorcycle won’t let you down: chance to protect you. or sirens. Long term exposure to Eye and Face engine and wind noise can cause • Start with the right motorcycle Protection permanent hearing damage even for you. if you wear a full face helmet. • Read the owner’s manual. A plastic impact-resistant Whether you choose disposable faceshield can help protect foam plugs or reusable custom • Be familiar with the motorcycle your whole face in a molded devices, be sure you adhere controls. crash. It also protects you Clothing to state laws regarding hearing • Check the motorcycle before from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and protection. every ride. pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. The right clothing protects you in These problems are distracting and a collision. It also provides comfort, In cold or wet weather, your clothes • Keep it in safe riding condition can be painful. If you have to deal as well as protection from heat, cold, should keep you warm and dry, as between rides. well as protect you from injury. You with them, you can’t devote your full debris and hot and moving parts of the • Avoid add-ons and modifications cannot control a motorcycle well if attention to the road. motorcycle. It can also make you more that make your motorcycle harder you are numb. Riding for long periods visible to others. to handle. Goggles protect your eyes, though in cold weather can cause severe chill • Jacket and pants should cover they won’t protect the rest of your face and fatigue. A winter jacket should arms and legs completely. They The Right Motorcycle For You like a faceshield does. A windshield resist wind and fit snugly at the neck, should fit snugly enough to keep First, make sure your motorcycle is is not a substitute for a faceshield or wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits from flapping in the wind, yet right for you. It should “fit” you. Your goggles. Most windshields will not designed for motorcycle riding resist loosely enough to move freely. feet should reach the ground while protect your eyes from the wind. Neither tearing apart or ballooning up at high Leather offers the most protection. you are seated on the motorcycle, and will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses speeds. won’t keep your eyes from watering, Sturdy synthetic material provides the controls should be easy to operate. and they might blow off when you turn a lot of protection as well. Wear Smaller motorcycles are usually easier your head while riding. a jacket even in warm weather to for beginners to operate. prevent dehydration. Many are CLOTHING At a minimum, your street-legal To be effective, eye or faceshield designed to protect without getting motorcycle should have: protection must: you overheated, even on summer • Be free of scratches. days. Some riders choose jackets • Headlight, taillight and brakelight. • Be resistant to penetration. and pants with rigid “body armor” inserts in critical areas for additional • Give a clear view to either side. protection. TEST YOURSELF 1 • Fasten securely, so it does not • Boots or shoes should be high A plastic shatter-resistant face blow off. shield: and sturdy enough to cover your • Permit air to pass through, to A. Is not necessary if you have a ankles and give them support. Soles windshield. reduce fogging. should be made of hard, durable, B. Only protects your eyes. • Permit enough room for slip-resistant material. Keep heels eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed. short so they do not catch on rough C. Helps protect your whole face. surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t D. Does not protect your face as well Tinted eye protection should not be as goggles. worn when little light is available. catch on your motorcycle. Answer - page 45 5 PREPARING TO RIDE5 6 PREPARING TO RIDE6

• Front and rear brakes. involve riders with less than five months • Know the controls. Work the • Try the front and rear brake levers one at a time. Make sure each feels • Turn signals. of experience on their motorcycle. throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter a few times before you start riding. firm and holds the motorcycle when • Horn. Get Familiar with the fully applied. Motorcycle Controls • Ride very cautiously and be aware • Two mirrors. of surroundings. Accelerate gently, C — Controls Make sure you are completely familiar take turns more slowly and leave • Make sure the clutch and throttle Borrowing and Lending with the motorcycle before you take extra room for stopping. operate smoothly. The throttle Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, it out on the street. Be sure to review Check Your Motorcycle should snap back to fully closed beware. Crashes are more likely to occur the owner’s manual. This is particularly when released. The clutch should among beginning riders — especially important if you are riding a borrowed A motorcycle needs more frequent feel tight and should operate in the first months of riding. Riding motorcycle. attention than a car. A minor technical smoothly. an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the failure on a car is seldom more than an If you are going to use an unfamiliar • Try the horn. Make sure it works. problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, motorcycle: inconvenience for the driver. The same get familiar with it in a controlled area. failure on a motorcycle may result in a L — Lights and Electrics And if you lend your motorcycle to • Make all the checks you would on crash or having to leave your motorcycle • Check both headlight and taillight. friends, make sure they are licensed and your own motorcycle. parked on the side of the road. If Test your switch to make sure both know how to ride before allowing them • Find out where everything is,  anything’s wrong with your motorcycle, high and low beams work. out into traffic. particularly the turn signals, horn, you’ll want to find out about it before headlight switch, fuel-supply valve you get in traffic. • Turn on both right and left hand No matter how experienced you turn signals. Make sure all lights are and engine cut-off switch. Find and may be, ride extra carefully on any The primary source of information working properly. motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar operate these items without having about how a motorcycle should be • Try both brakes and make sure each to you. More than half of all crashes to look for them. inspected and maintained is its owner’s one turns on the brake light. manual. Be sure to absorb all of its • Clean and adjust your mirrors MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS important information. A motorcycle will continue to ride like new if it is properly before starting. It’s difficult to ride maintained and routine inspections with one hand while you try to become part of its maintenance cycle. adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror so you can see the lane behind and A pre-ride inspection only takes as much as possible of the lane next a few minutes and should be done to you. When properly adjusted, a before every ride to prevent problems. mirror may show the edge of your It’s quick and easy to check the critical arm or shoulder – but it’s the road components and should be as routine behind you and to the side that are and automatic as checking the weather most important. forecast before heading out for the day. A convenient reminder developed by O — Oil and Other Fluids MSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a T-CLOCS • Check engine oil and transmission “tear-out” sheet at the back of this fluid levels. manual for you to keep with you when • Check the brake hydraulic fluid and you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection should coolant level weekly. be conducted before every ride, and includes checks of: • Be sure your fuel valve is open before starting out. With the fuel T — Tires and Wheels valve closed, your motorcycle may • Check tire inflation pressure, start with only the fuel that is still in treadwear and general condition of the lines, but will stall once the lines sidewalls and tread surface. are empty. 7 PREPARING TO RIDE7 RIDE8 WITHIN RIDE YOUR WITHIN ABILITIES YOUR ABILITIES 8

• Look underneath the motorcycle for responsibility to look before pulling out. This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance. signs of an oil or fuel leak. Both of you are at fault. Someone else That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal might be the first to start the chain of C — Chassis course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing events leading to a crash, but it doesn’t your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules • Check the front suspension. Ensure leave any of us free of responsibility. there is no binding. The rear shocks of the road. and springs should move smoothly. As a rider you can’t be sure that other operators will see you or yield the right BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars • Be sure the chain or belt is adjusted of way. To lessen your chances of a so your hands are even with or according to the manufacturer’s crash occurring: Body Position below your elbows. This permits specifications and that the sprockets you to use the proper muscles for • Be visible — wear proper clothing, To control a motorcycle well: are not worn or damaged. precision steering. use your headlight, ride in the best S — Stands • Posture — Position yourself lane position to see and be seen. comfortably so you are able to • Knees — Keep your knees against • Ensure the side stand operates the gas tank to help you keep your • Communicate your intentions — operate all the controls and can use smoothly and that the spring holds balance as the motorcycle turns. use the proper signals, brake light your arms to steer the motorcycle, it tightly in the up position. If and lane position. rather than to hold yourself up. • Feet — Keep your feet firmly on the equipped, the center stand should This helps you bond with your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t also be held firmly against the frame • Maintain an adequate space motorcycle and allows you to react drag your feet. If your foot catches whenever the motorcycle is moving. cushion — when following, being quickly to hazards. on something, you could be injured followed, lane sharing, passing and Additionally, regular maintenance and it could affect your control of being passed. • Seat — Sit far enough forward so such as tune-ups and oil changes are as that arms are slightly bent when the motorcycle. Keep your feet near important for a motorcycle as routine • Search your path of travel 12 you hold the handgrips. Bending the controls so you can get to them checkups by your doctor are for you. seconds ahead. your arms permits you to press on fast if needed. Also, don’t let your Wear and tear is normal with use; • Identify and separate hazards. the handlebars without having to toes point downward — they may routine maintenance will help prevent stretch. get caught between the road and costly breakdowns. The schedule for • Be prepared to act — remain alert the footrests. regular upkeep for motorcycle parts and know how to carry out proper • Hands — Hold the handgrips and controls is contained in your crash-avoidance skills. firmly to keep your grip over rough Shifting Gears surfaces. Start with your right motorcycle’s owner’s manual. Blame doesn’t matter when someone There is more to shifting gears than wrist flat. This will help you keep is injured in a crash. The ability to ride simply getting the motorcycle to pick KNOW YOUR from accidentally using too much aware, make critical decisions and carry up speed smoothly. Learning to use the RESPONSIBILITIES them out separates responsible riders gears when downshifting, turning or “Accident” implies an unforeseen from the rest. Remember, it is up to you HOLDING HANDGRIPS starting on hills is equally important for event that occurs without fault or to keep from being the cause of, or an safe motorcycle operation. negligence. In traffic, that is not the unprepared participant in, any crash. The gearshift lever is located in front case. In fact, most people involved in a of the left footrest and is operated by crash can claim some responsibility for TEST YOURSELF 2 the left foot. To shift “up” to a higher what takes place. gear, position your foot under the More than half of all crashes: Consider a situation where someone shift lever and lift. To downshift, press A. Occur at speeds greater than the shift lever down. The shift lever decides to drive through an intersection 35mph. on a yellow light turning red. Your changes one gear each time it is lifted B. Happen at night. light turns green. You pull into the or pressed down. Whenever the lever intersection without checking for C. Are caused by worn tires. is released, spring loading returns it to possible traffic. That is all it takes for the D. Involve riders who have less than center, where the mechanism resets five months of experience on their for the next shift up or down. A typical two of you to crash. It was the driver’s motorcycles. responsibility to stop, and it was your Answer - page 45 gear pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is 9 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 10 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES10 for neutral, which is selected by either enough before downshifting safely. slow or stop. The front brake is more To stop as quickly and as safely as a “half lift” from 1st gear or a “half When downshifting, use a 3-step powerful and can provide at least 70% possible in a curve, and depending on press” from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you of your total stopping power. The front road and traffic conditions, try to get the have five gears, but some have four or squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press the brake is safe to use if you use it properly. motorcycle as perpendicular to the road six gears. shift lever down firmly, 3) ease out the Maximum straight-line braking is as possible, then brake. If conditions do clutch lever as you roll on the throttle. accomplished by fully applying both not allow, brake smoothly and gradually, SHIFTING GEARS Once the shift is completed, release front and rear brakes without locking but do not apply as much braking force the shift lever to permit it to reset for either wheel. as you would if the motorcycle were straight up. As you slow, you can reduce the next shift. Rolling on the throttle To do this: slightly while smoothly easing out the your lean angle, and as more traction clutch can help the engine come up • Squeeze the front brake becomes available for braking, you can to speed more quickly and make the smoothly, firmly and with more firmly apply the brakes, so that progressively more force. Do not downshift smoother. Shifting to a lower by the time the motorcycle is stopped, grab the brake lever or use abrupt the motorcycle is straight up, and the gear causes an effect similar to using pressure. the brakes. This is known as engine handlebars are squared. braking. To use engine braking, shift • As the motorcycle’s weight Linked and Integrated transfers forward, more traction down one gear at a time and ease out Braking Systems the clutch through the friction zone becomes available at the front between each downshift. Keep the wheel, so the front brake can be Some motorcycles have linked braking As your motorcycle increases clutch in the friction zone until the applied harder after braking begins. which connects the front and rear speed, you will need to shift up to a engine speed stabilizes. Then ease out • Keep your knees against the brakes on the motorcycle and applies higher gear. Shift up well before the the lever fully until ready for the next tank and your eyes up, looking braking pressure to both brakes when engine RPM reaches its maximum downshift. Usually you shift gears one at well ahead. This helps you stop the either the front lever or rear pedal is recommended speed. As a general rule, a time, but it is possible to shift through motorcycle in a straight line. applied. An integrated braking system shift up soon enough to avoid over- more than one gear while the clutch is is a variation of the linked system in revving the engine, but not so soon to squeezed. • Apply light-to-lighter pressure which partial front braking is applied cause the engine to lug. to the rear brake pedal to prevent a whenever the rear brake is activated. Remain in first gear while you are rear wheel skid. As weight transfers Consult your owner’s manual for a When upshifting, use a 3-step stopped so that you can move out forward less traction is available detailed explanation on the operation process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you quickly if you need to. at the rear. Use less rear brake and effective use of these systems. squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the Work toward a smooth, even clutch pressure. shift lever firmly as far as it will go, 3) Anti-Lock Braking Systems release, especially when downshifting. It Using both brakes for even “normal” smoothly ease out the clutch and adjust is best to change gears before entering (ABS) the throttle. Once the shift is completed, stops will permit you to develop the a turn. However, sometimes shifting proper habit or skill of using both brakes ABS is designed to prevent wheel release the shift lever to permit it to while in the turn is necessary. If so, reset for the next shift. properly in an emergency. Squeeze the lock-up and avoid skids when stopping remember to do so smoothly. A sudden front brake and press down on the rear. in straight-line, panic situations. ABS You should shift down through the change in power to the rear wheel can Grabbing at the front brake or jamming operates when maximum pressure on gears with the clutch as you slow or cause a skid. down on the rear can cause the brakes both the front and rear brake controls stop, and can also shift down when you Braking to lock, resulting in control problems. is applied. If electronic sensors detect need more power to accelerate. the possibility of a wheel lock, brake Braking in a Corner Make certain you are riding slowly Improper braking technique remains hydraulic pressure is released then enough when you shift into a lower a significant contributing factor in many Any time a motorcycle is leaned over, reapplied to maintain maximum braking gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle the amount of traction available for effectiveness. has two brake controls: one for the braking is reduced. The greater the lean and the rear wheel may skid. When The system is capable of releasing and front wheel and one for the rear wheel. angle, the more the possibility of the riding downhill or shifting into first gear reapplying pressure more than 15 times Always use both brakes every time you tires losing traction. you may need to use the brakes to slow per second. 11 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 12 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES12

Turning In normal turns, the rider and the KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE • Avoid windblast from other vehicles. motorcycle should lean together at the Approach turns and curves with The best protection you can have is • Provide an escape route. same angle. caution. Riders often try to take curves distance — a “cushion of space” — • Set up for turns. or turns too fast. When they can’t hold separating yourself from other vehicles NORMAL TURNS Many motorcyclists consider the left the turn, they end up crossing into on the roadway. This will provide you third of the lane – the left tire track of another lane of traffic or going off the with a clear view of emerging traffic situations, so that if someone else automobiles – to be their default lane road. Or, they overreact and brake too makes a mistake, you will have: position. You should then consider hard, causing a skid and loss of control. varying your lane position as conditions • More time to respond. Use four steps for better control: warrant, keeping in mind that no • More space to maneuver, including portion of the lane need be avoided — • SLOW — Reduce speed before the an escape route if necessary. including the center. turn by closing the throttle and, if You should position yourself in the necessary, applying both brakes. Lane Positions portion of the lane where you are most • LOOK — Look through the turn Successful motorcyclists know that likely to be seen and you can maintain to where you want to go. Turn they are safer when clearly seen. In a space cushion around you. Change just your head, not your shoulders, some ways the size of the motorcycle position as traffic situations change. Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other and keep your eyes level with the can work to your advantage. Each traffic lane gives a motorcycle three paths of potential problems are on your left horizon. travel, as indicated in the illustration. only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards are on your right only. If vehicles are • PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle Your lane position should help you: must lean. To lean the motor- being operated on both sides of you, cycle, press on the handgrip in In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by • Increase your ability to see and be the center of the lane, path 2, is usually the direction of the turn. Press left leaning the motorcycle only and keeping seen. your best option. handgrip — lean left — go left. your body straight. • Avoid others’ blind spots. Remember, the center third of the Press right handgrip — lean right lane is the place where debris and oil • Avoid surface hazards. — go right. The higher the speed in SLOW, TIGHT TURNS drippings from cars collect and where a turn, or the sharper the turn, the • Protect your lane from other drivers. hazards such as manhole covers are located. Unless the road is wet, the greater the lean angle needs to be. • Communicate your intentions. average center strip permits adequate • ROLL — Roll on the throttle to maintain or slightly increase speed. This helps stabilize the motorcycle. LANE POSITIONS

TEST YOURSELF 3

When riding, you should: A. Turn your head and shoulders to look through turns. B. Keep your arms straight. C. Keep your knees away from the gas tank. D. Turn just your head and eyes to look where you are going. Answer - page 45 13 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 14 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES14

When behind a car, ride where the Passing FOLLOWING driver can see you in the rearview mirror. Riding in the center portion of the lane 1. Ride in the left portion of the should put your image in the middle of lane at a safe following distance the rearview mirror — where a driver is to increase your line of sight and most likely to see you. make you more visible. Signal and check for oncoming traffic. Riding at the far side of a lane may Use your mirrors and turn your permit a driver to see you in a sideview head to look for traffic behind. mirror. But remember that most drivers don’t look at their sideview mirrors 2. When safe, move into the left nearly as often as they check the lane and accelerate. Select a lane rearview mirror. If the traffic situation position that doesn’t crowd the allows, the center portion of the lane is car and provides space to avoid usually the best place for you to be seen hazards in your lane. by the drivers ahead and to prevent lane 3. Ride through the blind spot as sharing by others. quickly as possible. Being Followed 4. Signal again, and complete mirror and headchecks before Speeding up to lose someone following returning to your original lane too closely only ends up with someone and then cancel the signal. tailgating you at a higher speed. Remember, passes must be A better way to handle tailgaters completed within posted speed traction to ride on safely. You can thousand-one, one-thousand-two.” is to get them in front of you. When limits, and only where permitted. someone is following too closely, operate to the left or right of the grease • If you reach the marker before Know your signs and road markings! strip and still be within the center third change lanes and let them pass. If you you reach “two,” you are following can’t do this, slow down and open up of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big too closely. buildups of oil and grease usually found extra space ahead of you to allow room at busy intersections or tollbooths. A two-second following distance for both you and the tailgater to stop. PASSING leaves a minimum amount of space to This will also encourage them to pass. Experienced riders rely on their own stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops If they don’t pass, you will have given best judgment and instincts. One suddenly. It also permits a better view of yourself and the tailgater more time and absolute, however, is to avoid riding in potholes and other hazards in the road. space to react in case an emergency another vehicle’s blind spot. does develop ahead. A larger cushion of space is needed Following Another Vehicle if your motorcycle will take longer Passing and Being Passed than normal to stop. If the pavement “Following too closely” is a factor in Passing and being passed by another crashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic, is slippery, if you cannot see through the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy vehicle is not much different than with a motorcycles need as much distance car. However, visibility is more critical. Be to stop as cars. Normally, a minimum and someone may squeeze in front of you, open up a three-second or more sure other drivers see you, and that you of two seconds distance should be see potential hazards. maintained behind the vehicle ahead. following distance. To gauge your following distance: Keep well behind the vehicle ahead even when you are stopped. This will • Pick out a marker, such as a make it easier to get out of the way pavement marking or lamppost, on if someone bears down on you from or near the road ahead. behind. It will also give you a cushion of • When the rear bumper of the space if the vehicle ahead starts to back vehicle ahead passes the marker, up for some reason. count off the seconds: “one- 15 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 16 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES16

Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the Merging Cars Cars Alongside lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It When you are being passed from might invite the other driver to cut back Drivers on an entrance ramp may Do not ride next to cars or trucks in behind, stay in the center portion of into your lane too early. not see you on the highway. Give them other lanes if you do not have to. You your lane. Riding close to the passing plenty of room. Change to another lane might be in the blind spot of a car in the vehicle could put you in a hazardous Lane Sharing if one is open. If there is no room for a next lane, which could switch into your situation. Cars and motorcycles need a full lane lane change, adjust speed to open up lane without warning. Cars in the next Avoid being hit by: to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually space for the merging driver. lane also block your escape if you come • The other vehicle — A slight prohibited. upon danger in your own lane. Speed mistake by you or the passing driver up or drop back to find a place clear of could cause a sideswipe. Riding between rows of stopped or traffic on both sides. moving cars in the same lane can leave • Extended mirrors — Some drivers you vulnerable to the unexpected. A forget that their mirrors hang out hand could come out of a window; MERGING BLIND SPOTS farther than their fenders. a door could open; a car could turn • Objects thrown from windows suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by — Even if the driver knows you’re others. Keep a center-portion position there, a passenger may not see you whenever drivers might be tempted and might toss something on you or to squeeze by you. Drivers are most the road ahead of you. tempted to do this: • Blasts of wind from larger vehicles — They can affect your • In heavy, bumper-to-bumper control. You have more room for traffic. error if you are in the middle portion • When they want to pass you. when hit by this blast than if you • When you are preparing to turn at are on either side of the lane. an intersection. • When you are moving into an exit BEING PASSED lane or leaving a highway.

TEST YOURSELF 4

Usually, a good way to handle tailgaters is to: A. Change lanes and let them pass. B. Use your horn and make obscene gestures. C. Speed up to put distance between you and the tailgater. D. Ignore them. Answer - page 45 17 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 18 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES18

SEE • Hazardous road conditions that Apply the old adage “one step at a RIDER RADAR require you to be alert, especially in time” to handle two or more hazards. Good, experienced areas with limited visibility. Visually Adjust speed to permit two hazards riders are always aware of “busy” surroundings could hide you to separate. Then deal with them one what is going on around and your motorcycle from others. at a time as single hazards. Decision- them. They reduce their Evaluate making becomes more complex with risk by using MSF’s three- three or more hazards. Evaluate the step SEE strategy: Evaluate means to think about how consequences of each and give equal • Search hazards can interact to create risks for distance to the hazards. you. Anticipate potential problems and • Evaluate In potential high-risk areas, such as have a plan to reduce risks, particularly intersections, shopping areas and school • Execute when faced with: and construction zones, cover the clutch SEE will help you • Road and surface characteristics  and both brakes to reduce the time you assess what is going on such as potholes, guardrails, need to react. in traffic so you can plan bridges, telephone poles and trees and implement the safest that won’t move into your path, but INTERSECTIONS course of action as traffic may influence your riding strategy. The greatest potential for conflict situations change. Let’s between you and other traffic is at look at each of these • Traffic control devicesincluding  intersections. An intersection can be steps. traffic signals, warning signs, and pavement markings, which will in the middle of an urban area or at Search require you to carefully evaluate a driveway on a residential street — anywhere traffic may cross your path of How assertively you circumstances ahead. travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car search, and how much • Vehicles and other traffic that crashes are caused by drivers entering a time and space you have, may move into your path and rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left in can eliminate or minimize increase the likelihood of a crash. front of you, including cars turning left risk. As you search, focus considered enough time and space to Think about your time and space from the lane on your right, and cars on on finding potential escape routes, swerve and/or brake for fixed hazards or requirements in order to maintain a side streets that pull into your lane, are especially in or around intersections, for someone or something entering your margin of safety, and give yourself the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE shopping areas and school and path of travel. time to react if an emergency arises. at intersections is critical. construction zones. Finally, experienced riders search for Execute One way to search is to use your hazards that are further out, looking “RiderRadar” to aggressively scan the Finally, Execute your decision. To ahead to an area it would take about TEST YOURSELF 5 environment ahead of you, to the sides, create more space and minimize harm 12 seconds to reach. This provides and behind you to avoid potential from any hazard: time to prepare for a situation before it To reduce your reaction time, you hazards even before they arise. There should: becomes immediate. • Communicate your presence with are three “lead times” experienced lights and/or horn. A. Ride slower than the speed riders consider. First, be alert and scan Using the SEE strategy will help you to limit. for hazards that are about 2 seconds Search for a variety of factors such as: • Adjust your speed by accelerating, stopping or slowing. B. Cover the clutch and the brakes. ahead of you, or within your following • Oncoming traffic that may turn left distance. Scanning your 4-second in front of you. • Adjust your position and/or C. Shift into neutral when slowing. immediate path can allow you time for direction by swerving, changing D. Pull in the clutch when turning. a quick response if something should • Traffic coming from the left and lanes, or moving to another position go wrong. Anything that is within 4 from the right. within your lane. Answer - page 45 seconds of your path is considered • Traffic approaching from behind. immediate because 4 seconds is 19 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 20 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES20

the intersection, move away from the LARGE INTERSECTIONS vehicle. Do not change speed or position BLIND INTERSECTIONS radically, as drivers might think you are preparing to turn. Be prepared to brake hard and hold your position if an oncoming vehicle turns in front of you, especially if there is other traffic around you. This strategy should also be used whenever a vehicle in the oncoming lane of traffic is signaling for a left turn, whether at an intersection or not. Blind Intersections If you approach a blind intersection, move to the portion of the lane that will bring you into another driver’s field of vision at the earliest possible moment. In this picture, the rider has moved to the left portion of the lane — away from the parked car — so the driver on STOP SIGNS the cross street can see him as soon as possible. Remember, the key is to see as much There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being as possible and remain visible to others others see you. Never count on “eye seen at intersections. Ride with your while protecting your space. contact” as a sign that a driver will headlight on and in a lane position that yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a provides the best view of oncoming If you have a stop sign or stop line, motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him traffic. Provide a space cushion around stop there first. Then edge forward or her. The only eyes that you can count the motorcycle that permits you to and stop again, just short of where the on are your own. If a car can enter your take evasive action. When approaching cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From path, assume that it will. Good riders an intersection where a vehicle driver that position, lean your body forward are always “looking for trouble” — not is preparing to cross your path, slow and look around buildings, parked cars to get into it, but to stay out of it. down and select a lane position to or bushes to see if anything is coming. PARKED CARS increase your visibility to that driver. Just make sure your front wheel stays Cover the clutch lever and both brakes out of the cross lane of travel while SMALL INTERSECTION to reduce reaction time. As you enter you’re looking. Passing Parked Cars TEST YOURSELF 6 When passing parked cars, stay Making eye contact with other toward the left of your lane. You drivers: can avoid problems caused by doors A. Is a good sign they see you. opening, drivers getting out of cars B. Is not worth the effort it takes. or people stepping from between C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it yield. is usually best to remain in the center- D. Guarantees that the other driver will lane position to maximize your space yield to you. Answer - page 45 cushion. 21 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 22 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES22

A bigger problem can occur if the Once you turn, make sure your signal is driver pulls away from the curb without PARKING AT CURBS SIGNALING off or a driver may pull directly into your checking for traffic behind. Even if he path, thinking you plan to turn again. does look, he may fail to see you. Use your signals at every turn so drivers In either event, the driver might cut can react accordingly. Don’t make them into your path. Slow down or change guess what you intend to do. lanes to make room for someone Brake Light cutting in. Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually Cars making a sudden U-turn are not as noticeable as the brake lights on the most dangerous. They may cut a car — particularly when your taillight you off entirely, blocking the whole is on. (It goes on with the headlight.) roadway and leaving you with no If the situation will permit, help others place to go. Since you can’t tell what a notice you by flashing your brake light driver will do, slow down and get the before you slow down. It is especially driver’s attention. Sound your horn and However, you can do many things to important to flash your brake light continue with caution. make it easier for others to recognize before: Parking at the Roadside you and your motorcycle. have the headlights on when running). • You slow more quickly than Studies show that, during the day, a others might expect (turning off a If parking in a parallel parking space Clothing motorcycle with its light on is twice as next to a curb, position the motorcycle high-speed highway). Most crashes occur in broad daylight. likely to be noticed. Use low beam at at an angle with the rear wheel to the • You slow where others may not Wear bright-colored clothing to increase night and in fog. curb. (Note: Some cities have ordinances expect it (in the middle of a block or your chances of being seen. Remember, that require motorcycles to park parallel Signals at an alley). your body is half of the visible surface to the curb.) area of the rider/motorcycle unit. The signals on a motorcycle are similar If you are being followed closely, it’s to those on a car. They tell others what a good idea to flash your brake light Increasing Conspicuity Bright orange, red, yellow or green you plan to do. before you slow. The tailgater may be jackets/vests are your best bets for being In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers watching you and not see something seen. Your helmet can do more than However, due to a rider’s added often say that they never saw the ahead that will make you slow down. protect you in a crash. Brightly colored vulnerability, signals are even more motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a This will hopefully discourage them from motorcycle’s outline is much smaller helmets can also help others see you. important. Use them anytime you plan to change lanes or turn. Use them even tailgating and warn them of hazards than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see Any bright color is better than drab when you think no one else is around. ahead they may not see. something you are not looking for, or dark colors. Reflective, bright-colored It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to and most drivers are not looking for clothing (helmet and jacket/vest) is best. Using Your Mirrors give you the most trouble. Your signal motorcycles. More likely, they are While it’s most important to keep looking through the skinny, two- Reflective material on a vest and on lights also make you easier to spot. the sides of the helmet will help drivers That’s why it’s a good idea to use your track of what’s happening ahead, you wheeled silhouette in search of cars that can’t afford to ignore situations behind. may pose a problem to them. coming from the side to spot you. turn signals even when what you plan Reflective material can also be a big to do is obvious. Traffic conditions change quickly. Even if a driver does see you coming, help for drivers coming toward you or Knowing what’s going on behind is When you enter a freeway, drivers you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller from behind. essential for you to make a safe decision vehicles appear farther away and approaching from behind are more likely about how to handle trouble ahead. seem to be traveling slower than they Headlight to see your signal blinking and make room for you. Frequent mirror checks should be part actually are. It is common for drivers The best way to help others see your of your normal searching routine. Make to pull out in front of motorcyclists, motorcycle is to keep the headlight on Turning your signal light on before a special point of using your mirrors: thinking they have plenty of time. Too — at all times (new motorcycles sold each turn reduces confusion and • When you are stopped at an often, they are wrong. in the USA since 1978 automatically frustration for the traffic around you. intersection. Watch cars coming up 23 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 24 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES24

from behind. If the drivers aren’t Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE paying attention, they could be on USING MIRRORS isn’t as loud as a car’s — therefore, use it, No matter how careful you are, there top of you before they see you. but don’t rely on it. Other strategies, like having time and space to maneuver, may will be times when you find yourself in a • Before you change lanes. Make be appropriate along with the horn. tight spot. Your chances of getting out sure no one is about to pass you. safely depend on your ability to react • Before you slow down. The driver Riding at Night quickly and properly. Often, a crash behind may not expect you to slow, At night it is harder for you to see occurs because a rider is not prepared or or may be unsure about where you and be seen. Picking your headlight skilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers. will slow. For example, you signal a or taillight out of the car lights around Know when and how to stop or turn and the driver thinks you plan you is not easy for other drivers. To swerve, two skills critical in avoiding to turn at a distant intersection, compensate, you should: a crash. It is not always desirable or rather than at a nearer driveway. • Reduce Your Speed — Ride even possible to stop quickly to avoid an Most motorcycles have rounded slower than you would during the obstacle. Riders must also be able to (convex) mirrors. These provide a day — particularly on roads you swerve around an obstacle. Deter- wider view of the road behind than don’t know well. This will increase mining which skill is necessary for the do flat mirrors. They also make cars your chances of avoiding a hazard. situation is important as well. seem farther away than they really are. • Increase Distance — Distances Studies show that most crash- If you are not used to convex mirrors, are harder to judge at night than involved riders: get familiar with them. (While you during the day. Your eyes rely upon • Underbrake the front tire and Frequent head checks should be shadows and light contrasts to are stopped, pick out a parked car in overbrake the rear. your mirror. Form a mental image of your normal scanning routine, also. determine how far away an object is and how fast it is coming. These how far away it is. Then, turn around Only by knowing what is happening • Did not separate braking from contrasts are missing or distorted and look at it to see how close you all around you are you fully prepared swerving or did not choose under artificial lights at night. swerving when it was appropriate. came.) Practice with your mirrors until to deal with it. Open up a three-second fol­lowing you become a good judge of distance. The following information offers Horn distance or more. And allow more Even then, allow extra distance before distance to pass and be passed. some good advice. you change lanes. Be ready to use your horn to get • Use the Car Ahead — The Quick Stops someone’s attention quickly. headlights of the car ahead can give Head Checks To stop quickly, apply both brakes It is a good idea to give a quick beep you a better view of the road than at the same time. Don’t be shy about Checking your mirrors is not enough. before passing anyone that may move even your high beam can. Taillights using the front brake, but don’t “grab” Motorcycles have “blind spots” like cars. into your lane. bouncing up and down can alert Before you change lanes, turn your head, you to bumps or rough pavement. it, either. Squeeze the brake lever Here are some situations: and look to the side for other vehicles. • Use Your High Beam — Get all the firmly and progressively. If the front wheel locks, release the front brake On a road with several lanes, check • A driver in the lane next to you light you can. Use your high beam immediately then reapply it firmly. At the far lane and the one next to you. A is driving too closely to the vehicle whenever you are not following the same time, press down on the driver in the distant lane may head for ahead and may want to pass. or meeting a car. Be visible: Wear reflective materials when riding at rear brake. If you accidentally lock the the same space you plan to take. • A parked car has someone in the night. rear brake on a good traction surface, driver’s seat. TEST YOURSELF 7 • Be Flexible About Lane Position. you can keep it locked until you have • Someone is in the street, riding a Change to whatever portion of the completely stopped; but, even with a Reflective clothing should: bicycle or walking. lane is best able to help you see, be locked rear wheel, you can control the A. Be worn at night. seen and keep an adequate space motorcycle on a straightaway if it is In an emergency, sound your horn B. Be worn during the day. cushion. upright and going in a straight line. loud and long. Be ready to stop or C. Not be worn. swerve away from the danger. D. Be worn day and night Answer - page 45 25 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 26

Stopping Quickly cause the motorcycle to lean quickly. crash and serious injury or death. Too STOPPING DISTANCE in a Curve The sharper the turn(s), the more the much rear brake pressure causes rear- motorcycle must lean. wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel If you know the technique, Keep your body upright and allow locks, your ability to change direction is using both brakes in a turn is lost. To regain control the brake must possible, although it should the motorcycle to lean in the direction of the turn while keeping your knees be released. However, if the rear wheel be done very carefully. When is out of alignment with the front, there leaning the motorcycle some against the tank and your feet solidly on the foot rests. Let the motorcycle move is a risk of a high-side crash. This occurs of the traction is used for when the wheels are out of alignment cornering. Less traction is underneath you. Make your escape route the target of your vision. Press and a locked rear wheel is released. The available for stopping. A skid motorcycle can abruptly snap upright can occur if you apply too much on the opposite handlegrip once you clear the obstacle to return you to your and tumble, throwing the rider into the brake. Also, using the front air ahead of the motorcycle’s path. Even brake incorrectly on a slippery original direction of travel. To swerve to feet of stopping to maintain your balance the left, press the left handlegrip, then slight misalignment can result in a high- surface may be hazardous. Use caution side crash. and squeeze the brake lever, never grab. and remain upright. press the right to recover. To swerve to the right, press right, then left. Curves If you must stop quickly while turning Swerving or Turning Quickly If braking is required, separate it in a curve, first straighten and square Sometimes you may not have enough A primary cause of single-vehicle from swerving. Brake before or after the handlebars, then stop. If you find room to stop, even if you use both crashes is motorcyclists running wide in – never while swerving. yourself in a situation that does not allow brakes properly. You may encounter an a curve or turn and colliding with the straightening first, such as when there is unexpected object in your path. Or the Maximum Straight-Line roadway or a fixed object. a danger of running off the road in a left- car ahead might sqeal to a stop. The Braking Every curve is different. Be alert to hand curve, or when facing oncoming only way to avoid a crash may be to whether a curve remains constant, traffic in a right-hand curve, apply the turn quickly or swerve around it. Maximum straight-line braking is gradually widens, gets tighter or brakes smoothly and gradually. As you accomplished by fully applying front A swerve is a sudden change in involves multiple turns. Ride within your slow, you can reduce your lean angle and rear brakes without locking either skill level and posted speed limits. and apply more brake pressure until the direction. It can be two quick turns, wheel. Keep your body centered over motorcycle is straight and maximum or a rapid shift to the side. Apply a the motorcycle and look well ahead, Your best path may not always follow brake pressure can be applied. Always small amount of hand pressure to the not down. This will help you keep the curve of the road. Change lane straighten the handlebars in the last few handlegrip located on the side of your the motorcycle in as straight a line as position depending on traffic, road intended direction of escape. This will possible, minimizing lean angle and the conditions and curve of the road. If no likelihood of the wheels losing traction. traffic is present, start at the outside SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE of a curve to increase your line of sight Front-Wheel Skids and the effective radius of the turn. As If the front wheel locks, release the you turn, move toward the inside of the front brake immediately and completely. curve, and as you pass the center, move to the outside to exit. Reapply the brake smoothly. Front- wheel skids result in immediate loss of Another alternative is to move to the steering control and balance. Failure to center of your lane before entering a fully release the brake lever immediately curve — and stay there until you exit. will result in a crash. This permits you to spot approaching traffic as soon as possible. You can also Rear-Wheel Skids adjust for traffic “crowding” the center A skidding rear tire is a dangerous line, or debris blocking part of your lane. condition that can result in a violent 27 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 28

CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES OBSTACLES

DECREASING CURVES (TIGHTER TURNS) WIDENING CURVES weight on the footrests to absorb before you get to a slippery the shock with your knees and surface to lessen your chances of elbows, and avoid being thrown off skidding. Your motorcycle needs the motorcycle. more distance to stop. And it is • Just before contact, roll on the particularly important to reduce throttle slightly to lighten the front speed before entering wet curves. end. • Avoid Sudden Moves — Any sudden change in speed or direction If you ride over an object on the can cause a skid. Be as smooth as street, pull off the road and check your possible when you speed up, shift tires and rims for damage before riding gears, turn or brake. any farther. • Use Both Brakes — The front Slippery Surfaces brake is still effective, even on a slippery surface. Squeeze the brake Motorcycles handle better when lever gradually to avoid locking the HANDLING DANGEROUS bumps, broken pavement, potholes or ridden on surfaces that permit good front wheel. Remember, gentle small pieces of highway trash. traction. Surfaces that provide poor pressure on the rear brake. SURFACES traction include: Try to avoid obstacles by slowing or • The center of a lane can be Your chance of falling or being hazardous when wet. When it starts going around them. If you must go • Wet pavement, particularly just after involved in a crash increases whenever it starts to rain and before surface oil to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by over the obstacle, first determine if it is you ride across: washes to the side of the road. possible. Approach it at as close to a 90˚ • Uneven surfaces or obstacles. angle as possible. Look where you want • Gravel roads, or where sand and TEST YOURSELF 8 gravel collect. • Slippery surfaces. to go to control your path of travel. If you have to ride over the obstacle, you should: • Mud, leaves, snow, and ice. The best way to stop quickly is to: • Railroad tracks. A. Use the front brake only. • Slow down as much as possible • Lane markings (painted lines),  • Grooves and gratings. before contact. steel plates and manhole covers, B. Use the rear brake first. especially when wet. C. Throttle down and use the front Uneven Surfaces • Make sure the motorcycle is brake. straight. To ride safely on slippery surfaces: and Obstacles D. Use both brakes at the same time. Watch for uneven surfaces such as • Rise slightly off the seat with your • Reduce Speed — Slow down Answer - page 45 29 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 30

cars. Often, the left tire track will edge of the road, particularly when consider letting your feet skim along can be dangerous. You must be able to be the best position, depending on making sharp turns and getting on or the surface. If the motorcycle starts to tell from the way the motorcycle reacts. traffic and other road conditions. off freeways at high speeds. fall, you can catch yourself. Be sure to If one of your tires suddenly loses air, • Watch for oil spots when you put • Rain dries and snow melts faster  keep off the brakes. If possible, squeeze react quickly to keep your balance. Pull your foot down to stop or park. You on some sections of a road than on the clutch and coast. Attempting this off and check the tires. may slip and fall. others. Patches of ice tend to develop maneuver at anything other than the If the front tire goes flat, the steering in low or shaded areas and on bridges • Dirt and gravel collect along the slowest of speeds could prove hazardous. will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel flat is sides of the road — especially on and overpasses. Wet surfaces or wet leaves are just as slippery. Ride on the Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks particularly hazardous because it affects curves and ramps leading to and from your steering. You have to steer well to highways. Be aware of what’s on the least slippery portion of the lane and and Pavement Seams. reduce speed. keep your balance. Usually it is safer to ride straight within CROSSTRACKS—CORRECT Cautious riders steer clear of roads your lane to cross tracks. Turning to take If the rear tire goes flat, the back of covered with ice or snow. If you can’t tracks head-on (at a 90˚ angle) can be the motorcycle may jerk or sway from avoid a slippery surface, keep your more dangerous — your path may carry side to side. motorcycle straight up and proceed you into another lane of traffic. If either tire goes flat while riding: as slowly as possible. If you encounter a large surface so slippery that you For track and road seams that run • Hold handgrips firmly, ease off the parallel to your course, move far enough must coast, or travel at a walking pace, throttle, and keep a straight course. away from tracks, ruts, or pavement • If braking is required, gradually GRATE CROSSINGS—CORRECT seams to cross at an angle of at least 45˚. Then, make a deliberate turn. apply the brake of the tire that isn’t CROSSTRACKS—INCORRECT Edging across could catch your tires and flat, if you are sure which one it is. throw you off balance. • When the motorcycle slows,  Grooves and Gratings edge to the side of the road, Riding over rain grooves or bridge squeeze the clutch and stop. gratings may cause a motorcycle to weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling Stuck Throttle is generally not hazardous. Relax, Twist the throttle back and forth maintain a steady speed and ride several times. If the throttle cable is straight across. Crossing at an angle PARALLEL TRACKS—CORRECT GRATE CROSSINGS—INCORRECT stuck, this may free it. If the throttle forces riders to zigzag to stay in the lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous stays stuck, immediately operate the than the wandering feeling. engine cut-off switch and pull in the clutch at the same time. This will remove MECHANICAL PROBLEMS power from the rear wheel, though engine sound may not immediately You can find yourself in an emergency decline. Once the motorcycle is “under the moment something goes wrong control,” pull off and stop. with your motorcycle. In dealing with any mechanical problem, take into After you have stopped, check the PARALLEL TRACKS—INCORRECT TEST YOURSELF 9 account the road and traffic conditions throttle cable carefully to find the source you face. Here are some guidelines of the trouble. Make certain the throttle When it starts to rain it is usually best to: that can help you handle mechanical works freely before you start to ride again. problems safely. A. Ride in the center of the lane. Wobble B. Pull off to the side until the rain Tire Failure stops. A “wobble” occurs when the front C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars. You will seldom hear a tire go flat. wheel and handlebars suddenly start to If the motorcycle starts handling shake from side to side at any speed. D. Increase your speed. Answer - page 45 differently, it may be a tire failure. This Most wobbles can be traced to improper 31 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 32 loading, unsuitable accessories or to a stop in a safe area. For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle) or cargo will affect the way your incorrect tire pressure. If you are carrying On a motorcycle with a drive shaft, brake and prepare to stop — they are motorcycle behaves, requiring extra a heavy load, lighten it. If you can’t, loss of oil in the rear differential can unpredictable. practice, preparation and caution. For reposition it. Center the weight lower this reason, only experienced riders cause the rear wheel to lock, and you FLYING OBJECTS and farther forward on the motorcycle. may not be able to prevent a skid. should attempt to carry passengers or Make sure tire pressure, spring pre- From time to time riders are struck large loads. Before taking a passenger load, air shocks and dampers are at the Engine Seizure by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars or a heavy load on the street, prepare settings recommended for the weight yourself and your motorcycle for safe When the engine “locks” or or pebbles kicked up by the tires of you are carrying. Make sure windshields operation in traffic. “freezes” it is usually low on oil. The the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing and fairings are mounted properly. engine’s moving parts can’t move face protection, it might get smeared Preparing Your Motorcycle Check for poorly adjusted steering; smoothly against each other, and the or cracked, making it difficult to see. worn steering parts; a front wheel that engine overheats. The first sign may be Without face protection, an object Tire Pressure – Check the air is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; a loss of engine power or a change in could hit you in the eye, face or mouth. pressure of both tires. Refer to the loose wheel bearings or spokes; and the engine’s sound. Squeeze the clutch Whatever happens, keep your eyes owner’s manual or the label affixed worn swingarm bearings. If none of lever to disengage the engine from the on the road and your hands on the to the motorcycle for the correct these is determined to be the cause, rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop. handlebars. When safe, pull off the road inflation specifications. Though most have the motorcycle checked out Check the oil. If needed, oil should be and repair the damage. of the added weight will typically be thoroughly by a qualified professional. added as soon as possible or the engine on the rear wheel, don’t forget to also GETTING OFF THE ROAD check the pressure on the front tire. Trying to “accelerate out of a will seize. When this happens, the effect If you need to leave the road to check Correct inflation pressures will maintain wobble” will only make the motorcycle is the same as a locked rear wheel. Let the engine cool before restarting. the motorcycle (or just to rest), be sure to: maximum stability, steering precision more unstable. Instead: and braking capability. • Check the roadside — Make sure • Grip the handlebars firmly, but ANIMALS the surface of the roadside is firm Suspension – With a heavy load, don’t fight the wobble. Naturally, you should do everything enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, the riding characteristics and balance of • Close the throttle gradually  you safely can to avoid hitting an loose sand or if you’re just not sure the motorcycle will change. On some to slow down. Do not apply the animal. If you are in traffic, however, about it, slow way down before you motorcycles, it will be necessary to turn onto it. brakes; braking could make the remain in your lane. Hitting something adjust the suspension settings (spring wobble worse. small is less dangerous to you than • Signal — Drivers behind might not preload, compression/damping settings, • Move your weight as far forward hitting something big — like a car. expect you to slow down. Give a etc.) to compensate for the lowered rear and down as possible. clear signal that you will be slowing of the motorcycle. Refer to the owner’s Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If down and changing direction. manual for adjustment procedures and • Pull off the road as soon as you you are being chased, downshift and Check your mirror and make a head specifications. can to fix the problem. approach the animal slowly. As you check before you take any action. Headlight – Prior to loading, position Drive Train Problems approach it, accelerate and leave the • Pull off the road — Get as far off animal behind. Don’t kick at the animal. the road as you can. It can be very the motorcycle about 10 feet from a The drive train for a motorcycle uses Keep control of your motorcycle and hard to spot a motorcycle by the wall in an unlighted garage and mark either a chain, belt, or drive shaft to look to where you want to go. side of the road. You don’t want the headlight beam location on the transfer power from the engine to someone else pulling off at the wall with chalk. With a full load and the rear wheel. Routine inspection, same place you are. passenger, recheck the headlight beam adjustment, and maintenance makes TEST YOURSELF 10 • Park carefully — Loose and sloped location. Use the adjusting screws on failure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt If your motorcycle starts to wobble: shoulders can make setting the side the headlight to lower the beam to that slips or breaks while you’re riding A. Accelerate out of the wobble. or center stand difficult. the same height. Check your owner’s could lock the rear wheel and cause B. Use the brakes gradually. manual for adjustment procedure. your motorcycle to skid. CARRYING PASSENGERS C. Grip the handlebars firmly and close Equipment for If the chain or belt breaks, you’ll the throttle gradually. AND CARGO Carrying a Passenger notice an instant loss of power to the D. Downshift. The extra weight of a passenger rear wheel. Close the throttle and brake Answer - page 45 • Be sure your passenger is properly 33 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 34

attired, wearing the same level of you have started the engine and down, or turn. day’s riding segment and allow personal protective gear as you. have the transmission in neutral. As plenty of time for breaks. Poor When riding with passengers: weather, breakdowns, and fatigue • Be sure your motorcycle is equipped the passenger mounts, keep both • Ride a little slower, especially when are always possible. with passenger footrests. your feet on the ground and the brakes applied. taking curves, corners, or bumps. If • Consider selecting some interesting • Your motorcycle should have a proper any part of the motorcycle scrapes • Sit as far forward as possible secondary roads to occasionally seat, one large enough to hold both the ground at lean angle, steering without hindering your control of reduce the monotony of the highway. you and your passenger without control can be lost. crowding. You should not sit more the motorcycle. • Start as early in the morning as • Start slowing earlier as you forward than you usually do. • Hold firmly onto your waist, hips, possible. When you are fresh, you approach a stop, and maintain a belt or passenger handholds for ride at peak performance. For most • Check that there is a strap or solid larger space cushion whenever balance and security. riders, this is usually between 6 a.m. handholds for your passenger to slowing or stopping. and 11 a.m. – then, take a good • Keep both feet firmly on the cycle’s hold onto. • Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, hour’s break for lunch. Your energy footrests, even when stopped. Firm or merge in traffic. will pick up again in the afternoon. Preparing Your footing will prevent your passenger Passenger to Ride from falling off and pulling you off. Carrying Loads • Don’t forget sun protection in the summer. Some combinations of Ensure your passenger is able to reach • Keep legs away from the muffler(s), Everything you are likely to need for riding gear can leave your neck the passenger footrests, and is able to chains or moving parts. a riding holiday or weekend trip can exposed, risking sunburn. hold on to your waist, hips, belt, or the • Stay directly behind you and lean be packed on your motorcycle in many bike’s passenger handholds. Children • If you wear a backpack, be sure it with you through turns and curves. different ways. There are complete should be placed immediately behind luggage systems, saddlebags that are is securely attached to you. Try to It is helpful for the passenger to adjust the shoulder straps so that the rider. A child sitting in front of the permanently attached to the motorcycle, look over the rider’s shoulder in the the backpack rests lightly on the rider will not be able to properly balance soft bags that do not require a carrier direction of turns and curves. seat. This will reduce the tension in him/herself and may interfere with the system and can be tied to the seat, your neck and shoulders. rider’s control of the motorcycle. • Avoid unnecessary conversation and and a tank bag for other small items. avoid leaning or turning around. You can also travel simply with only a • If you have a tank bag, be sure it Passenger safety begins with Make no sudden moves that might backpack. Whatever you decide, do not is securely mounted and does not proper instruction. Riders should not affect the stability of the motorcycle exceed gross vehicle weight rating when obstruct your view of the controls assume that passengers are familiar when it is in operation. with motorcycle handling, control, or traveling with cargo and a passenger, or instruments. If necessary, pack it balance. As a routine practice, always • Rise slightly off the seat when and always make adjustments to the only partially full. When strapping instruct your passenger on cycling basics crossing an obstacle. motorcycle to compensate for the the tank bag in place, make sure it does not catch any of the brake prior to starting the trip, even if your Also, remind your passenger to added weight. lines or cables in the area of the passenger is a motorcycle rider. tighten his or her hold when you: Tips for Traveling with steering head. As you prepare for your ride, tell your • Approach surface hazards such as Passengers and Cargo • Secure loads low, or put them in passenger to: bumps or uneven road surfaces. • Keep the load forward. Pack heavier saddlebags. Attaching a load to a • Get on the motorcycle only after • Are about to start from a stop or items in the front of the tank bag. sissy bar raises the motorcycle’s center begin moving into traffic. Lighter items such as your sleeping TEST YOURSELF 11 • Are about to turn sharply or make a bag, ground pad or tent, should be TEST YOURSELF 12 sudden move. packed on a luggage rack behind If you are chased by a dog: you. Try to place the load over, or Passengers should: A. Kick it away. Riding With Passengers in front of, the rear axle. Mounting A. Lean as you lean. B. Stop until the animal loses interest. Your motorcycle will respond loads behind the rear axle can affect B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat. how the motorcycle turns and C. Swerve around the animal. differently when you ride with a C. Sit as far back as possible. brakes. It can also cause a wobble. D. Approach the animal slowly, then passenger. The heavier your passenger, D. Never hold onto you. speed up. Answer - page 45 the longer it will take to speed up, slow • Plan your route and length of each Answer - page 45 35 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 36

of gravity and can upset its balance. be different than what you are used to. leader. That ensures that they won’t third maintains the left position of the have to chase after the group, and the lane, at least two seconds behind the • If you use saddlebags, load each Test the power when accelerating and be aware that it will be lower, increas- more experienced riders can watch first rider. The fourth rider should keep with about the same weight. them from the back. at least a two second distance from An uneven load can cause the ing passing times and distances. Braking will also feel different, and stopping The most important rules for group the second rider in the right side of the motorcycle to pull to one side. lane, and so on. This formation keeps Overloading may also cause the distances may increase. riding are: no competition, no passing of other riders and no tailgating. If a the group close and permits each rider bags to catch in the wheel or chain, GROUP RIDING rider insists on riding faster than the to maintain a safe distance from others locking the rear wheel and causing group, allow him or her to go ahead to ahead, behind and to the sides. the motorcycle to skid. Preparation an agreed meeting point. It is best to move to single file forma- • Fasten the load securely with Preparing yourself for a group ride tion when riding in curves, turning, and elastic cords (bungee cords or is as important as making sure your Hand signals entering or leaving freeways or highways. motorcycle is ready. Riding with a group nets). Elastic cords with more than During the rider’s meeting, review Intersections one attachment point per side are requires an alert mind that is free from the hand signals so all riders can recommended. A loose load could worries, distractions and stress. It also communicate during the ride. A Intersections present the highest catch in the wheel or chain, causing means riding free from the influence of diagram of the most common hand risk for motorcyclists in a group. When alcohol or drugs. For some, even too it to lock up, resulting in a skid. signals is at the end of this manual. making a left turn at an intersection much caffeine or prescription drugs can with a left turn signal arrow, tighten Rope can stretch and knots can adversely affect concentration. Follow those behind the formation to allow as many riders come loose, permitting the load to through the intersection as possible. shift or fall. You should stop and Prior to a long trip, it’s a good idea to During the ride, use your mirrors to keep an eye on the person behind Make the turn single file – do not ride check the load often to make sure it have your motorcycle serviced at your and confirm that the group is staying side-by-side. If not all riders get through has not shifted or loosened. local dealership if you aren’t able to do the work yourself. A thorough pre- together. If a rider falls behind, everyone the light, stop at a safe point ahead and • Include a small tool kit and some ride check is a must. Use the T-CLOCS should slow down to keep the group wait. This will prevent riders from feeling common spare parts that you might checklist as a reminder of the important together. pressured to speed up or run a red light. components to check before you leave. need. Water and some energy bars Keep Your Distance or other food should also be part of Remember to consider such variables your preparation, and don’t forget as passengers and extra weight from Maintain close ranks, but at the a first aid kit, especially if you are cargo that might require a change in tire same time, maintain an adequate space pressure or suspension adjustment. STAGGERED FORMATION riding in a group. cushion to allow each rider in the group time and distance to react to hazards. Pre-Ride Test Plan A close group takes up less space on Before starting out, hold a rider’s the highway, is easier to see, and is less Prior to starting out, take a test meeting to discuss the route, length of likely to become separated. This must, ride with your fully loaded motorcycle riding segments, rest stops and locations however, be done properly. through some familiar neighborhood for fuel, meals and lodging. Make sure roads to get a feel for the operation of everyone knows the route. That way, Don’t Pair Up your motorcycle. Be sure the suspension if someone becomes separated, he or Never ride directly alongside another settings are correct, and that the side she won’t have to hurry to keep from rider in the same lane. There is no place stand, footrests, and exhaust pipes don’t getting lost or making the wrong turn. to go if you have to maneuver to avoid scrape over bumps and in turns. Ensure Choose a lead rider and a sweep rider. a car or hazard in the roadway. Wait the tank bag does not get in the way of These should be the most experienced until you are both stopped to talk. riders of the group. The lead rider the handlebars or restrict the steering. should look ahead for changes in road, Staggered Formation Also check the security of the load, so traffic or weather conditions, and signal that your luggage does not hit you in This is the best way to keep the ranks early so the word gets back in plenty close yet maintain an adequate space the back under maximum braking. of time to the other riders. The sweep cushion. The group leader rides in the You will also find that the perfor- rider is the last rider in the group, and left side of the lane, and the second mance of a fully loaded motorcycle will sets the pace for the group. Place rider stays at least one second back and inexperienced riders just behind the rides in the right side of the lane. The 37 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 38

Interstate Highways and at passing speed to open room for Ten Rules of Group Riding GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1) the next rider. Freeways • Base the length of the route and A staggered formation is essential • Next, the second rider should move segments on ability of the least when riding on freeways and interstates. up to the left position in the lane experienced rider. However, enter in single file and form up and wait for a chance to safely pass. • Take timely breaks to prevent loss of only after all riders have safely merged When passing be sure you have concentration and reduce fatigue. in traffic. The lead rider should move the a clear view of oncoming traffic. group over at least one lane to prevent Just because the lead rider passed, • Adjust the pace through curves to vehicles that are entering and exiting that does not mean that conditions the ability of the least experienced from disrupting your formation. In heavy haven’t changed and that it is still rider. If necessary, form two groups traffic, resist the temptation to ride too safe for other riders to pass. After with different speeds. close together. Maintain your minimum passing the rider should return to one-second, two-second staggered • Don’t tailgate or encourage the the right position and open up formation space cushion. When exiting, rider in front to speed. If you want use a single file formation for better room for the next rider. to ride faster, ride ahead of the space cushion and time to react to Some people suggest that the lead group. conditions at the end of the off-ramp. rider should move to the right side of the lane after passing the vehicle. • Keep adequate following distance Parking This is not a good idea, since it might and maintain a staggered When possible, park as a group, so encourage the second rider to pass and formation. everyone can get off their motorcycles cut back in before there is enough space • Do not pass in the group, except in more quickly. Avoid parking downhill or cushion in front of the passed vehicle. the case of emergency. head-in, and if possible, park where you It’s simpler and safer to wait until there can pull through, making the arrival and is enough room ahead of the passed • Place inexperienced riders just departure smoother. Whenever possible, vehicle to allow each rider to move into behind the leader so they can keep the same position held before the pass. pace without riding faster than it is park so that the group can depart as a GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2) unit in single file. safe. Passing in Formation • When passing, be conscious of the traffic conditions and oncoming When the group wants to pass slow traffic. Even though the previous traffic on a freeway or interstate, the riders passed safely, it may not be group may pass as a unit. On a two-lane highway, riders in a staggered formation safe for you. should pass one at a time. • Maintain adequate time distance • First, the lead rider should pull between riders, especially at out and pass when it is safe. After intersections. This allows you to passing the leader should return to avoid hard braking. the left position and continue riding • Check your mirrors frequently to ensure the group stays together. TEST YOURSELF 13

When riding in a group, inexperienced riders should position themselves: A. Just behind the leader. B. In front of the group. C. At the tail end of the group.

D. Beside the leader. Answer - page 45

39 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE 40 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE40

Blood Alcohol Concentration liquor, and a 5-ounce glass of wine all contain the same amount of alcohol. Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle, identifying is the amount of alcohol in relation to The faster you drink, the more alcohol potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions quickly blood in the body. Generally, alcohol accumulates in your body. If you drink and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road and traffic can be eliminated in the body at the two drinks in an hour, at the end of that conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and drugs, more rate of almost one drink per hour. But hour, at least one drink will remain in than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and to ride skillfullly. As a variety of factors may also influence your bloodstream. little as one drink can have a significant effect on your performance. the level of alcohol retained. The more Without taking into account any Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What to alcohol in your blood, the greater the other factors, these examples illustrate do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined. degree of impairment. why time is a critical factor when a rider Three primary factors play a major decides to drink. WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND DRUGS part in determining BAC: If you drink: IS IMPORTANT IN MOTORCYCLE • The amount of alcohol you – Seven drinks over the span of consume. three hours you would have at least Alcohol is a major contributor to OPERATION • How fast you drink. four (7 – 3 = 4) drinks remaining in motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal No one is immune to the effects of your system at the end of the three • Your body weight. crashes. Studies show that 29% of all alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag hours. You would need at least fatally injured motorcycle riders had BAC about their ability to hold their liquor Other factors also contribute to the another four hours to eliminate the levels above the legal imit of 0.08%. An or perform better on drugs, but alcohol way alcohol affects your system. alcohol from the four remaining drinks additional 8% had lower alcohol levels before you consider riding. or drugs make them less able to think Your sex, physical condition and (BAC 0.01 to 0.07%), demonstrating clearly and perform physical tasks that having only a drink or two in one’s food intake are just a few that may – Four drinks over the span of two skillfully. Judgment and the decision- cause your BAC level to be even higher. hours, you would have at least two system is enough to impair riding skills. making processes needed for vehicle Drug levels are harder to distinguish or But the full effects of these are not (4 – 2 = 2) drinks remaining in your operation are affected long before legal completely known. Alcohol may still system at the end of the two hours. have not been separated from drinking limits are reached. violations for the traffic records. But accumulate in your body even if you You would need at least another two riding “under the influence” of either Many over-the-counter, prescription are drinking at a rate of one drink hours to eliminate the alcohol from alcohol or drugs poses physical hazards and illegal drugs have side effects that per hour. Abilities and judgment can be the two remaining drinks before you and legal consequences for every rider. increase the risk of riding. It is difficult to affected by that one drink. consider riding. accurately measure the involvement of Drinking and drug use is as big a A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed particular drugs in motorcycle crashes. drink with one shot (1.5 ounces) of hard problem among motorcyclists as it is But we do know what the effects of among automobile drivers. Motorcyclists, various drugs have on the processes however, are more likely to be killed involved in riding a motorcycle. We ALCOHOL CONTENT or severely injured in a crash. Injuries also know that the combined effects of occur in 90% of motorcycle crashes and alcohol and drugs are more dangerous 33% of automobile crashes that involve than either is alone. abuse of substances. On a yearly basis, 2,000 motorcyclists are killed and about ALCOHOL IN THE BODY 50,000 seriously injured in this same type of crash. These statistics are too Alcohol enters the bloodstream overwhelming to ignore. quickly. Unlike most foods and beverages, it does not need to be By becoming knowledgeable about digested. Within minutes after being the effects of alcohol and drugs you consumed, it reaches the brain and will see that riding and substance begins to affect the drinker. The major abuse don’t mix. Take positive steps to effect alcohol has is to slow down and protect yourself and prevent others from impair bodily functions — both mental injuring themselves. and physical. Whatever you do, you do less well after consuming alcohol. 41 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE 42 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE42

ALCOHOL AND THE LAW • Community Service — Performing STEP IN TO PROTECT A for medical use, and two allowed it for tasks such as picking up litter along recreational use by people 21 and over. In all states, an adult with a BAC the highway, washing cars in the FRIEND Although marijuana may be legal of 0.08% or above is considered motor-vehicle pool or working at an People who have had too much to for medicinal or recreational use in intoxicated. For operators under the age emergency ward. drink are unable to make a responsible your state, it is still not legal, safe, or of 21, lower BAC limits (0.00 to 0.02%, • Costs — Additional lawyer’s fees, decision. It is up to others to step in and wise to operate a motor vehicle while depending on state) apply. It doesn’t lost work time spent in court or keep them from taking too great a risk. No impaired by marijuana, since it tends to matter how sober you may look or act. alcohol-education programs, public one wants to do this — it’s uncomfortable distort your perception of time, space A breath, blood, or urine test is what transportation costs (while your and embarrassing. And you are rarely and speed. This is especially critical for usually determines whether you are license is suspended), and the thanked for your efforts at the time. But added psychological costs of being motorcycle riders, who must continually riding legally or illegally. the alternatives are often worse. known as a “drunk driver.” make detailed assessments of complex Whether or not you are legally There are several ways to keep friends traffic situations and make split-second intoxicated is not the real issue. MINIMIZE THE RISKS from hurting themselves: decisions requiring precise rider input Impairment of judgment and skills begins Your ability to judge how well you to navigate safely and maintain an well below the legal limit. • Arrange a safe ride — Provide are riding is affected first. Although alternative ways for them to get home. adequate safety margin. Your chances of being stopped for you may be performing more and • Slow the pace of drinking — States are beginning to set marijuana riding under the influence of alcohol are more poorly, you think you are doing Involve them in other activities. impairment limits based on blood increasing. Law enforcement is being better and better. The result is that • Keep them there — Use any excuse content levels of marijuana’s primary stepped up across the country in response you ride confidently, taking greater to keep them from getting on their psychoactive ingredient, THC. However, to the senseless deaths and injuries caused and greater risks. Minimize the risks motorcycle. Serve them food and compared to alcohol and BAC level, it by drinking drivers and riders. of drinking and riding by taking coffee to pass the time. Explain your is difficult to determine the relationship Consequences of Conviction steps before you drink or choose to concerns for their risks of getting between the amount of marijuana totally separate the two. Control your arrested or hurt or hurting someone ingested and the resulting THC level in Years ago, first offenders had a good drinking or control your riding. else. Take their key, if you can, and the blood. Complicating factors include chance of getting off with a small fine secure their bike. Make an Intelligent Choice marijuana’s potency, which is highly and participation in alcohol-abuse • Get friends involved — Use peer variable, and ingestion method, which classes. Today the laws of most states Don’t Drink — Once you start, your pressure from a group of friends has significant bearing on the onset and impose stiff penalties on drinking resistance is weaker. to intervene. duration of impairment. operators. And those penalties are Setting a limit or pacing yourself are It helps to enlist support from others mandatory, meaning that judges must When marijuana is smoked, its effects poor alternatives at best. Your ability when you decide to step in. The more impose them. generally begin within a few minutes to use good judgment is one of the people on your side, the easier it is to be and can last from 2 to 4 hours. But when If you are convicted of riding under the first things affected by alcohol. Even if firm and the harder it is for the rider to marijuana is eaten the onset of effects influence of alcohol or drugs, you may you have tried to drink in moderation, resist. While you may not be thanked at could be delayed for more than an hour receive any of the following penalties: you may not realize to what extent the time, you will never have to say, “If and the duration of the “high” could be • License Suspension — Mandatory your skills have suffered from alcohol’s only I had...” more than 6 hours. suspension for conviction, arrest or fatiguing effects. MARIJUANA AND Be safe. Do not operate your refusal to submit to a breath test. Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t MOTORCYCLE motorcycle or any motor vehicle if • Fines — Severe fines are another controlled your drinking, you must you are impaired by marijuana, and aspect of a conviction, usually levied control your riding. OPERATION find alternate transportation if you are with a license suspension. • Leave the motorcycle — so you Marijuana is gaining acceptance as planning to be under the influence • Insurance Rate Increase — A DUI/ won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange having legitimate medicinal applications of marijuana at your destination. Just DWI conviction can put you into a another way to get home. and as a recreational drug in the United as with alcohol, riders impaired by “high risk” category. So, having a DUI States, as evidenced by recent trends marijuana can be convicted of riding on your driving record means you’ll • Wait — If you exceed your limit, under the influence, and be subjected to be paying for it long after your court wait until your system eliminates the in state laws permitting its use. As of or legal interactions have ended. alcohol and its fatiguing effects. early 2014, 20 states allowed marijuana similar harsh penalties. 43 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE EARNING44 YOUREARNING LICENSE YOUR LICENSE44

FATIGUE Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tests are the best Riding a motorcycle is more tiring measurement of the skills necessary to operate safely in traffic. Assessing your than driving a car. On a long trip, you’ll own skills is not enough. People often overestimate their own abilities. It’s even tire sooner than you would in a car. harder for friends and relatives to be totally honest about your skills. Licensing Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can exams are designed to be scored more objectively. affect your control of the motorcycle. To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill • Protect yourself from the test. Knowledge test questions are based on information, practices and ideas elements — Wind, cold, and rain from this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules and make you tire quickly. Dress warmly. A windshield is worth its cost if you safe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual plan to ride long distances. traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area. • Limit your distance — Experienced riders seldom try to ride more than about six hours a day. Knowledge Test 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and • Take frequent rest breaks — Stop you must stop, it is usually best and get off the motorcycle at least (Sample Questions) to: every two hours. 1. It is MOST important to flash A. Relax on the handgrips. • Don’t drink or use drugs — your brake light when: B. Shift your weight toward the Artificial stimulants often result in A. Someone is following too closely. extreme fatigue or depression when good tire. B. You will be slowing suddenly. they wear off. Riders are unable to C. Brake on the good tire and steer concentrate on the task at hand. 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 25%. B. Reduce speed and be ready to B. About 50%. react. C. About 70%. C. Maintain speed and position. D. All of the stopping power. D. Maintain speed and move right. 3. To swerve correctly: TEST YOURSELF 14 A. Shift your weight quickly. If you wait one hour per drink for the alcohol to be eliminated from B. Turn the handlebars quickly. your body before riding: C. Press the handgrip in the direction A. You cannot be arrested for drinking of the turn. and riding. B. Your riding skills will not be affected. D. Press the handgrip in the opposite direction of the turn. C. Side effects from the drinking may still remain. D. You will be okay as long as you ride slowly. Answer - page 45 45 EARNING YOUR LICENSE THREE-WHEEL46 SUPPLEMENTPREPARING TO RIDE46

On-Motorcycle Skill Test • Stop, turn and swerve quickly. SUPPLEMENTARY • Saddle seating Basic vehicle control and crash- • Make critical decisions and carry INFORMATION – Seating in which the rider/ avoidance skills are included in on- them out. passenger straddles the FOR THREE-WHEEL vehicle. motorcycle tests to determine your Examiners may score on factors MOTORCYCLES ability to handle normal and hazardous related to safety such as: – If designed for a passenger, Many states require a separate license the passenger must be traffic situations. • Selecting safe speeds to perform endorsement to operate a three-wheel seated behind the operator You may be tested for your ability to: maneuvers. motorcycle. This requires the rider to (or in a separate passenger compartment in the case of a • Know your motorcycle and your • Choosing the correct path and pass both a written and a skills test. The staying within boundaries. motorcycle with sidecar). riding limits. purpose of this supplement is to help • Accelerate, brake and turn • Completing normal and quick prepare riders to complete the written 3. Turning diameter of the vehicle safely. stops. exam for a three-wheel motorcycle at its widest point must be less than 40’. • See, be seen and communicate • Completing normal and quick license or endorsement. This information with others. turns or swerves. is provided in addition to that offered in 4. The vehicle meets all applicable the first part of this Motorcycle Operator federal on-road vehicle standards. • Adjust speed and position to the traffic situation. Manual (MOM), so when preparing The following vehicles are not to take the written test, begin by included in this definition, and reading the information on two-wheel therefore testing requirements may motorcycles thoroughly. It provides not be applicable. Always refer to your information on safe operation of your state Department of Motor Vehicles, motorcycle in traffic. This supplement Department of Licensing or other contains information specific to the safe appropriate state regulatory agency for operation of a three-wheel motorcycle, exact regulations regarding testing for: including both three-track motorcycles • Automotive hybrids or and motorcycles with sidecars. automotive conversions KNOW YOUR VEHICLE • Vehicles with automotive controls or seating There are many types of three-wheel motorcycles available on the market • Vehicles with front or rear today. Requirements for licensing mounted engines (engines must three-wheel motorcycles vary by state. be mounted mid-frame below the In general, three-wheel motorcycles will rider to be considered motorcycle- based) have the following characteristics: • Vehicles with enclosed or semi- 1. Three wheels leaving two or enclosed riding compartments Answers to Test Yourself (throughout the three separate tracks during booklet) straight line operation. • Motorcycles or scooters with two close-set wheels in front (contact 2. Motorcycle-based conversion or 1-C, 2-D, 3-D, 4-A, 5-B, patches less than 18.1 inches design with: 6-C, 7-D 8-D, 9-C, 10-C, apart) that lean and maneuver like • Handlebar steering standard, single-track, two-wheel 11-D, 12-A, 13-A, 14-C motorcycles Diagrams and drawings used in this • Motorcycle-type controls manual are for reference only and are with the standard layout. or Convenience alterations like Answers to Knowledge Test (p.44): not to correct scale for size of vehicles • Vehicles with any other departure and distances. a single brake pedal or lever 1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-C, 5-B control, automatic clutch, or from the above standards. automatic transmission. 47 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT47 48 PREPARING TO RIDE48

Three-Wheel handlebars without excessive upper • Operate all the controls before Under some conditions during the Motorcycle Designs body movements that could jeopardize you start riding. Know the operation of a three-wheel motorcycle, stability and control. gearshift pattern and operate the it is possible to have only two wheels Three-wheel motorcycle designs throttle, clutch and brakes a few in contact with the road surface. This vary among manufacturers. Unlike Borrowing and Lending times. Controls react differently could occur during turning or tight traditional motorcycles, which are Borrowers and lenders, beware. on different motorcycles, and maneuvers whenever enough weight is considered single-track motorcycles, exact locations of controls may transferred outside of what are called Crashes are fairly common among three-wheel motorcycles could be either vary slightly. Additionally, some tip-over lines. This tendency requires beginning operators, especially in dual or triple track design. Dual track motorcycle conversions may be careful load and passenger positioning the first months of riding. Operating vehicles are motorcycles with sidecars, equipped with a single brake pedal inside the tip-over lines to help maintain an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the while triple track motorcycles can be or lever control, automatic clutch, or maximum stability. problem. If you borrow a three-wheel configured either with dual front wheels automatic transmission. or dual rear wheels. motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar, Body Position get familiar with it in a controlled area • As you begin to ride, start out As with any motor vehicle, operator first. If you lend your three-wheel slowly and carefully and be aware of position is important for control and MOTORCYCLE motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar your surroundings. Accelerate gently, for reducing or preventing fatigue. The AND THREE-WHEEL to friends, make sure they are licensed take turns a little more slowly, and operator should be able to reach both MOTORCYCLE DESIGNS and know how to ride before you leave extra room for stopping. handgrips comfortably, since more allow them to operate in traffic. Such handlebar movement is necessary than motorcycles operate very differently BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL when riding a two-wheel motorcycle. than two-wheel motorcycles. Steering & Tip While it is not necessary for the rider No matter how experienced you may Three-wheel motorcycles handle of a three-wheel motorcycle to move be, be extra careful on any vehicle that differently than two-wheel motorcycles. drastically during operation, shifting is unfamiliar or new to you. With three wheels on the ground, weight in the direction of the turn can Get Familiar with they are naturally more stable than a improve control. Motorcycle Controls two-wheel motorcycle. They also steer Braking differently. Because conventional three- Be sure you are familiar with the wheel motorcycles cannot lean, they On a motorcycle with a sidecar, controls of the three-wheel motorcycle cannot countersteer. Instead, the front during braking in a sharp turn, the or motorcycle with a sidecar before wheel is pointed in the direction the sidecar wheel may lift off the ground. attempting to operate it on any rider wants the motorcycle to go. Motorcycle and sidecar tires have limited highway, since some controls may differ traction or grip on the road surface, and from those found on other motorcycles. traction is greater when the motorcycle This is especially important if you are is rolling, not skidding or slipping. riding on a borrowed motorcycle. Before During turning, some of the available beginning the ride: TIP-OVER LINES tire traction is used for cornering, so less is available for stopping. Thus, a skid • Make all the checks you would on can occur if you brake too hard. your own motorcycle. • Familiarize yourself with all Turning The Right Motorcycle for You controls, such as the turn signals, The tendency of the rear inside Make sure your three-wheel horn, headlight switch, fuel control wheel to lift during turning is greater motorcycle or sidecar-equipped valve, and cut-off switch. Locate with increased speed and tighter curve motorcycle is right for you. You should and operate these items without radii. During a turn, inertia causes the be able to comfortably reach and having to search for them. center of gravity of the motorcycle to operate all of the controls, and be shift sideways and outward toward the able to complete full turns using the 49 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT49 50 PREPARING TO RIDE50 tip-over line. The reduced weight over When turning right on a Lane Position the sidecar will feel as though it is the opposite side wheel can cause it to motorcycle with sidecar: lagging behind you, causing the vehicle The track of the dual wheels of a lift slightly. to feel as though it is being steered • Anticipate the degree of turn three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle to the right. During deceleration or The weight of a three-track required. with a sidecar is almost the same braking, the momentum of the sidecar motorcycle is distributed almost equally • Reduce speed before entering the width as some automobiles. Unlike a continues to carry it forward, giving between the two front or two rear curve by downshifting or braking. motorcycle, you are limited, therefore, in the feeling that the sidecar is trying to wheels. These motorcycles handle the lane positioning. Keep toward the center • Slightly lean your upper body in pass you, making the motorcycle feel as same in left and right hand turns. of the lane to be sure the track of the the direction you intend to turn. though it is being steered left. When turning a three-track dual wheels does not cross the painted • Maintain speed as you enter the • On acceleration, compensate for motorcycle: curve. lines into opposing traffic. Riding too far to the right could cause loss of traction if this tendency by steering slightly • Approach a turn at speed with • Accelerate gradually as you exit the the tire leaves the pavement. in the opposite direction from the your head up, and look through the curve. sidecar. turn. Lane positioning when riding During a left hand turn, the sidecar • On deceleration, compensate for in groups is also an important • Concentrate on pointing the front acts as a stabilizer, so the sidecar wheel this tendency by steering slightly in consideration. You will not be able to wheel/wheels in the direction you stays on the ground. However, if the the direction of the sidecar. You can want the motorcycle to go. use a staggered formation, such as also pull in the clutch when braking. turn is taken too sharply or at too high you would when riding two-wheeled • Roll off the throttle before entering a rate of speed, there is a tendency motorcycles. Ride single file and always Swerving the turn. for the motorcycle rear suspension to maintain a safe margin, two seconds A quick stop may not always be • Apply the brakes enough to slow extend, and this may cause the rear minimum, between vehicles. sufficient to avoid an obstacle in your the motorcycle to a speed at which wheel of the motorcycle to lift off the path, even if you properly apply both you can ride safely through the ground. Parking at the Roadside turn, then release the brakes before brakes. Sometimes the only way to the turn. When turning left on a motorcycle Because of the limitations on mobility avoid a collision is to swerve. A swerve with sidecar: and motorcycle length, it is not practical is any sudden change of direction. It can • Slightly lean your upper body in to park your motorcycle at a 90 degree the direction you intend to turn. • Reduce speed prior to entering the be two quick turns or a rapid shift to the turn angle with your rear wheel touching the side when maneuvering the motorcycle. • Steer the front wheel/wheels curb, as you would with a two-wheel • Apply more pressure on the rear Often, there is not much time to adjust toward the turn. motorcycle. Position your motorcycle in a brake then on the front your body position. • Roll on the throttle to pull the parking space so you are parked parallel A three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle through the turn. Hills to the curb and set the parking brake. motorcycle with sidecar is not as Some three-wheel motorcycles have On the other hand, because the When riding uphill on a three-wheel maneuverable as a two-wheel reverse, so you can more easily maneuver center of gravity of a motorcycle with motorcycle or motorcycle with a sidecar, motorcycle, so plan well ahead to into a parking space designed for an sidecar is close to the motorcycle itself, some weight will shift to the rear, avoid the need for any sudden turns or automobile. Parking parallel to the curb the behavior of the vehicle when causing the front of the motorcycle swerving. If braking is required, brake will facilitate pulling away from the curb turning right and when turning left is to become lighter. This weight shift either before or after the swerve, never and entering the lanes of traffic. quite different. reduces the traction on the front tire/ while swerving. tires for steering and tire grip. Acceleration and Deceleration During a right turn, a slight sideways Cornering & Curves movement of the center of gravity When riding downhill, gravity A three-wheel motorcycle with two The cornering characteristics of a creates a greater tendency for the increases the amount of braking force drive wheels tends to be much more three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle sidecar wheel to lift. The lift will be required to slow or stop the motorcycle. stable during acceleration and braking with a sidecar differ from those of a greater if the sidecar is empty or lightly It is important, therefore, to begin than a motorcycle with a sidecar. motorcycle. Even with three wheels on loaded. slowing earlier for cornering and Attaching a sidecar to your motorcycle the ground, a sidecar can tip over if it is stopping. adds a non-powered, off-centered mass being turned too sharply or is going too of weight. So, during acceleration, fast for a corner. Therefore, it is best to 51 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT51 HAND52 SIGNALS RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES52

Many three-track motorcycles will have PATH THROUGH A CURVE built-in storage compartments for cargo, either in front of, or behind the rider. 1 Single File – 2 Double File – On these motorcycles, center the load arm and index arm with index and keep it low in the storage areas so it is positioned within the tip-over lines finger extended and middle finger and balanced side-to-side. If a passenger straight up. extended straight up. 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 3 Stop – 4 Speed Up – tip-over-line will increase the instability arm extended arm extended always slow before entering a corner. of the motorcycle. While a second straight down, straight out, The best path to follow in the curve passenger can be carried on the seat palm facing palm facing up, may not be the one that follows the behind the rider, the heavier passenger back. swing upward. curve of the road. Following the center should always be in the sidecar. of the lane may actually increase the The passenger sitting behind the rider tip over forces. Check opposing traffic should sit upright at all times. It is not carefully, and if safe, enter the curve necessary for the passenger to lean into toward the outside of your lane. This curves with the rider. 5 Slow Down – 6 Follow Me – increases your line of sight through the arm extended arm extended curve and reduces the effective radius When carrying loads in a sidecar, of the curve. As you turn, move toward secure the load firmly in place, since straight out, palm straight up the inside of the curve, and as you pass if the load shifts, handling will be facing down, swing from shoulder, the center, move to the outside to exit, affected. Loads should be distributed down to your side. palm forward. always remembering to stay in your lane. toward the rear of the sidecar to reduce tipping of the nose of the sidecar in the CARRYING PASSENGERS event of a sudden left turn. AND CARGO When loaded, you may find Three-wheel motorcycles are designed performance is reduced and that stopping 7 You Lead/Come– to carry passengers and cargo, but distances are longer, so allow a little arm extended upward 45 degrees, always be sure not to exceed the tire extra distance. The addition of a sidecar palm forward pointing with index or motorcycle loading capacity. The passenger will greatly improve stability, finger, swing in arc from back to front. extra weight could change the handling and right hand turns can be made at characteristics of the vehicle slightly, so a slightly higher speed. Turning left, you must give some thought to where however, will require more turning force. the loads are positioned. 53 HAND SIGNALS 54 PREPARING TO RIDE54

T-CLOCS: Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist

8 Hazard in Roadway – T-CLOCS ITEM WHAT TO CHECK WHAT TO LOOK FOR CHECK-OFF on the left, point T-TIRES & WHEELS with left hand; on the right, Tires Condition Tread depth, wear, weathering, evenly seated, bulges, embedded objects. Front Rear point with right foot. Air Pressure Check when cold, adjust to load. Front Rear Wheels Spokes Bent, broken, missing, tension, check at top of wheel: “ring” = OK — “thud” = loose spoke Front Rear Cast Cracks, dents. Front Rear Rims Out of round/true = 5mm. Spin wheel, index against stationary pointer. Front Rear Bearings Grab top and bottom of tire and flex: No freeplay (click) between hub and axle, no growl when spinning. Front Rear Seals Cracked, cut or torn, excessive grease on outside, reddish-brown around outside. Front Rear Brakes Function Each brake alone keeps bike from rolling. Front Rear C-CONTROLS Levers and Condition Broken, bent, cracked, mounts tight, ball ends on handlebar levers, proper adjustment. 9 Highbeam – 10 Fuel– Pedal Pivots Lubricated. tap on top of arm out to side Cables Condition Fraying, kinks, lubrication: ends and interior. Routing No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, wire supports in place. helmet with open pointing to tank with Hoses Condition Cuts, cracks, leaks, bulges, chafing, deterioration. palm down. finger extended. Routing No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, hose supports in place. Throttle Operation Moves freely, snaps closed, no revving when handlebars are turned. L-LIGHTS Battery Condition Terminals; clean and tight, electrolyte level, held down securely. Vent Tube Not kinked, routed properly, not plugged. Headlamp Condition Cracks, reflector, mounting and adjustment system. Aim Height and right/left. Operation Hi beam/low beam operation. Tail lamp/ Condition Cracks, clean and tight. 11 Comfort Stop– 12 Refreshment brake lamp Operation Activates upon front brake/rear brake application. forearm extended, Stop – Turn signals Operation Flashes correctly. Front left Front right Rear left Rear right fist clenched with fingers closed, Mirrors Condition Cracks, clean, tight mounts and swivel joints. short up and down thumb to mouth. Aim Adjust when seated on bike. Lenses & Condition Cracked, broken, securely mounted, excessive condensation. motion. Reflectors Wiring Condition Fraying, chafing, insulation. Routing Pinched, no interference or pulling at steering head or suspension, wire looms and ties in place, connectors tight, clean. O-OIL Levels Engine Oil Check warm on center stand on level ground, dipstick, sight glass. Hypoid Gear Oil, Transmission, rear drive, shaft. Shaft Drive 13 Turn Signal On– Hydraulic Fluid Brakes, clutch, reservoir or sight glass. Coolant Reservoir and/or coolant recovery tank — check only when cool. You can tear this page out and keep it with you when ride. You open and close Fuel Tank or gauge. hand with fingers and Leaks Engine Oil Gaskets, housings, seals. Hypoid Gear Oil, Gaskets, seals, breathers. thumb extended. Shaft Drive Hydraulic Fluid Hoses, master cylinders, calipers. Coolant Radiator, hoses, tanks, fittings, pipes. Fuel Lines, fuel valve, carbs.

14 Pull Off – arm positioned as for right turn, forearm swung toward shoulder. 55 55

T-CLOCS: Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist

T-CLOCS ITEM WHAT TO CHECK WHAT TO LOOK FOR CHECK-OFF

C-CHASSIS Frame Condition Cracks at gussets, accessory mounts, look for paint lifting. Steering-Head Bearings No detent or tight spots through full travel, raise front wheel, check for play by pulling/pushing forks. Swingarm Bushings/ Raise rear wheel, check for play by pushing/pulling swingarm. Bearings Suspension Front Forks Smooth travel, equal air pressure/damping, anti-dive settings. Left Right Rear Shock(s) Smooth travel, equal pre-load/air pressure/damping settings, linkage moves freely and is lubricated. Left Right Chain or Belt Tension Check at tightest point. Lubrication Side plates when hot. Note: do not lubricate belts. Sprockets Teeth not hooked, securely mounted Fasteners Threaded Tight, missing bolts, nuts. Clips Broken, missing.

Cotter Pins Broken, missing. You can tear this page out and keep it with you when ride. S-STANDS Center stand Condition Cracks, bent. Retention Springs in place, tension to hold position. Side stand Condition Cracks, bent (safety cut-out switch or pad equipped). Retention Springs in place, tension to hold position.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

Rider's Name______Blood Type______

Allergies/Medical Conditions______

Doctor's Name/Phone______

Cycle Insurer Name/Phone______

Contact this person if rider is injured

Name______Home Phone______

Work Phone______Cell Phone______