north dakota 2011

8/6/2019 North Dakota 2011

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It is NDDOTs policy that all employees havethe right to work in an environment free ofharassment. An employee may discontinueservice to a customer if the customersubjects the employee to conduct, commu-nication, or sexually explicit paraphernaliawhich may interfere with the employeeswork performance or create a hostile, intimi-dating, or offensive work environment.

OPERATOR MANUAL

2009 - 2011


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To the Motorcycle Operator:

This manualcontains important informationfor those of you whowish to oper-ate a motorcycle. You are urged to study this manual thoroughly. This manualwas developed by the National Public Services Research Institute with thecooperation of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation under contract to theNationalHighway Traffic Safety Administration.

As a motorcyclist, you should remember that you will be traveling on thestreets and highways with a mixture of vehicles, most of which are larger thanyour motorcycle. Statistics show that thechances of a cyclist being injured in amotorcycle crash arefar greater than anyother type of vehicular crash.And oneout of every five motorcycle crashes results in head or neck injuries.

As a cyclist in North Dakota, you are subject to the same rules of the road asother motorists, as well as special laws for motorcycles,whichare summarized

in this manual. Applicants who do not currently possess a North Dakotaopera-tors license should study this manual along with theNorth DakotaClass D op-erators manual, both of which areavailableto individuals at anyof theDriversLicense and Testing offices.

Drivers License and Traffic Safety DivisionND Department of Transportation608 East Boulevard AvenueBismarck, ND 58505-0700


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LICENSE REQUIREMENT

Any person other than a nonresident student, a tourist, or a member of thearmed forces who has lived in this state for 90 consecutive days, shall bedeemed a resident of North Dakota for the purposes of driver licensing. Youmay operate a vehicle with an operators license from another state for a periodof 60 days after you becomea residentof North Dakota, thenyou must obtaina

North Dakota operators license.When operating either a two- or three-wheeled motorcycle, North Dakota lawrequires that you have in your possession a Class M permit or license. Drivingwithout the Class M permit or license will result in a $20 fine and a four pointassessment on your driving record.

Fourteen- and fifteen-year-old motorcycle operators may only operate motor-cycles with a 250 cc engine or less.

Operators and passengers under the age of 18 must wear a safety helmet thatmeets U.S. Department of Transportation standards.If the operator is requiredto wear a helmet, then any passenger, regardless of age, must also wear a helmet.

Applying for a Class M License or Permit

Applications for an operators license or permit are made with the Drivers Li-cense and Testing office in your area.

PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION IS REQUIRED.

Original applicants who do not have a valid North Dakota operators licensemust present proof of current name and date of birth. Out-of-state permits,licenses, and ID cards will not be accepted as proof of name and date of birth.Proof of North Dakota residence address may also be required. Acceptableforms of identification are:

-- U.S. Birth Certificate (state certified; Government-issued: includes U.S.territories).

-- Valid U.S. Passport.

-- U.S. Government-issued Consular Report of Birth Abroad. CertificateorFS 240 (seal required).

-- Valid Foreign Passport with an I-94 card or an I-551 stamp.

-- U.S. Active Duty/Retiree/Reservist Military ID Card.

-- U.S. Court Order containing the legal name and date of birth (Court sealrequired). Divorce decree and marriage certificate are not acceptable forproof of date of birth.

-- North Dakota state issued permit, license, or ID card.

-- The following Immigration documents (unexpired):I-551 Resident Alien or Permanent Resident CardI-688 Temporary Resident Identification Card


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I-688B, I-766 Employment Authorization CardN560 Certificate of CitizenshipN550 Certificate of NaturalizationI-94 card stamped Refugee or Asylee

Only original documents and certified copies will be accepted. No photo-copies. A court order or government issued marriage certificate is required

for a name change. Several documents may be necessary in the event therehas been more than one name change since birth.

You will not be allowed to test without proper identification.

Applicants born in North Dakota who do not have the required birth certifi-cate may obtain a copy by sending $7 and general birth and identificationinformation to Vital Records, North Dakota Department of Health, Dept.301, 600 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, North Dakota 58505-0200.Visit www.ndhealth.gov/vital for details.

All applications for permit, license, or identification card must contain theindividuals social security number (NDCC 39-06-07 and NDCC39-06-03.1).

All applicants must pass an eyesight test, testing your ability to see as it ap-plies to driving.

Allapplicants whodo NOT presentavalidClassA,B,C,orDNorthDakotaoperatorslicensewillberequiredtopasstheClassDRulesoftheRoadwrit-ten test prior to the Class M written test. Children, backpacks, purses, andelectronic devices such as cell phone, ipods, etc., will not be allowed in thetesting area.

You may NOT operate a motorcycle until you receive the Class M permit,then you must pass an on-cycle skill test prior to a Class M license being is-sued. The on-cycle skill test maybe waivedupon successful completion of amotorcycle safety course approved by the director.

Anyone operating a motorcycle with a learners permit may not drive after

dark and shall not carry passengers.

State statutesrequire a $5 fee for each written test and a $5 fee for each road/skill test.

North Dakota Drivers License and Testing Locations

To obtain a North Dakota operators license, you must visit one of the DriversLicense andTesting offices.No appointmentis neededfor thewrittentest.Arriveno later than one hour prior to noon and no later than one hour prior to closing.

TTY information number: 328-4156

For skill test appointments and general license information, call your respec-tiveDrivers License and Testing office. Skill tests will not be conducted dur-ing inclement weather. Call for cancellation information.


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Offices are closed on the following holidays:

New Years Day, January 1 MartinLutherKing,Jr.Day,thirdMondayinJanuaryPresidents Day, third Monday in Feb. Good Friday, the Friday preceding Easter SundayMemorial Day, the last Monday in May Independence Day, July 4Labor Day, the first Monday in September Veterans Day, November 11Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in Nov. Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 (offices close at noon)Christmas Day, December 25

If January 1st, July 4th, November 11th or December 25th falls on a Sunday,thefollowing Mondayshallbe theholiday. If these holidays fall on a Saturday,the preceding Friday is the holiday.

CRASH REPORTS

If you are involved in a crash which results in the combined damage of $1,000or more, or results in personal injury or death, you must immediately report itto the local police, sheriffs office, or State Highway Patrol.

No person shall operate a motor vehicle in the state of North Dakota without avalid policy of liability insurance in effect, the name of the insurance policycarrier, and the policy number must be furnished to a law enforcement officerupon request. The minimum fine for operating an uninsured motor vehicle is$150 and may result in a license suspension.

In any crash involving injury or damage, the operators must exchange the follow-inginformation: operators name, address, and motor vehicle insurancecompany.

Any operator who hits an unattended vehicle must immediately locate andnotify the owner. If the owner cannot be found, the operator must leave a noteat a conspicuous place on theunattended vehicle.Thenote must list theopera-tors name, address, and motor vehicle insurance company.

EXAMINATIONS

Cooperation With the Examiner

The applicant must at all times cooperate with the examiners by followingtheir instructions.

License applicants must furnish their own vehicle for the on-cycle test.

Fargo 239-8940WahpetonLisbon

Jamestown 252-5596Valley City

OakesDickinson 227-6550

BeulahBowman

Bismarck 328-2252WishekLintonCarson

Grand Forks 787-6540

LangdonGraftonMayville

Minot 857-7624BottineauRollaRugbyHarvey

Williston 774-4358CrosbyStanleyWatford City

Devils Lake 662-4814Carrington

All sites are closed from 12:00--1:00 p.m. except Bismarck, Minot, GrandForks, and Fargo.


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Licenseapplicants mustsubmit their motorcycle to an equipment inspectionat the time of the on-cycle test.

Applicants who successfully pass the on-cycle skill test with a motorcyclethat has an automatictransmission, will be restricted to operating a Class Mvehicle so equipped.

Applicants successfully completing the on-cycle test on a three-wheeled

motorcycle will receive a Class M operators license restricted to the opera-tion of a three-wheeled motorcycle.

If you fail any of the tests, you willnot be allowed to retake the examinationthe same day.

Additional Requirement for Applicants 14 or 15 Years of Age

To receive a Class M learners permit, the14- or 15-year-old applicant mustbe enrolled in or have completed an approved motorcycle safety course.

When applying for a learners permit, 14- or 15-year-old applicants mustpresent to the examiner an enrollment certificate or a Motorcycle SafetyCompletion Certificate.

These applicants must operate on the initial learners permit for at least twomonths prior to completing the on-cycle skill test for a Class M operatorslicense.

A Motorcycle Safety Completion Certificate must be presented at the timeof the on-cycle skill test. If the applicant has held the initial learners permitfor at least two months, the on-cycle skill test may be waived upon success-ful completion of a motorcycle safety course approved by the director.

MOTORIZED BICYCLE

A motorized bicycle is a two or three wheeled vehicle, no more than 32 incheswide. It must also have:

Maximum piston or rotor displacement of 49.98 (3.05 cubic inches) enab-ling a speed not to exceed 30 mph on a level surface.

Foot pedals or footrests.

An automatic drive system not requiring the use of a clutch.

Motorized bicycles must display an assigned registration plate when oper-ated upon a public highway.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

The operator of a motorized bicycle must be at least 14 years of age or older.

You must have a valid operators license, operator permit, a temporary per-mit, instruction permit, motorcycle permit, or motorized bicycle permit inyour immediate possession whenoperatinga motorized bicycleupon a pub-lic street or highway within the state of North Dakota.


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Operators under the age of 18 must wear a safety helmet that meets U.S.Department of Transportation standards.

APPLYING FOR A MOTORIZED BICYCLE PERMIT

Application for a motorized bicycle permit is made with the Drivers Licenseand Testing office in your area.

Allapplicants applying for an original motorizedbicycle permitmust pres-ent proof of current name and date of birth. Out-of-state permits, licenses,and ID cards will not be accepted as proof of name and date of birth. Accept-able forms of identification are:

-- U.S.Birth Certificate(state certified; Government-issued:includes U.S.territories).

-- Valid U.S. Passport.

-- U.S. Government-issued Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Certificateor FS 240 (seal required).

-- Valid Foreign Passport with an I-94 card or an I-551 stamp.

-- U.S. Active Duty/Retiree/Reservist Military ID Card or Common Ac-cess Card.

-- U.S. Court Order containing the legal name and date of birth (Court sealrequired).Divorce decree and marriagecertificate are not acceptable forproof of date of birth.

-- North Dakota state issued permit, license, or ID card.

-- The following Immigration documents (unexpired):I-551 Resident Alien or Permanent Resident CardI-688 Temporary Resident Identification CardI-688B, I-766 Employment Authorization CardN560 Certificate of CitizenshipN550 Certificate of NaturalizationI-94 card stamped Refugee or Asylee

Only original documents and certified copies will be accepted. No photo-copies. A court order or government issued marriage certificate is required

for a name change. Several documents may be necessary in the event therehas been more than one name change since birth.

You will not be allowed to test without proper identification.

Motorized bicycle applications must contain the individuals social securitynumber (NDCC 39-06-07).

Pass the Rules of the Road written test.

Pass a vision test, testing your ability to see as it applies to operating a mo-torized bicycle.

NO on-cycle skill test is required for a motorized bicycle permit.

There is a $5 written test fee required.


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PREFACE

Operating a motorcycle safely in traffic requires special skills and knowledge.TheMotorcycle Safety Foundationhas madethis manual available to helpnov-ice motorcyclists reduce their risk of having a crash. The manual conveys es-sential safe-drivinginformationand hasbeen designed for usein licensingpro-grams. While designed for the novice, all motorcyclists can benefit from the

information this manual contains.

TheoriginalMotorcycle Operator ManualwasdevelopedbytheNationalPub-lic Services Research Institute (NPSRI) under contract to the National High-way Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and within the terms of a cooper-ative agreement between NHTSA and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Themanual and related tests were used in a multi-year study of improved motor-cycle operator licensing procedures, conducted by the California Departmentof Motor Vehicles under contract to NHTSA.

The purpose of this manual is to educate the reader to help avoid crashes whilesafely operating a motorcycle. For this edition, theMotorcycle SafetyFounda-tion has updated and expanded the content of the original manual. These revi-sions reflect:

The latest findings of motorcycle-safety research.

Comments and guidance provided by the motorcycling, licensing, and traf-fic-safety communities.

Expanded alcohol and drug information.

In promotingimproved licensingprograms,the Motorcycle Safety Foundationworks closely with state licensing agencies. The Foundation has helped morethan half thestates in thenation adopt theMotorcycle Operator Manualfor usein their licensing systems.

Improved licensing, along with high-quality motorcycle rider education andincreased public awareness, has the potential to reduce crashes. Staff at theFoundation are available to assist state, private and governmental agencies inefforts to improve motorcycle safety.

Tim BuchePresident, Motorcycle Safety Foundation


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PREPARING TO RIDE

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The HelmetUse and Selection 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Eye and Face Protection 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Clothing 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Right Motorcycle for You 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Borrowing and Lending 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Get Familiar with the Motorcycle Controls 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Check the Motorcycle 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Body Position 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shifting Gears 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Braking 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Turning 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lane Positions 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Following and Being Followed 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Passing and Being Passed 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lane Sharing 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Merging Cars 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cars Alongside 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SEE 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SIPDE 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .INTERSECTIONS 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Blind Intersections 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Passing Parked Cars 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Parking at the Roadside 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SEE AND BE SEEN 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Clothing 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Headlight 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Signals 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brake Light 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mirrors and Head Checks 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Horn 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Riding at Night 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


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CRASH AVOIDANCE 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Quick Stops 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Swerving or Turning Quickly 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cornering 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Slippery Surfaces 30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tracks, Grooves, and Gratings 31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MECHANICAL PROBLEMS 32. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tire Failure 32. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Stuck Throttle 32. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wobble 32. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chain Problems 33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Engine Seizure 33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ANIMALS AND FLYING OBJECTS 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .GETTING OFF THE ROAD 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equipment 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Instructing Passengers 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Riding with Passengers 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carrying Loads 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

GROUP RIDING 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Keep the Group Small 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Keep the Group Together 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Keep Your Distance 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

WHY THIS INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS INMOTORCYCLE OPERATION 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ALCOHOL IN THE BODY 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Blood Alcohol Concentration 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ALCOHOL AND THE LAW 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consequences of Conviction 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MINIMIZE THE RISKS 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Control Drinking 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Control Riding 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FATIGUE 44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EARNING YOUR LICENSE

KNOWLEDGE TEST 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ON-CYCLE SKILL TEST 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS 47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


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PREPARING TO RIDE

What youdo beforeyou start a trip goes a long waytoward determining wheth-er or not youll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on any trip, asafe rider makes a point to:

Wear the right gear.

Become familiar with the motorcycle.

Check the motorcycle equipment.

Be a responsible rider.

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR

When you ride, your gear is right if it protects you. In any crash, you have afar better chance of avoiding serious injury if you wear:

An approved helmet.

Face or eye protection.

Protective clothing.

The Helmet

Crashes are not rare eventsparticularly among untrained, beginning riders.And one out of every five motorcycle crashes result in head or neck injuries.Head injuries are just as severe as neck injuriesand far more common. Crashanalyses show that head and neck injuries account for a majority of serious andfatal injuries to motorcyclists. Research also shows that, with few exceptions,head and neck injuries arereduced by theproper wearing of an approved helmet.

Helmet Use

Some riders dont wear helmets because they think helmets will limit theirview to the sides. Others wearhelmets only on long trips or whenriding athighspeeds. Here are some facts to consider:

An approved helmet lets you see as far to the sides as necessary. A study ofmore than 900 motorcycle crashes, where 40% of the riders wore helmets,did not find even one case in which a helmet kept a rider from spotting dan-ger.

Most crashes happen on short trips (less than five miles long), just a fewminutes after starting out.

Most riders are riding slower than 30 mph when a crash occurs. At thesespeeds, helmets can cutboth thenumber and theseverity of head injuries byhalf.

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No matter what the speed, helmeted riders are three times more likely to sur-vive head injuries than those not wearing helmets at the time of the crash.

Helmet Selection

There are two primary types of helmets, providing two different levels of cov-erage: three-quarter and full face.

Whichever style you choose, you can get the most protection by making surethat the helmet:

Meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state standards. Hel-mets with labels from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) orthe Snell Memorial Foundation give you an added assurance of quality.

Fits snugly, all the way around.

Has no obvious defects such as cracks, loose padding or frayed straps.

Whatever helmet you decide on, keep it securely fastened on your head whenyouride.Otherwise,ifyouareinvolvedinacrash,itslikelytoflyoffyourheadbefore it gets a chance to protect you.

Eye and Face Protection

A plastic shatter-resistant face shield canhelp protect your wholeface in acrash. It also protects you from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects, and pebblesthrown up from cars ahead. These problems aredistracting and can be painful.If you have to deal with them, you cant devote your full attention to the road.

Goggles protect your eyes, thoughthey wontprotect therestof your face like aface shield does. A windshield is not a substitute for a face shield or goggles.Most windshields will not protect your eyes from the wind. Neither will eye-glasses or sunglasses. Glasses wont keep your eyes from watering, and theymight blow off when you turn your head while riding.

FULL-FACE

THREE-QUARTER

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To be effective, eye or face shield protection must:

Be free of scratches.

Be made of shatter-proof material.

Give a clear view to either side.

Fasten securely, so it does not blow off. Permit air to pass through, to reduce fogging.

Permit enough room for eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed.

Tinted eye protection should not be worn at night or any other time when littlelight is available.

Clothing

The right clothing protects you in a crash.

Jacket and pants shouldcover arms andlegs completely. They shouldfit snug-ly enoughto keep from flapping in thewind,yet loosely enoughto move freely.Leather offers the most protection, but heavy denim usually does an adequatejob at a reasonable price. Sturdy syntheticmaterial allows a lotof protection aswell. Wear a jacket even in warm weather. Many are designed to protect with-out getting you overheated, even on summer days.

Bootsor shoes shouldbe high andsturdyenough to cover your ankles andgivethem support. Soles shouldbe made of hard, durable material.Keep heels shortso they do not catch on rough surfaces. Tuck laces in so they wont catch onyour motorcycle.

Gloves allow a better grip and help protect your hands in a crash. Your glovesshould be made of leather or heavy cloth.

In cold or wet weather, your clothes should keep you warm and dry, as well asprotect you from injury. You cannot control a motorcycle well if you arenumb.

Riding for long periods in cold weather can cause severe chill and fatigue. Awinter jacket should resist wind and fit snugly at the neck, wrists, and waist.Good-quality rain suits designed for motorcycle riding resist tearing apart orballooning up at high speeds.

1. A plastic shatter-resistant face shield:

A. Is not necessary if you have a windshield.B. Only protects your eyes.C. Helps protect your whole face.D. Does not protect your face as well as goggles.

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KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE

There areplenty of thingson thehighwaythatcan cause youtrouble. Yourmo-torcycle should not be one of them. To make sure that your motorcycle wontlet you down:

Start with the right motorcycle for you.

Be familiar with the motorcycle controls.

Check the motorcycle before every ride.

Keep it in safe riding condition between rides.

Avoid add-ons and modifications that make your motorcycle harder tohandle.

The Right Motorcycle For You

First,make sureyour motorcycle is right for you. It should fit you. Your feetshould reach the ground while you are seated on the cycle.

At minimum, your street-legal motorcycle should have:

Headlight, taillight, and brakelight.

Front and rear brakes.

Turn signals.

Horn.

Two mirrors.

Borrowing and Lending

Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, beware. Crashes are fairly commonamong beginning ridersespecially in the first months of riding. Riding anunfamiliar motorcycle adds to the problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, get

familiar with it in a controlled area. And if you lend your motorcycle tofriends, make sure they are licensed and know how to ride before allowingthem out into traffic.

No matter how experienced you may be, ride extra carefully on any motor-cycle thats new or unfamiliar to you. More that half of all crashes occur onmotorcycles ridden by the operator for less than six months.

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5

Get Familiar With the Motorcycle Controls

Make sure you are completely familiar with the motorcycle before you take itout on the street. This is particularly important if you are riding a borrowedcycle. If you are going to use an unfamiliar motorcycle:

Make all the checks you would on your own motorcycle.

Find out where everything is, particularly the turn signals, horn, headlightswitch, fuel-control valve, and engine cut-off switch. Find and operate theseitems without having to look for them.

Know the gear pattern. Work the throttle, clutch, and brakes a few times be-fore you start riding. All controls react a little differently.

Ride very cautiously. Accelerate gently, take turns more slowly, and leaveextra room for stopping.

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2

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5

6

7

89

10

11

12

1. Turn-Signal Switch2. Gear-Change Lever3. Tachometer4. Speedometer & Odometer5. Rear Brake Pedal6. Throttle

7. Clutch Lever8. Engine Cut-Off Switch9. Light Switch

10. Kick Starter11. Front Brake Lever12. Horn Button

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6

Check the Motorcycle

A motorcycle needs more frequent attention than a car. A minor technical fail-urein a car seldomleads to anything more than an inconvenience for thedriver.

If somethings wrong with the motorcycle, youll want to find out about it be-fore youget in traffic. Make a complete check of your motorcycle beforeevery

ride.Before mounting the motorcycle make the following checks:

TiresCheck the air pressure.

FluidsOil and fluid levels. At a minimum, check hydraulic fluids andcoolants weekly. Look under the bike for signs of an oil or gas leak.

Headlights and TaillightCheck them both. Test your dimmer to makesure both high and low beams are working.

Turn SignalsTurn on both right and left turn signals. Make sure all fourlights flash.

BrakeLightTry both brake controls,andmake sure each oneturns on the

brake light.Onceyou havemountedthemotorcycle,completethe followingchecks beforestarting out:

Clutch and ThrottleMake sure they work smoothly. The throttle shouldsnap back when you let go.

MirrorsClean and adjust both mirrors beforestarting. Its difficultto ridewith one hand while you try to adjust a mirror.Adjust each mirror so youcan see the lane behind and as much as possible of the lane next to you.

BrakesTry the front and rear brake levers one at a time. Make sure eachone feels firm and holds the motorcycle when the brake is fully applied.

HornTry the horn. Make sure it works.

In addition to the checks you should make before every trip, check the follow-ing items at least once a week: Wheels, cables, fasteners, and brakes.

2. More than half of all crashes:

A. Occur at speeds greater than 35 mph.B. Happen at night.C. Are caused by worn tires.D. Involve riders who have ridden their motor-

cycles less than six months.

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KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

Accident implies an unforeseen event that occurs without anyones fault ornegligence. Most often in traffic, that is not the case. In fact, most people in-volved in a crash can usually claim some responsibility for what takes place.

Consider a situation where someone decides to try to squeeze through an inter-

section on a yellow light turning red. Your light turns green. You pull into theintersectionwithout checkingfor possible latecomers. Thatis all it takes for thetwo of you to tangle. It was the drivers responsibility to stop. And it was yourresponsibility to look beforepulling out. Neither of you held up your end of thedeal. Just because someone else is thefirsttostartthechainofeventsleadingtoa crash, it doesnt leave any of us free of responsibility.

As a rider you cant be surethatother operators willsee you or yield the right ofway. To lessen your chances of a crash occurring:

Be visiblewear proper clothing, use your headlight, ride in the best laneposition.

Communicate your intentionsuse the proper signals, brake light, andlane position.

Maintain an adequate space cushion following, being followed, lanesharing, passing and being passed.

Scan your path of travel 12 seconds ahead.

Identify and separate multiple hazards.

Be prepared to actremain alert and know how to carry out proper crash--avoidance skills.

Blame doesnt matter when someone is injured in a crash. There is rarely asinglecause of anycrash. Theabilityto ride aware,makecritical decisions, andcarry them out separatesresponsibleriders from allthe rest. Remember, it is upto you to keep from being the cause of, or an unprepared participant in, anycrash.

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RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed, or balance.Thats something you can learn only through practice. But control begins withknowing your abilities and riding within them and the rules of the road.

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL

Body Position

To control a motorcycle well:

SeatSit far enough forward so that arms are slightly bent when you holdthe handgrips. Bending your arms permits you to turn the handlebars with-out having to stretch.

HandsHold the handgrips firmly to keep your grip over rough surfaces.Start with your right wrist down. This will help you keep from accidentallyusing too much throttleespecially if you need to reach for the brake sud-denly.Also,adjustthehandlebarssoyourhandsareevenwithorbelowyourelbows. This permits you to use the proper muscles for precision steering.

RIGHT WRONG

KneesKeepyourkneesagainstthegastanktohelpyoukeepyourbalanceas the motorcycle turns.

FeetKeep your feet firmly on the footrests to maintain balance. Dontdrag your feet. If your foot catches on something, you can be injured and itcould affect your control of themotorcycle. Keep your feet near thecontrolsso you can get to them fast if needed. Also, dont let your toes point down-wardthey may get caught between the road and the footpegs.

PostureSitso youcan useyour arms to steer themotorcycle rather than tohold yourself up.

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Shifting Gears

There is more to shifting gears than simply getting the motorcycle to pick upspeed smoothly. Learning to use the gears correctly when downshifting, turn-ing, or starting on hills is important for safe motorcycle operation.

Shift down through the gears as you slow or stop. Remain in first gear while

you are stopped so that you can move out quickly if you need to.Make certain you are riding slowly enough when you shift into a lower gear. Ifnot, themotorcycle will lurch,and therearwheelmay skid. When ridingdown-hill or shifting into first gear you may need to use the brakes to slow enoughbefore downshifting safely.

It is best to change gears before entering a turn. However, sometimes shiftingwhile in the turn is necessary. If so, remember to do so smoothly. A suddenchange in power to the rear wheel can cause a skid.

Braking

Your motorcycle has two brakes: one each for the front and rear wheel. Useboth of them at the same time. The front brake is more powerful and can pro-

vide as much as three-quarters of your total stopping power. The front brake issafe to use if you use it properly. Remember:

Use both brakes every time youslow or stop. Using only therear brake fornormal stops will not permit you to develop the habit or skill of using thefront brake properly in an emergency. Squeeze the front brake and pressdown on the rear. Grabbing at the front brake or jamming down on the rearcan cause the brakes to lock, resulting in control problems.

Applyboth brakes at thesametime.Thesooner you apply thefrontbrake,the sooner it will start slowing you down.

If youknow thetechnique, using both brakesin a turn is possible,although itshould be done very carefully. When leaning the motorcycle some of thetraction is used for cornering. Less traction is available for stopping . A skid

can occur if youapplytoo much brake.Also,using thefrontbrakeincorrect-ly on a slippery surface may be hazardous. Use caution and squeeze thebrake lever.

Some motorcycles have integrated braking systems that activate the frontand rear brakes together when applying the rear brake pedal. (Consult theowners manual for detailed explanation on the operation and effective useof these systems.)

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Turning

Riders often try to take curves or turns too fast. When they cant hold the turn,they end up crossing into another lane of traffic or going off the road. Or, theyoverreact and brake too hard, causing a skid and loss of control. Approachturns and curves with caution.

Use four steps for better control:

SLOW LOOK PRESS ROLL

SlowReduce speed before the turn by closing the throttle and, if neces-sary, applying both brakes.

LookLook through the turn to where you want togo. Turn just your head,not your shoulders, and keep your eyes level with the horizon.

PressTo turn, the motorcycle must lean. To lean themotorcycle, press onthehandgripin thedirection of theturn.Press leftlean leftgo left.Pressrightlean rightgo right. Higher speeds and/or tighter turns require themotorcycle to lean more.

LEAN WITH

MOTORCYCLE

LEAN

MOTORCYCLE ONLY

In normalturns, the riderand the motor-cycle shouldlean togetherat the sameangle.

In slow tightturns, counter-balance by lean-ing the motor-cycle only andkeeping yourbody straight.

RollRoll on thethrottle through the turn. Maintain steady speed or accel-erate gradually. Avoid decelerating in the turn.

3. When riding, you should:

A. Turn your head and shoulders to look through turnsB. Keep your arms straight.C. Keep your knees away from the gas tank.D. Turn justyourhead and eyesto look where you are

going.

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KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE

The best protection you can have is distancea cushion of spaceallaround your cycle. If someone else makes a mistake, distance permits you:

Time to react.

Space to maneuver.

Lane Positions

In some ways thesize of themotorcycle can work to your advantage. Each traf-fic lane gives a motorcycle three paths of travel, as indicated in the illustration.

Your lane position should:

Increase your ability to seeand be seen

Avoid others blind spots. Avoid surface hazards.

Protect your lane from other drivers. Communicate your intentions. Avoid wind blast from other vehicles. Provide an escape route.

1 2 3

Select the appropriate path to maximize your space cushion and makeyourself more easily seen by others on the road.

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Ingeneral, there is no single best position forriders to beseenand to main-tain a space cushion around the cycle. No portion of the lane need beavoidedincluding the center.

Thecenter of a lane can be oily. It collects thedrippings from carsparticular-ly at intersections. This strip is usually no more than two feet wide. The centermini-lane is four feet wide. You can operate to the left or right of the grease

strip and still be within the center portion of the traffic lane. Unless the road iswet, the average center strip permits adequate traction to ride on safely. Avoidriding on big build-ups of oil and grease that are usually found at very busyintersections or toll booths.

Ride in theportion of thelanewhere youare most likely to be seen. Dependingon the traffic situation, move to the portion of the lane where it will be mostdifficult for other drivers to miss seeing you.

Following Another Vehicle

Following too closely is a major factor in crashes caused by motorcyclists.In traffic, motorcycles need as much distance to stop as cars. Normally, aminimum of three seconds distance should be maintained behind the vehicle

ahead. To gauge your following distance: Pick out a marker, such as a pavement marking or lamppost, on or near the

road ahead.

When the rear bumper of the vehicle ahead passes the marker, count off theseconds: one-thousand-and-one, one-thousand-and-two, one-thou-sand-and-three.

If you reach the marker before you reach three, you are following tooclosely.

A three-second following distance leaves a minimum amount of space to stopor swerve if the driver ahead stops suddenly. It also permits a better view ofpotholes and other hazards in the road.

A larger cushion of space is needed if your motorcycle will take longer thannormal to stop. If pavement is slippery, if you cannot see through the vehicleahead,oriftrafficisheavyandsomeonemaysqueezeinfrontofyou,openupafour-second or more following distance.

Keep well behind the vehicle ahead even when you are stopped. This willmakeit easierto get out of the way ifsomeone bears down onyou frombehind.It willalsogive you a cushion of space if the vehicle ahead starts toback up forsome reason.

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When behinda car, ride where the driver can see you in his rearview mir-ror. Riding in the center portion of the laneshould put your image in the rear-

view mirrorwhere a driver is most likely to see you.Riding at the far side of a lane may permit a driver to see you in a sideviewmirror. But remember that most drivers dont look at their sideview mirrorsnearlyas often as they check therearview mirror. If thetrafficsituation allows,the center portion of the lane is the best place to ride when following a car.

Being Followed

Speeding up to lose someone followingtoo closely only ends up with someonetailgating you at a higher speed.

A better way to handle tailgaters is to get them in front of you. When someoneis following too closely, change lanes and let them pass. If you cant do this,slow down and open up extra space ahead of you to allow room for both you

and the tailgater to stop. This will also encourage them to pass. If they dontpass, you will have given yourself and the tailgater more time and space toreact in case an emergency does develop.

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Passing and Being Passed

Passing and being passed by another vehicle is not much different than with acar. However,visibility is more critical.Be sure other drivers seeyou, and thatyou see potential hazards.

Passing

1. Ride in the left portion of the lane at a safefollowing distance to increase your line ofsight and make you more visible. Signal andcheck for oncoming traffic. Use your mir-rors and turn your head to look for traffic be-hind.

2. Moveinto theleft laneand accelerate.Selecta lane position that doesnt crowd the caryou are passing and provides space to avoidhazards in your lane.

3. Ride through the blind spot as quickly aspossible.

4. Signalagain, andcomplete mirrorand head checksbefore returningto youroriginal lane.

Remember, passes must be completed within posted speed limits, and onlywhere permitted. Know your signs and road markings!

Being Passed

When you are being passed from behind or by an oncoming vehicle, move tothe center portion of your lane. Riding any closer to them could put you in ahazardous situation. Avoid being hit by:

The other vehicleA slight mistake by you or the passing driver couldcause a sideswipe.

Extended mirrorsSome drivers forget that their mirrors hang out fartherthan their fenders.

Objects thrown from windowsEven if the driver knows youre there, apassenger may not see you and might toss something on you or the roadahead of you.

Blasts of wind from larger vehiclesThey can affect your control. Youhave more room for error if you are in the middle portion when hit by thisblast than if you are on either side of the lane.

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Do not move into the portion of the lane farthest from the passing vehicle. Itmight invite the other driver to cut back into your lane too early.

Lane Sharing

Cars and motorcycles need a full lane to operate safely. Lane sharing is usuallyprohibited.

Ridingbetween rows of stopped or moving cars in thesame lane can leave youvulnerable to the unexpected. A hand could come out of a window; a doorcould open;a car could turn suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by others. Keepa center-portion position whenever drivers might be tempted to squeeze byyou. Drivers are most tempted to do this:

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.

PASSING VEHICLES

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MERGING CARS

16

Merging Cars

Drivers on an entrance rampmay not see you on the highway. Give them plenty ofroom. Change to another laneif one is open. If there is no

room for a lane change, adjustspeed to open up space for themerging driver.

Cars Alongside

Do not ride next to cars ortrucks in other lanes if you donot have to. Cars in the nextlane are extremely hazardousbecause they block your es-capeif you comeupon dangerin your own lane. You mightbe in the blind spot of a car inthe next lane, which couldswitch into your lane without warning. Speed up or dropback to find a place clear oftraffic on both sides.

4. Usually, a good way to handle tailgaters is to:

A. Change lanes and let them pass.B. Use your horn and make obscene gestures.C. Speed up to put distance between you and thetail-

gater.D. Ignore them.

BLINDSPOT

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SEE

Good experienced riders remain aware of what is going on around them. Theyimprove their riding strategy by using SEE, a three-step process used to makeappropriate judgments and apply them correctly in different traffic situations:

Search

Evaluation

Execute

Lets examine each of these steps.

Search

Search aggressively ahead, to the sides, and behind to avoid potential hazardseven before they arise. How assertively you search, and how much time andspace you have, can eliminate or reduceharm. Focus even more on finding po-tentialescape routes in or around intersections, shopping areas, and school andconstruction zones.

Search for factors such as:

Oncoming traffic that may turn left in front of you.

Traffic coming from the left and right.

Traffic approaching from behind.

Hazardous road conditions.

Be especially alert in areas with limited visibility. Visually busy surround-ings could hide you and your motorcycle from others.

Searching or scanning provides the information you need to make deci-sions in enough time to act accordingly.

EvaluateThink about how hazards caninteract to createrisks foryou. Anticipate poten-tial problems and have a plan to reduce risks.

Roadand surface charateristicsPotholes, guardrails, bridges, telephonepoles, and trees wont move into your path but may influence your ridingstrategy.

Traffic control devicesLook for traffic signals, including regulatorysigns, warning signs,andpavementmarkings, to help you evaluate circum-stances ahead.

Vehicles and other trafficMay move into your path andincreasethe like-lihood of a crash.

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Think about your time andspacerequirementsin order to maintain a margin ofsafety. You must leave yourself time to react if any emergency arises.

Execute

Carry out your decision.

To create more space and minimize harm from any hazard: Communicate your presence with lights and/or horn.

Adjust your speed by accelerating, stopping, or slowing.

Adjust your position and/or direction.

Apply theold adage one step at a timeto handletwo or more hazards. Adjustspeed to permit two hazards to separate. Then deal with them one at a time assingle hazards. Decision making becomes more complex with three or morehazards. Weigh the consequences of each and give equal distance to the haz-ards.

In potential high-risk areas, such as intersections, shopping areas, and schoolandconstruction zones,cover theclutch andbothbrakes to reducethetimeyouneed to react.

SIPDE

SIPDE is a system of five steps that will help you apply SEE. The steps are:

Scan or search aggressively for potential hazards.

Identify or locate hazards and potential conflicts.

Predict or anticipate how the hazard may affect you.

Decide what to do to reduce the hazard.

Execute or carry out your decision.

5. To reduce your reaction time, you should:

A. Ride slower than the speed limit.B. Cover the clutch and the brakes.C. Shift into neutral when slowing.D. Pull in the clutch when turning.

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INTERSECTIONS

The greatest potential for conflict between you and other traffic is at intersec-tions. An intersection can be in the middleof an urban areaor ata drivewayona residential streetanywhere traffic may cross your path of travel. Over halfof motorcycle/car crashes are caused by drivers entering a ridersright-of-way. Oncoming cars that turnleftin front of you,and cars onside

streets that pull into your lane, are the two biggest dangers. Your use ofSEE (pg. 17) at intersections is critical.

There are no guarantees that others seeyou. Never count on eye contact as asign that a driver will yield. Too often, adriver looks right at a motorcyclist andstill fails to see him. The only eyesthat you can count on are your own. If acar can enter your path, assume that itwill. Good riders are always lookingfor troublenot to get into it, but tostay out of it.

Increase your chances of being seen at intersections. Ride with your head-light on in a lane position that provides the best view of oncoming traffic. Pro-vide a space cushion around the motorcycle that permits you to take evasiveaction.

CARS AT INTERSECTIONS

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As you approachthe intersection, select a lane position to increase your vis-ibility to the driver. Cover the clutch and both brakes to reduce reaction time.

Reduce your speed. After entering the intersection, move away from oncom-ing vehicles preparing to turn. Do not change speed or position radically. Thedriver might think that you are preparing to turn.

Blind Intersections

If you approach a blind inter-section, move to the portionof the lane that will bringyou into another driversfield of sight at the earliestpossible moment. In the pic-ture above, the rider hasmoved to the left portion ofthe laneaway from theparked carso the driver onthe cross street can see him assoon as possible.

Remember, the key is to seeas much as possible and re-main visible to others whileprotecting your space.

If you have a stop sign or stop line, stop there first. Then edge forward and stopagain,just short of where thecross-trafficlanemeets your lane.From that posi-tion, lean your body forward and look around buildings, parkedcars, or bushesto see if anything is coming. Just make sure your front wheel stays out of thecross lane of travel while youre looking.

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Passing Parked Cars

When passing parked cars, stay toward the left of your lane. You can avoidproblems caused by doors opening, drivers getting out of cars, or people step-ping from between cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it is usually best to re-main in the center-lane position to maximize your space cushion.

A bigger problem can occur if the driver pulls away from the curb withoutchecking for traffic behind. Even if he does look, he may fail to see you. Ineither event, thedriver might cutinto your path. Slow down or change lanes tomake room for someone cutting in.

Cars making a sudden U-turn are themost dangerous. They may cut you offentirely, blocking the whole roadwayand leaving you with no place to go.Since you canttell what a driver will do,get the drivers attention. Sound yourhorn and continue with caution.

Parking at the Roadside

Angleyour motorcycle to seein both di-rections without straining,or having themotorcycle in the lane of travel. Whenpossible, back into the parking spot at a90 degree angle to the curb with yourrear wheel touching the curb.

6. Making eye contact with other drivers:

A. Is a good sign that they see you.B. Is not worth the effort it take.C. Doesnt mean that the driver will yield.D. Guarantees that the other driver will yield

to you.

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SEE AND BE SEEN

In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers often say that they never saw the motor-cycle. From ahead or behind, a motorcycles outline is much smaller than acars. Also, its hard to seesomething you arenot looking for, andmost driversare not looking for motorcycles. More likely, they are looking through theskinny, two-wheeled silhouette in search of cars that may pose a problem to

them.

Even if a driver does see you coming, you arent necessarily safe. Smaller ve-hicles appear farther away, and seem to be traveling slower than they actuallyare. It is common for drivers to pull out in front of motorcyclists, thinking theyhave plenty of time. Too often, they are wrong.

However, you can do many things to make it easier for others to recognize youand your cycle.

Clothing

Mostcrashes occur in broaddaylight. Wearbright-coloredclothingto increaseyour chances of being seen. Remember, your body is half of thevisiblesurface

area of the rider/motorcycle unit.Bright orange, yellow or green jackets or vests are your best bets for beingseen. Your helmet can do more than protect you in a crash. Brightly coloredhelmets can help others see you.

Any bright color is better than drab or dark colors. Fluorescent clothing (hel-met and jacket or vest) is best for daytime riding.

At night reflective gear should be worn. Reflectivematerial on the sides of thehelmet and vest will help drivers coming from the side spot you. Reflectivematerial can also be a big help for drivers coming toward you or from behind.

Headlight

Thebestwaytohelpothersseeyourmotorcycleistokeeptheheadlightonatalltimes.Studies show that,duringthe day, a motorcycle with lightson is twiceaslikelytobenoticed.Also,useofthehighbeamindaylightincreasesthelike-lihood that oncoming drivers will see you.

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Signals

The signals on a motorcycle are similar to those on a car. However, due to ariders added vulnerability, signals are even more important. They tell otherswhat you plan to do. Use them anytime you plan to change lanes. Use themeven when you think no one else is around. Its the car you dont see thats go-ing to give you the most trouble. Your signal lights also make you easier to

spot. Thats why its a good idea to use your turn signals even when what youplan to do is obvious.

When you enter onto a freeway,drivers approaching from behindare more likely to see your signalblinking and make room for you.

Turning your signal light on beforeeach turn reduces confusion andfrustration for the traffic aroundyou. Once you turn, make sure yoursignal is off or a driver may pull di-

rectly into your path, thinking youplan to turn again. Use your signalsatevery turn so drivers can react ac-cordingly. Dont make them guesswhat you intend to do.

Brake Light

Your motorcycles brake light is usually notas noticeableas thebrakelights ona carparticularly when your taillight is on. (It goes on with the headlight.)Help others notice you by flashing your brake light before you slow down. It isespecially important to flash your brake light before:

You slow more quickly than others might expect (turning off a high speedhighway).

You slow where others may not expect it (in the middle of a block or at analley).

If you are being followed closely, its a good idea to flash your brake light be-fore you slow. Thetailgater may be watching you and not seesomething aheadthat will make you slow down.

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Using Your Mirrors

While its most important to keeptrack of whats happening ahead, youcant afford to ignore situations be-hind. Traffic conditions changequickly. Knowing whatsgoing on be-

hind can help you make a safe deci-sion about how to handle troubleahead.

Frequent mirrorchecks shouldbe partof your normal scanning routine.Make a special point of using yourmirrors:

Before you change lanes. Make sureno one is about to pass you.

When you are stopped at an intersection. Watch cars coming up from be-hind. If the driver isnt paying attention, he could be on top of you before hesees you.

Before you slowdown. Thedriver behindmay notexpectyou to slow, or maybe unsure about where you will slow. For example, you signal a turn and thedriver thinks you plan to turn at a distant intersection, rather than at a nearerdriveway.

Most motorcycles have rounded (convex) mirrors. These provide a wider viewof the road behind than do flat mirrors. They also make cars seem fartheraway than they really are. If you are not used to convex mirrors, get familiarwiththem. (Whileyou are stopped, pick outa parked carin your mirror. Form amental image ofhow far awayit is. Then, turn around and lookat itto see howclose you came.) Practice with your mirrors until you become a good judge ofdistance. Even then, allow extra distance before you change lanes.

Head Checks

Checking your mirrors is notenough.Motorcycles have blindspots like cars.Beforeyou changelanes, turn your head, and look tothe sideto spota car aboutto pass you. Remember, themost importanttime to check traffic to therearis when you are changing lanes!

Ona roadwith several lanes,checkthefar laneandthe one nextto you.A driverin the distant lane may head for the same space you plan to take.

AREA SEENIN MIRRORS

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Horn

Be ready to use your horn to get someones attention quickly. It is a good ideato give a quick beep before passing anyone that may move into your lane.

Here are some situations:

A driver in the lane next to you is driving too close to the vehicle ahead and

may want to pass.

A parked car has someone in the drivers seat.

Someone is in the street, riding a bicycle or walking.

In an emergency, press the horn button loud and long. Be ready to stop orswerve away from the danger.

Riding at Night

At night it is harder for you to see and be seen. Picking your headlight or tail-light out of the car lights around you is not easy for other drivers. To compen-sate, you should:

Reduce Your Speed Ride even slower than you would during thedayparticularly on roads you dont know well. This will increase yourchances of avoiding a hazard.

Increase DistanceDistances are harder to judge at night than during theday. Your eyes rely upon shadows and light contrasts to determine how faraway an object is and how fast it is coming. These contrasts are missing ordistorted under artificial lights at night. Open up a three-second followingdistance. And allow more distance to pass and be passed.

Use the Car AheadThe headlights of the car ahead can give you a betterview of theroadthan even your high beam can. Taillightsbouncing up anddown can alert you to bumps or rough pavement.

Use Your High BeamGet all the light you can. Use your high beam

whenever youare notfollowing or meetinga car. Be visible: wear reflectivematerials when riding at night.

Be Flexible About Lane PositionChange to whatever portion of thelaneis best able to help you see, be seen, and keep an adequate space cushion.

7. Reflective clothing should:

A. Be worn during the day.B. Be worn at night.C. Not be worn.D. Be worn day and night.

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CRASH AVOIDANCE

No matter how careful you are, there will be times when you find yourself in atight spot. Your chances of getting out safely depend on your ability to reactquickly and properly. Often, a crash occurs because a rider is not prepared orskilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers.

Know when andhow to stop or swerve, twoskills criticalto avoiding a crash.Itis not always desirable or possible to stop quickly to avoid an obstacle. Ridersmust also be able to swerve around an obstacle. Determining the skill neces-sary to the situation is important as well.

Studies show that most crash-involved riders:

Underbrake the front tire and overbrake the rear.

Do not separate braking from swerving or they do not choose swervingwhen appropriate.

The following information offers some good advice.

Quick Stops

To stop quickly, apply both brakes at thesame time. Dont be shy about us-ingthe front brake,but dontgrab atit, either. Squeeze thebrake lever steadi-ly and firmly. Apply the front brake fully. If the front wheel locks, release thefront brake.At thesametime, press down on therear brake.If youaccidentallylock the rear brake, keep it locked until you have completely stopped. Evenwith a locked rear wheel, you can control the cycle on a straightaway if it isupright and going in a straight line.

Always use both brakesatthe sametime to stop. Thefront brake can provide70% or moreof the poten-tial stopping power.

REAR

FRONT

BOTH

If you must stop quickly while turning or riding a curve, it may not always bepossible to straighten the motorcycle and then stop. If you must brake whileleaning, lightly apply both brakes and reduce the throttle. As you slow, youcan reduceyour lean angle andapplymore brake pressure until themotorcycleis straight and maximum brake pressure is possible. If you straighten thehandlebar in thelast few feet of stopping, the motorcycle should be straight upand in balance.

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Swerving or Turning Quickly

Sometimes youmay nothaveenough room to stop, even if youuse both brakesproperly. An object might appear suddenly in your path. Or the car aheadmight squeal to a stop. The only way to avoid a crash may be to turn quickly,swerve, or ride over the obstacle.

A swerve is two quick turns, one right after the first. It is performed with asmall amount of hand pressure on the handgrip in the direction you wish to goto get the motorcycle to lean quickly. An acquired skill in making a quickturn (swerve) is to lean quickly in the direction of the turn (swerve).

Press on the inside of the handgrip in your intended direction of escape.Then press on the inside of the opposite handgrip to return to your original di-rection of travel once you have cleared the hazard. To swerve to the left, pushthe inside of the handgrips to the left, then push right to recover. To swerve tothe right, push right, then push left to recover. Keep your knees snugly againstthe tank and your feet on the pegs. Make your escape route the target of yourvision.

Try to stay in your own lane. Change lanes only if you have enough time tomakesuretherearenovehiclesintheotherlane.Youshouldbeabletosqueeze

by most obstacles without leaving your lane.

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, SEPARATE IT FROM SWERVING. Brakebefore or afternever while swerving.

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Cornering

A primary cause of single-vehicle crashes is motorcyclists running wide in acurve or turn and colliding with the roadway or a fixed object.

Every curve is different.Be alert to whether acurve remains constant,gradually widens, getstighter, or involves mul-tiple turns.

Ride within your skilllevel and posted speedlimits.

Your best path may not always follow the curve of the road. Change lane posi-tion depending on traffic and road conditions. If no traffic is present and yourriding abilities are up to it, you may choose to start at the outside of a curve toincrease your line of sight and the effective radius of the turn. As you turn,move toward the inside of the curve, and as you pass the center, move to theoutside to exit.

Another alternative is to move to the center of your lane before entering acurveand stay there until you exit. This permits you to spot approachingtraffic as soon as possible. You can also adjustfor traffic crowding thecenterline, or debris blocking part of your lane.

8. The best way to stop quickly is to:

A. Use the front brake only.B. Use the rear brake first.C. Throttle down and use the front brake.D. Use both brakes at the same time.

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HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES

Your chance of falling or being involved in a crash increases whenever youride across:

Uneven surfaces or obstacles.

Slippery surfaces.

Railroad tracks.

Grooves and gratings.

Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles

Watch for uneven surfaces such as bumps, broken pavement, potholes, orsmall pieces of highway trash.

First, determine if it is possible to go over the obstacle. Approach it at as closeto a 90 angle as possible. Look where you want to go to control your path oftravel. If you have to ride over the obstacle, you should:

Slow down to reduce the jolt if time permits.

Make sure the motorcycle is straight up.

Rise slightly off the seat with your weight on the footrests to absorb theshock with your knees and elbows.

Rising offthe seat will reduceyour chances of being thrown off thebike. How-ever, controlling the throttle can be somewhat tricky. Practice this in an areasuch as an empty parking lot away from traffic.

If yourideover anobject on thestreet, pull offthe road andcheck your tiresandrims for damage before riding any farther.

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Slippery Surfaces

Motorcycles handle better when ridden on surfaces that permit good traction.Surfaces that provide poor traction include:

Wet pavement, particularly just after it starts to rain and before surface oilwashes to the side of the road.

Gravel roads, or where sand and gravel collect.

Mud, snow, and ice.

Lane markings, steel plates and manhole covers, especially when wet.

To ride safely on slippery surfaces:

Reduce SpeedSlowdown before you getto a slippery surface to lessen yourchances of skidding when stopping or turning. Your motorcycle needs moredistancetostop.Itisparticularlyimportanttoreducespeedbeforeenteringwetcurves.

Avoid Sudden MovesAny sudden change in speed or direction can cause askid. Be as smooth as possible when you speed up, shift gears, turn or brake.

Use Both BrakesThe front brake is more effective even on a slippery sur-face. Squeeze the brake lever gradually to avoid locking the front wheel.

The center of a lane can be hazardous when wet. When it starts to rain,ride in the tiretracks left by cars. Often, the left tire track will be the bestposition, depending on traffic and other road conditions as well.

Watch for oil spots when you put your foot down to stop or park. You mayslip and fall.

Dirt andgravel collectalongthe sides of theroadespeciallyon curvesandramps leading to and from highways. Stay away from the edge of the road,particularly when making sharp turns andgetting on or off freeways at highspeeds.

Rain dries and snow melts faster on some sections of a road than on others.Patches of ice tend to crop up in low or shaded areas and on bridges andoverpasses. Wet surfaces or wet leaves arejust as slippery. Ride on theleastslippery portion of the lane.

Cautious riderssteer clear of roads covered with ice or snow. If youcant avoida slippery surface, keep your bike straight up and proceed as slowly as pos-sible. If you encounter a largesurface so slippery that you must coast,or travelat a walking pace, consider letting your feet skim along the surface. If the bikestarts to fall, you can catch yourself.Be sure to keep off thebrakes. If possible,squeeze theclutch andcoast. Attempting this maneuver at anything other thanthe slowest of speeds could prove hazardous.

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Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks, and Pavement Seams

Usually it is safer to ridestraight within your lane tocross tracks. Turning to

take tracks head-on can bemore dangerousyour pathmay carry you into anotherlane of traffic.

Move far enough away from tracks, ruts,or pavement seams that run alongside(parallel) to your course to cross at anangle of at least 45. Then, make a

quick, sharp turn. Edging across couldcatch your tires and throw you off bal-ance.

THIS NOT THIS

Grooves and Gratings

Riding over rain grooves orbridge gratings will cause amotorcycle to weave. Theuneasy, wandering feeling isgenerally not hazardous. Re-lax, maintain speed andride straight across. Cross-

ing at an angle forces riders tozigzag to stay in the lane. Thezigzag is far more hazardousthan the wandering feeling.RIGHT WRONG

9. When it starts to rain it is usually best to:

A. Ride in the center of the lane.B. Pull off to the side until the rain stops.C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars.D. Increase your speed.

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MECHANICAL PROBLEMS

You can find yourself in an emergency the moment something goes wrongwith your motorcycle. In dealing with any mechanical problem, take into ac-count the road and traffic conditions you face. Here are some guidelines thatcan help you handle mechanical problems safely.

Tire Failure

You will seldom hear a tire go flat. If the cycle starts handling differently, itmay be a tire failure. This can be dangerous. You must be able to tell from theway the cycle reacts. If one of your tires suddenly loses air, react quickly tokeep your balance. Pull off and check the tires.

If the front tire goes flat, the steering will feel heavy. A front-wheel flat isparticularly hazardous because it affects your steering. You have to steer wellto keep your balance. If the rear tire goes flat, the back of the motorcycle willjerk from side to side.

If either tire goes flat while riding:

Hold the handgrips firmly and keep a straight course.

Gradually apply the brake of the tire thatisnt flat, ifyou are sure which oneit is.

When the motorcycle slows, edge to the side of the road and stop.

Stuck Throttle

Twist thethrottle back andforth several times.If thethrottle cableis stuck,thismay free it. If the throttle stays stuck immediately operate the enginecut-off switch and pull in the clutch at the same time. This will removepower from therear wheel,though enginenoise may not immediately decline.Once the motorcycle is under control, pull off and stop.

After you have stopped, check the throttle cable carefully to find the source of

the trouble. Make certain the throttle works freely before you start to rideagain.

Wobble

A wobble occurs when the front wheel and handlebars suddenly start toshake from sideto side atany speed. Most wobbles canbe traced to improp-er loading,unsuitable accessories, or incorrect tire pressure. Ifyouarecar-rying a heavy load, lighten it. If you cant, shift it.Center theweight lower andfarther forward on the cycle. Make sure tire pressure, spring preload, airshocks, and dampers are at the settings recommended for that much weight.Make sure windshields and fairings are mounted properly.

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Check for poorly adjusted steering; worn steering parts; a front wheel that isbent, misaligned, or out of balance; loose wheel bearings or spokes; and swin-garm bearings.If none of these aredeterminedto be thecause, have themotor-cycle checked out thoroughly by a qualified professional.

Trying to accelerate out of a wobble will only make the motorcycle moreunstable. Instead:

Grip the handlebars firmly, but dont fight the wobble.

Closethe throttlegradually to slow themotorcycle.Do notapply thebrakes;braking could make the wobble worse.

Move your weight as far forward and down as possible.

Pull off the road as soon as you can to fix the problem.

Chain Problems

A chain that slips or breaks while youre riding could lock the rear wheel andcause your motorcycle to skid. Chain slippage or breakage can be avoided byproper maintenance.

SlippageIf the chain slips when you try to speed up quickly or ride uphill,pull off the road. Check the chain and sprockets. Tightening the chain mayhelp. If the problem is a worn or stretched chain or worn or bent sprockets, re-place the chain, the sprockets, or both before riding again.

BreakageYoull notice an instant loss of power to the rear wheel. Close thethrottle and brake to a stop.

Engine Seizure

When the engine locks or freezes it is usually low on oil. The enginesmoving parts cant move smoothly against each other, and the engine over-heats. The first sign may be a loss of engine power or a change in the enginessound. Squeeze the clutch lever to disengage the engine from the rear wheel.

Pulloff the road and stop. Check the oil. If needed, oil should beadded assoonaspossibleortheenginewillseize.Whenthishappens,theeffectisthesameasa locked rear wheel. Let the engine cool before restarting.

10. If your motorcycle starts to wobble:A. Accelerate out of the wobble.B. Use the brakes gradually.C. Grip the handlebars firmly and close the

throttle.D. Downshift.

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ANIMALS

Naturally, you should do everything you safely can to avoid hitting an animal.If you are in traffic, however, remain in your lane. Hitting something small isless dangerous to you than hitting something biglike a car.

Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. Downshift and approach theanimal slowly.

Thenspeedupandleavetheanimalbehind.Dontkickatananimal.Keepcon-trol of your motorcycle, and look to where you want to go. For larger animals(deer, elk, cattle) brake and prepare to stopthey are unpredictable.

FLYING OBJECTS

From time to time riders are struck by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars, orpebbles kicked up by the tires of the vehicle ahead. If you are wearing faceprotection, it might getsmeared or cracked, making it difficult to see. Withoutface protection, an object could hit you in the eye, face, or mouth. Whateverhappens, keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the handlebars. Whensafe, pull off the road and repair the damage.

GETTING OFF THE ROAD

Ifyouneedtoleavetheroadtocheckthemotorcycle(orjusttorestforawhile),be sure you:

Check the roadsideMake sure the surface of the roadside is firm enoughto ride on. If it is soft grass, loose sand, or if youre just not sure about it,slow way down before you turn onto it.

SignalDrivers behind might not expect you to slow down. Give a clearsignal that you will be slowing down and changing direction. Check yourmirror and make a head check before you take any action.

Pull off the roadGet as far off the road as you can. It can be very hard tospot a motorcycle by thesideof theroad.You dont want someone else pull-ing off at the same place you are.

Park carefullyLoose and sloped shoulders make setting the stand diffi-cult.

11. When approaching an animal:A. Kick it away.B. Stop until the animal loses interest.C. Swerve around the animal.D. Approach the animal slowly, then speed up.

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CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO

Only experienced riders should carry passengers or large loads. The extraweight changes the way the motorcycle handles, balances, turns, speeds up,andslowsdown.Before taking a passengeror heavy load on thestreet, practiceaway from traffic.

Equipment

To carry passengers safely:

Equip and adjust your motorcycle to carry passengers.

Instruct the passenger before you start.

Adjust your riding technique for the added weight.

Equipment should include:

A proper seatlarge enough to hold both of you without crowding. Youshould not sit any farther forward than you usually do.

Footrestsfor thepassenger. A firm footing prevents your passengerfrom

falling off and pulling you off, too.

Protective equipmentthe same protective gear recommended for opera-tors.

Adjust the suspension to handle the additional weight. Add a few pounds ofpressure to the tires if you carry a passenger. (Check your owners manual.)While your passenger sits on theseat with you, adjust themirror andheadlightaccording to the change in the motorcycles angle.

Instructing Passengers

Evenif yourpassengeris a motorcycle rider,provide complete instructionsbe-fore you start. Tell your passenger to:

Get on the motorcycle after you have started the engine. Sit as far forward as possible without crowding you.

Hold firmly to your waist, hips, belt, or passenger handholds.

Keep both feet on the pegs, even when stopped.

Keep legs away from the muffler(s).

Stay directly behind you, leaning as you lean.

Avoid unnecessary talk or motion.

Also, tell your passenger to tighten his or her hold when you (1) approach sur-face problems, (2) are about to start from a stop, and (3) warn that you are go-ing to make a sudden move.

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Riding With Passengers

Your motorcycle will respond more slowly with a passenger on board. Theheavier your passenger, the longer it will take to slow down, speed up, orturnespecially on a light cycle.

Ride a little slower, especially when taking curves, corners, or bumps.

Start slowing earlier as you approach a stop.

Open up a larger cushion of space ahead and to the sides.

Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, or merge in traffic.

Warn your passenger of special conditionswhen you will pull out, stopquickly, turn sharply, or ride over a bump. Turn your head slightly to makeyourself understood, but keep your eyes on the road ahead.

Carrying Loads

Most motorcycles are not designed to carry much cargo. Small loads can becarried safely if positioned and fastened properly.

Keep the Load LowFasten loads to the seat, or put them in saddle bags.Piling loads against a sissybar or frame on the back of the seat raises thecycles center of gravity and disturbs its balance.

Keep the Load ForwardPlace the load over, or in front of, the rear axle.Tankbags keep loads forward, but use caution when loading hard or sharpobjects. Mounting loads behind the rear axle can affect how the cycle turnsand brakes. It can also cause a wobble.

Distribute theLoad EvenlyLoadsaddlebagswithaboutthesameweight.An uneven load can cause the motorcycle to drift to one side.

Secure the LoadFasten the load securely with elastic cords (bungeecords). A tight load wont catch in the wheel or chain, causing it to lock upand skid. Rope tends to stretch and knots come loose,permitting theload toshift or fall.

Check theLoadStopand check theloadevery so often to make sure it hasnot worked loose or moved.

12. Passengers should:A. Lean as you lean.B. Rest their feet on the muffler.C. Sit as far back as possible.D. Never hold onto you.

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GROUP RIDING

If you ride with others, do it in a way that promotes safetyand doesnt interferewith the flow of traffic.

Keep the Group Small

Small groups make it easier and safer for car drivers who need to get aroundthem. A small number isnt separated as easily by traffic or red lights. Riderswont always be hurrying to catch up. If your group is larger than four or fiveriders, divide it up into two or more smaller groups.

Keep the Group Together

PlanThe leader should look ahead for changes and signal early so theword gets back in plenty of time. Start lane changes early to permit every-one to complete the change.

Put Beginners Up FrontPlace inexperienced riders just behind the leader,where more experienced riders can watch them.

Follow Those BehindLet the tailender set the pace. Use your mirrors to

keep an eye on the person behind. If a rider falls behind, everyone shouldslow down a little to stay with the tailender.

Know the RouteMake sure everyone knows the route. Then, if someoneis separated they wont have to hurry to keep from getting lost or taking awrong turn.

Keep Your Distance

Maintaincloseranksatasafedistance.Aclosegrouptakesuplessspaceonthehighway, is easier to see and is less likely to be separated. However, it must bedone properly.

Dont Pair UpNever operate directlyalongside another rider. There is no placeto go if you have to avoid a car or some-thing on the road. To talk, wait until youare both stopped.

Staggered FormationThis is the bestway to keep ranks close yet maintain anadequate space cushion. The leader ridesin the left side of the lane, while the sec-ond rider stays one and one-half secondsbehind in the right side of the lane.

--3SECONDS--

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A third rider maintains in the left position, three seconds behind the first rider.The fourth rider would keep a three-second distance behind the second rider.This formation keeps the group close and permits each rider a safe distancefrom others ahead, behind, and to the sides.

Passing in FormationRiders in a staggered formation should pass one ata time.

Whenthefirstriderpassessafe-ly, the second rider shouldmove up to the left position andwatch for a safe chance to pass.After passing, this rider shouldreturn to the right position andopen up room for the next rider.

First, the lead rider should pullout and pass whenit is safe.Af-ter passing, the leader shouldreturn to the left position andcontinue riding at passingspeed to open room for thenext rider.

Somepeoplesuggestthattheleadershouldmovetotherightsideafterpassingavehicle. This is not a good idea. It encourages the second rider to pass and cutback in before there is a large enough space cushion in front of the passed ve-

hicle. Itssimpler and safer to wait until there is enough room ahead of thepassed vehicle to allow each rider to move into the same position held be-fore the pass.

Single-File FormationIt is best to move into a single-file formationwhen riding curves, turning, entering or leaving a highway.

13. Whenriding in a group,inexperienced riders shouldposition themselves:A. Just behind the leader.B. In front of the group.C. In the middle of the group.D. Beside the leader.

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BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders payattention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle, identify-ingpotentialhazards,makinggoodjudgments, andexecuting decisions quick-ly andskillfully. Yourabilityto perform andrespond to changing road andtraf-fic conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and otherdrugs, more than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and toride safely. As little as one drink can have a significant effect on your perfor-mance.

Lets look at therisks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What todo to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined.

WHY THIS INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT

Alcohol is a major contributor to motorcycle crashes, particularly fatalcrashes. Studies show that 40% to 45% of all riders killed in motorcyclecrashes had been drinking. Only one-third of those riders had a blood alcoholconcentration above legal limits. The rest had only a few drinks in their sys-temsenough to impair ridingskills. In thepast,drug levels have been harder

to distinguish or have not been separated from drinking violations for the traf-fic records. But riding under the influence of either alcohol or drugs posesphysical and legal hazards for every rider.

Drinking and drug use is as big a problem among motorcyclists as it is amongautomobile drivers. Motorcyclists, however, aremore likely to be killed or se-verely injured in a crash.Injuries occur in 90% of motorcycle crashes and33%of automobile crashes that involve abuse of substances. On a yearly basis,2,100 motorcyclists are killed and about 50,000 seriously injured in this sametype of crash. These statistics are too overwhelming to ignore.

By becoming knowledgeable about the effects of alcohol and other drugs you will see that riding and substance abuse dont mix. Take positive steps to pro-tect yourself and prevent others from injuring themselves.

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ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE OPERATION

No one is immune to the effects of alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag abouttheir ability to hold their liquoror perform betteron drugs,but alcohol or drugsmake them less able to think clearly and perform physical tasks skillfully.Judgment and the decision-making processes needed for vehicle operationare affected long before legal limitations are reached.

Many over-the-counter, prescription, and illegal drugs have side effects thatincrease therisk of riding. It is difficultto accuratelymeasure theinvolvementof particular drugs in motorcycle crashes. Butwe do know what effectsvariousdrugs have on the process involved in riding a motorcycle. We also know thatthecombined effects of alcoholand other drugs aremoredangerous than eitheris alone.

ALCOHOL IN THE BODY

Alcohol enters the bloodstream quickly. Unlike most foods and beverages, itdoes not need to be digested. Within minutes after being consumed, it reachesthe brain and begins to affect the drinker. The major effect alcohol has is toslow down and impair bodily functionsboth mental and physical.Whatever

you do, you do less well after consu

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