For Course Information go to:

PREFACE

Because operating a motorcycle is different than operating a motor vehicle, the Motorcycle Operator Manual was produced.

The manual is an important tool for the inexperienced rider to gain the information necessary to operate a motorcycle safely in traffic. Even the experienced rider can find something new in this manual.

Education and public awareness are the keys to reducing the number of motorcyclists killed and injured on our highways. The Motorcycle Ohio (MO) program, offered by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, provides motorcycle safety courses for riders, as well as public information campaigns. Information on the course is included in this manual or you can email the Motorcycle Ohio office at [email protected]. Research comparing MO graduates and untrained motorcyclists has found that course graduates involved in crashes are more likely to be helmeted, insured and unimpaired.

The motorcycle crash problem is complex. A variety of countermeasures have been implemented over the past several years to effectively reduce the number of fatalities and injuries associated with motorcycle crashes in Ohio. The Ohio Department of Public Safety is making every effort possible to provide the programs and education to reduce the tragedies suffered on our roadways by motorcyclists.

Reading this manual and gaining the knowledge required to operate a motorcycle safely will add to the enjoyment you experience as a motorcycle rider.

To schedule a road test, visit www.ohiodrivingtest.com.r Ohio,

CONTENTS

How to Obtain a Temporary Motorcycle or Scooter Learner’s Permit...... i How To Obtain a Motorcycle or Scooter License or Endorsement ...... ii Earning Your License...... iii Knowledge Test ...... iii On-Cycle Skill Test...... iv Did You Know...... iv Rider Skill Test-2 Wheel and/or Scooter...... v Rider Skill Test-3 Wheel...... vi Ohio Driver License Exam Stations...... vii - x Motorcycle Ohio (MO) Program...... x - xi Interested in Becoming a MO Instructor...... xii MO’s Instructor Preparation...... xiii

THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE The Rider and The Motorcycle...... 1 Riding Environment...... 1

PREPARING TO RIDE Wear The Right Gear ...... 2 Helmet Use...... 2 Helmet Selection ...... 2 Eye and Face Protection...... 3 Clothing...... 3 Know Your Motorcycle ...... 4 The Right Motorcycle for You...... 4 Borrowing and Lending ...... 5 Get Familiar with the Motorcycle Controls ...... 5 Check Your Motorcycle ...... 6 Know Your Responsibilities...... 7 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Basic Vehicle Control...... 8 Body Position ...... 8 Shifting Gears...... 8 Braking...... 9 Breaking in a Corner...... 10 Linked and Integrated Braking Systems...... 10 Anti-Lock braking Systems (ABS)...... 10 Turning ...... 11 Keeping Your Distance ...... 12 Lane Positions ...... 12 Following Another Vehicle ...... 13 Being Followed ...... 14 Passing and Being Passed ...... 14

Lane Sharing ...... 15 Merging Cars...... 16 Cars Alongside...... 16 See (search, evaluate, execute)...... 17 Intersections...... 18 Blind Intersections...... 20 Passing Parked Cars...... 20 Parking at the Roadside...... 21 Increasing Conspicuity...... 21 Clothing...... 21 Headlights...... 21 Signals...... 22 Brake Light...... 22 Using Your Mirrors...... 22 Head Checks...... 23 Horn...... 23 Riding at Night...... 24 Crash Avoidance ...... 24 Quick Stops ...... 24 Stopping Quickly in a Curve...... 25 Swerving or Turning Quickly...... 25 Maximum Straight-Line Braking...... 26 Front-Wheel Skids...... 26 Rear-Wheel Skids...... 27 Curves...... 27 Handling Dangerous Surfaces...... 27 Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles ...... 27 Slippery Surfaces ...... 28 Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks and Pavement Seams ...... 30 Grooves and Gratings...... 30 Mechanical Problems...... 30 Tire Failure...... 30 Stuck Throttle...... 30 Wobble ...... 30 Drive Train Problems ...... 31 Engine Seizure...... 31 Animals...... 31 Flying Objects...... 32 Getting Off The Road...... 32 Carrying Passengers And Cargo...... 32 Preparing Your Motorcyle...... 32 Equipment for Carrying Passenger...... 32 Preparing Your Passengers to Ride...... 33 Riding With Passengers...... 33 Carrying Loads...... 34 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE Tips for Traveling With Passengers and Cargo...... 35 Pre-Ride Test...... 36 Group Riding...... 36 Preparation...... 36 Plan...... 36 Hand Signals...... 36 Follow Those Behind...... 36 Keep Your Distance...... 37 Don’t Pair Up...... 37 Staggered Formation...... 37 Intersections...... 37 Interstate Highways and Freeways...... 37 Parking...... 37 Passing In Formation...... 38 Ten Rules of Group Riding...... 39

Why This Information Is Important...... 40 Alcohol And Drugs In Motorcycle Operation...... 40 Alcohol In The Body...... 40 Blood Alcohol Concentration...... 41 Alcohol And The Law...... 42 Alcohol And Ohio’s Law...... 42 Consequences of Conviction...... 42 Minimize The Risks...... 43 Step In To Protect Friends...... 43 Marijuana and Motorcycle Operation...... 44 Fatigue...... 44

THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

Supplementary Information for Three-Wheel Motorcycles...... 46 Know Your Vehicle...... 46 Three-Wheel Motorcycle Designs...... 47 The Right Motorcycle for You...... 47 Borrowing and Lending...... 47 Get Familiar with Motorcycle Controls...... 47 Basic Vehicle Control...... 48 Steering & Tip...... 48 Body Position...... 48 Braking...... 48 Turning...... 48 Hills...... 49 Lane Position...... 50 Parking at the Roadside...... 50 Acceleration and Deceleration...... 50 Swerving...... 50 Cornering & Curves...... 50 Carrying Passengers and Cargo...... 51 Answers to Questions...... 52 Hand Signals...... 53, 54 T-CLOCS: Pre:Ride Inspection Checklist...... 55 HOW TO OBTAIN A TEMPORARY MOTORCYCLE OR SCOOTER LEARNER’S PERMIT

Step 1: To help you study for the knowledge test, be sure to pick up a TEMPORARY PERMIT Motorcycle Operator Manual and a Digest of Ohio Motor Vehicle Laws. HOLDER SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS Step 2: Proceed to any exam station to complete the knowledge test. • Daylight hours only Upon successfully passing the knowledge test proceed to any • No passengers Deputy Registrar to obtain the Temporary Instruction Permit • Not valid on congested roads and Identification card (T.I.P.I.C.). interstate highways Motorcycle knowledge test may be • Must wear approved protective taken at certain Deputy Registrars. Visit helmet and use eye protection www.bmv.ohio.gov for locations. Note: All first-year endorsed operators and any passengers must wear a helmet.

The permit is valid one year from issue date and allows you to ride with some restrictions.

i HOW TO OBTAIN A MOTORCYCLE OR SCOOTER LICENSE OR ENDORSEMENT Anyone wishing to obtain a motorcycle Step 3: After you have passed the on- license or endorsement must either cycle test, the examiner may provide complete motorcycle skills testing at an you with a receipt to take to any Driver Exam Station or complete the Deputy Registrar agency. Motorcycle Ohio Basic Course. Step 4: Present the T.I.P.I.C. along Applicants under 18 years of with a receipt (for motorcycle-only age are required to complete the license holders) or driver license (for Motorcycle Ohio Basic Course and motorcycle endorsement holders) to complete Graduated Driver Licensing the Deputy Registrar to receive the requirements to be eligible to purchase license or endorsement. A fee will the motorcycle or scooter license or be charged for the new license. endorsement only. Applicants 18 years of age or older are not required to COMPLETE THE MOTORCYCLE complete the motorcycle course. OHIO BASIC SKILLS COURSE

The Motorcycle Ohio Basic Course Step 1: After successfully completing completion card is valid to waive the Motorcycle Ohio Basic Skills, motorcycle skills testing for a period of Motorcycle Ohio (MO) Basic Rider 60 days from the date of issuance. After Skills - Returning Rider (RR), or 60 days, all applicants for a motorcycle Basic Rider Skills-2, you will be license or endorsement must complete issued a course completion card by motorcycle skills testing at the driver the course instructor. license exam station. Step 2: Within 60 days of card issuance, TESTING TO OBTAIN present the motorcycle temporary YOUR MOTORCYCLE permit (T.I.P.I.C.) to the Deputy OR SCOOTER LICENSE/ Registrar to receive the license or ENDORSEMENT endorsement. A fee will be charged for the license. Step 1: Contact a driver license exam station to make an appointment for the on-cycle examination. No fee is charged for this test. YOU MUST HAVE A VALID MOTORCYCLE PERMIT Step 2: You must bring your T.I.P.I.C. OR ENDORSEMENT and a street-legal motorcycle or TO PARTICIPATE IN A scooter to the exam site. A helmet MOTORCYCLE RIDER and eye protection must be worn COURSE. during the test. Note: Only minor students may use a scooter in a motorcycle training course. Motorcycle Ohio will not provide scooters for the riding portion of our courses. For additional information on scooters, please visit www.motorcycle.ohio.gov. ii EARNING YOUR LICENSE Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. 3. To swerve correctly: Licensing tests are the best measurement a. Shift your weight quickly. of the skills necessary to operate safely in b. Turn the handlebars quickly. traffic. Assessing your own skills is not c. Press the handlegrip in the enough. People often overestimate their direction of the turn. own abilities. It’s even harder for friends d. Press the handlegrip in the and relatives to be totally honest about opposite direction of the turn. your skills. Licensing exams are designed to be scored more objectively. 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and you must stop, it is usually best to: To earn your license, you must pass a a. Relax on the handlegrips. knowledge test and an on-cycle skill test. b. Shift your weight toward the good Knowledge test questions are based on tire. information, practices and information c. Brake on the good tire and steer to from this manual. They require that you the side of the road. know and understand road rules and d. Use both brakes and stop quickly. safe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual 5. The car below is waiting to enter traffic environment or in a controlled, the intersection. It is best to: off-street area. a. Make eye contact with the driver. b. Reduce speed and be ready to KNOWLEDGE TEST react. (Sample Questions) c. Maintain speed and position. d. Maintain speed and move right. 1. It is MOST important to flash your brake light when: Answers to Knowledge Test a. Someone is following too closely. (see next page) b. You will be slowing suddenly. c. There is a stop sign ahead. d. Your signals are not working. INTERSECTION

2. The FRONT brake supplies how much of the potential stopping power? a. About 25%. b. About 50%. c. About 70%. d. All of the stopping power.

iii ON-CYCLE SKILL TEST less than 18 years of age must also meet Basic vehicle control and crash- additional requirements. The Skill Test avoidance skills are included in on- Waiver became effective January 1, 2001. motorcycle tests to determine your ability to handle normal and hazardous For more information on Motorcycle traffic situations. Ohio, visit our Web site at www.motorcycle.ohio.gov You may be tested for your ability to: • Know your motorcycle and your riding limits. To receive a motorcycle • Accelerate, brake and turn safely. license with full privileges, • See, be seen and communicate Ohio requires that motorcycle with others. maneuvers be performed as • Adjust speed and position to the designed. The on-cycle skills test traffic situation. is not designed for sidecars or • Stop, turn and swerve quickly. three-wheel vehicles but can be • Make critical decisions and carry altered to accommodate those. If them out. an on-cycle skills test is performed using a sidecar or three-wheel Examiners may score on factors related vehicle, the endorsement received to safety such as: will not permit operation of a two- • Selecting safe speeds to perform wheel motorcycle. maneuvers. • Choosing the correct path and staying within boundaries. Diagrams and drawings used in this manual • Completing normal and quick are for reference only and are not to correct stops. scale for size of vehicles and distances. • Completing normal and quick turns or swerves.

DID YOU KNOW... On July 6, 2000, Governor Taft signed Senate Bill 271 into law, which states that students who successfully complete the Motorcycle Ohio (MO) Basic Skills or Basic Rider Skills-RR will have the state of Ohio Motorcycle Skill test waived.

MO graduates will receive the motorcycle endorsement/license upon presenting their course completion card to a Deputy Registrar. Graduates Answers to Knowledge Test 1-B 2-C 3-C 4-C 5-B

iv Rider Skill Test - 2 Wheel and/or Scooter

Rider Skill Test – 2 Wheel

1 - Cone Weave, Normal Stop 2 - Turning from a Stop, U-turn

Motocycles under 600cc have a 20’ U-turn area. Motorcycles 600cc and over have a 24’ U-turn area.

5 Weave cones are 12’ apart in a straight line.

Stop box is 3’x5’ Corner is 6’ wide. Start T is 6’ from corner.

3 - Quick Stop 4 - Obstacle Swerve

Distance from end of timing zone to obstacle iii is 13’ and obstacle line is 7’ wide. Side lines are 6.5’ from ends of obstacle line.

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v Rider Skill Test - 3 Wheel Rider Skill Test – 3 Wheel

1 - Left Turn, Normal Stop 2 - Cone Weave, Turn from a Stop

Corner is 8’ wide. Start T is 6’ from corner.

Corner is 8’ wide.

3 Weave cones are 18’ apart in a straight line.

Stop box is 3’x5’ wide.

3 - Quick Stop 4 - Obstacle Swerve

Distance from end of timing zone to obstacle is 18’ and obstacle line is 7’ wide. Side lines are 6.5’ from ends of obstacle line.

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vi Ohio Driver License Examination Stations To schedule a skills test, visit www.ohiodrivingtest.com or call 877-4DX-TEST (877-439-8378)

County Address Days Open

Allen 419 Elizabeth St., Suite C Tues-Sat Lima Ashland 1652 Eagle Way Tues-Sat Ashland Ashtabula 77 N. Chestnut Street Tues-Sat Jefferson Athens 1002 East State Street, Suite 20 Tues-Sat Athens Auglaize 15472 Wapak-Fisher Road Tues-Wed Wapakoneta Belmont 320 Hall Street Tues-Sat Bridgeport Butler 1720-B South Erie-Highway, Bldg C Tues-Sat Hamilton Carroll 155 W. Main Street Thurs-Fri Carrolton Champaign 1512 South U.S. Route 68 Tues-Wed Urbana Clark Park Shopping Center Tues-Sat 1139 Bechtle Ave., Springfield Clermont 457 West Main Street Tues-Sat Batavia Clinton State Highway Patrol Thurs-Sat 950 Rombach Ave., Wilmington Columbiana 7735-C State Route 45 Tues-Sat Lisbon Coshocton 706 S. 7th Street Tues-Wed Coshocton Cuyahoga 14000 Broadway Avenue Tues-Sat Garfield Heights Cuyahoga 6420 Mayfield Road Tues-Sat Mayfield Heights Cuyahoga 12000 Snow Road Tues-Sat Parma Darke 641 Wagner Avenue Tues, Sat, Greenville Defiance 999 Procom Street, Suite 104 Tues-Sat Defiance Delaware 2079 US 23 Tues-Sat Delaware Fairfield 980 Liberty Drive, Suite 200 Tues-Sat Lancaster

vii Ohio Driver License Examination Stations

County Address Days Open

Franklin 1583 Alum Creek Tues-Sat Columbus Franklin 990 Morse Road Tues-Sat Columbus Franklin 4738 Cemetery Road Tues-Sat Hilliard Fulton 152 S. Fulton Street Thurs-Fri Wauseon Gallia 499 Jackson Pike Tues-Wed Gallipolis Geauga 602 South Street Tues-Sat Chardon Greene 601 Ledbetter Road, Ste. C Tues-Sat Xenia Guernsey 224 Dewey Avenue Tues-Sat Cambridge Hamilton 11177 Reading Road, Ste. 201-202 Tues-Sat Cincinnati (Sharonville) Hamilton 10940 Hamilton Avenue Tues-Sat Seven Hills Hancock 8210 County Road 140 Tues-Sat Findlay Huron 142 Cleveland Road Tues-Sat Norwalk Jackson 502 McCarty Lane Wed-Sat Jackson Knox 671 North Sandusky Wed-Sat Mt. Vernon Lake 2736 North Ridge Road, Unit 7 Tues-Sat Painesville Lawrence 2717 S. Third Street, Suite B Tues-Sat Ironton Licking 873 E. Main Street Tues-Sat Newark Logan 1365 N. County Road 32, Suite #1 Thurs-Sat Bellefontaine Lorain 657 Chestnut Commons Dr. Tues-Sat Elyria Lucas 4460 Heatherdowns Boulevard Tues-Sat Toledo Mahoning 490 S. Broad Street Tues-Sat Canfield Marion 222 W. Center Street Tues-Sat Marion

viii Ohio Driver License Examination Stations

County Address Days Open

Medina 970 N. Court Street Tues-Sat Medina Mercer 330 Portland Street, Suite 1 Thurs-Sat Celina Miami 1275 Experiment Farm Road Tues-Sat Troy Montgomery 6134 Chambersburg Road Tues-Sat Huber Heights Muskingum 255 Sunrise Center Tues-Sat Zanesville Pickaway 141 W. Main Street, Suite 600 Wed Circleville Portage 444 S. Meridian Street Tues-Sat Ravenna Preble 530 Junction Village Tues-Sat Eaton Richland 1157 Park Avenue West Tues-Sat Mansfield Ross 475 Western Avenue, Suite L Tues-Sat Shawnee Square, Chillicothe Sandusky 500 W. State Street Tues-Sat Fremont Scioto 3980 Rhodes Avenue Tues-Sat New Boston Seneca 451 E. Market Street, State Route 101 Tues-Sat Tiffin Shelby 1000 Milligan Court, Suite #102 Thurs-Sat Sidney Stark 3195 Whitewood Street, N.W. Tues-Sat North Canton Summit 650 Graham Rd. Tues-Sat Cuyahoga Falls Summit 21 Fifth St., S.E. Tues-Sat Barberton Trumbull 5555 Youngstown Warren Rd #203 Tues-Sat Niles Tuscarawas 1260 Monroe Avenue Tues-Sat New Philadelphia Union 940 London Avenue, Suite 1300 Tues-Wed Marysville

ix Ohio Driver License Examination Stations

County Address Days Open

Van Wert 10234 Van Wert-Decator Road Fri, Sat Van Wert Warren 19-B Dave Avenue Tues-Sat Lebanon Washington 148-A Gross Street Tues-Sat Frontier Shopping Center, Marietta Wayne 340 South Market Tues-Sat Wooster Williams 13065 #A County Road D50 Tues-Wed Bryan Wood 1616 E. Wooster Street Tues-Sat Bowling Green

Note: Some addresses and scheduled days and times may change due to relocations. For additional information, please visit www.bmv.ohio.gov

To schedule a road test visit www.ohiodrivingtest.com

MOTORCYCLE OHIO PROGRAM

ABOUT THE BASIC RIDING The Motorcycle Ohio program charges a SKILLS (BRS) nominal fee to all registrants. • Motorcycles, helmets and workbooks are provided. ABOUT THE BASIC RIDING • Students must have a validated SKILLS – RETURNING RIDER motorcycle temporary permit (BRS-RR) (T.I.P.I.C.) or motorcycle endorsement before the first riding The BRS-RR provides training for session. individuals 18 and older that are • Students must provide their own returning to riding but don’t have an over-the-ankle sturdy footwear, endorsement and/or have been riding on gloves, long sleeve shirt or jacket, a temporary permit longer than one year. long pants and a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved • Each course scheduled for 8 hours helmet if they bring their own. • Must have a TIPIC or Endorsement • Each motorcycle rider course is • Motorcycles and helmets provided scheduled for 16 hours. • See www.motorcycle.ohio.gov for • As a minimum, each student must more info be able to ride a bicycle. • All course times and dates are subject to change.

x MOTORCYCLE OHIO PROGRAM Students who successfully complete ADVANCED RIDING SKILLS the Motorcycle Ohio Basic Skills or (ARS) Returning Rider Skills will have the • Students must bring their own State of Ohio skill test waived and will motorcycle, proof of motorcycle receive their motorcycle endorsement/ insurance, over-the-ankle sturdy license upon presenting the (T.I.P.I.C.) footwear, gloves, long shirt or jacket, to a Deputy Registrar within 60 days. long pants and a Department of Graduates under 18 years of age Transportation–approved helmet. successfully completing the BRS only, • The ARS complements an must also meet Graduated Driver experienced rider’s basic skills and License requirements. helps with personal risk assessment. • Each operator must have a ABOUT THE BASIC RIDING motorcycle license or endorsment. SKILLS-2 (BRS2) • A $50 fee per person is charged to • 7-hour, one-day, range-only course cover some of the cost. (no formal classroom session) • Use your own 2-wheeled street legal • Students must bring their own motorcycle. motorcycle, proof of motorcycle • 9-hour, one-day, range-only course insurance, over-the-ankle sturdy (no formal classroom session) footwear, gloves, long shirt or jacket, • Each BRS2 is scheduled for six long pants and a Department of hours and the ARS nine hours. Transportation–approved helmet. • No co-riders are permitted in the • Each operator must have a valid ARS. Temporary Instruction Permit • All course times/dates are subject Identification Card (TIPIC) or to change. motorcycle license or endorsement. • Successful completion earns Visit our Web site for courses offered at: the BMV skill test waiver for a www.motorcycle.ohio.gov for a course motorcycle endorsement. location near you! • A $50 fee per person is charged to cover some of the cost. • Use your own 2-wheeled street legal motorcycle. • Passengers permitted only for riders which a motorcycle license or endorsement • All course times/dates are subject to change.

xi Interested in Becoming a MO Instructor?

The MO Program has a need for skilled and dedicated motorcyclists with good communication skills.

Instructor Candidate qualifications:

(A) The department shall certify an individual to teach the BRS if the individual meets the following conditions:

(1) Submits to the department a completed application on a form approved by the director; No applicant shall submit an application that contains false or misleading information; http://www.motorcycle.ohio.gov/ instructors.stm

(2) Possesses a high school diploma or GED;

(3) Is currently an experienced motorcycle operator, licensed for at least three years preceding the date of the application with a valid motorcycle endorsement and currently rides a motorcycle on a regular basis;

(4) Has a driving record free of any of the following: (a) Three or more chargeable crashes within the three years preceding the date of application; (b) Three or more moving violation convictions under Chapter 4511. of the Ohio Revised code, or equivalent convictions from another jurisdiction, within the three years preceding the date of application; (c) An accumulation of more than five points under Chapter 4510. of the Ohio Revised code, or equivalent action from another jurisdiction, with the three years preceding the date of application; (d) A twelve-point administrative action under section 4510.037 of the Ohio Revised code, or equivalent convictions from another jurisdiction, within the ten years preceding the date of application.

(5) Successfully completes the BRS within two calendar years preceding the date the instructor preparation course is being offered;

(6) Upon request, submits a criminal abstract provided and dated by the bureau of criminal identification and investigation within forty-five days of such request.

For an application, go to: www.motorcycle.ohio.gov and click on Instructor.

xii MOTORCYCLE OHIO INSTRUCTOR PREPARATION

PRIOR TO THE COURSE CONTENTS • All Instructor Candidates (IC) • The instructional portion of the must have taken and successfully IPC will consist of approximately completed the Basic Riding Skills 40 hours of time, split between (BRS) within 24 months prior to classroom and range. The purpose the Instructor Preparation Course of this portion of the IPC is to teach (IPC). No other course, such as the candidates how to teach the BRS the Advanced Riding Skills (ARS), to novice students. will meet this requirement. This is to insure that the IC has a working • Besides the BRS curriculum, other knowledge of the course structure, topics will include background and is familiar with the curriculum and organizational information, can perform all of the exercises. classroom teaching techniques, range coaching techniques and • All IC’s must complete a home range management. study assignment prior to the start date of the IPC. This assignment COMPLETION will take the average candidate REQUIREMENTS approximately six to eight hours • Candidates must attend all scheduled to complete. The purpose of sessions of the IPC and must this home study assignment is attend the entire BRS course during to thoroughly familiarize the student teaching. candidate with all written materials. • All IC’s must be registered for the • All IC’s must pass a riding test, a IPC with a tuition fee, up to $100, closed book written test and paid to Motorcycle Ohio no later successfully pass a student teaching than two weeks prior to the start evaluation in order to become date of the course. certified instructors. • Motorcycle Ohio reserves the • At the discretion of the MO staff, right to cancel an IPC due to low an IPC qualifying session may be enrollment. scheduled to administer the riding test, pass out course materials and • All applicants must be pre-approved answer IC questions. by the Motorcycle Ohio Coordinator to become enrolled in the IPC. SCHEDULING • Typically the IPC will take place on five Saturdays and/or Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Student teaching will be scheduled on a regular scheduled BRS weekend. The IC must be present for the entire BRS course.

xiii THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE

Motorcycling is RIDING ENVIRONMENT a unique experience. Compared to a car, you don’t sit in a motorcycle, you become part of it. Not as a passive driver, but as an active rider arcing into a string of smooth corners, playing along with the rhythm of the road; shifting, accelerating, and braking with precision. Whether you ride to and from work or prefer the camaraderie of a group ride on the weekend, motorcycling engages all your senses and creates an invigorating sense of Successfully piloting a motorcycle is a freedom. much more involved task than driving Along with that freedom comes a car. Motorcycling requires a fine sense responsibility. All states require of balance and a heightened sense of some form of license endorsement awareness and position amidst other demonstrating you possess a minimum roadway users. A motorcycle responds level of skill and knowledge. This booklet more quickly to rider inputs than a car, and other motorcycle publications can but is also more sensitive to outside help prepare you to be successful. You forces, like irregular road surfaces or might also consider taking a formal crosswinds. A motorcycle is also less hands-on training course, even if your visible than a car due to its narrower state doesn’t require that you complete profile, and offers far less protection one. You’ll learn how to improve your by exposing its rider to other traffic riding skills and mental strategies, so and the elements. All these risks can be you can be a safer, more alert rider. managed through study, training, and The diagram above illustrates practice. the complex environment that awaits you, and supports the concept that, as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation says, “Safe riding depends as much on the mental skills of awareness and judgment as it does on a physical skill of maneuvering the machine.”

1 PREPARING TO RIDE What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on any trip, a safe rider makes a point to: 1. Wear the right gear. 2. Become familiar with the motorcycle. 3. Check the motorcycle equipment. 4. Be a responsible rider. WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR • Most crashes happen on short When you ride, your gear is “right” trips (less than five miles long), just if it protects you. In any crash, you have a few minutes after starting out. a far better chance of avoiding serious • Most riders are riding slower than injury if you wear: 30 mph when a crash occurs. At these speeds, helmets can cut both • A DOT compliant helmet. the number and the severity of • Face or eye protection. head injuries by half. • Protective clothing. No matter what the speed, Helmet Use helmeted riders are three times more Crashes can occur — particularly likely to survive head injuries than among untrained, beginning riders. those not wearing helmets at the time And one out of every five motorcycle of the crash. The single most important crashes results in head or neck thing you can do to improve your injuries. Head injuries are just as chances of surviving a crash is to wear severe as neck injuries — and far more a securely-fastened, quality helmet. common. Crash analyses show that head and neck injuries account for a Helmet Selection majority of serious and fatal injuries There are two primary types of to motorcyclists. Research also shows helmets, providing two different levels that, with few exceptions, head and of coverage: three-quarter and full face. neck injuries are reduced by properly Whichever style you choose, you wearing a quality helmet. can get the most protection by making Some riders don’t wear helmets sure that the helmet: because they think helmets will limit their view to the sides. Others wear • Is designed to meet U.S. helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards. Helmets with a label from the Snell some facts to consider: Memorial Foundation also give • A DOT-compliant helmet lets you you an assurance of quality. see as far to the sides as necessary. A • Fits snugly, all the way around. study of more than 900 motorcycle crashes, where 40% of the riders • Has no obvious defects such as wore helmets, did not find even cracks, loose padding or frayed one case in which a helmet kept a straps. rider from spotting danger.

2 PREPARING TO RIDE

Whatever helmet you decide on, HELMETS keep it securely fastened on your head when you ride. Otherwise, if you are involved in a crash, it’s likely to fly off your head before it gets a chance to protect you. Eye and Face Protection A plastic shatter-resistant faceshield can help protect your whole face in a crash. It also protects you from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. These problems are distracting Clothing and can be painful. If you have to deal The right clothing protects you in with them, you can’t devote your full a collision. It also provides comfort, attention to the road. as well as protection from heat, cold, Goggles protect your eyes, though debris and hot and moving parts of the they won’t protect the rest of your face motorcycle. It can also make you more like a faceshield does. A windshield visible to others. is not a substitute for a faceshield or goggles. Most windshields will not • Jacket and pants should cover protect your eyes from the wind. arms and legs completely. They Neither will eyeglasses or sunglasses. should fit snugly enough to keep Glasses won’t keep your eyes from from flapping in the wind, yet loosely enough to move freely. watering, and they might blow off when Leather offers the most protection. you turn your head while riding. Sturdy synthetic material provides To be effective, eye or faceshield a lot of protection as well. Wear protection must: a jacket even in warm weather • Be free of scratches. to prevent dehydration. Many • Be resistant to penetration. are designed to protect without getting you overheated, even on • Give a clear view to either side. summer days. Some riders choose • Fasten securely, so it does not jackets and pants with rigid “body blow off. armor” inserts in critical areas for • Permit air to pass through, to additional protection. reduce fogging. • Boots or shoes should be high • Permit enough room for eyeglasses and sturdy enough to cover your or sunglasses, if needed. ankles and give them support. Soles Tinted eye protection should should be made of hard, durable, not be worn when little light is slip-resistant material. Keep heels available. short so they do not catch on rough surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t catch on your motorcycle.

3 PREPARING TO RIDE • Gloves allow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR protect your hands in a crash. Your MOTORCYCLE gloves should be made of leather or There are plenty of things on the similar durable material. highway that can cause you trouble. • Hearing protection reduces Your motorcycle should not be one noise while allowing you to hear of them. To make sure that your important sounds such as car horns motorcycle won’t let you down: or sirens. Long term exposure to engine and wind noise can cause • Start with the right motorcycle permanent hearing damage even for you. if you wear a full face helmet. • Read the owner’s manual. Whether you choose disposable foam plugs or reusable custom • Be familiar with the motorcycle molded devices, be sure you adhere controls. to state laws regarding hearing • Check the motorcycle before protection. every ride. In cold or wet weather, your • Keep  it in safe riding condition clothes should keep you warm and dry, between rides. as well as protect you from injury. You • Avoid  add-ons and modifications cannot control a motorcycle well if you that make your motorcycle harder are numb. Riding for long periods in to handle. cold weather can cause severe chill and fatigue. A winter jacket should resist The Right Motorcycle For You wind and fit snugly at the neck, wrists First, make sure your motorcycle is and waist. Good-quality rainsuits right for you. It should “fit” you. Your designed for motorcycle riding resist feet should reach the ground while tearing apart or ballooning up at high you are seated on the motorcycle, and speeds. the controls should be easy to operate. Smaller motorcycles are usually easier CLOTHING for beginners to operate. At a minimum, your street-legal motorcycle should have: • Headlight, taillight and brakelight.

1 Test Yourself A plastic shatter-resistant face shield: A. Is not necessary if you have a windshield B. Only protects your eyes C. Helps protect your whole face D. Does not protect your face as well as goggles Answer - page 52

4 PREPARING TO RIDE • Front and rear brakes. Get Familiar with the Motorcycle • Turn signals. Controls • Horn. Make sure you are completely familiar with the motorcycle before • Two mirrors. you take it out on the street. Be sure Borrowing and Lending to review the owner’s manual. This is Borrowers and lenders of particularly important if you are riding motorcycles, beware. Crashes are a borrowed motorcycle. more likely to occur among beginning If you are going to use an riders — especially in the first months unfamiliar motorcycle: of riding. Riding an unfamiliar • Make all the checks you would on motorcycle adds to the problem. If you your own motorcycle. borrow a motorcycle, get familiar with Find out where everything is, it in a controlled area. And if you lend •  particularly the turn signals, horn, your motorcycle to friends, make sure headlight switch, fuel-supply valve they are licensed and know how to ride and engine cut-off switch. Find and before allowing them out into traffic. operate these items without having No matter how experienced you to look for them. may be, ride extra carefully on any motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar to you. More than half of all crashes involve riders with less than five months of experience on their motorcycle. MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS

5 PREPARING TO RIDE

• Know the controls. Work the • Try the front and rear brake levers throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter one at a time. Make sure each feels a few times before you start riding. firm and holds the motorcycle • Ride very cautiously and be aware when fully applied. of surroundings. Accelerate gently, C — Controls take turns more slowly and leave • Make sure the clutch and throttle extra room for stopping. operate smoothly. The throttle Check Your Motorcycle should snap back to fully closed A motorcycle needs more frequent when released. The clutch should attention than a car. A minor technical feel tight and should operate failure on a car is seldom more than smoothly. an inconvenience for the driver. The • Try the horn. Make sure it works. same failure on a motorcycle may result in a crash or having to leave your • Clean and adjust your mirrors motorcycle parked on the side of the before starting. It’s difficult to ride road. If anything’s wrong with your with one hand while you try to motorcycle, you’ll want to find out adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror about it before you get in traffic. so you can see the lane behind and The primary source of information as much as possible of the lane next about how a motorcycle should to you. When properly adjusted, a be inspected and maintained is its mirror may show the edge of your owner’s manual. Be sure to absorb arm or shoulder – but it’s the road all of its important information. A behind you and to the side that are motorcycle will continue to ride like most important. new if it is properly maintained and L — Lights and Electrics routine inspections become part of its maintenance cycle. • Check both headlight and taillight. A pre-ride inspection only takes Test your switch to make sure both a few minutes and should be done high and low beams work. before every ride to prevent problems. • Turn on both right and left hand It’s quick and easy to check the critical turn signals. Make sure all lights are components and should be as routine working properly. and automatic as checking the weather forecast before heading out for the • Try both brakes and make sure day. A convenient reminder developed each one turns on the brake light. by MSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a O — Oil and Other Fluids T-CLOCS “tear-out” sheet at the back • Check engine oil and transmission of this manual for you to keep with you fluid levels. when you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection should be conducted before every ride, • Check the brake hydraulic fluid and and includes checks of: coolant level weekly. • Be sure your fuel valve is open T — Tires and Wheels before starting out. With the fuel 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.

6 PREPARING TO RIDE • Look underneath the motorcycle Someone else might be the first to start for signs of an oil or fuel leak. the chain of events leading to a crash, C — Chassis but it doesn’t leave any of us free of responsibility. • Check the front suspension. Ensure As a rider you can’t be sure that there is no binding. The rear shocks other operators will see you or yield the and springs should move smoothly. right of way. To lessen your chances of • Be sure the chain is adjusted a crash occurring: according to the manufacturer’s • Be visible — wear proper clothing, specifications and that the sprockets use your headlight, ride in the best are not worn or damaged. lane position to see and be seen. S — Stands • Communicate your intentions — • Ensure the side stand operates use the proper signals, brake light smoothly and that the spring holds and lane position. it tightly in the up position. If • Maintain an adequate space equipped, the center stand should cushion — when following, being also be held firmly against the followed, lane sharing, passing and frame whenever the motorcycle is being passed. moving. Search your path Additionally, regular maintenance •  of travel 12 such as tune-ups and oil changes are as seconds ahead. important for a motorcycle as routine • Identify and separate hazards. checkups by your doctor are for you. • Be prepared to act — remain alert Wear and tear is normal with use; and know how to carry out proper routine maintenance will help prevent crash-avoidance skills. costly breakdowns. The schedule for Blame doesn’t matter when regular upkeep for motorcycle parts someone is injured in a crash. The and controls is contained in your ability to ride aware, make critical motorcycle’s owner’s manual. decisions and carry them out separates responsible riders from the rest. KNOW YOUR Remember, it is up to you to keep from RESPONSIBILITIES being the cause of, or an unprepared “Accident” implies an unforeseen participant in, any crash. event that occurs without fault or negligence. In traffic, that is not the 2 Test Yourself case. In fact, most people involved in a crash can claim some responsibility for More than half of all crashes: what takes place. Consider a situation where A. Occur at speeds greater than someone decides to drive through an 35 mph intersection on a yellow light turning B. Happen at night red. Your light turns green. You pull C. Are caused by worn tires into the intersection without checking D. Involve riders who have ridden for possible traffic. That is all it takes their motorcycles less than six months for the two of you to crash. It was the Answer - page 52 driver’s responsibility to stop, and it was your responsibility to look before pulling out. Both of you are at fault. 7 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance. That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules of the road. BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL • Knees — Keep your knees against Body Position the gas tank to help you keep your To control a motorcycle well: balance as the motorcycle turns. • Posture  — Position yourself • Feet  — Keep your feet firmly on comfortably so you are able to the footrests to maintain balance. operate all the controls and can use Don’t drag your feet. If your foot your arms to steer the motorcycle, catches on something, you could rather than to hold yourself up. be injured and it could affect your This helps you bond with your control of the motorcycle. Keep motorcycle and allows you to react your feet near the controls so you quickly to hazards. can get to them fast if needed. Also, • Seat — Sit far enough forward so don’t let your toes point downward that arms are slightly bent when — they may get caught between the you hold the handgrips. Bending road and the footrests. your arms permits you to press on Shifting Gears the handlebars without having to There is more to shifting gears than stretch. simply getting the motorcycle to pick • Hands — Hold the handgrips up speed smoothly. Learning to use the firmly to keep your grip over rough gears when downshifting, turning or surfaces. Start with your right starting on hills is equally important wrist flat. This will help you keep from accidentally using too much for safe motorcycle operation. throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars The gearshift lever is located in so your hands are even with or front of the left footrest and is operated below your elbows. This permits by the left foot. To shift “up” to a higher you to use the proper muscles for gear, position your foot under the precision steering. shift lever and lift. To downshift, press HOLDING HANDLEGRIPS the shift lever down. The shift lever changes one gear each time it is lifted or pressed down. Whenever the lever is released, spring loading returns it to center, where the mechanism resets for the next shift up or down. A typical gear pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is for neutral, which is selected by either a “half lift” from 1st gear or a “half press” from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles have five gears, but some have four or six gears.

8 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES As your motorcycle increases speed, Once the shift is completed, release you will need to shift up to a higher gear. the shift lever to permit it to reset for Shift up well before the engine RPM the next shift. Rolling on the throttle reaches its maximum recommended slightly while smoothly easing out speed. As a general rule, shift up soon the clutch can help the engine come up to speed more quickly and make SHIFTING GEARS the downshift smoother. Shifting to a lower gear causes an effect similar to using the brakes. This is known as engine braking. To use engine braking, shift down one gear at a time and ease out the clutch through the friction zone between each downshift. Keep the clutch in the friction zone until the engine speed stabilizes. Then ease out the lever fully until ready for the next downshift. Usually you shift gears enough to avoid over-revving the one at a time, but it is possible to shift engine, but not so soon to cause the through more than one gear while the engine to lug. clutch is squeezed. When upshifting, use a 3-step Remain in first gear while you process: 1) Roll off the throttle as are stopped so that you can move out you squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift quickly if you need to. the shift lever firmly as far as it will Work toward a smooth, even go, 3) smoothly ease out the clutch clutch release, especially when and adjust the throttle. Once the shift downshifting. It is best to change is completed, release the shift lever to gears before entering a turn. However, permit it to reset for the next shift. sometimes shifting while in the turn You should shift down through is necessary. If so, remember to do so the gears with the clutch as you slow or smoothly. A sudden change in power stop, and can also shift down when you to the rear wheel can cause a skid. need more power to accelerate. Braking Make certain you are riding slowly Improper braking technique remains a enough when you shift into a lower significant contributing factor in many gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle and the rear wheel may skid. When has two brake controls: one for the riding downhill or shifting into first front wheel and one for the rear wheel. gear you may need to use the brakes Always use both brakes every time to slow enough before downshifting you slow or stop. The front brake is safely. more powerful and can provide at least When downshifting, use a 3-step 70% of your total stopping power. The process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you front brake is safe to use if you use it squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press the properly. shift lever down firmly, 3) ease out the clutch lever as you roll on the throttle. 9 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Maximum straight-line braking is but do not apply as much braking force accomplished by fully applying both as you would if the motorcycle were front and rear brakes without locking straight up. As you slow, you can reduce either wheel. your lean angle, and as more traction To do this: becomes available for braking, you can • Squeeze the front brake smoothly, more firmly apply the brakes, so that firmly and with progressively more by the time the motorcycle is stopped, force. Do not grab the brake lever the motorcycle is straight up, and the or use abrupt pressure. handlebars are squared. Linked and Integrated Braking • As the motorcycle’s weight Systems transfers forward, more traction becomes available at the front Some motorcycles have linked wheel, so the front brake can be braking which connects the front and applied harder after braking begins. rear brakes on the motorcycle and applies braking pressure to both brakes • Keep your knees against the when either the front lever or rear tank and your eyes up, looking pedal is applied. An integrated braking well ahead. This helps you stop the system is a variation of the linked motorcycle in a straight line. system in which partial front braking • Apply light-to-lighter pressure is applied whenever the rear brake to the rear brake pedal to prevent a is activated. Consult your owner’s rear wheel skid. As weight transfers manual for a detailed explanation on forward less traction is available the operation and effective use of these at the rear. Use less rear brake systems. pressure. Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) Using both brakes for even ABS is designed to prevent wheel “normal” stops will permit you to lock-up and avoid skids when stopping develop the proper habit or skill of in straight-line, panic situations. ABS using both brakes properly in an operates when maximum pressure on emergency. Squeeze the front brake both the front and rear brake controls and press down on the rear. Grabbing is applied. If electronic sensors detect at the front brake or jamming down on the possibility of a wheel lock, brake the rear can cause the brakes to lock, hydraulic pressure, is released then resulting in control problems. reapplied to maintain maximum Braking in a Corner braking effectiveness. Any time a motorcycle is leaned The system is capable of releasing over, the amount of traction available and reapplying pressure more than 15 for braking is reduced. The greater the times per second. lean angle, the more the possibility of the tires losing traction. To stop as quickly and as safely as possible in a curve, and depending on road and traffic conditions, try to get the motorcycle as perpendicular to the road as possible, then brake. If conditions do not allow, brake smoothly and gradually, 10 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Turning In normal turns, the rider and the Approach turns and curves with motorcycle should lean together at caution. Riders often try to take curves the same angle. or turns too fast. When they can’t hold the turn, they end up crossing into NORMAL TURNS another lane of traffic or going off the road. Or, they overreact and brake too hard, causing a skid and loss of control. Use four steps for better control: • SLOW — Reduce speed before the turn by closing the throttle and, if necessary, applying both brakes. • LOOK — Look through the turn to where you want to go. Turn just your head, not your shoulders, and keep your eyes level with the horizon. • PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle must lean. To lean the motor- cycle, press on the handgrip in the direction of the turn. Press left handgrip — lean left — go left. Press right handgrip — lean right — go In slow, tight turns, counter- right. The higher the speed in a turn, balance by leaning the motorcycle or the sharper the turn, the greater only and keeping your body straight. the lean angle needs to be. • ROLL — Roll on the throttle to maintain or slightly increase speed. SLOW, TIGHT TURNS This helps stabilize the motorcycle.

3 Test Yourself 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 52

11 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE • Avoid windblast from other vehicles. The best protection you can have is distance — a “cushion of space” — • Provide an escape route. separating yourself from other vehicles • Set up for turns. on the roadway. This will provide you Many motorcyclists consider with a clear view of emerging traffic the left third of the lane – the left tire situations, so that if someone else track of automobiles – to be their makes a mistake, you will have: default lane position. You should then • More time to respond. consider varying your lane position as conditions warrant, keeping mind that • More space to maneuver, including no portion of the lane need be avoided an escape route if necessary. — including the center. Lane Positions You should position yourself in the Successful motorcyclists know portion of the lane where you are most that they are safer when clearly seen. likely to be seen and you can maintain In some ways the size of the motorcycle a space cushion around you. Change can work to your advantage. Each traffic position as traffic situations change. lane gives a motorcycle three paths of Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other travel, as indicated in the illustration. potential problems are on your left Your lane position should help you: only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards • Increase your ability to see and be are on your right only. If vehicles are seen. being operated on both sides of you, the center of the lane, path 2, is usually • Avoid others’ blind spots. your best option. • Avoid surface hazards. Remember, the center third of the • Protect your lane from other lane is the place where debris and oil drippings from cars collect and where drivers. LANE POSITIONS hazards such as manhole covers are • Communicate your intentions. located. Unless the road is wet, the

LANE POSITIONS

12 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

FOLLOWING

average center strip permits adequate • If you reach the marker  before traction to ride on safely. You can you reach “two,” you are following operate to the left or right of the grease too closely. strip and still be within the center third A two-second following distance of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big leaves a minimum amount of space to buildups of oil and grease usually found stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops at busy intersections or tollbooths. suddenly. It also permits a better view Experienced riders rely on their of potholes and other hazards in the own best judgment and instincts. One road. absolute, however, is to avoid riding in A larger cushion of space is needed another vehicle’s blind spot. if your motorcycle will take longer Following Another Vehicle than normal to stop. If the pavement “Following too closely” is a factor is slippery, if you cannot see through in crashes involving motorcyclists. the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy In traffic, motorcycles need as much and someone may squeeze in front of distance to stop as cars. Normally, a you, open up a three-second or more minimum of two seconds distance following distance. should be maintained behind the Keep well behind the vehicle ahead vehicle ahead. even when you are stopped. This will make it easier to get out of the way if To gauge your following distance: someone bears down on you from • Pick out a marker, such as a behind. It will also give you a cushion pavement marking or lamppost, on of space if the vehicle ahead starts to or near the road ahead. back up for some reason. • When the rear bumper of the vehicle ahead passes the marker, count off the seconds: “one- thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”

13 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

When behind a car, ride where Passing the driver can see you in the rearview 1. Ride in the left portion of the mirror. Riding in the center portion of lane at a safe following distance the lane should put your image in the to increase your line of sight and middle of the rearview mirror — where make you more visible. Signal a driver is most likely to see you. and check for oncoming traffic. Riding at the far side of a lane Use your mirrors and turn your may permit a driver to see you in head to look for traffic behind. a sideview mirror. But remember that most drivers don’t look at their 2. When safe, move into the left sideview mirrors nearly as often as they lane and accelerate. Select a lane check the rearview mirror. If the traffic position that doesn’t crowd the situation allows, the center portion of car and provides space to avoid the lane is usually the best place for you hazards in your lane. to be seen by the drivers ahead and to 3. Ride through the blind spot  as prevent lane sharing by others. quickly as possible. Being Followed 4. Signal again, and complete Speeding up to lose someone mirror and headchecks before following too closely only ends up with returning to your original lane someone tailgating you at a higher speed. and then cancel the signal. A better way to handle tailgaters Remember, passes must be is to get them in front of you. When completed within posted speed someone is following too closely, limits, and only where permitted. change lanes and let them pass. If you Know your signs and road markings! can’t do this, slow down and open up extra space ahead of you to allow room for both you and the tailgater to stop. This will also encourage them to pass. If they don’t pass, you will have given PASSING yourself and the tailgater more time and space to react in case an emergency does develop ahead. Passing and Being Passed Passing and being passed by another vehicle is not much different than with a car. However, visibility is more critical. Be sure other drivers see you, and that you see potential hazards.

14 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES Being Passed Do not move into the portion When you are being passed from of the lane farthest from the passing behind, stay in the center portion of vehicle. It might invite the other driver your lane. Riding close to the passing to cut back into your lane too early. vehicle could put you in a hazardous Lane Sharing situation. Cars and motorcycles need a full Avoid being hit by: lane to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually prohibited. • The other vehicle — A slight Riding between rows of stopped mistake by you or the passing or moving cars in the same lane can driver could cause a sideswipe. leave you vulnerable to the unexpected. • Extended mirrors — Some drivers A hand could come out of a window; forget that their mirrors hang out a door could open; a car could turn farther than their fenders. suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by others. Keep a center-portion position • Objects thrown from windows whenever drivers might be tempted — Even if the driver knows you’re to squeeze by you. Drivers are most there, a passenger may not see you tempted to do this: and might toss something on you or the road ahead of you. • In heavy, bumper-to-bumper traffic. • Blasts of wind from larger vehicles — They can affect your • When they want to pass you. control. You have more room • When you are preparing to turn at for error if you are in the middle an intersection. portion when hit by this blast than

if you are on either side of the lane. • When you are moving into an exit lane or leaving a highway.

BEING PASSED

4 Test Yourself 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 52

15 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Merging Cars Cars Alongside Drivers on an entrance ramp may Do not ride next to cars or trucks not see you on the highway. Give them in other lanes if you do not have to. You plenty of room. Change to another lane might be in the blind spot of a car in if one is open. If there is no room for the next lane, which could switch into a lane change, adjust speed to open up your lane without warning. Cars in the space for the merging driver. next lane also block your escape if you come upon danger in your own lane. Speed up or drop back to find a place clear of traffic on both sides.

MERGING BLIND SPOT

16 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

SEE RIDER RADAR Good, experienced riders are always aware of what is going on around them. They reduce their risk by using MSF’s three-step SEESM strategy: • Search • Evaluate • Execute SEE will help you assess what is going on in traffic so you can plan and implement the safest course of action as traffic situations change. Let’s look at each of these steps. Search How assertively you search, and how much time and space you have, can eliminate or minimize risk. As you search, focus on Finally, experienced riders finding potential escape routes, search for hazards that are further especially in or around intersections, out, looking ahead to an area it shopping areas and school and would take about 12 seconds to construction zones. reach. This provides time to prepare One way to search is to use your for a situation before it becomes “RiderRadar” to aggressively scan immediate. the environment ahead of you, to Using the SEE strategy will help the sides, and behind you to avoid you to Search for a variety of factors potential hazards even before they such as: arise. There are three “lead times” experienced riders consider. First, • Oncoming traffic that may turn be alert and scan for hazards that left in front of you. are about 2 seconds ahead of you, • Traffic coming from the left and or within your following distance. from the right. Scanning your 4-second immediate path can allow you time for a quick • Traffic approaching from behind. response if something should go • Hazardous road conditions that wrong. Anything that is within 4 require you to be alert, especially seconds of your path is considered in areas with limited visibility. immediate because 4 seconds is Visually “busy” surroundings considered enough time and space could hide you and your to swerve and/or brake for fixed motorcycle from others. hazards or for someone or something entering your path of travel.

17 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Evaluate Apply the old adage “one step at a Evaluate means to think about how time” to handle two or more hazards. hazards can interact to create risks for Adjust speed to permit two hazards you. Anticipate potential problems and to separate. Then deal with them one have a plan to reduce risks, particularly at a time as single hazards. Decision- when faced with: making becomes more complex with • Road and surface characteristics three or more hazards. Evaluate the such as potholes, guardrails, consequences of each and give equal bridges, telephone poles and trees distance to the hazards. that won’t move into your path, but In potential high-risk areas, such may influence your riding strategy. as intersections, shopping areas and school and construction zones, cover • Traffic control devices including the clutch and both brakes to reduce traffic signals, warning signs, and the time you need to react. pavement markings, which will INTERSECTIONS require you to carefully evaluate circumstances ahead. The greatest potential for conflict between you and other traffic is at • Vehicles and other traffic  that intersections. An intersection can be may move into your path and in the middle of an urban area or at increase the likelihood of a crash. a driveway on a residential street — Think about your time and space anywhere traffic may cross your path of requirements in order to maintain travel. Over one-half of motorcycle/car a margin of safety, and give yourself crashes are caused by drivers entering a time to react if an emergency arises. rider’s right-of-way. Cars that turn left Execute in front of you, including cars turning Finally, Execute your decision. To left from the lane on your right, and create more space and minimize harm cars on side streets that pull into your from any hazard: lane, are the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE at intersections is critical. • Communicate your presence with lights and/or horn. 5 Test Yourself • Adjust your speed by accelerating, stopping or slowing. To reduce your reaction time, you should: • Adjust your position and/or direction by swerving, changing A. Ride slower than the speed limit lanes, or moving to another B. Cover the clutch and the brakes position within your lane. C. Shift into neutral when slowing D. Pull in the clutch when turning Answer - page 52

18 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES LARGE INTERSECTIONS

There are no guarantees that oth- Increase your chances of being seen at ers see you. Never count on “eye con- intersections. Ride with your headlight tact” as a sign that a driver will yield. on and in a lane position that provides Too often, a driver looks right at a mo- the best view of oncoming traffic. Pro- torcyclist and still fails to “see” him or vide a space cushion around the motor- her. The only eyes that you can count cycle that permits you to take evasive on are your own. If a car can enter your action. When approaching an intersec- path, assume that it will. Good riders tion where a vehicle driver is prepar- are always “looking for trouble” — not ing to cross your path, slow down and to get into it, but to stay out of it. select a lane position to increase your visibility to that driver. Cover the clutch SMALL INTERSECTIONS lever and both brakes to reduce reaction time. As you enter the intersection,

6 Test Yourself Making eye contact with other drivers:

A. Is a good sign they see you B. Is not worth the effort it takes C. Doesn’t mean that the driver will yield D. Guarantees that the other driver will yield to you Answer - page 52

19 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES move away from the vehicle. Do not BLIND INTERSECTIONS change speed or position 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 STOP SIGNS left portion of the lane — away from the parked car — so the driver on the cross street can see him as soon as possible. Remember, the key is to see as much as possible and remain visible to others while protecting your space. If you have a stop sign or stop line, stop there first. Then edge forward and stop again, just short of where the cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From that position, lean your body forward and look around buildings, parked cars or bushes to see if anything is coming. Just make sure your front wheel stays out of the cross PARKED CARS lane of travel while you’re looking. Passing Parked Cars When passing parked cars, stay toward the left of your lane. You can avoid problems caused by doors opening, drivers getting out of cars or people stepping from between cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it is usually best to remain in the center- lane position to maximize your space cushion.

20 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES A bigger problem can occur if the driver pulls away from the curb without PARKING AT CURBS checking for traffic behind. Even if he does look, he may fail to see you. In either event, the driver might cut into your path. Slow down or change lanes to make room for someone cutting in. Cars making a sudden U-turn are the most dangerous. They may cut you off entirely, blocking the whole roadway and leaving you with no place to go. Since you can’t tell what a driver will do, slow down and get the driver’s attention. Sound your horn and continue with caution. Parking at the Roadside However, you can do many things to If parking in a parallel parking make it easier for others to recognize space next to a curb, position the you and your motorcycle. motorcycle at an angle with the Clothing rear wheel to the curb. (Note: Some Most crashes occur in broad cities have ordinances that require daylight. Wear bright-colored clothing motorcycles to park parallel to the to increase your chances of being curb.) seen. Remember, your body is half of INCREASING CONSPICUITY the visible surface area of the rider/ In crashes with motorcyclists, motorcycle unit. drivers often say that they never Bright orange, red, yellow or green saw the motorcycle. From ahead or jackets/vests are your best bets for behind, a motorcycle’s outline is much being seen. Your helmet can do more smaller than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to than protect you in a crash. Brightly see something you are not looking colored helmets can also help others for, and most drivers are not looking see you. for motorcycles. More likely, they Any bright color is better than are looking through the skinny, two- drab or dark colors. Reflective, bright- wheeled silhouette in search of cars that colored clothing (helmet and jacket/ may pose a problem to them. vest) is best. Even if a driver does see you Reflective material on a vest and coming, you aren’t necessarily safe. on the sides of the helmet will help Smaller vehicles appear farther away drivers coming from the side to spot and seem to be traveling slower you. Reflective material can also be than they actually are. It is common a big help for drivers coming toward for drivers to pull out in front of you or from behind. motorcyclists, thinking they have Headlight plenty of time. Too often, they are The best way to help others see your wrong. motorcycle is to keep the headlight on — at all times (new motorcycles sold in the USA since 1978 automatically have the headlights on when running). 21 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES again. Use your signals at every turn SIGNALING so drivers can react accordingly. Don’t make them guess what you intend to do. Brake Light Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually not as noticeable as the brake lights on a car — particularly when your taillight is on. (It goes on with the headlight.) If the situation will permit, help others notice you by flashing your brake light before you slow down. It is especially important to flash your brake light before: • You slow more quickly than others might expect (turning off a high-speed highway). Studies show that, during the day, a • You slow where others may not motorcycle with its light on is twice as expect it (in the middle of a block likely to be noticed. Use low beam at or at an alley). night and in fog. If you are being followed closely, Signals it’s a good idea to flash your brake light The signals on a motorcycle are before you slow. The tailgater may be similar to those on a car. They tell watching you and not see something others what you plan to do. ahead that will make you slow down. However, due to a rider’s added This will hopefully discourage them vulnerability, signals are even more from tailgating and warn them of important. Use them anytime you plan hazards ahead they may not see. to change lanes or turn. Use them even when you think no one else is around. Using Your Mirrors It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to While it’s most important to keep give you the most trouble. Your signal track of what’s happening ahead, you lights also make you easier to spot. can’t afford to ignore situations behind. That’s why it’s a good idea to use your Traffic conditions change quickly. turn signals even when what you plan Knowing what’s going on behind is to do is obvious. essential for you to make a safe decision When you enter a freeway, drivers about how to handle trouble ahead. approaching from behind are more Frequent mirror checks should be likely to see your signal blinking and part of your normal searching routine. make room for you. Make a special point of using your Turning your signal light on mirrors: before each turn reduces confusion and • When you are stopped at an frustration for the traffic around you. intersection. Watch cars coming up Once you turn, make sure your signal from behind. If the drivers aren’t is off or a driver may pull directly into paying attention, they could be on your path, thinking you plan to turn top of you before they see you.

22 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

• Before you change lanes. Make USING MIRRORS sure no one is about to pass you. • Before you slow down. The driver behind may not expect you to slow, or may be unsure about where you will slow. For example, you signal a turn and the driver thinks you plan to turn at a distant intersection, rather than at a nearer driveway. Most motorcycles have rounded (convex) mirrors. These provide a wider view of the road behind than do flat mirrors. They also make cars seem farther away than they really are. If you are not used to convex mirrors, get familiar with them. (While you are stopped, pick out a parked car in your mirror. Form a On a road with several lanes, check mental image of how far away it is. the far lane and the one next to you. A Then, turn around and look at it to driver in the distant lane may head for see how close you came.) Practice the same space you plan to take. with your mirrors until you become Frequent head checks should be a good judge of distance. Even then, your normal scanning routine, also. allow extra distance before you Only by knowing what is happening change lanes. all around you are you fully prepared to deal with it. Head Checks Checking your mirrors is not Horn enough. Motorcycles have “blind spots” Be ready to use your horn to get like cars. Before you change lanes, turn someone’s attention quickly. your head, and look to the side for other It is a good idea to give a quick vehicles. beep before passing anyone that may move into your lane. Here are some situations: • A driver in the lane next to you is driving too closely to the vehicle 7 Test Yourself ahead and may want to pass.

Reflective clothing should: • A parked car has someone in the driver’s seat. A. Be worn at night • Someone is in the street, riding a B. Be worn during the day C. Not be worn bicycle or walking. D. Be worn day and night In an emergency, sound your horn loud and long. Be ready to stop or Answer - page 52 swerve away from the danger.

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

24 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Stopping Quickly STOPPING DISTANCE in a Curve If you know the technique, using both brakes in a turn is possible, although it should be done very carefully. When leaning the motorcycle some of the traction is used for cornering. Less traction is available for stopping. A skid can occur if you apply too much brake. Also, using the front brake incorrectly on a slippery the handlebars in the last few feet of surface may be hazardous. Use caution stopping to maintain your balance and and squeeze the brake lever, never grab. remain upright. If you must stop quickly while Swerving or Turning Quickly turning in a curve, first straighten and Sometimes you may not have square the handlebars, then stop. If you enough room to stop, even if you find yourself in a situation that does use both brakes properly. You may not allow straightening first, such as encounter an unexpected object in when there is a danger of running off your path, or the car ahead might the road in a left-hand curve, or when squeal to a stop. The only way to avoid facing oncoming traffic in a right- a crash may be to turn quickly or hand curve, apply the brakes smoothly swerve around it. A swerve is a sudden and gradually. As you slow, you can change in direction. It can be two quick reduce your lean angle and apply more turns, or a rapid shift to the side. Apply brake pressure until the motorcycle is a small amount of hand pressure to the straight and maximum brake pressure handlegrip located on the side of your can be applied. Always straighten SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

25 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES intended direction of escape. This will Maximum Straight-Line Braking cause the motorcycle to lean quickly. Maximum straight-line braking is The sharper the turn(s), the more the accomplished by fully applying front motorcycle must lean. Keep your body and rear brakes without locking either body upright and allow the motorcycle wheel. Keep your body centered over to lean in the direction of the turn while the motorcycle and look well ahead, keeping your knees against the tank not down. This will help you keep and your feet solidly on the foot rests. the motorcycle in as straight a line as Let the motorcycle move underneath possible, minimizing lean angle and the you. Make your escape route the target likelihood of the wheels losing traction. of your vision. Press on the oppostie Front-Wheel Skids handlegrip once you clear the obstacle If the front wheel locks, release to return you to your original direction the front brake immediately and of travel. To swerve to the left, press the completely. left handlegrip, then press the right to Reapply the brake smoothly. recover. To swerve to the right, press right, then left. If braking is required, separate it from swerving. Break before or after - never while swerving. MULTIPLE CURVES

CONSTANT CURVES

WIDENING CURVES

DECREASING CURVES (Tighter Turns)

26 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES Front-wheel skids result in immediate This permits you to spot approaching loss of steering control and balance. traffic as soon as possible. You can also Failure to fully release the brake lever adjust for traffic “crowding” the center immediately will result in a crash. line, or debris blocking part of your Rear-Wheel Skids lane. A skidding rear tire is a dangerous HANDLING DANGEROUS condition that can result in a violent SURFACES crash and serious injury or death. Too Your chance of falling or being much rear brake pressure causes rear- involved in a crash increases whenever wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel you ride across: locks, your ability to change direction is • Uneven surfaces or obstacles. lost. To regain control the brake must be released. However, if the rear wheel • Slippery surfaces. is out of alignment with the front, there • Railroad tracks. is a risk of a high-side crash. This occurs when the wheels are out of alignment • Grooves and gratings. and a locked rear wheel is released. The Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles motorcycle can abruptly snap upright Watch for uneven surfaces such as and tumble, throwing the rider into bumps, broken pavement, potholes or the air ahead of the motorcycle’s path. small pieces of highway trash. Even slight misalignment can result in Try to avoid obstacles by slowing a high-side crash. or going around them. If you must go Curves over the obstacle, first determine if it is A primary cause of single-vehicle possible. Approach it at as close to a 90˚ crashes is motorcyclists running wide angle as possible. Look where you want in a curve or turn and colliding with the to go to control your path of travel. If you roadway or a fixed object. Every curve have to ride over the obstacle, you should: is different. Be alert to whether a curve • Slow down as much as possible remains constant, gradually widens, before contact. gets tighter or involves multiple turns. • Make sure the motorcycle is Ride within your skill level and posted straight. speed limits. Your best path may not always • Rise slightly off the seat with your follow the curve of the road. Change weight on the footrests to absorb lane position depending on traffic, road the shock with your knees and conditions and curve of the road. If no elbows, and avoid being thrown off traffic is present, start at the outside of the motorcycle. a curve to increase your line of sight • Just before contact, roll on the and the effective radius of the turn. As throttle slightly to lighten the front you turn, move toward the inside of the end. curve, and as you pass the center, move If you ride over an object on the to the outside to exit. street, pull off the road and check your Another alternative is to move to tires and rims for damage before riding the center of your lane before entering any farther. a curve — and stay there until you exit.

27 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES OBSTACLES

Slippery Surfaces • Use Both Brakes — The front Motorcycles handle better when brake is still effective, even on a ridden on surfaces that permit good slippery surface. Squeeze the brake traction. Surfaces that provide poor lever gradually to avoid locking traction include: the front wheel. Remember, gentle •Wet pavement, particularly just after pressure on the rear brake. it starts to rain and before surface oil • The center of a lane can be washes to the side of the road. hazardous when wet. When it starts • Gravel roads, or where sand and to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by gravel collect. cars. Often, the left tire track will be the best position, depending on • Mud, leaves, snow, and ice. traffic and other road conditions. • Lane markings (painted lines), • Watch for oil spots when you put steel plates and manhole covers, your foot down to stop or park. You especially when wet. may slip and fall. To ride safely on slippery surfaces: • Dirt and gravel collect along the • Reduce Speed — Slow down sides of the road — especially on before you get to a slippery curves and ramps leading to and surface to lessen your chances of from highways. Be aware of what’s skidding. Your motorcycle needs on the edge of the road, particularly more distance to stop. And it is when making sharp turns and getting particularly important to reduce on or off freeways at high speeds. speed before entering wet curves. • Rain dries and snow melts faster  • Avoid Sudden Moves — Any on some sections of a road than on sudden change in speed or direction others. Patches of ice tend to develop can cause a skid. Be as smooth as in low or shaded areas and on bridges possible when you speed up, shift and overpasses. Wet surfaces or wet gears, turn or brake. leaves are just as slippery. Ride on the least slippery portion of the lane and reduce speed. 28 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Cautious riders steer clear of the surface. If the motorcycle starts to roadscovered with ice or snow. If you fall, you can catch yourself. Be sure to can’t avoid a slippery surface, keep your keep off the brakes. If possible, squeeze motorcycle straight up and proceed the clutch and coast. Attempting this as slowly as possible. If you encounter maneuver at anything other than the a large surface so slippery that you slowest of speeds could prove hazardous. must coast, or travel at a walking pace, consider letting your feet skim along CROSSTRACKS — RIGHT 8 Test Yourself The best way to stop quickly is to: A. Use the front brake only B. Use the rear brake first C. Throttle down and use the front brake D. Use both brakes at the same time Answer - page 52

CROSSTRACKS — WRONG GATE CROSSINGS — RIGHT

GATE CROSSINGS — WRONG PARALLEL TRACKS — RIGHT

9 Test Yourself PARALLEL TRACKS — WRONG When it starts to rain it is usually best to: A. Ride in the center of the lane B. Pull off to the side until the rain stops C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars D. Increase your speed Answer - page 52

29 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks and If the front tire goes flat, the Pavement Seams steering will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel Usually it is safer to ride straight flat is particularly hazardous because it within your lane to cross tracks. Turning affects your steering. You have to steer to take tracks head-on (at a 90˚ angle) well to keep your balance. can be more dangerous — your path may If the rear tire goes flat, the back of carry you into another lane of traffic. the motorcycle may jerk or sway from For track and road seams that side to side. run parallel to your course, move far If either tire goes flat while riding: enough away from tracks, ruts, or • Hold handgrips firmly, ease off the pavement seams to cross at an angle throttle, and keep a straight course. of at least 45˚. Then, make a deliberate turn. Edging across could catch your • If braking is required, gradually tires and throw you off balance. apply the brake of the tire that isn’t flat, if you are sure which one it is. Grooves and Gratings • When the motorcycle slows, edge to the side of the road, squeeze the Riding over rain grooves or bridge 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 stuck, this may free it. If the throttle stays forces riders to zigzag to stay in the stuck, immediately operate the engine lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous cut-off switch and pull in the clutch at than the wandering feeling. the same time. This will remove power from the rear wheel, though engine MECHANICAL PROBLEMS sound may not immediately decline. Once the motorcycle is “under control,” You can find yourself in an pull off and stop. emergency the moment something After you have stopped, check the goes wrong with your motorcycle. In throttle cable carefully to find the source dealing with any mechanical problem, of the trouble. Make certain the throttle take into account the road and traffic works freely before you start to ride again. conditions you face. Here are some guidelines that can help you handle Wobble mechanical problems safely. A “wobble” occurs when the front Tire Failure wheel and handlebars suddenly start to shake from side to side at any speed. You will seldom hear a tire go Most wobbles can be traced to improper flat. If the motorcycle starts handling loading, unsuitable accessories or differently, it may be a tire failure. This incorrect tire pressure. If you are can be dangerous. You must be able to carrying a heavy load, lighten it. If you tell from the way the motorcycle reacts. can’t, shift it. Center the weight lower If one of your tires suddenly loses air, and farther forward on the motorcycle. react quickly to keep your balance. Pull off and check the tires.

30 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES Make sure tire pressure, spring pre- Engine Seizure load, air shocks and dampers are at When the engine “locks” or the settings recommended for that “freezes” it is usually low on oil. The much weight. Make sure windshields engine’s moving parts can’t move and check for poorly adjusted steering; smoothly against each other, and the worn steering parts; a front wheel that engine overheats. The first sign may be is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; a loss of engine power or a change in loose wheel bearings or spokes; and the engine’s sound. Squeeze the clutch worn swingarm bearings. If none of lever to disengage the engine from the these is determined to be the cause, rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop. have the motorcycle checked out Check the oil. If needed, oil should be thoroughly by a qualified professional. added as soon as possible or the engine Trying to “accelerate out of a will seize. When this happens, the effect wobble” will only make the motorcycle is the same as a locked rear wheel. Let more unstable. Instead: the engine cool before restarting. • Grip the handlebars firmly, but ANIMALS don’t fight the wobble. Naturally, you should do everything you safely can to avoid • Close the throttle gradually hitting an animal. If you are in traffic, to slow down. Do not apply the however, remain in your lane. Hitting brakes; braking could make the something small is less dangerous to wobble worse. you than hitting something big — like • Move your weight as far forward a car. and down as possible. Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If you are being chased, downshift and • Pull off the road as soon as you approach the animal slowly. As you can to fix the problem. approach it, accelerate and leave the animal behind. Don’t kick at the animal. Drive Train Problems Keep control of your motorcycle and The drive train for a motorcycle look to where you want to go. uses either a chain, belt, or drive shaft For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle) to transfer power from the engine to brake and prepare to stop — they are the rear wheel. Routine inspection, unpredictable. adjustment, and maintenance makes failure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt that slips or breaks while you’re riding could lock the rear wheel and 10 Test Yourself cause your motorcycle to skid. If the chain or belt breaks, you’ll If your motorcycle starts to notice an instant loss of power to the wobble: rear wheel. Close the throttle and brake A. Accelerate out of the wobble to a stop in a safe area. B. Use the brakes gradually On a motorcycle with a drive shaft, C. Grip the handlebars firmly and loss of oil in the rear differential can close the throttle gradually cause the rear wheel to lock, and you D. Downshift may not be able to prevent a skid. Answer - page 52

31 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES FLYING OBJECTS this reason, only experienced riders From time to time riders are struck should attempt to carry passengers or by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars large loads. Before taking a passenger or pebbles kicked up by the tires of or a heavy load on the street, prepare the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing yourself and your motorcycle for safe face protection, it might get smeared operation in traffic. or cracked, making it difficult to see. Without face protection, an object PREPARING YOUR could hit you in the eye, face or mouth. MOTORCYCLE Whatever happens, keep your eyes Tire pressure – Check the air on the road and your hands on the pressure of both tires. Refer to the handlebars. When safe, pull off the owner’s manual or the label affixed to road and repair the damage. the motorcycle for the correct inflation specifications. Though most of the GETTING OFF THE ROAD added weight will typically be on the If you need to leave the road to check rear wheel, don’t forget to also check the motorcycle (or just to rest), be sure to: the pressure on the front tire. Correct • Check the roadside — Make sure inflation pressures will maintain the surface of the roadside is firm maximum stability, steering precision enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, and braking capability. loose sand or if you’re just not sure Suspension – With a heavy load, about it, slow way down before you the riding characteristics and balance turn onto it. of the motorcycle will change. On • Signal — Drivers behind might some motorcycles, it will be necessary not expect you to slow down. to adjust the suspension settings Give a clear signal that you will (spring preload, compression/damping be slowing down and changing settings, etc.) to compensate for the direction. Check your mirror and lowered rear of the motorcycle. Refer make a head check before you take to the owner’s manual for adjustment any action. procedures and specifications. Headlight – Prior to loading, • Pull off the road  — Get as far off position the motorcycle about 10 feet the road as you can. It can be very from a wall in an unlighted garage and hard to spot a motorcycle by the mark the headlight beam location on side of the road. You don’t want the wall with chalk. With a full load and someone else pulling off at the passenger, recheck the headlight beam same place you are. location. Use the adjusting screws on • Park carefully — Loose and the headlight to lower the beam to sloped shoulders can make setting the same height. Check your owner’s the side or center stand difficult. manual for adjustment procedure. Equipment for Carrying a CARRYING PASSENGERS AND Passenger CARGO • Be sure your passenger is properly The extra weight of a passenger attired, wearing the same level of or cargo will affect the way your personal protective gear as you. motorcycle behaves, requiring extra practice, preparation and caution. For

32 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES • Be sure your motorcycle is As the passenger mounts, keep equipped with passenger footrests. both your feet on the ground and • Your motorcycle should have a the brakes applied. proper seat, one large enough to hold • Sit as far forward as possible both you and your passenger without without hindering your control of crowding. You should not sit more the motorcycle. forward than you usually do. • Hold firmly onto your waist, hips, • Check that there is a strap or solid belt or passenger handholds for handholds for your passenger to balance and security. hold onto. • Keep both feet firmly on the cycle’s Preparing Your Passenger to Ride footrests, even when stopped. Firm Ensure your passenger is able footing will prevent your passenger to reach the passenger footrests, and from falling off and pulling you off. is able to hold on to your waist, hips, • Keep legs away from the muffler(s), belt, or the bike’s passenger handholds. chains or moving parts. Children should be placed immediately behind the rider. A child sitting in • Stay directly behind you and lean front of the rider will not be able to with you through turns and curves. properly balance him/herself and may It is helpful for the passenger to interfere with the rider’s control of the look over the rider’s shoulder in the motorcycle. direction of turns and curves. Passenger safety begins with prop- • Avoid unnecessary conversation er instruction. Riders should not as- and avoid leaning or turning sume that passengers are familiar with around. Make no sudden moves motorcycle handling, control, or bal- that might affect the stability of the ance. As a routine practice, always in- motorcycle when it is in operation. struct your passenger on cycling basics prior to starting the trip, even if your • Rise slightly off the seat when passenger is a motorcycle rider. crossing an obstacle. As you prepare for your ride, tell Also, remind your passenger to your passenger to: tighten his or her hold when you: • Get on the motorcycle only after • Approach surface hazards such as you have started the engine and bumps or uneven road surfaces. have the transmission in neutral. • Are about to start from a stop or begin moving into traffic. 11 Test Yourself • Are about to turn sharply or make a If you are chased by a dog: sudden move. Riding With Passengers A. Kick it away Your motorcycle will respond B. Stop until the animal loses interest slowly when you ride with a passenger. C. Swerve around the animal The heavier your passenger, the longer D. Approach the animal slowly, it will take to speed up, slow down, or then speed up turn. Answer - page 52

33 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES When riding with passengers: • Ride a little slower, especially when taking curves, corners, or bumps. If any part of the motorcycle scrapes the ground at lean angle, steering control can be lost. • Start slowing earlier as you approach a stop, and maintain a larger space cushion whenever slowing or stopping. • Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, or merge in traffic. Carrying Loads Everything you are likely to need for a riding holiday or weekend trip can be packed on your motorcycle in many different ways. There are complete lug- gage systems, saddlebags that are per- manently attached to the motorcycle, soft bags that do not require a carrier system and can be tied to the seat, and a tank bag for other small items. You can also travel simply with only a backpack. Whatever you decide, do not exceed gross vehicle weight rating when trav- eling with cargo and a passenger, and always make adjustments to the mo- torcycle to compensate for the added weight.

34 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH the tank bag in place, make sure PASSENGERS AND CARGO it does not catch any of the brake • Keep the load forward. Pack heavier lines or cables in the area of the items in the front of the tank bag. steering head. Lighter items such as your sleeping • Secure loads low, or put them in bag, ground pad or tent, should be saddlebags. Attaching a load to a packed on a luggage rack behind sissy bar raises the motorcycle’s you. Try to place the load over, or center of gravity and can upset its in front of, the rear axle. Mounting balance. loads behind the rear axle can affect • If you use saddlebags, load each how the motorcycle turns and with about the same weight. brakes. It can also cause a wobble. An uneven load can cause the • Plan your route and length of each motorcycle to pull to one side. day’s riding segment and allow Overloading may also cause the plenty of time for breaks. Poor bags to catch in the wheel or chain, weather, breakdowns, and fatigue locking the rear wheel and causing are always possible. the motorcycle to skid. • Consider selecting some interesting • Fasten the load securely with secondary roads to occasionally elastic cords (bungee cords or reduce the monotony of the nets). Elastic cords with more than highway. one attachment point per side are • Start as early in the morning as recommended. A loose load could possible. When you are fresh, you catch in the wheel or chain, causing ride at peak performance. For most it to lock up, resulting in a skid. riders, this is usually between 6 Rope can stretch and knots can a.m. and 11 a.m. – then, take a come loose, permitting the load to good hour’s break for lunch. Your shift or fall. You should stop and energy will pick up again in the check the load often to make sure afternoon. it has not shifted or loosened. • Don’t forget sun protection in the • Include a small tool kit and some summer. Some combinations of common spare parts that you might riding gear can leave your neck need. Water and some energy bars exposed, risking sunburn. or other food should also be part of your preparation, and don’t forget • If you wear a backpack, be sure it a first aid kit, especially if you are is securely attached to you. Try to riding in a group. adjust the shoulder straps so that the backpack rests lightly on the seat. This will reduce the tension in 12 Test Yourself your neck and shoulders. Passengers should: • If you have a tank bag, be sure it A. Lean as you lean is securely mounted and does not B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat obstruct your view of the controls C. Sit as far back as possible or instruments. If necessary, pack it D. Never hold onto you only partially full. When strapping Answer - page 52

35 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE Pre-Ride Test Plan Prior to starting out, take a test Before starting out, hold a rider’s ride with your fully loaded motorcycle meeting to discuss the route, length through some familiar neighborhood of riding segments, rest stops and roads to get a feel for the operation of locations for fuel, meals and lodging. your motorcycle. Be sure the suspension Make sure everyone knows the settings are correct, and that the side route. That way, if someone becomes stand, footrests, and exhaust pipes don’t separated, he or she won’t have to hurry scrape over bumps and in turns. Ensure to keep from getting lost or making the tank bag does not get in the way of the wrong turn. Choose a lead rider the handlebars or restrict the steering. and a sweep rider. These should be the Also check the security of the load, so most experienced riders of the group. that your luggage does not hit you in The lead rider should look ahead for the back under maximum braking. changes in road, traffic or weather You will also find that the conditions, and signal early so the word performance of a fully loaded gets back in plenty of time to the other motorcycle will be different than what riders. The sweep rider is the last rider you are used to. Test the power when in the group, and sets the pace for the accelerating and be aware that it will group. Place inexperienced riders just be lower, increasing passing times behind the leader. That ensures that and distances. Braking will also feel they won’t have to chase after the group, different, and stopping distances may and the more experienced riders can increase. watch them from the back. GROUP RIDING The most important rules for group riding are: no competition, no passing Preparation of other riders and no tailgating. If a Preparing yourself for a group ride rider insists on riding faster than the is as important as making sure your group, allow him or her to go ahead to motorcycle is ready. Riding with a group an agreed meeting point. requires an alert mind that is free from worries, distractions and stress. It also Hand signals means riding free from the influence During the rider’s meeting, of alcohol or drugs. For some, even too review the hand signals so all riders much caffeine or prescription drugs can communicate during the ride. A can adversely affect concentration. diagram of the most common hand Prior to a long trip, it’s a good idea signals is at the end of this manual. to have your motorcycle serviced at Follow those behind your local dealership if you aren’t able to During the ride, use your mirrors to do the work yourself. A thorough pre- keep an eye on the person behind ride check is a must. Use the T-CLOCS and confirm that the group is staying checklist as a reminder of the important together. If a rider falls behind, components to check before you leave. everyone should slow down to keep the Remember to consider such variables group together. as passengers and extra weight from cargo that might require a change in tire pressure or suspension adjustment.

36 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE Keep Your Distance Interstate Highways and Freeways Maintain close ranks, but at the A staggered formation is essential same time, maintain an adequate space when riding on freeways and interstates. cushion to allow each rider in the group However, enter in single file and form time and distance to react to hazards. up only after all riders have safely A close group takes up less space on merged in traffic. The lead rider should the highway, is easier to see, and is less move the group over at least one lane to likely to become separated. This must, prevent vehicles that are entering and however, be done properly. exiting from disrupting your formation. Don’t Pair Up In heavy traffic, resist the temptation to Never ride directly alongside ride too close together. Maintain your another rider in the same lane. There is minimum one-second, two-second no place to go if you have to maneuver staggered formation space cushion. to avoid a car or hazard in the roadway. When exiting, use a single file formation Wait until you are both stopped to talk. for better space cushion and time to Staggered Formation react to conditions at the end of the off- This is the best way to keep the ramp. ranks close yet maintain an adequate Parking space cushion. The group leader rides in When possible, park as a group, so the left side of the lane, and the second everyone can get off their motorcycles rider stays at least one second back and more quickly. Avoid parking downhill rides in the right side of the lane. The or head-in, and if possible, park third maintains the left position of the where you can pull through, making lane, at least two seconds behind the the arrival and departure smoother. first rider. The fourth rider should keep Whenever possible, park so that the at least a two second distance from the group can depart as a unit in single file. second rider in the right side of the lane, and so on. This formation keeps the group close and permits each rider to maintain a safe distance from others ahead, behind and to the sides. STAGGERED FORMATION It is best to move to single file formation when riding in curves, turning, and entering or leaving freeways or highways. Intersections Intersections present the highest risk for motorcyclists in a group. When making a left turn at an intersection with a left turn signal arrow, tighten the formation to allow as many riders through the intersection as possible. Make the turn single file – do not ride side-by-side. If not all riders get through the light, stop at a safe point ahead and wait. This will prevent riders from feeling pressured to speed up or run a red light. 37 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Passing in Formation When the group wants to pass GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1) slow traffic on a freeway or interstate, the group may pass as a unit. On a two-lane highway, riders in a staggered formation should pass one at a time. • First, the lead rider should pull out and pass when it is safe. After passing the leader should return to the left position and continue riding at passing speed to open room for the next rider. • Next, the second rider should move up to the left position in the lane and wait for a chance to safely pass. When passing be sure you have a clear view of oncoming traffic. Just because the lead rider passed, that does not mean that conditions haven’t changed and that it is still safe for other riders to pass. After passing the rider should return to the right position and open up room for the next rider. GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2) Some people suggest that the lead rider should move to the right side of the lane after passing the vehicle. This is not a good idea, since it might encourage the second rider to pass and cut back in before there is enough space cushion in front of the passed vehicle. It’s simpler and safer to wait until there is enough room ahead of the passed vehicle to allow each rider to move into the same position held before the pass. 13 Test Yourself When riding in a group, inexpe- rienced 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 52

38 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Ten Rules of Group Riding • Place inexperienced riders just • Base the length of the route and behind the leader so they can keep segments on ability of the least pace without riding faster than it is experienced rider. safe. • Take timely breaks to prevent • When passing, be conscious of the loss of concentration and reduce traffic conditions and oncoming fatigue. traffic. Even though the previous riders passed safely, it may not be • Adjust the pace through curves to safe for you. the ability of the least experienced rider. If necessary, form two groups • Maintain adequate time distance with different speeds. between riders, especially at intersections. This allows you to • Don’t tailgate or encourage the avoid hard braking. rider in front to speed. If you want to ride faster, ride ahead of the • Check your mirrors frequently to group. ensure the group stays together. • Keep adequate following distance and maintain a staggered formation. • Do not pass in the group, except in the case of emergency.

39 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle, identifying potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions quickly and skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road and traffic conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and drugs, more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and to ride skillfully. As little as one drink can have a significant effect on your performance. Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What to do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined. WHY THIS INFORMATION IS ALCOHOL AND DRUGS IN IMPORTANT MOTORCYCLE OPERATION Alcohol is a major contributor to No one is immune to the effects motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal of alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag crashes. Studies show that 29% of all about their ability to hold their liquor fatally injured motorcycle riders had or perform better on drugs, but alcohol BAC levels above the legal limit of or drugs make them less able to think 0.08%. An additional 8% had lower clearly and perform physical tasks alcohol levels (BAC 0.01 to 0.07%), skillfully. Judgment and the decision- demonstrating that having only a drink making processes needed for vehicle or two in one’s system is enough to operation are affected long before legal impair riding skills. Drug levels are limits are reached. harder to distinguish or have not been Many over-the-counter, presciption separated from drinking violations for and illegal drugs have side effects that the traffic records. But riding “under increase the risk of riding. It is difficult to the influence” of either alcohol or drugs accurately measure the involvement of poses physical and legal consequences particular drugs in motorcycle crashes. for every rider. But we do know what the effects of Drinking and drug use is as various drugs have on the processes big a problem among motorcyclists involved in riding a motorcycle. We as it is among automobile drivers. also know that the combined effects of Motorcyclists, however, are more alcohol and drugs are more dangerous likely to be killed or severely injured than either is alone. in a crash. Injuries occur in 90% ALCOHOL IN THE BODY of motorcycle crashes and 33% of Alcohol enters the bloodstream automobile crashes that involve abuse quickly. Unlike most foods and of substances. On a yearly basis, 2,000 beverages, it does not need to be motorcyclists are killed and about digested. Within minutes after being 50,000 seriously injured in this same consumed, it reaches the brain and type of crash. These statistics are too begins to affect the drinker. The major overwhelming to ignore. effect alcohol has is to slow down and By becoming knowledgeable impair bodily functions — both mental about the effects of alcohol and drugs and physical. Whatever you do, you do you will see that riding and substance less well after consuming alcohol. abuse don’t mix. Take positive steps to protect yourself and prevent others from injuring themselves. 40 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Blood Alcohol Concentration The faster you drink, the more alcohol Blood Alcohol Concentration accumulates in your body. If you drink or BAC is the amount of alcohol in two drinks in an hour, at the end of that relation to blood in the body. Generally, hour, at least one drink will remain in alcohol can be eliminated in the body at your bloodstream. the rate of almost one drink per hour. Without taking into account any other But a variety of other factors may also factors, these examples illustrate why influence the level of alcohol retained. time is a critical factor when a rider The more alcohol in your blood, the decides to drink. greater the degree of impairment. If you drink: Three factors play a major part in – Seven drinks over the span of three determining BAC: hours you would have at least four (7 – • The amount of alcohol you 3 = 4) drinks remaining in your system consume. at the end of the three hours. You would need at least another four hours • How fast you drink. to eliminate the four remaining drinks • Your body weight. before you consider riding. Other factors also contribute to the – Four drinks over the span of two way alcohol affects your system. hours would have at least two drinks Your sex, physical condition and remaining in their system at the end food intake are just a few that may of the two hours (4 – 2 = 2). They cause your BAC level to be even higher. would need at least another two hours But the full effects of these are not to eliminate the two remaining drinks completely known. Alcohol may still before they consider riding. accumulate in your body even if you are drinking at a rate of one drink per hour. Total # Hours Drinks drinks LESS since last EQUALS left in Abilities and judgment can be affected consumed drink body by that one drink. A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed ____ - ____ = ____ drink with one shot (1.5 ounces) of liquor, and a 5-ounce glass of wine all contain the same amount of alcohol.

ALCOHOL CONTENT

41 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

ALCOHOL AND THE LAW • Fine: minimum $375 and not more In all states, an adult with a BAC of .08% than $1,075 or above is considered intoxicated. For • Court License Suspension: six operators under the age of 21, lower months to three years BAC limits (0.00 to 0.02%, depending 2nd Offense on state) apply. It doesn’t matter how • ALS for one year for .08% or above sober you may look or act. A breath, BAC blood, or urine test is what usually • ALS for 2nd test refusal = two-year determines whether you are riding license suspension legally or illegally. Whether or not you • Jail: minimum of 10 consecutive are legally intoxicated is not the real days or five days jail + minimum issue. Impairment of judgment and skills 18 consecutive days of electronically begins well below the legal limit. monitored house arrest combined, Your chances of being stopped for not to exceed six months1 riding under the influence of alcohol are • Fine: minimum $525 and not more increasing. Law enforcement is being than $1,625 stepped up across the country in response • Mandatory drug and alcohol to the senseless deaths and injuries caused assessment by drinking drivers and riders. • Vehicle immobilization and plates ALCOHOL AND OHIO’S LAW impounded for 90 days, if owner • Court License Suspension: one year Sweeping reforms of Ohio’s drunk to five years driving laws went into effect in 2004. The new laws make it tougher for drivers 1. Doubled on conviction of .17% BAC who make the wrong decision to drink and Operating a Vehicle Impaired or use drugs and get behind the wheel (OVI)/refusal of a vehicle. 3rd Offense CONSEQUENCES OF • ALS for two years for .08% or above CONVICTION BAC • ALS for 3rd test refusal = three-year If you are convicted of riding under license suspension the influence of alcohol or drugs, you • Jail: minimum 30 consecutive days may receive any or all of the following to one year penalties: • Alternative sentence: 15 days of jail 1st Offense + minimum 55 consecutive days • Administrative License Suspension of electronically monitored house (ALS) for 90 days for .08% or above arrest combined, maximum of one BAC year • ALS for test refusal = one-year • Fine: minimum $850 and not more license suspension than $2,750 • Jail: minimum of three consecu- • Mandatory attendance in an alco- tive days or three-day intervention hol treatment program paid for by program1 offender 42 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

• Vehicle forfeiture will result upon Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t a 3rd conviction for OVI within six controlled your drinking, you must years, if owner control your riding. • Court License Suspension: two • Leave the motorcycle — so you years to 10 years won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange another way to get home. 4th or More Offense or motor vehicle- related felony will result in vehicle • Wait — If you exceed your limit, forfeiture, if owner, and stricter penalties. wait until your system eliminates • Any previous OVI conviction that the alcohol and its fatiguing effects. was a felony = a minimum of $1,350 STEP IN TO PROTECT FRIENDS and not more than $10,500 People who have had too much to • 5th or subsequent OVI offense on drink are unable to make a responsible or after September 30, 2008 will be decision. It is up to others to step in placed on “Ohio’s Habitual OVI/ and keep them from taking too great a risk. No one wants to do this — it’s OMVI Offender Registry.” This uncomfortable, embarrassing and registry becomes accessible to the thankless. You are rarely thanked public, via the internet, on Decem- for your efforts at the time. But the ber 30, 2008. alternatives are often worse. There are several ways to keep MINIMIZE THE RISKS friends from hurting themselves: Your ability to judge how well you • Arrange a safe ride — Provide are riding is affected first. Although alternative ways for them to get you may be performing more and more home. poorly, you think you are doing better and better. The result is that you ride • Slow the pace of drinking — confidently, taking greater and greater Involve them in other activities. risks. Minimize the risks of drinking • Keep them there — Use any and riding by taking steps before you excuse to keep them from getting drink. Control your drinking or control on their motorcycle. Serve them your riding. food and coffee to pass the time. Make an Intelligent Choice Explain your concerns for their risks of getting arrested or hurt or Don’t Drink — Once you start, hurting someone else. Take their your resistance becomes weaker. key, if you can. Setting a limit or pacing yourself are poor alternatives at best. Your ability • Get friends involved — Use peer to exercise good judgment is one of the pressure from a group of friends to first things affected by alcohol. Even if intervene. you have tried to drink in moderation, It helps to enlist support from you may not realize to what extent others when you decide to step in. your skills have suffered from alcohol’s fatiguing effects.

43 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE The more people on your side, the When marijuana is smoked, its easier it is to be firm and the harder it effects generally begin within a few is for the rider to resist. While you may minutes and can last from 2 to 4 hours. not be thanked at the time, you will But when marijuana is eaten the onset never have to say, “If only I had ...” of effects could be delayed for more than an hour and the duration of the “high” could be more than 6 hours. MARIJUANA AND Be safe. Do not operate your MOTORCYCLE OPERATION motorcycle or any motor vehicle if you are impaired by marijuana, and Marijuana is gaining acceptance find alternate transportation if you are as having legitimate medicinal planning to be under the influence of applications ad as a recreational drug marijuana at your destination. Just in the United Sates, as evidenced by as with alcohol, riders impaired by recent trends in state laws permitting marijuana can be convicted of riding its use. As of early 2014, 20 states under the influence, and be subjected allowed marijuana for medical use, and to similar harsh penalties. two allowed it for recreational use by people 21 and over. FATIGUE Although marijuana may be legal Riding a motorcycle is more tiring for medicinal or recreational use in than driving a car. On a long trip, you’ll your state, it is still not legal, safe, or tire sooner than you would in a car. wise to operate a motor vehicle while Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can impaired by marijuana, since it tends affect your control of the motorcycle. to distort your perception of time, space and speed. This is especially • Protect yourself from the elements critical for motorcycle riders, who must — Wind, cold, and rain make continually make detailed assessments you tire quickly. Dress warmly. A of complex traffic situations and make windshield is worth its cost if you split-second decisions requiring precise plan to ride long distances. rider input to navigate safely and • Limit your distance — Experi­ maintain and adequate safety margin. enced riders seldom try to ride States are beginning to set more than about six hours a day. marijuana impairment limits based on blood content levels of marijuana’s 14 Test Yourself primary psychoactive ingredient, THC. If you wait an hour for each However, compared to alcohol and drink before riding: BAC level, it is difficult to determine the relationship between the amount A. You cannot be arrested for of marijuana ingested and the resulting drinking and riding. THC level in the blood. Complicating B. Your riding skills will not be affected. factors include marijuana’s potency, C. Side effects from the drinking may which is highly variable, and ingestion still remain. method, which has significant D. You will be okay as long as you ride bearing on the onset and duration of slowly. impairment. Answer - page 52

44 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

• Take frequent rest breaks — Stop and get off the motorcycle at least every two hours. • Don’t drink or use drugs — Artificial stimulants often result in extreme fatigue or depression when they start to wear off. Riders are unable to concentrate on the task at hand.

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

46 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

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

47 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

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

48 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

The weight of a three-track • Reduce speed before entering the motorcycle is distributed almost curve by downshifting or braking. equally between the two front or two • Slightly lean your upper body in rear wheels. These motorcycles handle the direction you intend to turn. the same in left and right hand turns. When turning a three-track • Maintain speed as you enter the motorcycle: curve. • Approach a turn at speed with • Accelerate gradually as you exit your head up, and look through the curve. the turn. During a left hand turn, the sidecar acts as a stabilizer, so the sidecar wheel • Concentrate on pointing the front stays on the ground. However, if the wheel/wheels in the direction you turn is taken too sharply or at too high a want the motorcycle to go. rate of speed, there is a tendency for the • Roll off the throttle before entering motorcycle rear suspension to extend, the turn. and this may cause the rear wheel of the • Apply the brakes enough to slow motorcycle to lift off the ground. When turning left on a motorcycle the motorcycle to a speed at which with sidecar: you can ride safely through the turn, then release the brakes before • Reduce speed prior to entering the the turn. turn • Slightly lean your upper body in • Apply more pressure on the rear the direction you intend to turn. brake then on the front • Steer the front wheel/wheels Hills toward the turn. When riding uphill on a three- • Roll on the throttle to pull the wheel motorcycle or motorcycle with motorcycle through the turn. a sidecar, some weight will shift to the On the other hand, because the rear, causing the front of the motorcycle center of gravity of a motorcycle with to become lighter. This weight shift sidecar is close to the motorcycle reduces the traction on the front tire/ itself, the behavior of the vehicle when tires for steering and tire grip. turning right and when turning left is When riding downhill, gravity quite different. increases the amount of braking force During a right turn, a slight required to slow or stop the motorcycle. sideways movement of the center of It is important, therefore, to begin gravity creates a greater tendency for slowing earlier for cornering and the sidecar wheel to lift. The lift will be stopping. greater if the sidecar is empty or lightly loaded. When turning right on a motorcycle with sidecar: • Anticipate the degree of turn required.

49 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

Lane Position you, causing the vehicle to feel as The track of the dual wheels of a though it is being steered to the right. three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle During deceleration or braking, the with a sidecar is almost the same momentum of the sidecar continues width as some automobiles. Unlike a to carry it forward, giving the feeling motorcycle, you are limited, therefore, in that the sidecar is trying to pass you, lane positioning. Keep toward the center making the motorcycle feel as though of the lane to be sure the track of the it is being steered left. dual wheels does not cross the painted • On acceleration, compensate for lines into opposing traffic. Riding too far this tendency by steering slightly to the right could cause loss of traction if in the opposite direction from the the tire leaves the pavement. sidecar. Lane positioning when riding in groups is also an important • On deceleration, compensate for consideration. You will not be able this tendency by steering slightly to use a staggered formation, such as in the direction of the sidecar. You you would when riding two-wheeled can also pull in the clutch when motorcycles. Ride single file and always braking. maintain a safe margin, two seconds Swerving minimum, between vehicles. A quick stop may not always be Parking at the Roadside sufficient to avoid an obstacle in your Because of the limitations on path, even if you properly apply both mobility and motorcycle length, it is brakes. Sometimes the only way to not practical to park your motorcycle at avoid a collision is to swerve. A swerve a 90 degree angle with your rear wheel is any sudden change of direction. It touching the curb, as you would with can be two quick turns or a rapid shift a two-wheel motorcycle. Position your to the side when maneuvering the motorcycle in a parking space so you motorcycle. Often, there is not much are parked parallel to the curb and set time to adjust your body position. the parking brake. Some three-wheel A three-wheel motorcycle motorcycles have reverse, so you can or motorcycle with sidecar is not more easily maneuver into a parking as maneuverable as a two-wheel space designed for an automobile. motorcycle, so plan well ahead to Parking parallel to the curb will facilitate avoid the need for any sudden turns or pulling away from the curb and entering swerving. If braking is required, brake the lanes of traffic. either before or after the swerve, never while swerving. Acceleration and Deceleration A three-wheel motorcycle with Cornering & Curves two drive wheels tends to be much The cornering characteristics of a more stable during acceleration and three-wheel motorcycle or motorcycle braking than a motorcycle with a with a sidecar differ from those of a sidecar. Attaching a sidecar to your motorcycle. Even with three wheels on motorcycle adds a non-powered, the ground, a sidecar can tip over if it is off-centered mass of weight. So, being turned too sharply or is going too during acceleration, the sidecar will fast for a corner. Therefore, it is best to feel as though it is lagging behind always slow before entering a corner. 50 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT

PASS THROUGH A CURVE passenger is being carried, the passenger will sit directly behind the rider. On a motorcycle with a sidecar, the best place for a passenger is in the sidecar. Never put a single passenger on the saddle; the added weight on the tip- over-line will increase the instability of the motorcycle. While a second passenger can be carried on the seat behind the rider, the heavier passenger should always be in the sidecar. The passenger sitting behind the rider should sit upright at all times. It is not necessary for the passenger to lean into curves with the rider. When carrying loads in a sidecar, The best path to follow in the curve may secure the load firmly in place, since if not be the one that follows the curve of the load shifts, handling will be affected. the road. Following the center of the lane Loads should be distributed toward the may actually increase the tip over forces. rear of the sidecar to reduce tipping of Check opposing traffic carefully, and if the nose of the sidecar in the event of a safe, enter the curve toward the outside sudden left turn. of your lane. This increases your line of When loaded, you may find sight through the curve and reduces the performance is reduced and that effective radius of the curve. As you turn, stopping distances are longer, so allow move toward the inside of the curve, a little extra distance. The addition of a and as you pass the center, move to the sidecar passenger will greatly improve outside to exit, always remembering to stability, and right hand turns can be stay in your lane. made at a slightly higher speed. Turning CARRYING PASSENGERS AND left, however, will require more turning CARGO force. Three-wheel motorcycles are designed to carry passengers and cargo, but always be sure not to exceed the tire or motorcycle loading capacity. The extra weight could change the handling characteristics of the vehicle slightly, so you must give some thought to where the loads are positioned. Many three-track motorcycles will have built-in storage compartments for cargo, either in front of, or behind the rider. On these motorcycles, center the load and keep it low in the storage areas so it is positioned within the tip- over lines and balanced side-to-side. If a 51 ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

1. A plastic shatter-resistant face 8. The best way to stop quickly is to: shield:

C. Helps protect your whole face D. Use both brakes at the same time

2. More than half of all crashes: 9. When it starts to rain it is usually best to: D. Involve riders who have C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars ridden their motorcycles less than six months

3. When riding, you should: 10. If your motorcycle starts to wobble:

D. Turn just your head and eyes to C. Grip the handlebars firmly and look where you are going close the throttle gradually

4. Usually, a good way to handle 11. If you are chased by a dog: tailgaters is to:

A. Change lanes and let them pass D. Approach the animal slowly, then speed up

5. To reduce your reaction time, you 12. Passengers should: should: B. Cover the clutch and the brakes A. Lean as you lean

6. Making eye contact with other drivers: 13. When riding in a group, inexperienced riders should position themselves: C. Doesn’t mean that the driver A. Just behind the leader will yield

7. Reflective clothing should: 14. If you wait an hour for each drink before riding:

A. Be worn at night C. Side effects from the drinking may still remain.

52 HAND SIGNALS

1 2

- arm and Single File Double File - arm and index finger extended index and middle finger strating up. extended strating up.

Speed Up - arm extended straight out, 4 palm facing up, swing upward. 3

Stop - arm extended straight down, palm facing back.

Slow Down - arm extended straight out, 5 palm facing down, swing down to your side.

6

Follow Me - arm extended straight up from shoulder, palm forward.

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

53 HAND SIGNALS

Hazard in Roadway - on the 8 left, point with left hand; on the right, point with right foot.

Highbeam - tap on top Fuel - arm out to side 9 of helmet with open 10 pointing to tank with palm down. finger extended.

Comfort Stop - Refreshment Stop - 11 forearm extended, fist 12 fingers closed, thumb to clenched with short up mouth. and down motion.

Turn Signal On - open 13 and close hand with fingers and thumb extended.

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

54 You can tear this page out and keep it with you when you ride.

T-CLOCS: Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist

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

T-TIRES & WHEELS C-CHASSIS Tires Condition Tread depth, wear, weathering, evenly seated, bulges, embedded objects. Front Rear Frame Condition Cracks at gussets, accessory mounts, look for paint lifting. Air Pressure Check when cold, adjust to load. Front Rear Steering-Head Bearings No detent or tight spots through full travel, raise front wheel, check for play by pulling/pushing forks. Wheels Spokes Bent, broken, missing, tension, check at top of wheel: “ring” = OK — “thud” = loose spoke Front Rear Swingarm Bushings/ Raise rear wheel, check for play by pushing/pulling swingarm. Bearings Cast Cracks, dents. Front Rear Suspension Front Forks Smooth travel, equal air pressure/damping, anti-dive settings. Left Right Rims Out of round/true = 5mm. Spin wheel, index against stationary pointer. Front Rear Rear Shock(s) Smooth travel, equal pre-load/air pressure/damping settings, linkage moves freely and is lubricated. Left Right Bearings Grab top and bottom of tire and flex: No freeplay (click) between hub and axle, no growl when spinning. Front Rear Chain or Belt Tension Check at tightest point. Seals Cracked, cut or torn, excessive grease on outside, reddish-brown around outside. Front Rear Lubrication Side plates when hot. Note: do not lubricate belts. Brakes Function Each brake alone keeps bike from rolling. Front Rear Sprockets Teeth not hooked, securely mounted C-CONTROLS Fasteners Threaded Tight, missing bolts, nuts. Levers and Condition Broken, bent, cracked, mounts tight, ball ends on handlebar levers, proper adjustment. Clips Broken, missing. Pedal Pivots Lubricated. Cotter Pins Broken, missing. Cables Condition Fraying, kinks, lubrication: ends and interior. S-STANDS Routing No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, wire supports in place. Center stand Condition Cracks, bent. Hoses Condition Cuts, cracks, leaks, bulges, chafing, deterioration. Retention Springs in place, tension to hold position. Routing No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, hose supports in place. Side stand Condition Cracks, bent (safety cut-out switch or pad equipped). Throttle Operation Moves freely, snaps closed, no revving when handlebars are turned. Retention Springs in place, tension to hold position. L-LIGHTS 55 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. brake lamp Operation Activates upon front brake/rear brake application. Turn signals Operation Flashes correctly. Front left Front right Rear left Rear right EMERGENCY INFORMATION Mirrors Condition Cracks, clean, tight mounts and swivel joints. Aim Adjust when seated on bike. Rider's Name______Blood Type______Lenses & Condition Cracked, broken, securely mounted, excessive condensation. Reflectors Allergies/Medical Conditions______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. Doctor's Name/Phone______O-OIL Levels Engine Oil Check warm on center stand on level ground, dipstick, sight glass. Cycle Insurer Name/Phone______Hypoid Gear Oil, Transmission, rear drive, shaft. Shaft Drive Hydraulic Fluid Brakes, clutch, reservoir or sight glass. Contact this person if rider is injured Coolant Reservoir and/or coolant recovery tank — check only when cool. Fuel Tank or gauge. Name______Home Phone______Leaks Engine Oil Gaskets, housings, seals. Hypoid Gear Oil, Gaskets, seals, breathers. Shaft Drive Work Phone______Cell Phone______Hydraulic Fluid Hoses, master cylinders, calipers. Coolant Radiator, hoses, tanks, fittings, pipes. Fuel Lines, fuel valve, carbs. MOTORCYCLES MAKE SENSE – SO DOES PROFESSIONAL TRAINING Motorcycles are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and easy to park. Unfortunately, many riders never learn critical skills needed to ride safely. Professional training for beginning and experienced riders prepares them for real-world traffic situations. Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCoursesSM teach and improve such skills as: • Effective turning • Braking maneuvers • Protective apparel selection • Obstacle avoidance • Traffic strategies • Maintenance FOR THE BEGINNING OR EXPERIENCED COURSE NEAREST YOU, VISIT www.motorcycle.ohio.gov, email the Motorcycle Ohio office at:[email protected] , OR CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-83-RIDER.

Portions of this manual courtesy of

Motorcycle Safety Foundation 2 Jenner Street, Suite 150, Irvine CA 92618-3806 http://ww.msf-usa.org NOTES NOTES NOTES NOTES NOTES www.publicsafety.ohio.gov

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