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Motorcycle Operator Manual

PUB 147 (3-17) PREFACE Operating a motorcycle safely in traffic requires special skills and knowledge. This handbook will provide you with the information necessary to enable you to obtain a motorcycle license and to help you learn those special operating skills. The purpose of this manual is to enable the reader to avoid crashes while safely operating a motorcycle. By reading this manual, you will learn strategies for collision avoidance. You will learn how you can improve your riding strategy by using a system known as SEE (search, evaluate, execute). You will learn what you can do to be seen by other motorists. In collisions with motorcyclists, drivers often say they never saw the motorcycle. When you ride a motorcycle, you should wear proper protective clothing and headgear, ride within your limits, obey the law, and “share the road” with other highway users. Riding a motorcycle can be safe and fun when you act as a responsible rider. The Pennsylvania Program will teach you the basic skills necessary to operate a motorcycle. Take advantage of this learning opportunity, read the Motorcycle Operator Manual, and become an informed motorcyclist. Remember that your life, and the lives of others, will depend on what you do while operating a motorcycle. Keep this manual for future reference. There may be times when you will want to check on the recommended ways to handle a situation which you have encountered. CONTENTS

PREPARING TO RIDE WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR...... 3 Helmet Use...... 3 Helmet Selection...... 3 Eye and Face Protection...... 4 Clothing...... 5 KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE...... 5 The Right Motorcycle For You...... 5 Borrowing and Lending...... 6 Getting Familiar with the Motorcycle Controls...... 6 Check Your Motorcycle...... 7 KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES...... 8

RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES BASIC CONTROL...... 9 Body Position...... 9 Shifting Gears...... 9 Braking...... 10 Turning...... 10 KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE...... 11 Lane Positions...... 11 Following Another Vehicle...... 12 Being Followed...... 13 Passing and Being Passed...... 13 Lane Sharing...... 15 Merging ...... 15 Cars Alongside...... 15 SEE...... 16 INTERSECTIONS...... 17 Blind Intersections...... 18 Passing Parked Cars...... 19 Parking at the Roadside...... 19 INCREASING CONSPICUITY...... 20 Clothing...... 20 Headlight...... 20 Signals...... 20 Light...... 21 Using Your Mirrors...... 21 Head Checks...... 22 Horn...... 22 Riding at Night...... 23 CRASH AVOIDANCE...... 23 Quick Stops...... 23 continued on reverse 1 CONTENTS

Swerving or Turning Quickly...... 24 Cornering...... 25 HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES...... 26 Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles...... 26 Slippery Surfaces...... 27 Tracks and Pavement Seams...... 28 Grooves and Gratings ...... 28 MECHANICAL PROBLEMS...... 29 Failure...... 29 Stuck ...... 29 Wobble...... 29 Drivetrain Problems...... 30 Seizure...... 30 ANIMALS...... 30 FLYING OBJECTS...... 30 GETTING OFF THE ROAD...... 31 CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO...... 31 Equipment...... 31 Instructing Passengers...... 32 Riding With Passengers...... 32 Carrying Loads...... 32 GROUP RIDING...... 33 Keep the Group Small...... 33 Keep the Group Together...... 33 Keep Your Distance...... 33

BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE WHY INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT...... 35 ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE OPERATION...... 35 ALCOHOL IN THE BODY...... 36 Blood Alcohol Concentration...... 36 PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS...... 37 PA Implied Consent Law...... 37 MINIMIZE THE RISKS...... 37 MAKE AN INTELLIGENT CHOICE...... 38 STEPS TO PROTECT FRIENDS...... 38 FATIGUE...... 38

EARNING YOUR LICENSE Earning Your License...... 39 Sample Questions...... 40

2 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. You must wear a helmet and eye protection if riding on a permit. 2. Become familiar with the motorcycle. 3. Check the motorcycle equipment. 4. Be a responsible rider.

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR • An approved helmet lets you see as When you ride, your gear is far to the sides as necessary. A study “right” if it protects you. In any crash, of more than 900 motorcycle you have a far better chance of crashes, where 40% of the riders avoiding serious injury if you wear: wore helmets, did not find even one case in which a helmet kept a rider • An approved helmet. from spotting danger. • Face or eye protection. • Most crashes happen on short trips • Protective clothing. (less than five miles long), just a few minutes after starting out. Helmet Use • Most riders are riding slower than Crashes are not rare events — 30 mph when a crash occurs. At particularly among beginning riders. these speeds, helmets can reduce And one out of every five motorcycle both the number and the severity crashes result in head or neck of head injuries by 50%. injuries. Head injuries are just as severe as neck injuries — and far No matter what the speed, more common. Crash analyses show helmeted riders are three times more that head and neck injuries account likely to survive head injuries than for a majority of serious and fatal those not wearing helmets at the time injuries to motorcyclists. Research of the crash. also shows that, with few exceptions, head and neck injuries are reduced by Helmet Selection the proper wearing of an approved There are two primary types of helmet. helmets, providing two different levels Some riders don’t wear helmets of coverage: three-quarter and full because they think helmets will limit face. their view to the sides. Others wear Whichever style you choose, you helmets only on long trips or when can get the most protection by making riding at high speeds. Here are some sure that the helmet: facts to consider:

3 HELMETS

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

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

5 Borrowing and Lending Get Familiar with the Borrowers and lenders of Motorcycle Controls motorcycles, beware. Crashes are Make sure you are completely fairly common among beginning familiar with the motorcycle before riders — especially in the first you take it out on the street. Be sure months of riding. Riding an to review the owner’s manual. This is unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the particularly important if you are problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, riding a borrowed motorcycle. If you get familiar with it in a controlled are going to use an unfamiliar area. And if you lend your motorcycle: motorcycle to friends, make sure they • Make all the checks you would on are licensed and know how to ride your own motorcycle. before allowing them out into traffic. • Find out where everything is, No matter how experienced you particularly the turn signals, horn, may be, ride extra carefully on any headlight switch, fuel-control valve, motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar to and engine cut-off switch. Find and you. It takes time to adjust, so give operate these items without having yourself a greater margin for errors. to look for them.

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

Horn Button Throttle

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

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

Kick (if equipped)

6 • Know the gear pattern. Work the • Controls (levers, cables, throttle) throttle, , and brakes a few — Check the condition, operation, times before you start riding. All and routing. controls react a little differently. Once you have mounted the • Ride very cautiously and be aware motorcycle, complete the following of surroundings. Accelerate gently, checks before starting out: take turns more slowly, and leave • Clutch and Throttle — Make sure extra room for stopping. they work smoothly. The throttle should snap back when you let go. Check Your Motorcycle The clutch should feel tight and smooth. A motorcycle needs more frequent attention than a . A • Mirrors — Clean and adjust both minor technical failure in a car mirrors before starting. It’s difficult seldom leads to anything more than an to ride with one hand while you try inconvenience for the driver. to adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror so you can see the lane If something’s wrong with the behind and as much as possible of motorcycle, you’ll want to find out the lane next to you. When properly about it before you get in traffic. Make adjusted, a mirror may show the a complete check of your edge of your arm or shoulder — but motorcycle before every ride. it’s the road behind and to the side Before mounting the motorcycle that’s most important. make the following checks: • Brakes — Try the front and rear • / — Check the brake levers one at a time. Make condition of tread, wheels, and air sure each one feels firm and holds pressure. the motorcycle when the brake is • Fluids — Oil and fluid levels. At a fully applied. minimum, check hydraulic fluids • Horn — Try the horn. Make sure it and coolants weekly. Look under the works. motorcycle for signs of an oil or gas leak. • Headlights and Taillight — Check them both. Test your switch to make sure both high and low beams are working. • Turn Signals — Turn on both right and left turn signals. Make sure all lights are working properly. • Brake Light — Try both brake controls, and make sure each one turns on the brake light.

7 KNOW YOUR • Identify and separate multiple RESPONSIBILITIES hazards. “Accident” implies an unforeseen • Be prepared to act — remain alert event that occurs without anyone’s and know how to carry out proper fault or negligence. Most often in crash-avoidance skills. traffic, that is not the case. In fact, Blame doesn’t matter when most people involved in a crash can someone is injured in a crash. There usually claim some responsibility for is rarely a single cause of any crash. what took place. The ability to ride aware, make Consider a situation where critical decisions, and carry them out someone tries to squeeze through an separates responsible riders from all intersection on a yellow light turning the rest. Remember, it is up to you to red. Your light turns green. You pull keep from being the cause of, or an into the intersection without checking unprepared participant in, any crash. for possible latecomers. That is all it takes for the two of you to tangle. It was the other driver’s responsibility to stop. And it was your responsibility to look before pulling out. Neither of you held up your end of the deal. Just because someone else is the first to start the chain of events leading to a crash, doesn’t leave any of us free of responsibility. As a rider, you can’t be sure that other operators will see you or yield the right of way. To lessen your chances of a crash occurring: • Be visible — wear proper clothing, use your headlight, ride in the best lane position to see and be seen. • Communicate your intentions — use the proper signals, brake light, and lane position. • Maintain an adequate space cushion — following, being followed, lane sharing, passing and being passed. • Search your path of 12 seconds ahead.

8 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 the PA Motorcycle Safety Program. But control begins with knowing your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules of the road.

BASIC VEHICLE so your hands are even with or CONTROL below your elbows. This permits you to use the proper muscles for Body Position precision . To control a motorcycle well: • Knees — Keep your knees against • Posture — Sit so you can use your the gas tank to help you keep your arms to steer the motorcycle rather balance as the motorcycle turns. than to hold yourself up. • Feet — Keep your feet firmly on the • Seat — Sit far enough forward so footpegs to maintain balance. Don’t that arms are slightly bent when you drag your feet. If your foot catches hold the handlegrips. Bending your on something, you can be injured arms permits you to press on the and it could affect your control of handlebars without having to stretch. the motorcycle. Keep your feet near the controls so you can get to them • Hands — Hold the handgrips firmly fast if needed. Also, don’t let your to keep your grip over rough toes point downward — they may surfaces. Start with your right wrist get caught between the road and the flat. This will help you keep from footpegs. accidentally using too much throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars Shifting Gears HOLDING HANDGRIPS There is more to shifting gears than simply getting the motorcycle to pick up speed smoothly. Learning to use the RIGHT gears when downshifting, turning, or starting on hills is important for safe motorcycle operation. Shift down through the gears with the clutch as you slow or stop. Remain in first gear while you are stopped so that you can move out quickly if you need to.

WRONG

9 Make certain you are riding carefully. When leaning the slowly enough when you shift into a motorcycle some of the traction is lower gear. If not, the motorcycle will used for cornering. Less traction is lurch, and the rear may skid. available for stopping. A skid can When riding downhill or shifting into occur if you apply too much brake. first gear you may need to use the Also, using the front brake brakes to slow enough before incorrectly on a slippery surface downshifting safely. Work towards a may be hazardous. Use caution and smooth, even clutch release, squeeze the brake lever, never grab. especially when downshifting. • Some motorcycles have integrated It is best to change gears before braking systems that link the front entering a turn. However, sometimes and rear brakes together by shifting while in the turn is necessary. applying the rear brake pedal. If so, remember to do so smoothly. A (Consult the owner’s manual for a sudden change in power to the rear detailed explanation on the wheel can cause a skid. operation and effective use of these systems.) Braking Your motorcycle has two brakes: Turning one each for the front and rear wheel. Riders often try to take curves or Use both of them at the same time. turns too fast. When they can’t hold The front brake is more powerful and the turn, they end up crossing into can provide at least three-quarters of another lane of traffic or going off the your total stopping power. The front road. Or, they overreact and brake too brake is safe to use if you use it hard, causing a skid and loss of properly. control. Approach turns and curves with caution. Remember: • SLOW — Reduce speed before the • Use both brakes every time you turn by closing the throttle and, if slow or stop. Using both brakes for necessary, applying both brakes. even “normal” stops will permit you to develop the proper habit or skill • LOOK — Look through the turn of using both brakes properly in an to where you want to go. emergency. Squeeze the front brake Turn just your head, not your and press down on the rear. shoulders, and keep your eyes level Grabbing at the front brake or with the horizon. jamming down on the rear can cause • PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle the brakes to lock, resulting in must lean. To lean the motorcycle, control problems. press on the handgrip in the • If you know the technique, using direction of the turn. Press left both brakes in a turn is possible, hand-grip — lean left — go left. although it should be done very Press right handgrip ­lean right — 10 go right. The higher the speed in a KEEPING YOUR turn the greater the lean angle. DISTANCE • ROLL — Roll on the throttle to The best protection you can have maintain or slightly increase speed. is distance — a “cushion of space” This helps stabilize the motorcycle. — all around your motorcycle. If someone else makes a mistake, In normal turns, the rider and the distance offers you: motorcycle should lean together at the same angle. • Time to react. • Space to maneuver. NORMAL TURNING Lane Positions In some ways the size of the motorcycle can work to your advantage. Each traffic lane gives a motorcycle three paths of travel, as indicated in the illustration. Your lane position should: • Increase your ability to see and be seen. • Avoid others’ blind spots. • Avoid surface hazards. • Protect your lane from other In slow, tight turns, drivers. counterbalance by leaning the • Communicate your intentions. motorcycle only and keeping your • Avoid wind blast from other . body straight. • Provide an escape route. SLOW TURNING Select the appropriate path to maximize your space cushion and make yourself more easily seen by others on the road.

11 LANE POSITIONS

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

12 FOLLOWING

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

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

BEING PASSED

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

Merging Cars Drivers on an entrance ramp may not see you on the highway. Give them plenty of room. Change to another lane if one is open. If there is

MERGING

15 SEE Evaluate Experienced riders remain aware Think about how hazards can of what is going on around them. They interact to create risk for you. improve their riding strategy by using Anticipate potential problems and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s have a plan to reduce risk. (MSF) SEE strategy, a 3-step process used to make appropriate judgments, • Road and surface characteristics and apply them correctly in different – Potholes, guardrails, bridges, traffic situations: telephone poles and trees won’t move into your path but may influence your riding strategy. • Search • Evaluate • Traffic control devices– Look for • Execute traffic signals, including regulatory signs, warning signs, and pavement markings, to help Let’s examine each of these steps. you evaluate circumstances ahead. Search • – Search aggressively ahead, to the Vehicles and other traffic May move into your path and sides and behind to avoid potential increase the likelihood of a crash. hazards even before they arise. How assertively you search, and how much time and space you have, can Think about your time and space eliminate or reduce harm. Focus even requirements in order to maintain a more on finding potential escape margin of safety. You must leave routes in or around intersections, yourself time to react if an emergency arises. shopping areas, schools, and

construction zones. Execute Search for: Carry out your decision. • Oncoming traffic that may turn left in front of you. To create more space and minimize harm from any hazard: • Traffic coming from the left and right. • Communicate your presence with lights and/or horn. • Traffic approaching from behind. • Adjust your speed by accelerating, • Hazardous road conditions. stopping or slowing. Be especially alert in areas with • Adjust your position and/or limited visibility. Visually “busy” direction. surroundings could hide you and Apply the old adage “one step at your motorcycle from others. a time” to handle two or more hazards. Adjust speed to permit two hazards to separate. Then deal with them one at a time as single hazards. 16 Decision making becomes more SMALL INTERSECTIONS complex with three or more hazards. Evaluate the consequences of each and give equal distance to the hazards. In potential high risk areas, such as intersections, shopping areas, school and construction zones, cover the clutch and both brakes to reduce the time you need to react.

INTERSECTIONS The greatest potential for As you approach the conflict between you and other traffic intersection, select a lane position to is at intersections. An intersection can increase your visibility to the driver. be in the middle of an urban area or at Cover the clutch lever and both brakes a driveway on a residential street — to reduce reaction time. anywhere traffic may cross your path Reduce your speed as you of travel. Over one-half of motor- approach an intersection. After cycle/car crashes are caused by drivers entering the intersection, move away entering a rider’s right-of-way. Cars from vehicles preparing to turn. that turn left in front of you, includ- Do not change speed or position ing cars turning left from the lane to radically. The driver might think that your right, and cars on side streets that you are preparing to turn. pull into your lane, are the biggest dangers. Your use of SEE [p. 16] at intersections is critical. There are no guarantees that others see you. Never count on “eye contact” as a sign that a driver will yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a motor- cyclist and still fails to “see” him. The only eyes that you can count on are your own. If a car can enter your path, assume that it will. Good riders are always “looking for trouble” — not to get into it, but to stay out of it. Increase your chances of being seen at intersections. Ride with your headlight on and in a lane position that provides the best view of oncoming traffic. Provide a space cushion around the motorcycle that permits you to take evasive action.

17 LARGE INTERSECTIONS

Blind Intersections BLIND INTERSECTIONS If you approach a blind intersection, move to the portion of the lane that will bring you into another driver’s field of vision at the earliest possible moment. In this picture, the rider has moved to the left portion of the lane — away from the parked car — so the driver on 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.

18 STOP SIGNS PARKED CARS

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 Cars making a sudden U-turn are sure your front wheel stays out of the the most dangerous. They may cut you cross lane of travel while you’re off entirely, blocking the whole looking. roadway and leaving you with no Passing Parked Cars place to go. Since you can’t tell what When passing parked cars, stay a driver will do, slow down and get toward the left of your lane. You can the driver’s attention. Sound your avoid problems caused by doors horn and continue with caution. opening, drivers getting out of cars, or people stepping from between Parking at the Roadside cars. If oncoming traffic is present, Park at an angle to the curb with it is usually best to remain in the your rear wheel touching the curb. center-lane position to maximize your space cushion. PARKING AT CURBS A bigger problem can occur if the driver pulls away from the curb without 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.

19 INCREASING CONSPICUITY Reflective material on a vest and In crashes with motorcyclists, on the sides of the helmet will help drivers often say that they never saw drivers coming from the side spot you. the motorcycle. From ahead or Reflective material can also be a big behind, a motorcycle’s outline is much help for drivers coming toward you or smaller than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to from behind. see something you are not looking for, eadlight and most drivers are not looking for H motorcycles. More likely, they are Motorcycles manufactured during looking through the skinny, two- or after 1973 are required by law to wheeled silhouette in search of cars use headlights at all times. The that may pose a problem to them. headlight is the best way to help others see you. Studies show that Even if a driver does see you during the day, a motorcycle with its coming, you aren’t necessarily safe. light on is twice as likely to be Smaller vehicles appear farther away, noticed. and seem to be traveling slower than they actually are. It is common for Signals drivers to pull out in front of The signals on a motorcycle are motorcyclists, thinking they have similar to those on a car. They tell plenty of time. Too often, they are others what you plan to do. However, wrong. due to a rider’s added vulnerability, However, you can do many things signals are even more important. Use to make it easier for others to them anytime you plan to change recognize you and your cycle. lanes or turn. Use them even when

Clothing SIGNALING Most crashes occur in broad daylight. Wear bright colored clothing to increase your chances of being seen. Remember, your body is half of the visible surface area of the rider/motorcycle unit. Bright orange, red, yellow or green jackets or vests are your best bets for being seen. Your helmet can do more than protect you in a crash. Brightly colored helmets can also help others see you. Any bright color is better than drab or dark . Reflective, bright colored clothing (helmet and jacket or vest) is best.

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

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

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

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

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

24 underneath you. Make your escape Cornering route the target of your vision. Press A primary cause of single-vehicle on the opposite handgrip once you crashes is motorcyclists wide clear the obstacle to return you to your in a curve or turn and colliding with original direction of travel. To swerve the roadway or a fixed object. to the left, press the left handgrip, then press the right to recover. To swerve Every curve is different. Be alert to the right, press right, then left. to whether a curve remains constant, gradually widens, gets tighter, or IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, involves multiple turns. SEPARATE IT FROM SWERVING. Brake before or after — never while Ride within your skill level and swerving. posted speed limits. Your best path may not always follow the curve of the road. Change

CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES

DECREASING CURVES (TIGHTER TURNS) WIDENING CURVES

25 lane position depending on traffic, Uneven Surfaces and road conditions and curve of the road. Obstacles If no traffic is present, start at the Watch for uneven surfaces such outside of a curve to increase your as bumps, broken pavement, line of sight and the effective radius of potholes, or small pieces of highway the turn. As you turn, move toward the trash. inside of the curve, and as you pass the center, move to the outside to exit. Try to avoid obstacles by slowing or going around them. If you must go Another alternative is to move to over the obstacle, first, determine if it the center of your lane before is possible. Approach it at as close to entering a curve — and stay there a 90° angle as possible. Look where until you exit. This permits you to you want to go to control your path of spot approaching traffic as soon as travel. If you have to ride over the possible. You can also adjust for obstacle, you should: traffic “crowding” the center line, or debris blocking part of your lane. • Slow down as much as possible before contact. HANDLING DANGEROUS • Make sure the motorcycle is SURFACES straight. Your chance of falling or being • Rise slightly off the seat with your involved in a crash increases weight on the footpegs to absorb the whenever you ride across: shock with your knees and elbows, • Uneven surfaces or obstacles. and avoid being thrown off the motorcycle. • Slippery surfaces. • Just before contact, roll on the • Railroad tracks. throttle slightly to lighten the front • Grooves and gratings. end.

OBSTACLES

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

27 Railroad Tracks, Trolley CROSSTRACKS-RIGHT Tracks and Pavement Seams Usually it is safer to ride straight within your lane to cross tracks. Turning to take tracks head-on (at a 90° angle) can be more dangerous — your path may carry you into another lane of traffic. For track and road seams that CROSSTRACKS-WRONG run parallel to your course, move far enough away from tracks, ruts, or pavement seams to cross at an angle of at least 45°. Then, make a deliber- ate turn. Edging across could catch your tires and throw you off balance.

PARALLEL TRACKS-RIGHT Grooves and Gratings Riding over rain grooves or bridge gratings may cause a motorcycle to weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling is generally not hazardous. Relax, maintain a steady speed and ride straight across. Crossing at an angle forces riders to zigzag to stay in the PARALLEL TRACKS-WRONG lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous than the wandering feeling.

GRATECROSSINGS-RIGHT

GRATECROSSINGS-WRONG

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

29 Trying to “accelerate out of a clutch lever to disengage the engine wobble” will only make the from the rear wheel. Pull off the road motorcycle more unstable. Instead: and stop. Check the oil. If needed, oil • Grip the handlebars firmly, but should be added as soon as possible or don’t fight the wobble. the engine will seize. When this hap- pens, the effect is the same as a locked • Close the throttle gradually to rear wheel. Let the engine cool before slow down. Do not apply the brakes; restarting. braking could make the wobble worse. ANIMALS • Move your weight as far forward Naturally, you should do and down as possible. everything you safely can to avoid • Pull off the road as soon as you can hitting an animal. If you are in traffic, to fix the problem. however, remain in your lane. Hitting something small is less dangerous Drivetrain Problems to you than hitting something A chain that slips or breaks while big — like a car. you’re riding could lock the rear Motorcycles seem to attract wheel and cause your cycle to skid. dogs. If you are chased, downshift Chain slippage or breakage can be and approach the animal slowly. As avoided by proper maintenance. you approach it, accelerate away and Slippage — If the chain slips when leave the animal behind. Don’t kick you try to speed up quickly or ride at an animal. Keep control of your uphill, pull off the road. Check the motorcycle, and look to where you chain and sprockets. Tightening the want to go. chain may help. If the problem is a For larger animals (deer, elk, worn or stretched chain or worn or cattle) brake and prepare to stop, they bent sprockets, replace the chain, are unpredictable. the sprockets, or both before riding again. FLYING OBJECTS Breakage — You’ll notice an instant From time to time riders are struck loss of power to the rear wheel. by insects, cigarettes thrown from Close the throttle and brake to a cars, or pebbles kicked up by the tires stop. of the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing face protection, it might get Engine Seizure smeared or cracked, making it difficult When the engine “locks” or to see. Without face protection, an “freezes” it is usually low on oil. The object could hit you in the eye, face, engine’s moving parts can’t move or mouth. Whatever happens, keep smoothly against each other, and the your eyes on the road and your hands engine overheats. The first sign may on the handlebars. When safe, pull off be a loss of engine power or a change the road and repair the damage. in the engine’s sound. Squeeze the

30 GETTING OFF THE ROAD • Adjust your riding technique for If you need to leave the road to the added weight. check the motorcycle (or just to rest Equipment should include: for a while), be sure you: • A proper seat — large enough • Check the roadside — Make sure to hold both of you without the surface of the roadside is firm crowding. You should not sit any enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, farther forward than you usually do. loose sand, or if you’re just not sure • — PA about it, slow way down before you Footrests and Handholds law requires that any motorcycle turn onto it. carrying a passenger, other than in a • Signal — Drivers behind might not side car or enclosed cab, must be expect you to slow down. Give a equipped with footrests and hand- clear signal that you will be slowing holds for the passenger. down and changing direction. Check • — the same your mirror and make a head check Protective equipment protective gear recommended for before you take any action. operators. • Pull off the road — Get as far off the road as you can. It can be very Adjust the suspension to handle hard to spot a motorcycle by the side the additional weight. You will of the road. You don’t want someone probably need to add a few pounds else pulling off at the same place you of pressure to the tires if you carry are. a passenger. (Check your owner’s manual for appropriate settings.) • Park carefully — Loose and sloped While your passenger sits on the shoulders can make setting the side seat with you, adjust the mirrors and or center stand difficult. headlight according to the change in the motorcycle’s angle. CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO Only experienced riders should carry passengers or large loads. The extra weight changes the way the motorcycle handles, balances, turns, speeds up, and slows down. Before taking a passenger or heavy load on the street, practice away from traffic.

Equipment To carry passengers safely: • Equip and adjust your motorcycle to carry passengers. • Instruct the passenger before you start.

31 Instructing Passengers • Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, or merge in traffic. Even if your passenger is a motorcycle rider, provide complete Warn your passenger of special instructions before you start. Tell your conditions — when you will pull out, passenger to: stop quickly, turn sharply, or ride over a bump. Turn your head slightly to • Get on the motorcycle only after you have started the engine. make yourself understood, but keep your eyes on the road ahead. • Sit as far forward as possible without crowding you. Carrying Loads • Hold firmly to your waist, hips, or Most motorcycles are not . designed to carry much cargo. Small loads can be carried safely if • Keep both feet on the pegs, even when stopped. positioned and fastened properly. • Keep the Load Low — Fasten loads • Keep legs away from the (s), securely, or put them in saddle bags. chains or moving parts. Piling loads against a sissybar or • Stay directly behind you, leaning as frame on the back of the seat raises you lean. the motorcycle’s center of gravity • Avoid unnecessary talk or motion. and disturbs its balance. Also, tell your passenger to tighten • Keep the Load Forward — Place his or her hold when you: the load over, or in front of, the rear axle. Tank bags keep loads forward, • Approach surface problems. but use caution when loading hard • Are about to start from a stop. or sharp objects. Make sure tank bag • Warn that you will make a sudden does not interfere with move. handlebars or controls. Mounting loads behind the rear axle can Riding With Passengers affect how the motorcycle turns and brakes. It can also cause a wobble. Your motorcycle will respond more slowly with a passenger on • Distribute the Load Evenly— Load board. The heavier your passenger, the with about the same longer it may take to slow down, weight. An uneven load can cause speed up, or turn — especially on a the motorcycle to drift to one side. light motorcycle. • Secure the Load — Fasten the load • Ride a little slower, especially when securely with elastic cords (bungee taking curves, corners, or bumps. cords or nets). Elastic cords with more than one attachment point per • Start slowing earlier as you approach a stop. side are more secure. A tight load won’t catch in the wheel or chain, • Open up a larger cushion of space causing it to lock up and skid. Rope ahead and to the sides. tends to stretch and knots come loose, permitting the load to shift or fall. 32 • Check the Load — Stop and check Keep Your Distance the load every so often to make sure Maintain close ranks but at the it has not worked loose or moved. same time keep a safe distance to allow each rider in the group time and GROUP RIDING space to react to hazards. A close If you ride with others, do it in a group takes up less space on the way that promotes safety and doesn’t highway, is easier to see and is less interfere with the flow of traffic. likely to be separated. However, it must be done properly. Keep the Group Small Don’t Pair Up — Never operate Small groups make it easier and directly alongside another rider. safer for car drivers who need to get There is no place to go if you have around them. A small number isn’t to avoid a car or something on the separated as easily by traffic or red road. To talk, wait until you are lights. Riders won’t always be both stopped. hurrying to catch up. If your group is larger than four or five riders, divide it Staggered Formation — This is the best way to keep ranks close up into two or more smaller groups. yet maintain an adequate space cushion. Keep the Group Together • Plan — The leader should look ahead for changes and signal early STAGGERED FORMATION so “the word gets back” in plenty of time. Start lane changes early to permit everyone to complete the change. • Put Beginners Up Front — Place inexperienced riders just behind the leader. That way the more experienced riders can watch them from the back. • Follow Those Behind — Let the tailender set the pace. Use your mirrors to keep an eye on the person behind. If a rider falls behind, everyone should slow down a little to stay with the tailender. • Know the Route — Make sure everyone knows the route. Then, if someone is separated they won’t have to hurry to keep from getting lost or taking a wrong turn. Plan frequent stops on long rides.

33 The leader rides in the left side of Some people suggest that the the lane, while the second rider stays leader should move to the right side one second behind in the right side of after passing a vehicle. This is not a the lane. good idea. It encourages the second A third rider maintains in the left rider to pass and cut back in before position, two seconds behind the first there is a large enough space cushion rider. The fourth rider would keep in front of the passed vehicle. It’s a two-second distance behind the simpler and safer to wait until there second rider. This formation keeps is enough room ahead of the passed the group close and permits each rider vehicle to allow each rider to move a safe distance from others ahead, into the same position held before the behind and to the sides. pass. • Passing in Formation — Riders in Single-File Formation — It is best a staggered formation should pass to move into a single-file formation one at a time. when riding curves, turning, • First, the lead rider should pull entering or leaving a highway. out and pass when it is safe. After passing, the leader should return to GROUP PASSING (stage 2) the left position and continue riding at passing speed to open room for the next rider. • After the first rider passes safely, the second rider should move up to the left position and watch for a safe chance to pass. After passing, this rider should return to the right position and open up room for the next rider.

GROUP PASSING (stage 1)

34 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 other drugs, more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and to ride safely. As little as one drink can have a 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 By becoming knowledgeable about IS IMPORTANT the effects of alcohol and other drugs you will see that riding and substance Alcohol is a major contributor to abuse don’t mix. Take positive steps motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal to protect yourself and prevent others crashes. Studies show that 40% to from injuring themselves. 45% of all riders killed in motorcycle crashes had been drinking. Only one-third of those riders had a blood ALCOHOL AND OTHER alcohol concentration above legal DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE limits. The rest had only a few drinks OPERATION in their systems — enough to impair No one is immune to the effects riding skills. In the past, drug levels of alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag have been harder to distinguish or about their ability to hold their liquor have not been separated from drinking or perform better on drugs, but alcohol violations for the traffic records. But or drugs make them less able to think riding “under the influence” of either clearly and perform physical tasks alcohol or drugs poses physical and skillfully. Judgment and the decision- legal hazards for every rider. making processes needed for vehicle operation are affected long before Drinking and drug use is as big legal limitations are reached. a problem among motorcyclists as it is among automobile drivers. Many over-the-counter, Motorcyclists, however, are more prescription, and illegal drugs have likely to be killed or severely injured side effects that increase the risk of in a crash. Injuries occur in 90% of riding. It is difficult to accurately motorcycle crashes and 33% of measure the involvement of particular automobile crashes that involve abuse drugs in motorcycle crashes. But we of substances. On a yearly basis, 2,100 do know what effects various drugs motorcyclists are killed and about have on the process involved in riding 50,000 seriously injured in this same a motorcycle. We also know that the type of crash. These statistics are too combined effects of alcohol and other overwhelming to ignore. drugs are more dangerous than either is alone.

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

Three factors play a major part in Total # hours drinks drinks LESS since last EQUALS left determining BAC: consumed drink in body • The amount of alcohol you consume. ______- ______= ______• How fast you drink. • Your body weight.

ALCOHOL CONTENT

36 A person drinking: Pennsylvania’s Implied • 8 drinks in 4 hours would have at Consent Law least 4 drinks remaining in their The “Implied Consent” law is system. very important to you as a rider. • 7 drinks in 3 hours would have at If the arrest you for driving least 4 drinks remaining in their while under the influence of alcohol system. or drugs and you refuse to take one There are times when a larger or more chemical tests of breath, person may not accumulate as high a blood, or urine, your driving concentration of alcohol for each privilege will be automatically drink consumed. They have more suspended for one (1) year in blood and other bodily fluids. But addition to the driving privilege because of individual differences it is suspension imposed for a conviction better not to take the chance that abilities and judgment have not been or ARD for driving while under the affected. Whether or not you are influence. Altogether, a conviction legally intoxicated is not the real plus refusal could result in a two (2) issue. Impairment of judgment and year driving privilege suspension. skills begins well below the legal The law covering chemical limit. testing says that you have agreed to PENALTIES FOR DRIVING take such a test just by being WHILE UNDER THE licensed to drive in Pennsylvania. INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL Even if you are not found guilty of driving while under the influence, OR DRUGS your driving privilege will be The penalties for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs suspended for one (1) year if you are severe. In Pennsylvania you are refuse to take a blood, breath, or considered to be driving “while under urine test. the influence” if your blood alcohol level is .08% or higher. For a first MINIMIZE THE RISKS conviction or acceptance into an Your ability to judge how well Accelerated Rehabilitation you are riding is affected first. Disposition (ARD) Program, you Although you may be performing could: more and more poorly, you think 1. Lose your license. you are doing better and better. The result is that you ride confidently, 2. Be sentenced to jail. taking greater and greater risks. 3. Pay fines. Minimize the risks of drinking and 4. Be ordered to undergo alcohol and riding by taking steps before you drug rehabilitation treatment and/or drink. Control your drinking or Alcohol Highway Safety School. control your riding.

37 MAKE AN INTELLIGENT • Keep them there — Use any CHOICE excuse to keep them from getting on their motorcycle. Serve them — Once you start, Don’t Drink food and coffee to pass the time. your resistance becomes weaker. Explain your concerns for their Setting a limit or pacing yourself risks of getting arrested or hurt, are poor alternatives at best. Your or hurting someone else. ability to exercise good judgment is • Get friends involved — Use peer one of the first things affected by pressure from a group of friends to alcohol. Even if you have tried to intervene. drink in moderation, you may not realize to what extent your skills It helps to enlist support from have suffered from alcohol’s others when you decide to step in. The fatiguing effects. more people on your side, the easier it is to be firm and the harder it is for the Or, Don’t Ride — If you haven’t controlled your drinking, you must rider to resist. While you may not be control your riding. thanked at the time, you will never have to say, “If only I had.” • Leave the motorcycle home — so you won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange another way to get home. FATIGUE Riding a motorcycle is more • Wait — If you exceed your limit, tiring than driving a car. On a long wait until your system eliminates trip, you’ll tire sooner than you would the alcohol and its fatiguing effects. in a car. Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can affect your control of the STEPS TO motorcycle. PROTECT FRIENDS • Protect yourself from the elements People who have had too much — Wind, cold, and rain make you to drink are unable to make a tire quickly. Dress warmly. A responsible decision. It is up to windshield is worth its cost if you others to step in and keep them from plan to ride long distances. taking too great a risk. No one wants to do this — it’s uncomfortable, • Limit your distance — embarrassing and thankless. You are Experienced riders seldom try to rarely thanked for your efforts at the ride more than about six hours time. But the alternatives are often a day. worse. • Take frequent rest breaks — Stop, and get off the motorcycle at least There are several ways to keep every two hours. friends from hurting themselves: • Arrange a safe ride — Provide • Don’t drink or use drugs — alternative ways for them to get Artificial stimulants often result in home. extreme fatigue or depression when they start to wear off. Riders are • Slow the pace of drinking — unable to concentrate on the task Involve them in other activities. at hand.

38 EARNING YOUR LICENSE If you wish to operate a motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle, you must get a Class M learner’s permit before you can learn to drive. A Class M permit allows you to drive only between sunrise and sunset. All applicants with a permit must wear a helmet and eye protection. Class M learners shall not carry any passengers other than a properly licensed instructor. To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill test. Knowledge test questions are based on information, practices, and ideas from this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules and safe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area. If you test on a motorcycle that is 5 brake horsepower or less, an “8” restriction will appear on your motorcycle license. This restriction prohibits you from operating a motorcycle of more than 5 brake horsepower. If you test on a motorcycle that has more than 2 wheels, a “9” restriction will appear on your driver’s license. This restriction prohibits you from operating a two-wheeled motorcycle. To have the “8” or “9” removed, contact PennDOT at 1-800-932-4600. If you are under 18, you must wait the mandatory 6 months from your permit issue date and have a signed Certificate of Completion for the 65 hours of skill- building before taking your road test. Additionally, you must take and successfully complete the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Basic Rider Course before you can receive your Class M license. Please note that the 15 hours of training obtained through the Basic Rider Course can be utilized in meeting counts toward the 65 hours of skill-building requirement. Please note that you may reapply for a motorcycle leaner’s permit no more than three times in a five-year period (4 total leaner’s permits within 5 years) and with each reapply, you must successfully pass the motorcycle knowledge test.

39 Knowledge Test – Sample Questions 1. 5.

When adjusting your mirrors to carry When riding with passengers, a passenger, the passenger should: you should: A. Stand behind the motorcycle. A. Start slowing sooner. B. Sit on the seat with you. B. Use only your front brake to slow. C. Adjust the mirror while you sit on C. Never talk to them. the motorcycle. D. Start in the center of the lane. D. Stand beside the motorcycle in the blind spot. 6.

2. When carrying loads: A. Keep the load behind the rear axle. A passenger should: B. Secure the load with a rope. A . Hold onto the seat strap. C. Fasten the load against the frame B. Hold onto the side of the seat. on the back of the seat. C. Hold onto the operator’s waist. D. Keep the load low and as far D Not ride without a backrest. forward as possible.

3. 7.

When the motorcycle is stopped at A group of riders move from a an intersection, a passenger should: staggered formation into a single A. Keep both feet on the foot pegs. file when: B. Place one foot on the ground. A. Riding at night. C. Place both feet on the ground. B. Traffic is heavy. D. Move back on the seat. C. Stopping at intersections. D. Turning corners. 4.

When carrying a passenger: A. You will have more balance. B. You will be able to slow more quickly. C. It will take longer to accelerate and slow down. D. You will have less chance of skidding.

40 8. 12.

In this picture, riders are in a Approximately half of all motorcycle staggered formation. The following crash fatalities are caused by: distance between A and C should A. Road conditions. be at least: B. The rider’s helmet. A. Four seconds. C. One car length. C. Alcohol Impairment. B. One second. D. Two seconds. D. Mechanical Failure.

13. 9.

If you don’t control your drinking: Riders in a staggered formation will A. Ride slower. be passing a car. After the lead rider B. Allow at least an hour for each passes, he/she should: drink before riding. A. Return to the right portion of the lane. C. Exercise or dance to wear the B. Return to the center portion of the drinks off. lane. D. Drink hot coffee to be alert C. Return to the left portion of the lane. D. Signal the others to follow. 14.

10.

Studies show that almost half of all riders killed in motorcycle crashes: Alcohol enters the bloodstream and A. Had poor eyesight. quickly reaches the brain. What is B. Had been drinking. affected first? C. Were speeding. A. Judgment. C. Balance. D. Were unskilled. B. Speech. D. Vision. 15.

11. The ability to think clearly and ride safely is affected by as little as: Alcohol first affects your: A. 1 drink. C. 3 drinks. A. Vision. C. Judgment. B. 6 drinks. D. 2 drinks. B. Speech. D. Balance.

41 16. 20.

If you drink 4 typical drinks, what Wearing a helmet will: is the least amount of alcohol A. Reduce your chances of neck remaining in your body after 2 hrs? and head injuries. A. 2 drinks. C. 1 drink. B. Increase your chances of a neck B. 3 drinks. D. 4 drinks. injury. C. Reduce your vision by two-thirds. 17. D. Neither reduce nor increase your chances of a head injury.

21. For greatest safety, your helmet should: A. Fit tightly at the base; loosely at the top. Of the following, which one gives the B. Fit loosely all the way around. most eye and face protection while C. Fit snugly all the way around. riding? D. Be worn only on long rides. A. Goggles. C. A faceshield. B. A windshield. D. Sunglasses. 18. 22.

The single most important thing you can do to improve your While riding an unfamiliar chances of surviving a crash is to: motorcycle: A. Lay the motorcycle down before A. Do not shift above third gear. hitting an obstacle. B. Stay in the right portion of the lane. B. Wear a securely fastened helmet. C. Have the owner ride with you. C. Be familiar with the motorcycle. D. Allow extra room for stopping D. Ride in the center portion of the lane. 23. 19.

The engine cut-off switch is usually Wearing a helmet can reduce the located: chance of a fatal head injury in: A. Near the clutch. A. Low-speed crash only. B. On the left handlebar. B. Single – vehicle crashes only. C. Near the right hand grip. C. Any crash, regardless of speed. D. On the top of the gas tank. D. High-speed crash only.

42 24. 28.

With a properly adjusted mirror While in a turn, it is best to: you can see: A. Maintain a steady speed or A. The lane beside you. gradually accelerate. B. The lane behind you. B. Slow down. C. Part of the lane beside you and C. Use your brakes. behind you. D. Accelerate and look straight ahead. D. Everything behind and to the side. 29. 25.

If you need to slow down while turning: When slowing for a normal stop: A. Apply the rear brake, and lean A. Use only the rear brake. farther into the turn. B. Use less throttle and the front B. Never apply the brakes. brake only. C. Use caution, apply both brakes. C. Shift down through the gears as D. Apply the rear brake only. you slow. D. Pull in the clutch and coast. 30.

26.

To make a normal stop, use: A. The rear brake first. When turning, you should: B. Both brakes, and downshift. A. Watch the center line. C. The front brake and downshift. B. Look straight ahead. D. The rear brake only. C. Look at the guard rail. D. Look through the turn. 31.

27.

Your motorcycle has two brakes. Use both brakes: Which one of the following A. Only for emergency stops. statements is correct: B. While swerving. A. Press left, lean left, go right. C. Every time you slow or stop. B. Press left, lean left, go left. D. Only for normal stops. C. Press left, lean right, go right. D. Press right, lean right, go left.

43 32. 36.

In a normal turn: It is important to search the road A. Lean your motorcycle more than for escape routes: your body. A. Though alleyways. B. Lean your motorcycle and your B. At intersections. body at the same angle. C. When riding a borrowed motorcycle. C. Do not lean. D. On curves. D. Lean your body more than you motorcycle. 37.

33.

To make good judgments in traffic, you need to first: In slow tight turns: A. Be able to swerve. A. Lean the motorcycle only, and B. Search ahead. keep your body straight. C. Watch for pedestrians. B. Lean your body more than the D. Know how to stop quickly. motorcycle. C. Lean with the motorcycle. 38. D. Do not lean.

34. The car driver is signaling for a left turn. The rider should: A. Hold speed and center lane position. To reduce speed before turning: B. Slow and move away from A. Shift to neutral. approaching vehicles. B. Pull in the clutch and use both brakes. C. Increase speed and move left. C. Apply the rear brake only. D. Increase speed and stay in the D. Close the throttle and apply both center of the lane. brakes. 39. 35.

You should make a special point of When turning, it is important to: checking traffic to the rear: A. Look straight ahead. A. Before starting into a curve. B. Slow after starting into the turn. B. When you approach an C. Reduce speed coming out of the turn. intersection. D. Look through the turn to where C. When carrying a passenger. you want to go. D. Before slowing. 44 40. 43.

When preparing to pass, it is Keeping a cushion of space around usually better to: your motorcycle: A. Signal–Check your left mirror – A. Is only necessary for beginning look left. motorcyclists. B. Signal–Move into left lane – B. Allows you time and space to react. accelerate. C. Allows you to weave through traffic C. Signal–Check your left mirror. when you need to. D. Signal–Check your left mirror – D. Makes you more vulnerable. speed up. 44. 41.

To spot approaching traffic and Riding in the center lane position: maintain a space cushion in the A. Keeps others from seeing you. illustration above: B. Is safest place when approaching A. Ride in the center of the lane. intersections. B. Move right and lean away from C. Keeps others from sharing your lane. the turn. D. Should be avoided if possible. C. Do not lean. D. Ride in the left portion of the lane. 42. 45.

To discourage other drivers from sharing your lane, it is usually best to: You plan to make a right turn after A. Ride in the left portion of your lane. stopping at an intersection. Usually B. Ride in the center portion of your lane. it is best to: C. Ride next to another vehicle. A. Let the traffic coming from D. Ride in the right portion of your lane. behind pass around you. B. Turn from the center portion of the lane. C. Turn from the right portion of the lane. D. Turn from the left portion of the lane.

45 46. 49.

Following close to vehicles in front Car/Motorcycle crashes are most of you: common: A. Helps you see hazards in the road. A. At intersections. B. Is safer at night. B. At night. C. Protects you in heavy traffic. C. When the rider is speeding. D. Is a factor in crashes caused by D. On freeways. motorcyclists. 50. 47.

Making eye contact with a driver When following a car, you at an intersection: should try to: A. Is a sure sign that the driver will A. Ride where the driver can see probably yield. you in the rear-view mirror. B. Is important if the driver is B. Ride next to another car to be pulling out from a side street. more visible. C. Does not mean that the driver C. Ride in the left side of the lane. sees you. D. Ride in the right side of the lane D. Confuses them.

48. 51.

At intersections, the most common The greatest danger for a rider when cause of motorcycle/car crashes is: passing parked cars is: A. Drivers entering a rider’s right A. A car backing into a parking space. of way. B. A car pulling out. B. Riders not seeing drivers enter C. A car door being opened. from side streets. D. Someone stepping from between cars. C. Drivers tailgating riders. D. Riders not yielding to oncoming 52. traffic.

In this picture, the light most likely to make the motorcycle noticeable to the car driver is the: A. Brake light. C. Headlight. B. Taillight. D. Turn signal.

46 53. 56.

When riding in traffic at night, the Make a special point to use your best way to locate bumps in the road mirrors: is to; A. On long trips. A. Look over the cars ahead. B. When riding through an intersection. B. Put your headlights on high beam. C. When following a vehicle. C. Read the road signs. D. Before slowing or stopping D. Watch the taillights of the car ahead. 57. 54.

Before changing lanes to the left: The best way to help others see A. Check your left mirror; and look your motorcycle is to: to the left. A. Ride in the left portion of the lane. B. Check the right mirror, then B. Wear a white helmet. the left mirror. C. Stay in the center portion of the lane. C. Check the left mirror, then the D. Ride with your headlight turned on. right mirror. D. Use your horn and speed up. 55. 58.

Not turning off a turn signal is most likely to: The best gear to wear to be seen A. Encourage other drivers to pull at night is: into your path. A. Fluorescent clothing. B. Keeps others from noticing your B. A white helmet. brake light. C. Reflective clothing. C. Reduces your chances of a crash D. A red jacket. because other drivers stay clear. D. Encourage others to follow you too closely.

47 59. 62.

To see better when following a In the picture above, the rear wheel car at night: locks while trying to stop quickly. A. Increase your following distance It is usually best to: and use your low beam. A. Maintain position and release the B. Use the headlights of the vehicle rear brake. ahead. B. Lean the motorcycle and release C. Pass when safe and use your high the rear brake. beam. C. Release front brake and keep rear D. Drop far back and use your high beam. brake locked. D. Keep the rear wheel locked until 60. stopped.

63.

When riding at night: A. Always ride in the center lane. B. Ride with flashers on. When swerving, it is important to: C. Wear reflective clothing. A. Always brake before swerving. D. Follow closer to the vehicle ahead B. Separate braking from swerving. for safety. C. Always brake after swerving. D. Swerve in the direction the 61. hazard is traveling.

64.

If you lock the front tire when stopping: A. Release the rear brake. To ride over metal bridge gratings: B. Keep the front brake locked until A. Ride straight across. fully stopped. B. Weave (zig-zag) across. C. Keep both brakes locked. C. Cross at a sharp angle without D. Release and reapply the front brake. changing lanes. D. Speed up.

48 65. 69.

To ride over an object on the road: To handle a slippery surface, it is A. Stay seated until you have crossed it. best to: B. Rise slightly off the seat. A. Use the rear brake lightly while C. Edge across it. crossing. D. Grip the gas tank with your knees. B. Slow down before reaching it. C. Gradually accelerate. 66. D. Downshift when you reach it.

70.

When riding over an obstacle, it is usually best to: A. Keep a normal seat position. To stop on wet pavement: B. Rise slightly off the seat. A. Apply the front brake only if C. Grip the gas tank with your knees. the wheel begins to slide. D. Lean forward as much as possible. B. Coast to a stop. C. Apply the rear brake only. D. Apply the front and rear brakes 67. together.

71. On a paved, two-lane road, sand and gravel are most likely to collect: A. In the left wheel track. B. Near to center of the road. When riding where sand and gravel C. Near the sides of the road. have collected on paved roads, you D. In the center of the lane. should: A. Downshift and use more throttle. 68. B. Pull in the clutch. C. Only use the rear brake to slow down. D. Avoid sudden changes in speed or direction. On a wet road, it will usually be most slippery: A. On loose gravel. B. In the left wheel track. C. In the right wheel track. D. In the center portion of the lane

49 72. 75.

If the rear tire goes flat: When the front tire goes flat: A. You will not be able to maintain A. The steering will feel heavy. control. B. It has no effect on handling. B. You will lose power to the rear wheel. C. The back of the motorcycle C. The back of the motorcycle will will jerk from side to side. jerk from side to side. D. You will lose power to the brakes. D. The steering will feel heavy. 76. 73.

If your throttle sticks: If you have a flat tire while riding, A. Squeeze the clutch and use hold the handle grips firmly and: engine cut-off switch. A. Gently apply both brakes. B. Shift to neutral and apply both B. Use the brake of the good tire brakes. or avoid braking. C. Downshift and apply both brakes. C. Continue to the nearest repair D. Apply the front brake. facility. D. Use only the brake that controls 77. the flat tire.

74. In the picture above, it is usually best to: A. Speed up to get by quickly. When the front tire goes flat while B. Ride in position 3. riding: C. Ride in position 1. A. Apply the front brake. D. Ride in position 2 or 3. B. You will not be able to control the motorcycle. C. Apply rear brake and steer to the the edge of the road. D. Steer to the right & apply both brakes.

50 78. 81.

In this picture, A, B, and C are You are preparing to move to the riding as a group. To pass, rider B left lane, as pictured above. To spot should: cars passing beside you, it is best to: A. Complete the pass in front of A. A. Slow and look in the left mirror. B. Pass with C. B. Look in the left mirror. C. Return to the lane and ride next to A. C. Speed up and look in the left mirror. D. Return to the right portion of D. Turn your head to the left. the lane behind A. 82. 79.

To adjust for traffic and avoid To create more space in the situation debris in the curve pictured, ride: pictured above, you should: A. In position 3. A. Ride in the right portion of the lane. B. In position 2. B. Adjust speed and stay in the C. Without leaning. center of the lane. D. In position 1. C. Move to the left lane. D. Pass the car on your left. 83.

80.

To cross tracks that run parallel to your course: Most motorcycle/car crashes: A. Edge gradually across. A. Occur because a car driver pulls B. Move into the opposing lane to into the path of the motorcycle. cross at a 90-degree angle. B. Result in minor injuries. C. Wait for the tracks to end. C. Occur because a motorcyclist D. Move away, then turn and cross at turns left in front of a vehicle. an angle of at least 45 degrees. D. Occur because of speeding. 84.

In this picture, the rider in the most dangerous position is: A. Rider B. B. Rider C. C. Rider A. D. None. 51 Answer Key 1. B - page 31 43. B - page11 2. C - page 32 44. A - page 26 3. A - page 33 45. B - page15 4. C - page 32 46. D - page12 5. A - page32 47. A - page 13 6. D - page32 48. A - page 17 7. D - page34 49. A - page 17 8. D - page33 50. C - page17 9. C - page34 51. B - page19 10. A - page 38 52. D - page21 11. C - page38 53. D - page23 12. C - page35 54. D - page20 13. B - page38 55. A - page 21 14. B - page35 56. D - page21 15. A - page 35 57. A - page 22 16. A - page 36 58. C - page23 17. C - page4 59. B - page23 18. B - page3 60. C - page23 19. C - page3 61. D - page23 20. A - page 3 62. D - page 23 21. C - page4 63. B - page25 22. D - page7 64. A - page 28 23. C - page6 65. B - page27 24. C - page7 66. B - page27 25. C - page9 67. C - page27 26. D - page10 68. D - page27 27. B - page10 69. B - page27 28. A - page 11 70. D - page27 29. C - page10 71. D - page27 30. B - page10 72. C - page29 31. C - page10 73. B - page29 32. B - page11 74. C - page29 33. A - page 11 75. A - page 29 34. D - page10 76. A - page 29 35. D - page10 77. D - page12 36. B - page16 78. D - page34 37. B - page16 79. B - page15 38. B - page18 80. A - page 17 39. D - page21 81. D - page22 40. A - page 14 82. B - page26 41. C - page15 83. D - page28 42. B - page15 84. A - page 12

52 General Tips for Riding a Motorcycle Safely Motorcycle safety is a growing concern, not only in the Commonwealth, but Nationwide. More and more people are turning to motorcycles as their primary mode of transportation. When ridership increases, risk increases. Below are a few tips that can improve your level of safety:

• Be Safe. • Conduct a pre-ride check to identify any mechanical defects that could jeopardize your safety.

• Be Visible. • Signal your intentions. • Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night. • Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle. • Flash your brake lights when you are slowing down and before stopping.

• Dress for Safety. • Wear a D.O.T. approved helmet and eye protection. • Wear bright colored clothing, over the ankle foot protection, long pants, long- sleeved shirt, and full-fingered gloves.

• Use Common Sense. • Keep a safe distance from other motorists and give yourself enough time to react to dangerous situations. • Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in part of the lane where you are most visible. • Avoid weaving between lanes. • Ride Unimpaired. • Don’t ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. • If someone has had too much to drink, intervene.

• Be Courteous and Responsible. • Respect other drivers. • Don’t speed; know the local traffic laws and rules of the road.

• Be Prepared. Practice. • Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. • Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces. • See back cover for more information about Pennsylvania’s free Motorcycle Safety Program. Free Rider Training Courses for Pennsylvania Residents with a Class M License or Permit

✦ The Basic Rider Course course lasts 15 hours, and is suitable for beginners and intermediate/advanced riders. Students are supplied with a motorcycle and a helmet to be used during the training course. Students on a learner’s permit who successfully complete the course will be issued a motorcycle license. ✦ The Basic Rider Course 2 is a one-day course designed for riders who already have experience riding a motorcycle. Students on a learner’s permit who sucessfully complete the course will be issued a motorcycle license. Participants use their own motorcycles. Clubs and groups are welcome. ✦ The 3-Wheel Basic Rider Course is similar to the Basic Rider Course except the training is completed on a 3-wheel motorcycle. Students on a learner’s permit who successfully complete the course will be issued a motorcycle license with a 9 restriction, which prohibits the rider from operating a 2-wheel motorcycle. The course lasts 12 hours and participants must use their own 3-wheel motorcycle. ✦ The Advanced Rider Course is a one-day course geared toward experienced riders who already have their motorcycle license. This one-day course provides rider development in the areas of risk management, decision-making, riding strategies, and rider behavior and choices. Participants use their own motorcycle. Please note that this is not a licensing course. Courses are offered at various locations throughout Pennsylvania.

For information and schedules log onto: www.pamsp.com or call 1-800-845-9533 *HAVE YOUR LICENSE NUMBER READY FOR REGISTRATION. Hearing impaired using TDD equipment should call, 1-800-228-0676

Looking for a part-time career in the motorcycle industry with excellent pay, flexible hours and FUN? Become a RiderCoach and start the most rewarding ride of your life. Log onto www.pamsp.com to view an online application today. THIS PUBLICATION IS NOT FOR SALE Courses Conducted April through October NOTE: PEAK TIMES ARE APRIL THROUGH JUNE. MORE CLASSES ARE AVAILABLE LATER IN THE SEASON.