California Motorcycle Handbook 2024 PDF

English C ALIF ORNI A MOTORCYCLE HANDBOOK This handbook is available at Gavin Newsom, Governor dmv.ca.gov State of California Toks Omishakin, Secretary California State Transportatio...

English C ALIF ORNI A MOTORCYCLE HANDBOOK This handbook is available at Gavin Newsom, Governor dmv.ca.gov State of California Toks Omishakin, Secretary California State Transportation Agency Steve Gordon, Director California Department of Motor Vehicles  MOTORCYCLE LICENSE TRAINING Beginner and Experienced Rider Options for M1 Licensing Learning Options: Virtual Self-Paced Learning Virtual Online Zoom Classrooms In-Person Classrooms California Motorcyclist Safety Program www.MotorcycleSafetyCA.com (877) RIDE-411 ***Course required for riders under 21 years old  TABLE OF CONTENTS Copyright............................................... ii Payment Devices..............................18 Disclaimer.............................................. ii Following Another Vehicle.................18 Contact Us............................................ ii Being Followed..................................19 Passing and Being Passed...............19 DMV Services.......................................iii Passing..............................................19 Online Service......................................iii Being Passed....................................19 Kiosk Services......................................iii Lane Splitting.....................................20 Phone Services....................................iii Merging Vehicles...............................20 INTRODUCTION............................... 1 Vehicles Alongside............................20 TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE Search, Evaluate, and OPERATION...................................... 1 Execute (SEE).....................................21 Motorcycles...........................................1 Search...............................................21 Evaluate.............................................21 Motor-Driven Cycles.............................2 Execute..............................................22 Motorized Bicycles or Moped...............2 Intersections.........................................22 Electric Bicycles....................................2 Blind Intersections.............................23 Motorized Scooter.................................3 Passing Parked Vehicles..................23 LICENSE REQUIREMENTS........... 3 Parking at the Roadside....................24 Earning Your License............................3 Increasing Visibility...............................24 Motorcycle Type-License Class Clothing..............................................25 Chart......................................................4 Headlight...........................................25 Turn Signals.......................................25 Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or Brake Light........................................26 M2 License............................................5 Using Your Mirrors.............................26 California Motorcyclist Safety Head Checks.....................................27 Program Training Course................... 6 Horn...................................................27 Cheating................................................6 Riding at Night...................................27 Motorcycle Skills Test............................6 Collision Avoidance..............................28 PREPARING TO RIDE..................... 8 Quick Stops.......................................28 Wear the Right Gear.............................8 Swerving or Turning Quickly.............29 Helmet Use.........................................8 Cornering...........................................30 Helmet Selection................................9 Handling Dangerous Surfaces............31 Face, Eye, and Ear Protection...........9 Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles......31 Clothing.............................................10 Slippery Surfaces..............................32 Know Your Motorcycle........................11 Railroad or Trolley Tracks and The Right Motorcycle.......................11 Pavement Seams..............................33 Get Familiar With the Motorcycle Grooves and Gratings.......................33 Controls............................................11 Mechanical Problems..........................33 Check Your Motorcycle....................12 Tire Failure.........................................34 Know Your Responsibilities................13 Stuck Throttle....................................34 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES.. 14 Wobble..............................................34 Chain Problems.................................35 Basic Vehicle Control..........................14 Engine Seizure..................................35 Body Position....................................14 Animals..............................................35 Shifting Gears...................................14 Flying Objects....................................35 Braking..............................................15 Getting Off the Road............................36 Turning..............................................15 U-turns..............................................16 Carrying Passengers and Cargo.........36 Keeping Your Distance.......................16 Equipment.........................................36 Motorcycles Towing Trailers..............37 Lane Positions..................................17 Instructing Passengers.....................37 Carpool/High-Occupancy Vehicle Riding With Passengers....................37 (HOV) Lanes....................................17 Child Passengers..............................38 Toll Highways and Vehicle Crossings: Carrying Loads..................................38 Using Transponders or Electronic Group Riding........................................39 -i-  Keep the Group Small......................39 Alcohol and the Law...........................43 Keep the Group Together................39 Minimize the Risks..............................43 Keep Your Distance.........................39 Fatigue................................................43 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE.......... 41 MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE Blood Alcohol Concentration..............41 FACTS...............................................44 GET A DUI – LOSE YOUR EVADING A PEACE OFFICER..... 44 LICENSE!......................................42 TREAD LIGHTLY!........................... 45 Copyright  Copyright, Department of Motor Vehicles 2024 © All rights reserved. This work is protected by U.S. Copyright Law. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) owns the copyright to this work. Copyright Law makes it illegal to: 1. Make a copy of any part of this handbook. 2. Print copies of this handbook and give them to other people. 3. Write your own version of this handbook. 4. Put this handbook on public display. 5. Perform (read aloud) the handbook in public. If you have questions about whether you can make copies of any part of this handbook, address them to: Department of Motor Vehicles Legal Office, MS C128 PO Box 932382 Sacramento, CA 94232-3820 Disclaimer This handbook is a summary of the laws and regulations in the Vehicle Code available at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. DMV, law enforcement, and the courts follow the full, exact language. Contact Us Send comments or suggestions for this driver’s handbook to dmv.ca.gov/customerservice.. - ii - DMV Services Have your driver’s license or identification (ID) card number, vehicle license plate number, or vehicle identification number (VIN) available. Online Services Vehicle Registration Renewal at dmv.ca.gov/vrservices. Driver’s License Renewal at dmv.ca.gov/dlservices. Office Appointments at dmv.ca.gov/make-an-appointment. Visit dmv.ca.gov/online to find many other online services. Kiosk Services Visit dmv.ca.gov/kiosks to find kiosk services and locations. Phone Services Call 1-800-777-0133. During Normal Business Hours: Talk to a DMV representative. Automated 24/7 Phone Services: Renew your vehicle registration. Make a DMV office appointment. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired may call 1-800-368-4327 for assistance. - iii -  INTRODUCTION TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE This handbook supplements the OPERATION California Driver’s Handbook con- The basic rules of the road con- cerning traffic laws, safe driving tained in the Vehicle Code apply to rules, and driver’s licenses. Study all two-wheel vehicles including, the California Driver’s Handbook but not limited to, motorcycles, as well as this handbook. motor-driven cycles, mopeds, or This handbook provides infor- motorized bicycles. Minibikes, mation for both beginner and tote-goats, trail bikes, and similar experienced riders of two-wheel vehicles may fall within the defini- vehicles. Portions of this handbook tion of motorcycle, motor-driven dealing with safe driving practices cycle, or motorized bicycle. If (rather than traffic laws) were any of these vehicles are operated developed initially by the National on a highway, they must meet Public Services Research Institute applicable equipment, registration, in cooperation with the Motorcycle financial responsibility, licensing, Safety Foundation (MSF). and operational requirements, if The MSF, California Highway appropriate. P a t r ol (C H P), C a l i fo r n i a It is illegal to ride a motor-driven Motorcyclist Safety Program cycle, moped, motorized bicycle, (CMSP), various motorcyclist or electric bicycle on a freeway or enthusiast g roups, and the expressway if signs are posted to Department of Motor Vehicles prohibit operation. Additionally, it (DMV) agree that combining qual- is illegal to ride a moped, motor- ity motorcycle rider education and ized bicycle or a Class 3 electric increased public awareness, has the bicycle on a bicycle path or trail, potential to reduce the number and equestrian (horse) trail, hiking severity of motorcycle collisions. trail, or recreational trail unless When using this handbook, that path or trail is on or next to a remember it is only a summary road, or permission to use the trail of laws and regulations. DMV, or roadway is granted by local law. law enforcement, and courts fol- Motorcycles low the full and exact language of A motorcycle is a motor vehicle the law contained in the Vehicle with a seat or saddle for the rider Code (VC). designed to travel on not more than three wheels. -1- Motor-Driven Cycles provides assistance only when A motor-driven cycle is a motor- the rider is pedaling and ceases cycle with less than a 150 cc to provide assistance when a motor size. speed of 20 mph is reached. NOTE: You may not operate a Class 2: A low speed throt- motor-driven cycle on a freeway tle-assisted electric bicycle or expressway if signs are posted equipped with a motor used to prohibit motor-driven cycle exclusively to propel the bicycle operation. and NOT capable of providing assistance when a speed of 20 Motorized Bicycles mph is reached. or Moped Class 3: A low speed ped- A motorized bicycle or moped is al-assisted electric bicycle a two-or three-wheeled device, equipped with a speedometer, capable of no more than 30 miles and a motor which provides per hour (mph) on level ground, assistance only when the rider and equipped with: is pedaling and ceases to pro- Fully operative pedals for vide assistance when a speed human propulsion. of 28 mph is reached. A motor producing less than The operator of a Class 3 electric four gross brake horsepower bicycle: and an automatic transmission. – Must be 16 years old or older. No pedals if powered solely – Must wear a bicycle safety by electrical energy (CVC helmet. §406(a)). – Must not transport pas- Motorized bicycles may ride in sengers. a bicycle lane if authorized by – May ride an electric bicycle local authority or ordinance. in a bicycle lane if autho- Electric Bicycles rized by local authority or An electric bicycle is a bicycle ordinance. equipped with fully operable All electric bicycle classes are pedals and an electric motor of exempt from the motor vehicle less than 750 watts. Three classes financial responsibility, DL, and of electric bicycles have been license plate requirements (VC established: §24016). Class 1: A low speed ped- al-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor which -2- Motorized Scooter NOTE: Class C licensees may A motorized scooter is defined as operate a motorcycle with a any two-wheeled “device” with: side car attached, three-wheel motorcycle, or motorized scooter. A motor, handlebars, and a f loorboard for standing on Earning Your License when riding, and Safe riding requires knowledge The options of having: and skill. Testing two-wheel vehicle operators is the best – A driver seat which cannot measurement of the skills neces- interfere with the operator’s sary to operate safely in traffic ability to stand and ride. because people often overesti- – The ability to be powered by mate their own abilities. DMV’s human propulsion. licensing tests are designed to be NOTE: A motorized scooter may scored objectively. be driven with any class DL. A You may apply for a Class M1 or motorized scooter may not be M2 DL at any DMV field office used to take a skills test. which provides DL services. A motorized scooter’s exhaust To obtain your DL, refer to the system must not be modified or Requirements for a Motorcycle altered. M1 or M2 License section (see page 5). You will be required LICENSE to pass the driver’s knowledge REQUIREMENTS test, motorcycle knowledge California issues the following test, knowledge test(s) for any DL classes for two-wheel vehicle other license class(es) requested operation: and pass a motorcycle skills Class M1—You may operate test or obtain a Certificate any two-wheel motorcycle, of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389) as defined motor-driven cycle, or motor- in the California Motorcyclist ized scooter and all vehicles Safety Program Training Course listed under Class M2. section (see page 6). NOTE: The permit and DL Knowledge test questions are requirements in this handbook based on information in this hand- pertain to two-wheel vehicles and book and the California Driver’s are referenced in VC §12804.9. Handbook. The motorcycle skills Class M2—You may operate test is conducted in either an any motorized bicycle, moped, actual traffic environment or in or motorized scooter. a controlled off-street area. -3-  Motorcycle Type - License Class Chart Type of Vehicle Vehicle Code Cl ass of Vehicle Description Sections (§§) license Motorcycle 400, 12804.9(b)(4) M1 A motorcycle is a motor vehicle with a seat or saddle for the rider and is designed to travel on not more than three wheels. Motor-driven 405, 12804.9(b)(4) M1* A motor-driven cycle is a motorcycle with less than a 150 cc motor cycle size. A motor-driven cycle does not include motorized bicycle. Motorized 406(a), 12804.9(b)(5)(A)(i) Any class A two- or three-wheeled device, capable of no more than 30 mph on level bicycle or moped of ground, and equipped with fully operative pedals for human propulsion or (capable of no more license** having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, a motor producing than 30 mph) less than four gross brake horsepower, and an automatic transmission. -4- Electric bicycle 312.5(a), Not A bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of 12804.9(b)(5)(A)(i) required less than 750 watts. There are three electric bicycle classes: Class 1 and 2 are capable of speeds of no more than 20 mph. Class 3 is capable of speeds of no more than 28 mph. Motorized scooter 407.5, 12804.9(b) Any class A motorized scooter is defined as any two-wheeled device with an electric NOTE: Cannot be of motor, handlebars, a floorboard for standing on when riding, and the option used for a skills test. license*** of having a driver seat which cannot interfere with the operator’s ability to stand and ride and/or the ability to be powered by human propulsion. *Motor vehicles with less than a 150 cc motor size do not have the engine capability to be safely driven on a freeway or expressway. ** A person holding a valid California driver ’s license of any class may operate a short-term (48 hrs. or less) rental motorized bicycle without taking any special examination for the operation of a motorized bicycle, and without having a class M2 endorsement on that driver ’s license. *** A person holding a valid driver license of any class may operate a motorized scooter.  Requirements for a Motorcycle M1 or M2 License To Obtain an M1 or M2 License MINORS AGE ADULTS AGE ADULTS AGE REQUIREMENTS 15½ to 17 18 to 20 21 and OVER (See NOTE 1) (See NOTE 2) (See NOTE 3) Driver education and behind-the-wheel driver training certificates of  N/A N/A completion Certificates of Completion of Motorcycle Training   N/A (DL 389) Complete a Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL44 or    DL44C) Parent(s) or guardian(s) signature (if a minor)  N/A N/A Pass a vision exam    Fingerprint(s)    Pay required fees    Have your photograph taken    *Pass the applicable knowl- edge and skills tests    Have an instruction permit for at least 6 months   N/A Permit restrictions (See NOTE 4) (See NOTE 4) (See NOTE 4) *Tests include at least the driver’s knowledge, motorcycle knowledge, and motorcycle skills. An observation road test is required for applicants who have never been licensed for any class of motor vehicle and apply for a motorcycle only license. NOTE 1: Minors 15½ years old or older, but under 17½ years old, must submit a DL 389, bring proof of completion of both driver education and driver training or have a Class C driver’s license, and pass both the driver’s knowledge and the motorcycle driver’s knowledge test. NOTE 2: Applicants 18 years old or older, but under 21 years old, must submit a DL 389, and pass both the driver’s knowledge and the motorcycle driver’s knowledge test. NOTE 3: While not a requirement, motorcycle license applicants 21 years old or older, are encouraged to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) training course. NOTE 4: The Class M1/M2 instruction permit includes the following restrictions: No carrying passengers. No freeway driving. No nighttime driving. -5- NOTE: The DL 389 is valid for Cheating 12 months from the issue date. The use of testing aids is strictly To locate a DMV field office that prohibited. This includes, but offers the motorcycle skills test is not limited to, the California and/or to schedule an appoint- Motorcycle Handbook, California ment, visit dmv.ca.gov or call Driver’s Handbook, cheat sheets, 1-800-777-0133. or electronic communication California devices such as a cell phone, Motorcyclist Safety computer, tablet, etc. If any testing aid(s) are used during the knowl- Program Training edge test, the knowledge test Course will be marked as a “failure.” An Motorcycle applicants under 21 action may also be taken by DMV years old are required to com- against your driving privilege or plete a CMSP training course the driving privilege of anyone before receiving a motorcycle who assists you in cheating during instruction permit. the examination process. Motorcycle applicants 21 years old and older are encouraged Motorcycle Skills to enroll in the CMSP training Test course. The CMSP training course Basic vehicle control skills are provides hands-on motorcycle included in the motorcycle skills knowledge and skill training for test to determine your ability beginner and experienced riders. to maneuver in normal traffic The DMV motorcycle skills test situations. The skills test may be may be waived upon completion waived for a person presenting of the CMSP training course and a valid DL 389; however, you submission of the Certificate may be required to perform an of Completion of Motorcycle observation test when applying Training (DL 389). DMV will not for a motorcycle only (Class M1/ waive the motorcycle skills test M2) license. based on an out-of-state motor- The motorcycle skills test allows cycle training program or in-state/ the rider to demonstrate their out-of-state course completion ability to control the motorcycle card for insurance purposes. through several skills. Applicants For more information, contact taking the motorcycle skills test CMSP at 1-877-RIDE-411 or should consider the size of the visit motorcyclesafetyca.com. motorcycle they plan to operate. NOTE: The DL 389 is valid for The motorcycle skills test is a 12 months from the issue date. pass/fail test. -6- The motorcycle skills test wheel within the tracking includes the following: path and weaving once more Pre-trip Inspection - You will through the row of five cones as be asked to identify the following you return to the starting point. items on your motorcycle: Slow Ride – Ride slowly Starter between two parallel lines keeping the front tire within Kill switch the tracking path. At the end Clutch (if equipped) of the tracking path, begin the Throttle circle ride twice in a counter- Gear selector clockwise direction. Headlight dimmer switch Gear Shift Ride – Ride in a Brakes straight path, shift gears up and Turn signals then down, complete a U-turn and return, shift gears up and Horn then down, and end in a smooth You will be asked to demonstrate stop at the starting point. This is the following skills: only performed on motorcycles Riding in the tracking paths with a clutch and gears. (the area within and including A. The width inside of the the tracking lines) parallel ride lane is one foot. Serpentine Ride – Beginning B. The width inside the circle on the right of the first cone, ride lane is two feet. weave through a row of five C. The diameter of the outside traffic cones. At the end of the circle is twenty-four feet. row of cones, begin the circle D. The cones are spaced twelve ride. feet apart. The width of the Circle Ride – Ride around area for the cones is eight the circle twice in a clockwise feet. direction keeping the front End Start -7- Observation Test (if applying for Helmet Use a motorcycle only license) – An All riders and passengers are observation road test is required required per VC §27803 to for applicants who have never wear a U.S. DOT compliant been licensed for any class of motorcycle safety helmet when motor vehicle and who apply riding a motorcycle, motor- for a motorcycle only license. driven cycle, or motorized The examiner will observe you bicycle. The motorcycle safety operating the motorcycle from a helmet must be certified by the preselected vantage point, usu- manufacturer stating the helmet ally on the corner, near the DMV complies with the U.S. DOT field office. They will instruct Federal Motor Vehicle Safety you to follow a route that will Standard (FMVSS) 218. Head keep you in view for the longest injuries account for the majority period of time. of serious and fatal motorcyclist PREPARING TO RIDE injuries and, with few exceptions, head injuries are reduced by Wear the Right Gear properly wearing a motorcycle When you ride, you have a far safety helmet. Here are some better chance of avoiding serious facts to consider: injury when wearing protective gear and apparel. Most collisions happen on short trips (less than five miles long). By law, you must wear: Most riders are riding slower A U. S. D e p a r t m e nt of than 30 mph when a collision Transportation (DOT) compli- occurs. At these speeds, a U.S. ant motorcycle safety helmet. DOT compliant motorcycle It is highly suggested you wear: safety helmet can cut both the Face and/or eye protection. number and the severity of Protective apparel, such as a head injuries by 50 percent. leather or long sleeve jacket A non-U.S. DOT compliant with reflective material, long helmet generally has very thin heavy pants, over the ankle liners and protective padding. closed-toe boots, and full- These types of helmets lack fingered leather gloves. the strength, size, and ability More information on wearing the to protect the rider during a right gear and protective apparel collision. is covered in the following pages. A non-U.S. DOT compliant helmet may look like U.S. DOT -8-  compliant helmets and may be three-quarters, modular, or full- sold alongside U.S. DOT com- face helmet. The full-face helmet pliant helmets. Make sure the with a lock-in visor, offers the U.S. DOT certification is on the best coverage and protection to helmet you wish to purchase. the back and sides of your head. Non-U.S. DOT compliant Whichever style you choose, you helmets may be referred to as get the most protection by making novelty helmets, rain bonnets, sure the helmet: lids, loophole lids, beanies, or Meets U.S. DOT safet y brain buckets. standards and has the manu- A U. S. DOT compliant helmet facturer-applied DOT lettering may be decorated by the owner on the back of the helmet. with stick-on items such as NOTE: DOT lettering should decals, Mohawks, Viking horns, not be a stick-on label or easily etc. and will not affect the safety removed. properties of the helmet. In a collision, regardless of speed, Fits snugly, all the way around. if you are wearing a U.S. DOT Has no obvious defects such compliant motorcycle safety as cracks, loose padding, or helmet you are three times more frayed straps. likely to survive a head injury Is securely fastened on your than if you are not wearing a head when you ride. Otherwise, U.S. DOT compliant motorcycle if you are involved in a col- safety helmet. lision, it may come off your head before it gets a chance to Helmet Selection protect you. Face, Eye, and Ear Protection A plastic shatter-resistant face shield can help protect your whole face in a collision. Face shields, when lowered and locked-in, offer protection from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects, pebbles, and other debris. Face shields, when lowered and There are four types of hel- locked-in, protect your face. mets to consider: A half shell, Goggles only protect your eyes. -9- A windshield is not a substitute Clothing for a face shield or goggles. Most The right clothing is an integral windshields will not protect part of your protective apparel your eyes from wind, nor will and will help protect you in a eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses collision. It provides comfort, will not keep your eyes from and protection from heat, cold, watering, and they might blow off and debris, along with the hot, when you turn your head. moving parts of the motorcycle. To be effective, eye or face shield Recommended clothing and protection must: protective apparel: Be free of scratches. A jacket that covers your arms Be resistant to punctures. and fits snugly enough to keep from flapping in the wind yet Give a clear view to either side. allows you to move freely. Fasten securely, so it does not Leather or sturdy synthetic blow off or up. materials with integrated body Permit air to pass through, to armor offers, the most protec- reduce fogging. tion. You should consider a Permit enough room for eye- jacket that is brightly colored or glasses or sunglasses, if needed. reflective. Either of these will NOTE: Tinted eye protection or aid in your visibility so other tinted face shields should not be motorists can see you. worn at night or when little light Long pants offer greater pro- is available. tection than short pants. Denim To protect against the elements of jeans provide the best protec- nature, such as wind which can tion. Chaps (leather pants cause hearing loss, you may want without a seat) worn over long to use ear protection. VC §27400 pants offer an extra layer of states a person may not wear a protection for your legs. headset covering, earplugs, or Over-the-ankle boots or closed- earphones in both ears, unless the toe shoes should be high and protectors (earplugs or molds) are sturdy enough to cover and specifically designed to reduce support your ankles. Soles harmful (injurious) noise levels. should be made of a hard, The headset coverings, earplugs, durable, slip-resistant mate- or earphones must not inhibit the rial. The heels should be short wearer's ability to hear a siren or so they do not catch on rough horn from an emergency vehicle surfaces. Tuck in the laces so or another motor vehicle. they will not catch on your - 10 -  motorcycle. Shoes, such as flip Start with the right motorcycle flops or sandals, are not recom- for you. mended protective apparel. Read the owner’s manual first. Gloves allow a better grip and Be familiar with the motorcycle help protect your hands. Gloves controls. should be made of leather or Check the motorcycle before similar durable material offer- every ride. ing maximum hand and finger Keep it in safe riding condition. protection. Avoid add-ons and modifica- Wearing a jacket, long pants, tions that make your motorcycle sturdy shoes or boots, and harder to handle. gloves (even in warm weather) The Right Motorcycle can prevent dehydration, and First, make sure your motorcycle sun/wind burn. Many of these “fits” you. Your feet should com- items are designed to protect fortably reach the ground while without making you overheat, you are seated on the motorcycle. even on summer days. At a minimum, your street-legal Riding for long periods in motorcycle must have: cold weather can cause severe Tires with sufficient tread and chill, dehydration, and fatigue. air pressure for safe operation. Numbness can make it difficult Operable headlights, taillight, to control a motorcycle. In cold brake light, and turn signals. or wet weather, layer clothes to Front and rear brakes. keep yourself warm and dry, as A horn and mirror(s). well as protect you from injury. A winter jacket should resist wind Get Familiar With the and fit snugly at the neck, wrists, Motorcycle Controls and waist. Good quality rain suits Be completely familiar with the designed for motorcycle riding motorcycle before you take it resist tearing apart or ballooning out on the street. Get familiar up at high speeds. with any motorcycle new to you, preferably in a controlled area (no Know Your matter how experienced you may Motorcycle be, ride extra carefully on any There are many things on the high- motorcycle new or unfamiliar way that can cause you trouble. to you). Remember more than Your motorcycle should not be half of all collisions occur by one of them. To make sure your motorcycle riders with less than motorcycle will not let you down: six months experience. - 11 - If you use an u nfamiliar under the motorcycle for signs motorcycle: of fluid leaks. Make all the safety and main- Headlights and Taillight— tenance checks you would on Check them both for proper your own motorcycle. operation and burned out bulbs. Find out where everything is Turn Signals—Turn on both located, particularly the turn right and left turn signals. signals, horn, headlight dim- Make sure all front and rear mer switch, fuel-supply valve, signal lights work properly. and engine cut-off switch. Battery—Check the battery You should be able to find condition and electrolyte level; them without having to look ensure the terminals are clean for them. and tight, and that the battery Know the gear pattern. Work is fastened securely. the throttle, clutch, and brakes Brake Light—Try both brake a few times before you start controls and make sure each riding. All controls react a little one turns on the brake light. differently. Chain or Belt—Check the ten- Ride very cautiously and be sion, lubrication, and sprockets. aware of your surroundings. Kick-Stand—Check the kick- Accelerate gently, take turns stand for cracks, bent springs, slowly, and leave extra room and tension to hold position. for stopping. Once you are on the motorcycle, Check Your Motorcycle complete the following checks A motorcycle needs more fre- before starting out: quent attention than a car. If Clutch and Throttle—Make something is wrong with the sure they work smoothly. The motorcycle, find out about it throttle should snap back when before you get in traffic or operate you let go. The clutch should the motorcycle at freeway speeds. feel tight and smooth. Make the following checks before Mirrors—Clean and adjust every ride: the mirror(s) before starting. Tires—Check the air pressure, Adjust the mirror(s) so you general wear, and tread. can see the lane behind you Fluids—Oil and fluid levels. and as much as possible of At a minimum, check hydraulic the lane next to you. When fluid and coolant weekly. Look properly adjusted, a mirror may show the edge of your arm - 12 -  or shoulder—but it’s the road Blame does not matter when behind and to the side of you someone is injured in a colli- that is most important. sion. There is rarely a single Brakes—Try the front and cause of any collision. The rear brake levers one at a time. ability to be aware, make criti- Make sure each one feels firm cal decisions, and carry them and holds the motorcycle when out separates responsible riders the brake is fully applied. from all the rest. It is up to you Horn—Make sure the horn to keep from being the cause of, works. or an unprepared participant in, In addition to the checks before any collision. every trip, check the follow- As a motorcycle rider, you ing items at least once a week: cannot be sure that others will wheels, cables, fasteners, and see you or yield the right of fluid levels. Follow the manufac- way. To reduce the chances of turer’s recommendations. a collision: Collisions are fairly common Be visible. Wear bright or among new riders. Riding an reflective clothing, use your unfamiliar motorcycle adds to headlight and running lights, the problem. Get familiar with if equipped, and ride in the any motorcycle new to you, preferably in a controlled area (no best lane position to see and matter how experienced you may be seen. be, ride extra carefully on any Communicate your inten- motorcycle new or unfamiliar tions. Use the proper signals, to you). Remember more than brake light, and lane position. half of all collisions occur by Maintain an adequate space motorcycle riders with less than cushion. Allow yourself six months experience. enough space when following, Know Your being followed, lane splitting, Responsibilities passing, and being passed. “Accident” implies an unfore- Be aware. Monitor vehicle seen event that occurs without traffic in front and approach- anyone’s fault or negligence. ing traffic from behind while Most often in traffic, this is not maintaining an escape route. the case. In fact, most people Scan your path of travel. Look involved in a collision can usu- at least 10 to 15 seconds ahead. ally claim some responsibility for Identify and separate mul- what takes place. tiple hazards. - 13 -  Be prepared to act. Remain Knees—Keep your knees alert. Know how to carry out against the gas tank to help proper collision-avoidance with your balance as you turn techniques. the motorcycle. RIDE WITHIN YOUR Feet—Keep your feet firmly ABILITIES on the footrests for balance. Do This handbook cannot teach you not drag your feet; you could how to control direction, speed, lose control of the motorcycle. or balance. You learn this by Keep your feet near the con- taking professionally taught trols. Do not point your toes motorcycle rider courses, practic- downward—they may get ing, knowing your abilities, and caught between the road and riding within them. the footrests. Basic Vehicle Shifting Gears Control There is more to shifting gears than simply getting the motor- Body Position cycle to pick up speed smoothly. To control a motorcycle: Learning to use the gears when Posture —Sit so you can downshifting, turning, or start- use your arms to control the ing on hills is important for safe motorcycle rather than to hold motorcycle operation. yourself up. Shift down through the gears Seat—Sit far enough forward with the clutch as you slow or so your arms are slightly bent stop. Remain in first gear while when holding the handlegrips. stopped so you can move out Bending your arms permits quickly, if needed. you to press on the handlebars Ride slowly enough when you without having to stretch and shift into a lower gear or the reduces arm fatigue. motorcycle will lurch and the rear Hands—Hold the handlegrips wheel may skid. When riding firmly. Start with your right downhill or shifting into first wrist flat so you will not acci- gear you may need to slow to dentally use too much throttle. downshift safely. Work toward Also, adjust the handlebars so a smooth, even clutch release your hands are even with or especially when downshifting. below your elbows. This allows It is best to change gears before you to use the proper muscles starting a turn. However, some- for precision steering. times you may need to shift - 14 - while in the turn. Remember to brake. Also, using the front shift smoothly because a sudden brake incorrectly on a slippery change in power to the rear wheel surface may be hazardous. Use can cause a skid. caution and gently squeeze the brake lever, never “grab” it. Braking Some motorcycles have inte- Your motorcycle has two brakes: grated braking systems that one for the front wheel and one link the front and rear brakes for the rear wheel. When making together when you apply the a normal, nonemergency stop, rear brake pedal (consult your use both brakes at the same time owner’s manual). and downshift. The front brake has more stopping power, provid- Turning ing three-quarters of your total Riders often try to take curves stopping power. The front brake or turns too fast. When they is safe to use when used properly. cannot hold the turn, they end REMEMBER: up crossing into another lane of traffic or going off the road. In Use both brakes every time some cases, riders overreact and you slow or stop. Using both brake too hard causing a skid and brakes for “normal” stops helps loss of control. Approach turns you develop the proper habit and curves with caution. and skill of using both brakes correctly, which you may need Use four steps for better control: in an emergency. Squeeze the 1. Slow—Reduce your speed front brake and press down on before the turn by rolling off the rear brake. Grabbing at the the throttle and, if necessary, front brake or jamming down applying both brakes. on the rear brake can cause 2. Look—Look through the turn the brakes to lock and result to where you want to go. Turn in control problems. only your head, not your If you know the technique, shoulders, and keep your using both brakes in a turn is eyes level with the horizon. possible, although it should 3. Press—To turn, the motor- be done very carefully. When cycle must lean. To lean the you lean the motorcycle, some motorcycle, press on the of the traction is used for handlegrip in the direction cornering and less traction is of the turn. Press left— available for stopping. A skid lean left—go left. Press can occur if you apply too much - 15 -  right—lean right—go right. Dragging the Rear Brake— Higher speeds and/or tighter Dragging the rear brake is the turns require the motorcycle practice of utilizing the rear to lean more. brake to control the bike speed 4. Roll—Roll on the throttle and maintain stability, such as through the turn to stabilize in a U-turn. The front brake suspension. Maintain steady should not be used as it could speed or accelerate gradually cause the bike to tip over. through the turn. This will Centralize Weight—A motor- help keep the motorcycle cycle will be easier to maneuver stable. when the weight is kept close In normal turns, the rider and the to the bike. Keep your feet on motorcycle should lean together the footrests and, if necessary, at the same angle. apply weight to the outside In slow tight turns, the rider footrest to equalize balance. should keep his or her body Practice—Practice executing straight and only lean the U-turns in an empty open motorcycle. parking lot. Start with wide U-turns and gradually tighten U-turns the turning radius. Also, prac- Completing U-turns on a motor- tice U-turns in both directions cycle requires you to maintain by riding in figure 8 patterns control and balance to maneuver until you are comfortable with through a tight U-turn. Here are U-turns in both right and left some tips for completing U-turns directions. successfully: Keeping Your Look­— Look through the Distance turn to where you want to go. The best protection you can Turn only your head, not your have is distance—a “cushion of shoulders, and keep your eyes space”—all around your motor- level with the horizon. cycle. If someone else makes a Friction Zone—The friction mistake, distance gives you: zone is the area of the clutch Time to react. between completely engaged Space to maneuver. and completely released. Riding within the friction zone will give you more control through the turn. - 16 - Lane Positions space around you. Change your In some ways, the size of the lane position as traffic situa- motorcycle can work to your tions change. Ride in paths 2 or advantage. Each traffic lane 3 if vehicles and other potential gives a motorcycle three paths problems are on your left side. If of travel, as indicated in the vehicles are on both sides of you, illustration. the center of the lane (path 2) is usually the best option. Riding LANE POSITIONS closer to the center portion of your lane helps to keep other vehicles from sharing the lane. The oily strip in the center por- tion of the lane is usually no more than two feet wide. You can ride just to the left or right of the oily strip and still be within the center of the lane. Avoid riding on oil and grease buildups. Your lane position should: Increase your ability to see and Carpool/High-Occupancy be seen. Vehicle (HOV) Lanes Avoid others’ blind spots. A carpool lane is a special free- Protect your lane from other way lane used only for carpools, drivers. buses, motorcycles, or decaled Communicate your intentions. low-emission vehicles. The pave- Help you avoid wind blasts ment in this lane is marked with a from other vehicles. diamond symbol ◊ and the words “Carpool Lane.” These lanes are Provide an escape route. also known as high-occupancy Select the appropriate lane posi- vehicle (HOV) lanes. Do not tion to maximize your space cross over double parallel lines cushion and make yourself more to enter or exit any carpool lane visible to others. except at designated entry or exit In general, there is no “best lane places. Motorcyclists are allowed position” for motorcycle riders to use carpool/HOV lanes, unless to be seen and maintain a space otherwise posted. cushion around the motorcycle. Position yourself in the lane that allows the most visibility and - 17 - Toll Highways and involving motorcyclists. In traf- Vehicle Crossings: Using fic, motorcycles need as much Transponders or Electronic distance to stop as other vehicles. Payment Devices Normally, you should maintain a In California, high-occupancy two-second following distance. toll (HOT) lanes and toll high- To gauge your following distance: ways are fee-paid roadways used Ahead of you pick out a in heavily traveled areas to relieve marker, such as a pavement traffic congestion. marking or lamp post. Commuters traveling on toll When the rear bumper of the highways or using HOT lanes vehicle ahead of you passes may purchase transponders, the marker, count off the which track their vehicle's usage seconds: “one-thousand-one, of these roadways. Transponders one-thousand-two.” If you allow drivers to pay toll fees reach the marker before you through electronic billing. reach “one-thousand-two,” you When using a transponder or are following too closely. other electronic payment device, A two-second following dis- motorcyclists are allowed to tance gives you a minimum place the payment device in five amount of space to stop or locations (on the motorcycle or swerve, if the driver ahead carried by the rider), as long as the stops suddenly. It also gives toll reader can detect the device. you a better view of potholes The locations are: and other road hazards. In the motorcyclist’s pocket. Increase following distance Inside a cycle net draped across when the motorcycle is towing the gas tank of the motorcycle. a trailer as increased stopping On the license plate device, if distance is required. the toll operator provides such You will need a larger space a device. cushion if your motorcycle In a storage compartment on takes longer than normal to the motorcycle. stop. Open up a three-second or more following distance when On the windshield of the the pavement is slippery, you motorcycle. cannot see through the vehicle Following Another Vehicle ahead, or traffic is heavy. “Following too closely” (tailgat- When you are stopped, keep ing) could be a factor in collisions well behind the vehicle ahead - 18 -  of you. This provides an escape vehicle. However, visibility is route if a driver behind you is more critical. Be sure other traveling too quickly or the drivers see you and that you see vehicle ahead starts to back up. potential hazards. When behind a vehicle, ride Passing where the driver can see you in his or her rearview mirror. 1. Ride in the left portion of your lane at a safe following If you ride in the left or right por- distance to increase your line tion of the lane, the driver may of sight and make you more see you in their side view mirror. visible. Signal and check for If the traffic situation allows, the oncoming traffic. Use your center lane position is usually the mirrors and turn your head to best place for you to be seen by look for traffic behind. the driver in their rearview mirror and to prevent other vehicles from 2. When safe, move into the left sharing your lane. lane and accelerate. Select a lane position that doesn’t Being Followed crowd the vehicle you are When you speed up to lose a passing and provides space tailgater, you only end up with to avoid hazards in your lane. someone tailgating you at a 3. Ride through the driver’s blind higher speed. spot as quickly as possible. A better way to handle tailgaters 4. Signal again and complete is to allow them to pass you. If mirror and head checks before you cannot do this, slow down returning to your original lane. and open up extra space ahead Then cancel your turn signal. of you. This will allow space for Remember, passing must be both you and the tailgater to stop. completed within posted speed This will also encourage the tail- limits, and only where permitted. gater to pass. But if the tailgater does not pass, you have at least Being Passed given yourself and the tailgater When you are being passed more time and space to react in from behind or by an oncoming case an emergency develops. vehicle, stay in the center portion of your lane. Riding any closer Passing and Being Passed could put you in a hazardous Passing and being passed by a situation. larger vehicle is not much differ- Avoid being hit by: ent than with a smaller passenger - 19 -  The other vehicle—A slight suddenly or change lanes, a door mistake by you or the passing could open, or a hand could come driver could cause a sideswipe. out a window. Extended mirrors—Some Merging Vehicles drivers forget their mirrors hang out farther than their Drivers on an entrance ramp may fenders. not see you on the highway. Give them plenty of room. Change to Objects thrown from win- another lane if one is open. If dows. there is no room for a lane change, Blasts of wind from larger adjust your speed to open up vehicles—The blast of wind space for the merging driver and from a passing vehicle or truck stay near the center of your lane. can affect your control. You have more room for error if you MERGING are in the middle portion of the lane when hit by this blast than if you are on either the left or right portions of the lane. Do not move into the portion of the lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It might invite the other driver to move back into your lane too early. Lane Splitting The term “lane splitting”, also known as lane sharing, filtering, or white-lining refers to the process of a motorcyclist riding between lanes of stopped or slower-moving traffic or moving between lanes Vehicles Alongside to the front of traffic stopped Do not ride next to passenger at a traffic light. Vehicles and vehicles or trucks in other lanes motorcycles each need a full lane if you do not have to because you to operate safely. Riding between might be in the driver’s blind rows of stopped or moving vehicles spot. The driver could change in the same lane can leave you lanes without warning. vulnerable. A vehicle could turn - 20 - Also, vehicles in the next lane you have, can eliminate or reduce can block your escape if you harm. Focus even more on finding come upon danger in your own potential escape routes in or around lane. Speed up or drop back to intersections, shopping areas, find a place clear of traffic on schools or construction zones. both sides. Search for factors such as: BLIND SPOTS Oncoming traffic that may turn left in front of you. Traffic coming from either the left, right, or behind. Pedestrians coming out from between parked vehicles. Hazardous road conditions. Evaluate Blind To predict how a hazard may Spots (blue) affect you, it is important to know the speed, distance, and direc- tion the hazard may be moving. Think about how hazards can create risks for you. Anticipate potential problems and have a Search, Evaluate, plan to reduce risks. and Execute (SEE) Road and surface charac- Experienced motorcycle riders teristics, such as potholes, remain aware of what is going on guardrails, bridges, telephone around them. They improve their poles, and trees will not move riding strategy by using SEE, a into your path but may influ- three-step process for making ence your riding strategy and appropriate judgments and apply- escape routes. ing them correctly in different traffic situations. SEE stands for, Traffic control devices such Search, Evaluate, and Execute. as traffic signals, regulatory signs, warning signs, and pave- Search ment markings will help you Actively search ahead, to the sides, evaluate circumstances ahead. and behind you to help you avoid Vehicles and other traffic may potential hazards. How you search move into your path and increase and how much time and space the likelihood of a collision. - 21 - Think about your time and space intersections. An intersection is requirements in order to maintain anywhere traffic may cross your a margin of safety. You must path. It can be in the middle of an leave yourself time to react if an urban area or at a driveway on a emergency arises. residential street. Over one-half of motorcycle/passenger vehicle Execute collisions are caused by drivers Carry out your decision. To create entering a rider’s right-of-way. more space and minimize harm Vehicles turning left in front of from any hazard: you, including those illegally Communicate your presence turning left from the wrong lane, with lights and/or your horn. and vehicles on side streets pull- Adjust your speed as necessary ing into your lane, are the biggest by accelerating, stopping, or dangers. Your use of the SEE slowing. process at intersections is critical Adjust your lane position and/ (see page 21). or direction of travel. There are no guarantees that Apply the old saying “one step others will see you. Never count at a time” to handle two or more on “eye contact” as a sign that hazards. Adjust your speed so you a driver will yield to you. Too can deal with each hazard sepa- often, a driver can look right at rately. Then deal with them one at a motorcyclist and still fail to a time as single hazards. Decision- “see” them. The only eyes you making becomes more complex can count on are your own. If with three or more hazards. Weigh a vehicle can enter your path, the consequences of each and give assume it will. Good motorcycle equal distance to the hazards. riders are always “looking for trouble” not to get into it, but to In high-risk areas, such as inter- stay out of it. sections, shopping areas, schools, or construction zones, reduce LARGE INTERSECTIONS your speed, and cover the clutch and both brake levers to reduce your reaction time. Intersections The greatest potential for con- flict and a chance of collision between you and other traffic is at - 22 - Increase the chances of being coming. Make sure your front seen at intersections. Ride with wheel stays out of the cross lane your headlight on, and in a of travel while you are looking. lane position that provides the best view of oncoming traffic. BLIND INTERSECTION Maintain enough space around your motorcycle that permits you to take evasive action. As you approach an intersec- tion, select a lane position that increases your visibility to the driver. Cover the clutch and both brakes to reduce reaction time. Reduce your speed as you approach an intersection. After entering the intersection, move away from vehicles preparing to turn. Do not change speed or posi- tion radically. The driver might Passing Parked Vehicles think you are preparing to turn. When passing parked vehicles, Blind Intersections stay toward the left portion of When you approach a blind inter- your lane. This way, you can avoid section, move to the lane position problems caused by doors open- that brings you into another driv- ing, drivers getting out of vehicles, er’s field of vision at the earliest or people stepping from between possible moment. In this picture, vehicles. If oncoming traffic is the motorcycle rider has moved to present, it is usually best to remain the left portion of the lane, away in the center portion of the lane to from the parked vehicle, so the maximize the space around you. driver on the cross street can see A bigger problem can occur if a them as soon as possible. driver pulls away from the curb If you have a stop sign or stop line, without checking for traffic from stop there first. Then edge forward behind. Even if the driver looks, and stop again, just short of where they may fail to see you. the cross-traffic lane meets your In either event, the driver might lane. From this position, lean enter your path. Slow down or your body forward and look change lanes to make room for around buildings, parked vehicles, someone to enter. or bushes to see if anything is - 23 -  PARKED VEHICLES PARKING AT CURBS Increasing Visibility In collisions with motorcyclists, drivers often say that they never saw the motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a motorcycle’s outline is much smaller than a passenger Vehicles making a sudden U-turn vehicles. Also, it is hard to see are the most dangerous. They something you are not looking may cut you off entirely, blocking for, and most drivers are not look- the whole roadway and leaving ing for motorcycles. More likely, you with no place to go. Since they are looking through the you cannot tell what a driver will skinny, two-wheeled silhouette do, slow down and get the driver’s in search of vehicles that may attention. Sound your horn and pose a problem to them. continue with caution. Even if a driver does see you com- Parking at the Roadside ing, you are not necessarily safe. Smaller vehicles appear farther Park at an angle of 45 to 90 away and seem to be traveling degrees to the curb with a wheel slower than they actually are. It or fender touching the curb. is common for drivers to pull out in front of motorcyclists, thinking they have plenty of time. Too often, they are wrong. - 24 - However, you can do many things Turn Signals to make it easier for others to rec- The turn signals on a motorcycle ognize you and your motorcycle. are similar to those on a vehicle. They tell others what you plan Clothing to do. Most collisions occur in broad daylight. Wear brightly-colored or reflective clothing to increase your chances of being seen. Bright orange, red, yellow, or LEFT RIGHT green jackets or vests are the best TURN TURN for being seen. Brightly-colored helmets can also help others see you. Reflective material on a vest and on the sides of the helmet will help drivers see you from the side. Reflective material can SLOW or STOP also be a big help for drivers com- ing toward you or from behind. However, due to a rider’s added Remember, your body is half of vulnerability, turn signals are the visible surface area of the even more important. Use them rider/motorcycle unit. anytime you plan to change lanes or turn. Signal your left Headlight or right turn during the last 100 The best way to help others see feet before reaching the turning your motorcycle is to always keep point. At highway speeds, it is the headlight and, if equipped, best to signal at least five seconds running lights on. A motorcycle before changing lanes. Use your with its light on is twice as likely turn signals even when you think to be noticed. Using your high no one else is around. Your turn beam during the day and at signals also make you easier to night increases the chances that see. If bright sunlight makes your oncoming drivers will see you. turn signal lights hard to see, use Use your high beam when it is hand signals. legal and safe to do so. When it is foggy, use the low beam. When you enter a freeway, driv- ers approaching from behind are more likely to see your turn signal blinking and make room for you. - 25 -  If you are being tailgated, it is SIGNALS a good idea to flash your brake light before you slow. Using Your Mirrors While it is most important to know what is happening ahead, you cannot ignore situations behind you. Traffic conditions change quickly. To make safe decisions about how to handle trouble ahead, you must know what is going on around you. Frequent mirror checks should be part of your normal searching routine. Make a special point of Using your turn signals before each using your mirror(s): turn reduces confusion and frus- When you are stopped at an tration for the traffic around you. intersection. Watch vehicles Once you complete your turn, be coming up from behind. If the sure to turn them off or a driver driver is not paying attention, may pull directly into your path, they could be on top of you thinking you plan to turn again. before they see you. Brake Light Before you change lanes. Make Your motorcycle’s brake light sure no one is about to pass you. is usually not as noticeable as Check the mirror(s) and turn a vehicle’s, especially when the your head to check over your taillight is on. If the situation shoulder, on the side of the lane permits, help others notice you by you want to move in to. flashing your brake light before Before you slow down. The you slow down. It is especially driver behind you may not important to flash your brake expect you to slow down or light before you slow: may be unsure about where you For a tight, fast turn off a high- will slow down. For example, speed highway. you signal a turn and the driver Where others may not expect thinks you plan to turn at a it (in the middle of a block or distant intersection, rather than at an alley). at a nearer driveway. - 26 - Some motorcycles have rounded BLIND SPOTS (convex) mirrors. These mirrors provide a wider view of the road behind than flat mirrors. They also make vehicles seem farther away than they really are. If you are not used to convex mirrors, you can get familiar with them by: Picking out a parked vehicle in your mirror (while you are stopped). Forming a mental image of how far away it is. Then, turning around and look- ing to see how close you came. Horn Practicing with your mirror(s) until you become a good judge Be ready to use your horn to get of distance. someone’s attention quickly. Allowing extra distance before In an emergency, press the horn you change lanes. button loud and long. Be ready to stop or swerve away from the Head Checks danger. Checking your mirror(s) is not Remember, a motorcycle’s horn enough. Motorcycles have “blind is not as loud as other vehicles’, spots” just like other vehicles. so use it, but don’t rely on it. Before you change lanes, turn your head and check that lane for Riding at Night other vehicles. At night it is harder for you to see and be seen. Wear reflective On a road with several lanes, clothing when riding at night. check the far lane and the one next Picking a motorcycle’s headlight to you. A driver in the distant lane or taillight out of the other lights may drive into the same space is not easy for drivers. To make you plan to take. up for this, you should: Frequent head checks should be Reduce your speed. Ride even part of your normal scanning slower than you would during routine. Only by knowing what the day, particularly on roads is happening all around, can you you do not know well. This be fully prepared to deal with it. increases your chances of avoiding a hazard. - 27 -  Increase distance. Distances motorcycle rider is not prepared are harder to judge at night or skilled in collision-avoidance than during the day. Your eyes maneuvers. rely upon shadows and light Two critical skills in avoiding a contrasts to determine how far collision are knowing when and away an object is and how fast how to stop or swerve. You can- it is coming. These contrasts not always stop quickly to avoid are missing or distorted at an obstacle. You must also be able night. Open up a three-second to swerve around an obstacle. or more following distance. Most collisions involve riders Allow more distance to pass who: and be passed. Use the vehicle ahead. The Underbrake the front tire and headlights of the vehicle ahead overbrake the rear. can give you a better view of Did not separate braking from the road than your high beam. swerving or did not choose to Taillights bouncing up and swerve when it was appropriate. down can alert you to bumps Quick Stops or rough pavement. To stop quickly, apply both brakes Use your high beam. Get all at the same time. Do not be shy the light you can. Use your high about using the front brake, but do beam whenever you are not fol- not “grab” it either. Squeeze the lowing or approaching another brake lever firmly with continu- vehicle. Be visible. Wear reflec- ing steady pressure. If the front tive clothing materials when wheel locks, release the front riding at night. brake immediately and then reap- Be flexible about lane position. ply it firmly. At the same time, Change to the lane position that press down on the rear brake. helps you see, be seen, and keep If you accidentally lock the rear an adequate space cushion. brake on a good traction surface, Collision Avoidance you can keep it locked until you No matter how careful you are, have completely stopped. there will be times when you NOTE: Even with a locked find yourself in a tight spot. Your rear wheel, you can control the chances of getting out safely motorcycle on a straightaway if it depend on your ability to react is upright and going in a straight quickly and properly. Often, line. a collision occurs because a - 28 - Always use both brakes at the the motorcycle to lean quickly. same time to stop. The front The sharper the turn(s), the more brake can provide three-quarters the motorcycle must lean. of your stopping power. SWERVE, THEN BRAKE If you must stop quickly while turning or riding a curve, the best technique is to straighten the motorcycle first and then brake. However, it may not always be possible to straighten the motor- cycle and then stop. If you must brake while leaning, apply the brakes lightly and reduce the throttle. As you slow, reduce your lean angle and apply more brake pressure until the motorcycle is straight and maximum brake pressure is possible. Then in the BRAKE, THEN SWERVE last few feet of stopping, you should “straighten” the handle- bars. The motorcycle should now be straight up and in balance. Swerving or Turning Quickly Sometimes you may not have enough room to stop, even if you use both brakes properly. An object might appear suddenly in your path or the vehicle ahead might stop abruptly. The only way to avoid a collision may be to turn quickly or swerve around it. Keep your body upright and allow A swerve is any sudden change the motorcycle to lean in the direc- in direction. It can be two quick tion of the turn. Keep your knees turns, or a rapid shift to the side. pressed against the tank and your To swerve, apply a small amount feet solidly on the footrests. Let of hand pressure to the handle- the motorcycle move underneath grip on the side of your intended you. Make your escape route the direction of escape. This causes target of your vision. Press on the - 29 - opposite handlegrip once you clear Cornering the obstacle and are ready to return A primary cause of single-vehicle to your original direction of travel. collisions is motorcyclists running To swerve to the left, press the left wide in a curve or turn causing the handlegrip, then press the right to motorcycle to leave the roadway recover. To swerve to the right, or collide with an object. press right, then left. Then press the Every curve is different. Be alert to left or right handlegrip to recover. whether a curve remains constant, If braking is required, separate gradually widens, gets tighter, or it from swerving. Brake before or involves multiple turns. Shaded after, never while swerving, espe- curves keep ice from melting and cially the front brake as this may moisture from evaporating. Also, cause the motorcycle to fall over. be aware of leaves. CONSTANT CURVES MULTIPLE CURVES DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES - 30 - Ride within your skill level and Uneven Surfaces and posted speed limits. Your best Obstacles path may not always follow the Watch for uneven road surfaces, curve of the road. such as bumps, broken pavement, Change your lane position based potholes, roadway resurfacing on traffic, road conditions, and where one lane is slightly higher curve of the road. If there is no than the other lane, or trash on the traffic, start at the outside of a highway and shoulders. curve to increase your line of Avoid obstacles by slowing or sight and the effective radius going around them. However, if of the turn. As you turn, move you must go over the obstacle, toward the inside of the curve, first determine if it is possible. and as you pass the center, move Approach it at as close to a to the outside to exit. 90-degree angle as possible. Another choice is to move to the Look in the direction where you center of your lane before enter- want to go to control your path ing a curve and stay there until of travel. If you have to ride over you exit. This allows you to see the obstacle, you should: approaching traffic as soon as Slow down as much as possible possible. You can also adjust for before contact. traffic “crowding” the center line Make sure the motorcycle is or debris blocking part of your lane. straight. Handling Dangerous Rise slightly off the seat with Surfaces your weight on the footrests Your chance of falling or being to absorb the shock with your involved in a collision increases knees and elbows and avoid whenever you ride across: being thrown off the motor- cycle. Uneven surfaces or obstacles. Just before contact, roll on Slippery surfaces, such as the throttle slightly (increase shaded icy areas, leaves, pine needles, and standing water. Be engine power) to lighten the careful of standing water and front end. puddles as you do not know If you ride over an object, pull off how deep the water is. the road and check your tires and Railroad tracks or pavement rims for damage before riding seams. any farther. Make sure nothing is caught in the drive chain or belt. Grooves and gratings. - 31 - Slippery Surfaces Remember the center of a Motorcyclists may find it chal- lane can be hazardous when lenging to maintain safe control on wet. When it starts to rain, ride surfaces with poor traction, such as: in a vehicle’s tire tracks. Often, the left tire track will be the Wet pavement particularly best lane position, depending just after it starts to rain and on traffic and other road condi- before surface oil washes to tions as well. the side of the road. Watch for oil spots. The center Gravel roads or where sand portion of the lane is where and gravel collect. most oil, anti-freeze, and other Mud, leaves, snow, and ice. vehicle fluids collect. Position Lane markings (painted road yourself on either side of the arrows and crosswalks), steel center strip and be careful when plates, brick paver crosswalks, you put your foot down to stop and manhole covers, especially or park. You may slip and fall. when wet. Be cautious of the edge of the To ride safely on slipper y road. Dirt and gravel collect surfaces: along the sides of the road, Reduce speed. Slow down especially on curves and ramps before you get to a slippery sur- leading to and from highways. face to reduce your chances of Remember rain dries and skidding. When the roadway snow melts faster on some is slippery, your motorcycle sections of a road than on needs more distance to stop. others. Patches of ice tend to It is especially important to develop in low or shaded areas, reduce speed before entering bridges, and overpasses. Wet wet curves. leaves are just as slippery as wet Avoid sudden moves. Any road surfaces. Ride on the least sudden change in speed or slippery portion of the lane and direction can cause a skid. Be reduce your speed. as smooth as possible when Cautious riders steer clear of you speed up, shift gears, turn, roads covered with ice or snow. If or brake. you cannot avoid an icy or snowy Use both brakes. The front surface, keep your motorcycle brake is still effective on a slip- straight up and proceed as slowly pery surface. Squeeze the brake as possible. If you encounter a lever gradually to avoid locking large surface so slippery that you the front wheel. Remember to use must coast, or travel at a walking gentle pressure on the rear brake. pace, consider letting your feet - 32 - skim along the surface. If the Grooves and Gratings motorcycle starts to fall, you can Riding over rain grooves