3 21 16 DFT Rider Manual PDF

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DRIVER LICENSING OFFICES
City & County of Honolulu

Open Monday – Friday except holidays
Honolulu City Square, 1199 Dillingham Blvd, A101, Phone 532-
7730 (7:45 A.M - 4:30 PM)
Kaneohe Koolau Center, 47-388 Hui Iwa Street, Phone 239-6301;
7:45 AM - 4:00 PM
Kapolei, 1000 Uluohia Street, #101, 7:45 AM – 4:00 PM, Phone
768-3100
Wahiawa, 330 North Cane Street, Phone 768-4054; 7:45 AM -
4:00 PM
Waianae, 87-670 Farrington Highway (Tuesdays & Thursdays
7:45 AM – 11:30 AM & 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM)), Phone 768-4222
Satellite City Halls (Renewals only; no written or road tests
given)
Downtown, Fort Street Mall, 1000 Ft Street Mall (renewals &
duplicates, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM), Phone 768-4145
Hawaii Kai Town Center, 6600 Kalanianaole Highway #101,
(renewals & duplicates, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM), Phone 768-4800
Pearlridge Shopping Center, 98-1005 Moanalua Road 244B
(renewals & duplicates), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Phone 768-5200
Windward City Shopping Center, 45-480 Kaneohe Bay Drive C06
(renewals & duplicates), 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM), Phone 768-4100
County of Hawaii
Open Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM except holidays
Hilo Office, 349 Kapiolani Street, Phone 961-2222
Ka'u Office, 95-5355 Mamalahoa Highway, Phone 854-7214 (Tue
& Wed by appmt)
Pahoa Office, 15-2615 Keaau-Pahoa Road, Phone 965-2721
Waimea Office, 65-1158 Mamalahoa Hwy, Ste 1-A, 881-3488
West Hawaii Civic Center, 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway,
Phone 323-4800
March 2016 DOT-H 2053 (R 3/16) Printed by Hawaii Department of

Transportation
County of Maui
Open Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM except holidays
Hana, Hana Highway & Uakea Rd, 96713, 8:00-10:45 AM &
12:00 – 3:30 PM, Phone 248-7280
Kahalui, 70 E. Kaahumanu Avenue, Suite A17, 96732, Phone 270-
7363
Kihei, 303 Lipoa Street (M-F 8:00 - 3:30 PM), Phone 270-
7363 Lahaina, 335 Keawe St, #209, 96761, (8:00 AM – 3:30
PM), Phone 270-7363
Lanai, 309 Seventh St, #101, 96763, (8:00 – 11:30 AM & 1:00 –
4:00 PM), Phone 565-7878
Molokai, Mitchell Pauole Center, 100 Ailoa Street, Phone 553-
3430, Phone 553-3430
County of Kauai
Open Monday-Friday 7:45 AM to 4:00 PM except holidays
Lihue Civic Center, Kapule Building, 4444 Rice Street, Suite 480,
Phone 241-4242.
i
INTRODUCTION
This manual is designed for use as a guide to provide more
comprehensive coverage of laws and operating techniques
concerning motorcycles and to help you qualify for a Hawaii
driver’s license to operate a motorcycle. The information contained
herein does not supersede either state laws or ordinances or any duly
adopted rule or regulation.
The original “Motorcycle Operator Manual” was developed by
the National Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI) under
contract to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) and within the terms of a cooperative agreement between
NHTSA and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has updated and expanded
the content of the original manual. The revisions reflect the latest
findings of motorcycle-safety research.
A separate Hawaii Driver’s Manual is sold at stores to help you
become a well-informed, safe driver and to help you qualify for a
regular Hawaii driver’s license.
A separate Driver’s Manual for Commercial Motor Vehicle
Driver Licensing is available at driver licensing offices and the
Motor Vehicle Safety Office to prepare drivers to pass the
knowledge and skill test to get a commercial driver’s license. These
manuals are available on the State of Hawaii Department of
Transportation website below.
RESPONSIBLE AGENCIES AND WEBSITES

Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Office:
http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/library/motor-vehicle-safety-
office/
City & County of Honolulu Department of Customer Service:
http://www.honolulu.gov/csd/vehicle.html County of Maui
Department of Finance:
http://www.co.maui.hi.us/index.aspx?NID=1328 County of
Hawaii Department of Finance:
http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/finance-vrl/
ii
County of Kauai Department of Finance Treasure Division:
http://www.kauai.gov/Treasury
Insurance Commissioner’s Office:
http://cca.hawaii.gov/ins/
OBTAINING A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR INSTRUCTION

PERMIT
PRELIMINARY EXAMINATIONS
You will be required to pass the general driver knowledge
examination and a motorcycle riding test. The examinations are to
test your knowledge of the rules of the road, highway signs, and the
special skill and safety precautions needed to operate a motorcycle.
In addition, you must pass a vision test.
Upon satisfactory completion of the knowledge examination
and vision test, you will be issued an instruction permit valid for
one year.
DRIVER’S EDUCATION CERTIFICATION

Drivers under 18 are required to take driving lessons at a
driver’s education program certified by the Hawaii Department of
Transportation. If you are between 16 and 18 years old, and
you want to be able to take the road test, you must have
practiced driving on your learner’s permit for 90 days and you
must have earned a Driver Education Student Completion
Certificate and a Behind-the-Wheel Student Completion
Certificate before you can schedule a road test for a
motorcycle.
TEMPORARY INSTRUCTION PERMIT

You must have a motorcycle instruction permit when
learning to operate a moped, motorcycle, or motor scooter on
the public highways. Such permit will be issued to you when
you have satisfactorily completed the knowledge test and all
iii
other requirements.
You cannot carry passengers or operate a motorcycle
during the hours of darkness while learning to ride with a
permit.
Your motorcycle permit may be renewed if you take
a skill test prior to the expiration of the permit. If your
permit expires before you take a skill test at least once,
you must wait three months before applying for another
motorcycle instruction permit.
DRIVER PERFORMANCE TEST

The skill test may be waived if you have a
motorcycle skill test Certification for Waiver issued by
the Hawaii Motorcycle Safety Education Program or a
valid motorcycle license or endorsement from another
state.
You must provide a motorcycle in safe operating
condition with a current safety inspection certificate and
liability insurance identification card. All vehicle safety
defects must be corrected prior to taking the test.
An off-street skill test is required prior to the issuance
of a motorcycle, motor scooter or moped license.
Practicing the illustrated maneuvers of the “MSF Rider
Skill Test – Motorcycle and 3-Wheel Motorcycles” will
make the test easier for you. The maneuvers and details
can be seen in Exhibit E of 19122, Hawaii Administrative
Rules on web site:
http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/home/doing-
business/hawaii-administrative-rules/.
DRIVER’S LICENSES FOR MOPEDS

A moped is a two or three wheeled device with a
iv
motor no larger than two horsepower which will propel
the moped, unassisted, on a level surface at a maximum
speed no greater than thirty miles per hour; and a direct or
automatic power drive system. When traveling downhill a
moped must not be driven faster than 35 mph.
You are required to have a driver’s license (any
category) to operate a moped on the public roads.
If you do not have any kind of driver’s license, you
may obtain a Category 1 license by following the
procedure required for that license category and using
your moped for any required performance test.
EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Required equipment includes brakes, head lamp, tail
lamp, stop lamp, muffler, horn, rear-view mirror and
seat.
Raising the handlebars to a level more than 15 inches
(38 cm) above the level of the seat is against the law.
The motorcycle must be equipped with footrests for
all riders not in a sidecar or enclosed cab.
Motorcycles must be equipped with fenders or mud
guards.
Information about how motorcycles and mopeds are
inspected can be reviewed at web sit:
http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/library/motor-vehicle-
safety-office/.
Information about the components that are inspected
on a moped can be reviewed at web site:
http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/files/2012/12/HAR19-
135.pdf beginning at 19-135-27, Hawaii Administrative
Rules.
v
Any operator or passenger under 18 years of age
must wear a DOT approved safety helmet securely
fastened with a chin strap.
Operators and passengers must wear glasses, goggles
or a face shield unless the motorcycle is equipped with a
windshield.
PASSENGERS
The operator must not carry more passengers than the
motorcycle is designed and equipped to carry. You must
not carry a passenger who is under the age of 7 years. No
passenger is allowed on a two-wheeled moped.
INSURANCE
Motorcycle and motor scooter liability insurance is
required in Hawaii. A valid proof of insurance card must
be in your motorcycle, or carried by the operator of your
insured motorcycle or motor scooter. A citation for not
having proof of insurance can cost you $100 or more.
A motorcycle liability police must include:
 $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident bodily
whom you caused injury or death;
 $10,000 per occurrence property damage liability
that pays for damage to vehicles and property of others
when you are responsible for the crash.
An insurance company must also offer to sell you:
 Medical payments coverage up to $10,000 which
will pay for your injury expenses;
 An income disability plan which will pay you when
you cannot work due to your injuries; and
 Higher liability coverages.
vi
To purchase liability insurance you must have:
 A valid motorcycle or motor scooter license; or
 A valid motorcycle or motor scooter learner’s
permit and successfully complete a motorcycle education
course.
You will receive a 15% discount on premiums for
liability coverages if you successfully complete a
motorcycle education course.
WARNING: To be sure you are able to get the

proper insurance for your motorcycle, contact an
insurance agent prior to obtaining a motorcycle.
vii
THE RIDER AND BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
THE MOTORCYCLE ............... 4 Why This Information Is
Important ............................. 42
PREPARING TO RIDE Alcohol and Other Drugs in
Wear the Right Gear ................5 Motorcycle Operation .......... 42
Know Your Motorcycle ............7 Alcohol in the Body ................ 42
Know Your Responsibilities ... 10 Alcohol and the Law .............. 44
Minimize the Risks ................. 44
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Step in to Protect Friends ...... 45
Basic Vehicle Control ........... 11
Marijuana and
Keeping Your Distance .......... 15 Motorcycle Operation .......... 45
SEE. ............................... .20
Fatigue. .......................... 46
Intersections ........................ 21
Increasing Conspicuity ........ 24 EARNING YOUR LICENSE ..... 47
Crash Avoidance ................. .27 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
Handling Dangerous Surfaces Supplementary Information
............................................... 30 for Three-Wheel Motorcycles
Mechanical Problems ........... 33 ............................................ 49
Animals. ........................... 34 Know Your Vehicle ............... 49
Flying Objects ....................... 35 Basic Vehicle Control ............ 51
Geting Off the Road .............. 35 Carrying Passengers and
Carrying Passengers Cargo. .................................. 54
and Cargo .......................... 35 HAND SIGNALS ....................... 56
Group Riding ..........................38
4 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE
Motorcycling is a unique experience. you, and supports the concept that, as

Compared to a car, you don’t sit in a the Motorcycle Safety Foundation says,
motorcycle, you
become part of it.
Not as a passive
driver, but as an
active rider arcing
into a string of
smooth corners,
playing along with
the rhythm of the
road; shifting,
accelerating, and
braking with
precision. Whether
you ride to and
from work or
prefer the
camaraderie of a
group ride on the
weekend,
motorcycling
engages all your senses and creates an “Safe riding depends as much on the
invigorating sense of freedom. mental skills of awareness and
judgment as it does on a physical skill
Along with that freedom comes of maneuvering the machine.”
responsibility. All states require some
form of license endorsement Successfully piloting a motorcycle is a
demonstrating you possess a minimum much more involved task than driving a
level of skill and knowledge. This car. Motorcycling requires a fine sense
booklet and other motorcycle of balance and a heightened sense of
publications can help prepare you to be awareness and position amidst other
successful. You might also consider roadway users. A motorcycle responds
taking a formal hands-on training more quickly to rider inputs than a car,
course, even if your state doesn’t but is also more sensitive to outside
require that you complete one. You’ll forces, like irregular road surfaces or
learn how to improve your riding skills crosswinds. A motorcycle is also less
and mental strategies, so you can be a visible than a car due to its narrower
safer, more alert rider. profile, and offers far less protection by
exposing its rider to other traffic and
The diagram above illustrates the the elements. All these risks can be
complex environment that awaits managed through study, training, and
practice.
PREPARING TO RIDE 5
What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining
whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on
any trip, a safe rider makes a point to:
1. Wear the right gear.
2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.
3. Check the motorcycle equipment.
4. Be a responsible rider.
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR a helmet kept a rider from spotting
danger.
When you ride, your gear is “right” if
it protects you. In any crash, you have a  Most crashes happen on short
trips (less than five miles long), just
far better chance of avoiding serious
a few minutes after starting out.
injury if you wear:
 Most riders are riding slower than
 A DOT-compliant helmet. 30 mph when a crash occurs. At
 Face or eye protection. these speeds, helmets can cut both
the number and the severity of
 Protective clothing.
head injuries by half.
Helmet Use No matter what the speed, helmeted
riders are three times more likely to
Crashes can occur — particularly
survive head injuries than those not
among untrained, beginning riders. And
wearing helmets at the time of the
one out of every five motorcycle crashes
crash. The single most important thing
results in head or neck injuries. Head
you can do to improve your chances of
injuries are just as severe as neck
surviving a crash is to wear a securely-
injuries — and far more common. Crash
analyses show that head and neck fastened, quality helmet.
injuries account for a majority of serious Helmet Selection
and fatal injuries to motorcyclists.
Research also shows that, with few There are two primary types of
exceptions, head and neck injuries are helmets, providing two different levels
reduced by properly wearing a quality of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
helmet. Whichever style you choose, you can
Some riders don’t wear helmets get the most protection by making sure
because they think helmets will limit that the helmet:
their view to the sides. Others wear  Is designed to meet U.S.
helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation
riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards.
some facts to consider: Helmets with a label from the Snell
Memorial Foundation also give you
 A DOT-compliant helmet lets an assurance of quality.
you see as far to the sides as
necessary. A study of more than  Fits snugly, all the way around.
900 motorcycle crashes, where  Has no obvious defects such as
40% of the riders wore helmets, cracks, loose padding or frayed
did not find even one case in which straps.
6 PREPARING TO RIDE
Whatever helmet you

decide on, keep it securely
fastened on your head
when you ride. Otherwise,
if you are involved in a
crash, it’s likely to fly off
your head before it gets a
chance to protect you.
Eye and Face

Protection
A plastic impact-
resistant faceshield can
help protect your whole
face in a crash. It also
Clothing
protects you from wind, dust, dirt,
rain, insects and pebbles thrown up The right clothing protects you in
from cars ahead. These problems are a collision. It also provides comfort,
distracting and can be painful. If you as well as protection from heat, cold,
have to deal with them, you can’t debris and hot and moving parts of
devote your full attention to the road. the motorcycle. It can also make you
more visible to others.
Goggles protect your eyes, though
they won’t protect the rest of your face . Jacket and pants should cover
like a faceshield does. A windshield is arms and legs completely. They
not a substitute for a faceshield or should fit snugly enough to keep
goggles. Most windshields will not from flapping in the wind, yet
protect your eyes from the wind. Neither loosely enough to move freely.
will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses Leather offers the most protection.
won’t keep your eyes from watering, Sturdy synthetic material provides a
and they might blow off when you turn lot of protection as well. Wear a
your head while riding. jacket even in warm weather to
prevent dehydration. Many are
To be effective, eye or faceshield designed to protect without getting
protection must: you overheated, even on summer
. Be free of scratches. days. Some riders choose jackets
. Be resistant to penetration. and pants with rigid “body armor”
inserts in critical areas for additional
. Give a clear view to either side. protection.
. Fasten securely, so it does
not blow off. . Boots or shoes should be high and
sturdy enough to cover your ankles
. Permit air to pass through, to and give them support. Soles should
reduce fogging. be made of hard, durable, slip-
. Permit enough room for eyeglasses resistant material. Keep heels short
or sunglasses, if needed. so they do not catch on rough
Tinted eye protection should not surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t
be worn when little light is available. catch on your motorcycle.
7
. Gloves allow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR

protect your hands in a crash. Your
MOTORCYCLE
gloves should be made of leather or
similar durable material. There are plenty of things on the
highway that can cause you trouble.
. Hearing protection reduces noise
Your motorcycle should not be one
while allowing you to hear
of them. To make sure that your
important sounds such as car
motorcycle won’t let you down:
horns or sirens. Long term
exposure to engine and wind noise . Start with the right motorcycle
can cause permanent hearing for you.
damage even if you wear a full . Read the owner’s manual.
face helmet. Whether you choose
disposable foam plugs or reusable . Be familiar with the motorcycle
custom molded devices, be sure controls.
you adhere to state laws regarding . Check the motorcycle before
hearing protection. every ride.
In cold or wet weather, your clothes . Keep it in safe riding condition
should keep you warm and dry, as well between rides.
as protect you from injury. You cannot
. Avoid add-ons and modifications
control a motorcycle well if you are
that make your motorcycle harder
numb. Riding for long periods in cold
to handle.
weather can cause severe chill and
fatigue. A winter jacket should resist The Right Motorcycle For You
wind and fit snugly at the neck, wrists
and waist. Good-quality rainsuits First, make sure your motorcycle is
designed for motorcycle riding resist right for you. It should “fit” you. Your
tearing apart or ballooning up at high feet should reach the ground while you
speeds. are seated on the motorcycle, and the
controls should be easy to operate.
Smaller motorcycles are usually easier
for beginners to operate.
At a minimum, your street-legal
motorcycle should have:
. Headlight, taillight and
brakelight~
TEST YOURSELF 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.
Answer - page 48
8 PREPARING TO RIDE
 Front and rear brakes. involve riders with less than five months
of experience on their motorcycle.
 Turn signals.
 Horn. Get Familiar with the
 Two mirrors. Motorcycle Controls
Make sure you are completely familiar
Borrowing and Lending with the motorcycle before you take it out
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, on the street. Be sure to review the
beware. Crashes are more likely to occur owner’s manual. This is particularly
among beginning riders — especially in important if you are riding a borrowed
the first months of riding. Riding an motorcycle.
unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the
If you are going to use an unfamiliar
problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, get motorcycle:
familiar with it in a controlled area. And
if you lend your motorcycle to friends,  Make all the checks you would on
make sure they are licensed and know your own motorcycle.
how to ride before allowing them out  Find out where everything is,
into traffic. particularly the turn signals, horn,
No matter how experienced you headlight switch, fuel-supply valve
may be, ride extra carefully on any and engine cut-off switch. Find and
motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar operate these items without having
to you. More than half of all crashes to look for them.
9
 Know the controls~ Work the  Try the front and rear brake levers
throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter one at a time. Make sure each
a few times before you start riding. feels firm and holds the
motorcycle when fully applied.
 Ride very cautiously and be
aware of surroundings. Accelerate C — Controls
gently, take turns more slowly and  Make sure the clutch and throttle
leave extra room for stopping. operate smoothly. The throttle
should snap back to fully closed
Check Your Motorcycle when released. The clutch should
A motorcycle needs more frequent feel tight and should operate
attention than a car. A minor technical smoothly.
failure on a car is seldom more than an
 Try the horn. Make sure it works.
inconvenience for the driver. The same
failure on a motorcycle may result in a L — Lights and Electrics
crash or having to leave your motorcycle  Check both headlight and taillight.
parked on the side of the road. If Test your switch to make sure
anything’s wrong with your motorcycle, both high and low beams work.
you’ll want to find out about it before
you get in traffic.  Turn on both right and left hand
turn signals. Make sure all lights
The primary source of information are working properly.
about how a motorcycle should be
 Try both brakes and make sure
inspected and maintained is its owner’s
each one turns on the brake light.
manual. Be sure to absorb all of its
important information. A motorcycle will  Clean and adjust your mirrors before
continue to ride like new if it is properly starting. It’s difficult to ride with one
maintained and routine inspections hand while you try to adjust a
become part of its maintenance cycle. mirror. Adjust each mirror so you
can see the lane behind and as
A pre-ride inspection only takes a few much as possible of the lane next to
minutes and should be done before you. When properly adjusted, a
every ride to prevent problems. It’s mirror may show the edge of your
quick and easy to check the critical arm or shoulder – but it’s the road
components and should be as routine behind you and to the side that are
and automatic as checking the weather most important.
forecast before heading out for the day.
A convenient reminder developed by O — Oil and Other Fluids
MSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a T-CLOCS  Check engine oil and transmission
“tear-out” sheet at the back of this fluid levels.
manual for you to keep with you when
 Check the brake hydraulic fluid
you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection should
and coolant level weekly.
be conducted before every ride, and
includes checks of:  Be sure your fuel valve is open
before starting out. With the fuel
T — Tires and Wheels valve closed, your motorcycle may
 Check tire inflation pressure, start with only the fuel that is still
treadwear and general condition of in the lines, but will stall once the
sidewalls and tread surface. lines are empty.
10 PREPARING TO RIDE
 Look underneath the motorcycle responsibility to look before pulling out.

for signs of an oil or fuel leak. Both of you are at fault. Someone else
C — Chassis might be the first to start the chain of
events leading to a crash, but it doesn’t
 Check the front suspension. Ensure leave any of us free of responsibility.
there is no binding. The rear shocks
and springs should move smoothly. As a rider you can’t be sure that
other operators will see you or yield the
 Be sure the chain or belt is adjusted right of way. To lessen your chances of
according to the manufacturer’s a crash occurring:
specifications and that the sprockets
are not worn or damaged.  Be visible — wear proper clothing,
use your headlight, ride in the best
S — Stands lane position to see and be seen.
 Ensure the side stand operates
 Communicate your intentions —
smoothly and that the spring holds it
use the proper signals, brake light
tightly in the up position. If
and lane position.
equipped, the center stand should
also be held firmly against the frame  Maintain an adequate space
whenever the motorcycle is moving. cushion — when following, being
followed, lane sharing, passing and
Additionally, regular maintenance such
being passed.
as tune-ups and oil changes are as
important for a motorcycle as routine  Search your path of travel 12
checkups by your doctor are for you. seconds ahead.
Wear and tear is normal with use;  Identify and separate hazards.
routine maintenance will help prevent
costly breakdowns. The schedule for  Be prepared to act — remain alert
regular upkeep for motorcycle parts and and know how to carry out proper
controls is contained in your crash-avoidance skills.
motorcycle’s owner’s manual. Blame doesn’t matter when someone
is injured in a crash. The ability to ride
KNOW YOUR
aware, make critical decisions and carry
RESPONSIBILITIES them out separates responsible riders
“Accident” implies an unforeseen from the rest. Remember, it is up to you
event that occurs without fault or to keep from being the cause of, or an
negligence. In traffic, that is not the unprepared participant in, any crash.
case. In fact, most people involved in
a crash can claim some responsibility
TEST YOURSELF 2
for what takes place.
More than half of all crashes:
Consider a situation where someone
decides to drive through an intersection A. Occur at speeds greater
than 35mph.
on a yellow light turning red. Your light
B. Happen at night.
turns green. You pull into the
intersection without checking for possible C. Are caused by worn tires.
traffic. That is all it takes for the two of D. Involve riders who have less than
you to crash. It was the driver’s five months of experience on
their motorcycles.
responsibility to stop, and it was your Answer - page 48
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 11
This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance.
That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal
course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing
your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules
of the road.
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars

so your hands are even with or
Body Position below your elbows. This permits
To control a motorcycle well: you to use the proper muscles for
precision steering.
 Posture — Position yourself
comfortably so you are able to  Knees — Keep your knees against
operate all the controls and can use the gas tank to help you keep your
your arms to steer the motorcycle, balance as the motorcycle turns.
rather than to hold yourself up. This  Feet — Keep your feet firmly on the
helps you bond with your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t
motorcycle and allows you to react drag your feet. If your foot catches
quickly to hazards. on something, you could be injured
 Seat — Sit far enough forward so and it could affect your control of
that arms are slightly bent when the motorcycle. Keep your feet near
you hold the handgrips. Bending the controls so you can get to them
your arms permits you to press on fast if needed. Also, don’t let your
the handlebars without having to toes point downward — they may
stretch. get caught between the road and
the footrests.
 Hands — Hold the handgrips
firmly to keep your grip over rough Shifting Gears
surfaces. Start with your right wrist There is more to shifting gears than
flat. This will help you keep from simply getting the motorcycle to pick
accidentally using too much up speed smoothly. Learning to use the
gears when downshifting, turning or
starting on hills is equally important for
safe motorcycle operation.
The gearshift lever is located in front
of the left footrest and is operated by
the left foot. To shift “up” to a higher
gear, position your foot under the shift
lever and lift. To downshift, press the
shift lever down. The shift lever
changes one gear each time it is lifted
or pressed down. Whenever the lever is
released, spring loading returns it to
center, where the mechanism resets for
the next shift up or down. A typical
gear pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is
12 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
for neutral, which is selected by either a enough before downshifting safely.

“half lift” from 1st gear or a “half press”
When downshifting, use a 3-step
from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles have
process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you
five gears, but some have four or six
squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press the
gears.
shift lever down firmly, 3) ease out the
clutch lever as you roll on the throttle.
Once the shift is completed, release the
shift lever to permit it to reset for the
next shift. Rolling on the throttle slightly
while smoothly easing out the clutch can
help the engine come up to speed more
quickly and make the downshift
smoother. Shifting to a lower gear
causes an effect similar to using the
brakes. This is known as engine
braking. To use engine braking, shift
down one gear at a time and ease out
the clutch through the friction zone
between each downshift. Keep the
As your motorcycle increases speed, clutch in the friction zone until the
you will need to shift up to a higher engine speed stabilizes. Then ease out
gear. Shift up well before the engine the lever fully until ready for the next
RPM reaches its maximum downshift. Usually you shift gears one
recommended speed. As a general rule, at a time, but it is possible to shift
shift up soon enough to avoid over- through more than one gear while the
revving the engine, but not so soon to clutch is squeezed.
cause the engine to lug.
Remain in first gear while you
When upshifting, use a 3-step are stopped so that you can move
process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you out quickly if you need to.
squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the shift
Work toward a smooth, even clutch
lever firmly as far as it will go, 3)
release, especially when downshifting. It
smoothly ease out the clutch and adjust
is best to change gears before entering
the throttle. Once the shift is completed,
a turn. However, sometimes shifting
release the shift lever to permit it to
while in the turn is necessary. If so,
reset for the next shift.
remember to do so smoothly. A sudden
You should shift down through the change in power to the rear wheel can
gears with the clutch as you slow or cause a skid.
stop, and can also shift down when
you need more power to accelerate. Braking
Make certain you are riding slowly Improper braking technique remains
enough when you shift into a lower a significant contributing factor in many
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle has
and the rear wheel may skid. When two brake controls: one for the front
riding downhill or shifting into first gear wheel and one for the rear wheel.
you may need to use the brakes to slow Always use both brakes every time you
13
slow or stop. The front brake is more To stop as quickly and as safely as
powerful and can provide at least 70% of possible in a curve, and depending on
your total stopping power. The front road and traffic conditions, try to get the
brake is safe to use if you use it properly. motorcycle as perpendicular to the road
Maximum straight-line braking is as possible, then brake. If conditions do
accomplished by fully applying both not allow, brake smoothly and gradually,
front and rear brakes without locking but do not apply as much braking force
either wheel. as you would if the motorcycle were
straight up. As you slow, you can reduce
To do this: your lean angle, and as more traction
 Squeeze the front brake becomes available for braking, you can
smoothly, firmly and with more firmly apply the brakes, so that by
progressively more force. Do not the time the motorcycle is stopped, the
grab the brake lever or use abrupt motorcycle is straight up, and the
pressure. handlebars are squared.
 As the motorcycle’s weight
Linked and Integrated
transfers forward, more traction
becomes available at the front Braking Systems
wheel, so the front brake can be Some motorcycles have linked
applied harder after braking begins. braking which connects the front and
 Keep your knees against the rear brakes on the motorcycle and
tank and your eyes up, looking applies braking pressure to both brakes
well ahead. This helps you stop when either the front lever or rear pedal
the motorcycle in a straight line. is applied. An integrated braking system
is a variation of the linked system in
 Apply light-to-lighter pressure to which partial front braking is applied
the rear brake pedal to prevent a whenever the rear brake is activated.
rear wheel skid. As weight Consult your owner’s manual for a
transfers forward less traction is detailed explanation on the operation
available at the rear. Use less rear and effective use of these systems.
brake pressure.
Anti-Lock Braking Systems
Using both brakes for even “normal”
stops will permit you to develop the (ABS)
proper habit or skill of using both brakes ABS is designed to prevent wheel
properly in an emergency. Squeeze the lock-up and avoid skids when stopping
front brake and press down on the rear. in straight-line, panic situations. ABS
Grabbing at the front brake or jamming operates when maximum pressure on
down on the rear can cause the brakes to both the front and rear brake controls is
lock, resulting in control problems. applied. If electronic sensors detect the
possibility of a wheel lock, brake
Braking in a Corner hydraulic pressure is released then
Any time a motorcycle is leaned reapplied to maintain maximum braking
over, the amount of traction available effectiveness.
for braking is reduced. The greater the The system is capable of releasing
lean angle, the more the possibility of and reapplying pressure more than 15
the tires losing traction. times per second.
Turning In normal turns, the rider and the

motorcycle should lean together at the
Approach turns and curves with
same angle.
caution. Riders often try to take curves
or turns too fast. When they can’t hold
the turn, they end up crossing into
another lane of traffic or going off the
road. Or, they overreact and brake too
hard, causing a skid and loss of control.
Use four steps for better control:
 SLOW — Reduce speed before the
turn by closing the throttle and, if
necessary, applying both brakes.
 LOOK — Look through the turn to
where you want to go. Turn just
your head, not your shoulders,
and keep your eyes level with the
horizon.
 PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
must lean. To lean the motorcycle,
press on the handgrip in the In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by
direction of the turn. Press left leaning the motorcycle only and keeping
handgrip — lean left — go left. your body straight.
Press right handgrip — lean right —
go right. The higher the speed in a SLOW, TIGHT TURNS
turn, or the sharper the turn, the
greater the lean angle needs to be.
 ROLL — Roll on the throttle to
maintain or slightly increase speed.
This helps stabilize the motorcycle.
TEST YOURSELF 3
When riding, you should:

A. Turn your head and shoulders
to look through turns.
B. Keep your arms straight.
C. Keep your knees away from
the gas tank.
D. Turn just your head and eyes
to look where you are going.
Answer - page 48
15
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE  Avoid windblast from other

vehicles.
The best protection you can have is
distance — a “cushion of space” —  Provide an escape route.
separating yourself from other vehicles
 Set up for turns.
on the roadway. This will provide you
with a clear view of emerging traffic Many motorcyclists consider the left
situations, so that if someone else third of the lane – the left tire track of
makes a mistake, you will have: automobiles – to be their default lane
position. You should then consider
 More time to respond.
varying your lane position as conditions
 More space to maneuver, including warrant, keeping in mind that no portion
an escape route if necessary. of the lane need be avoided — including
the center.
Lane Positions You should position yourself in the
Successful motorcyclists know that portion of the lane where you are most
they are safer when clearly seen. In some likely to be seen and you can maintain a
ways the size of the motorcycle can work space cushion around you. Change
to your advantage. Each traffic lane gives position as traffic situations change. Ride
a motorcycle three paths of travel, as in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other
indicated in the illustration. potential problems are on your left only.
Your lane position should help you: Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards are on
your right only. If vehicles are being
 Increase your ability to see and operated on both sides of you, the center
be seen. of the lane, path 2, is usually your best
option.
 Avoid others’ blind spots.
Remember, the center third of the
 Avoid surface hazards. lane is the place where debris and oil
 Protect your lane from other drivers. drippings from cars collect and where
hazards such as manhole covers are
 Communicate your intentions. located. Unless the road is wet, the
FOLLOWING
average center strip permits adequate count off the seconds: “one-
traction to ride on safely. You can thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”
operate to the left or right of the grease
 If you reach the marker before
strip and still be within the center third
you reach “two,” you are following
of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big
too closely.
buildups of oil and grease usually found
at busy intersections or tollbooths. A two-second following distance leaves
a minimum amount of space to stop or
Experienced riders rely on their own
swerve if the driver ahead stops suddenly.
best judgment and instincts. One
It also permits a better view of potholes
absolute, however, is to avoid riding in
and other hazards in the road.
another vehicle’s blind spot.
A larger cushion of space is needed
Following Another Vehicle if your motorcycle will take longer
“Following too closely” is a factor in than normal to stop. If the pavement is
crashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic, slippery, if you cannot see through the
motorcycles need as much distance to vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy and
stop as cars. Normally, a minimum of someone may squeeze in front of you,
two seconds distance should be open up a three-second or more
maintained behind the vehicle ahead. following distance.
Keep well behind the vehicle ahead
To gauge your following distance:
even when you are stopped. This will
 Pick out a marker, such as a make it easier to get out of the way if
pavement marking or lamppost, on someone bears down on you from
or near the road ahead. behind. It will also give you a cushion
 When the rear bumper of the of space if the vehicle ahead starts to
vehicle ahead passes the marker, back up for some reason.
17
When behind a car, ride where the Passing

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

Passing and being passed by another
vehicle is not much different than with a
car. However, visibility is more critical. Be
sure other drivers see you, and that you
see potential hazards.
Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the

lane farthest from the passing vehicle. It
When you are being passed from might invite the other driver to cut back
behind, stay in the center portion of
into your lane too early.
your lane. Riding close to the passing
vehicle could put you in a hazardous Lane Sharing
situation.
Cars and motorcycles need a full lane
Avoid being hit by: to operate safely. Lane sharing is usually
 The other vehicle — A slight prohibited.
mistake by you or the passing
driver could cause a sideswipe. Riding between rows of stopped or
moving cars in the same lane can leave
 Extended mirrors — Some drivers you vulnerable to the unexpected. A
forget that their mirrors hang out
hand could come out of a window; a
farther than their fenders.
door could open; a car could turn
 Objects thrown from windows — suddenly. Discourage lane sharing by
Even if the driver knows you’re others. Keep a center-portion position
there, a passenger may not see whenever drivers might be tempted to
you and might toss something on squeeze by you. Drivers are most
you or the road ahead of you.
tempted to do this:
 Blasts of wind from larger
vehicles — They can affect your  In heavy, bumper-to-
control. You have more room for bumper traffic.
error if you are in the middle portion  When they want to pass you.
when hit by this blast than if you are
 When you are preparing to turn
on either side of the lane.
at an intersection.
 When you are moving into an exit
lane or leaving a highway.
TEST YOURSELF 4
Usually, a good way to handle tailgaters
is to:
A. Change lanes and let them pass.
B. Use your horn and
make obscene gestures.
C. Speed up to put distance
between you and the tailgater.
D. Ignore them.
Answer - Page 48
19
Merging Cars Cars Alongside

Drivers on an entrance ramp may Do not ride next to cars or trucks in
not see you on the highway. Give them other lanes if you do not have to. You
plenty of room. Change to another lane might be in the blind spot of a car in the
if one is open. If there is no room for a next lane, which could switch into your
lane change, adjust speed to open up lane without warning. Cars in the next
space for the merging driver. lane also block your escape if you come
upon danger in your own lane. Speed up
or drop back to find a place clear of
traffic on both sides.
SEE
Good, experienced riders
are always aware of what
is going on around them.
They reduce their risk by
using MSF’s three-step
SEE strategy:
 S earch
 E valuate
 E xecute
SEE will help you assess
what is going on in traffic
so you can plan and
implement the safest
course of action as traffic
situations change. Let’s
look at each of these
steps.
Search
How assertively you
search, and how much
time and space you have,
can eliminate or minimize
risk. As you search, focus
considered enough time and space to
on finding potential escape routes,
swerve and/or brake for fixed hazards
especially in or around intersections,
or for someone or something entering
shopping areas and school and
your path of travel.
construction zones.
One way to search is to use your Finally, experienced riders search
“RiderRadar” to aggressively scan the for hazards that are further out, looking
environment ahead of you, to the sides, ahead to an area it would take about 12
and behind you to avoid potential seconds to reach. This provides time to
hazards even before they arise. There prepare for a situation before it
are three “lead times” experienced becomes immediate.
riders consider. First, be alert and scan Using the SEE strategy will help you to
for hazards that are about 2 seconds Search for a variety of factors such as:
ahead of you, or within your following
 Oncoming traffic that may
distance. Scanning your 4-second
turn left in front of you.
immediate path can allow you time for
a quick response if something should go  Traffic coming from
wrong. Anything that is within 4 the left and from the right.
seconds of your path is considered  Traffic approaching from
immediate because 4 seconds is behind.
21
 Hazardous road conditions that Apply the old adage “one step at a
require you to be alert, especially in time” to handle two or more hazards.
areas with limited visibility. Visually Adjust speed to permit two hazards to
“busy” surroundings could hide you separate. Then deal with them one at
and your motorcycle from others. a time as single hazards. Decision-
making becomes more complex with
Evaluate three or more hazards. Evaluate the
Evaluate means to think about how consequences of each and give equal
hazards can interact to create risks for distance to the hazards.
you. Anticipate potential problems and
In potential high-risk areas, such as
have a plan to reduce risks, particularly
intersections, shopping areas and
when faced with:
school and construction zones, cover
 Road and surface characteristics the clutch and both brakes to reduce
such as potholes, guardrails, bridges, the time you need to react.
telephone poles and trees that won’t
move into your path, but may INTERSECTIONS
influence your riding strategy. The greatest potential for conflict
 Traffic control devices including between you and other traffic is at
traffic signals, warning signs, and intersections. An intersection can be in
pavement markings, which will the middle of an urban area or at a
require you to carefully evaluate driveway on a residential street —
circumstances ahead. anywhere traffic may cross your path
of travel. Over one-half of
 Vehicles and other traffic that may motorcycle/car crashes are caused by
move into your path and increase drivers entering a rider’s right-of-way.
the likelihood of a crash. Think about Cars that turn left in front of you,
your time and space requirements in including cars turning left from the
order to maintain a margin of safety, lane on your right, and cars on side
and give yourself time to react if an streets that pull into your lane, are the
emergency arises. biggest dangers. Your use of SEE at
Execute intersections is critical.
Finally, Execute your decision. To
create more space and minimize harm
from any hazard:
 Communicate your presence with TEST YOURSELF 5
lights and/or horn.
To reduce your reaction time, you
 Adjust your speed by should:
accelerating, stopping or slowing.
A. Ride slower than the speed
 Adjust your position and/or limit.
direction by swerving, changing
B. Cover the clutch and the brakes.
lanes, or moving to another position
within your lane. C. Shift into neutral when slowing.
D. Pull in the clutch when turning.
Answer - page 48
There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being seen

others see you. Never count on “eye at intersections. Ride with your
contact” as a sign that a driver will yield. headlight on and in a lane position that
Too often, a driver looks right at a provides the best view of oncoming
motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him or traffic. Provide a space cushion around
her. The only eyes that you can count on the motorcycle that permits you to take
are your own. If a car can enter your evasive action. When approaching an
path, assume that it will. Good riders are intersection where a vehicle driver is
always “looking for trouble” — not to get preparing to cross your path, slow down
into it, but to stay out of it. and select a lane position to increase
your visibility to that driver. Cover the
clutch lever and both brakes to reduce
reaction time. As you enter
TEST YOURSELF 6
Making eye contact with other
drivers:
A. Is a good sign they see you.
B. Is not worth the effort it takes.
C. Doesn’t mean that the
driver will yield.
D. Guarantees that the other driver will
yield to you. Answer - page48
23
the intersection, move away from the

vehicle. Do not change speed or position
radically, as drivers might think you are
preparing to turn. Be prepared to brake
hard and hold your position if an
oncoming vehicle turns in front of you,
especially if there is other traffic around
you. This strategy should also be used
whenever a vehicle in the oncoming lane
of traffic is signaling for a left turn,
whether at an intersection or not.
Blind Intersections
If you approach a blind intersection,
move to the portion of the lane that
will bring you into another driver’s field
of vision at the earliest possible
moment. In this picture, the rider has
moved to the left portion of the lane —
away from the parked car — so the
driver on the cross street can see him
as soon as possible.
Remember, the key is to see as much
as possible and remain visible to others
while protecting your space.
If you have a stop sign or stop line,
stop there first. Then edge forward and
stop again, just short of where the
cross-traffic lane meets your lane. From
that position, lean your body forward
and look around buildings, parked cars
or bushes to see if anything is coming.
Just make sure your front wheel stays
out of the cross lane of travel while
you’re looking.
Passing Parked Cars

When passing parked cars, stay
toward the left of your lane. You can
avoid problems caused by doors
opening, drivers getting out of cars or
people stepping from between cars. If
oncoming traffic is present, it is usually
best to remain in the center-lane
position to maximize your space
cushion.
A bigger problem can occur if the

driver pulls away from the curb without
checking for traffic behind. Even if he
does look, he may fail to see you.
In either event, the driver might cut
into your path. Slow down or change
lanes to make room for someone
cutting in.
Cars making a sudden U-turn are the
most dangerous. They may cut you off
entirely, blocking the whole roadway
and leaving you with no place to go.
Since you can’t tell what a driver will
do, slow down and get the driver’s
attention. Sound your horn and
However, you can do many things to
continue with caution.
make it easier for others to recognize
Parking at the Roadside you and your motorcycle.
If parking in a parallel parking space Clothing
next to a curb, position the motorcycle at
Most crashes occur in broad daylight.
an angle with the rear wheel to the curb.
Wear bright-colored clothing to increase
(Note: Some cities have ordinances that
your chances of being seen. Remember,
require motorcycles to park parallel to the
your body is half of the visible surface
curb.)
area of the rider/motorcycle unit.
Increasing Conspicuity Bright orange, red, yellow or green
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers jackets/vests are your best bets for being
often say that they never saw the seen. Your helmet can do more than
motorcycle. From ahead or behind, a protect you in a crash. Brightly colored
motorcycle’s outline is much smaller helmets can also help others see you.
than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see Any bright color is better than drab or
something you are not looking for, and dark colors. Reflective, bright-colored
most drivers are not looking for clothing (helmet and jacket/vest) is best.
motorcycles. More likely, they are
looking through the skinny, two- Reflective material on a vest and on
wheeled silhouette in search of cars the sides of the helmet will help drivers
that may pose a problem to them. coming from the side to spot you.
Reflective material can also be a big help
Even if a driver does see you coming, for drivers coming toward you or from
you aren’t necessarily safe. Smaller behind.
vehicles appear farther away and seem
to be traveling slower than they actually Headlight
are. It is common for drivers to pull out The best way to help others see your
in front of motorcyclists, thinking they motorcycle is to keep the headlight on
have plenty of time. Too often, they are — at all times (new motorcycles sold in
wrong. the USA since 1978 automatically
25
have the headlights on when running). Once you turn, make sure your signal is
Studies show that, during the day, a off or a driver may pull directly into your
path, thinking you plan to turn again.
Use your signals at every turn so drivers
can react accordingly. Don’t make them
guess what you intend to do.
Brake Light
Your motorcycle’s brake light is
usually not as noticeable as the brake
lights on a car — particularly when your
taillight is on. (It goes on with the
headlight.) If the situation will permit,
help others notice you by flashing your
brake light before you slow down. It is
especially important to flash your brake
light before:
 You slow more quickly than
others might expect (turning off
motorcycle with its light on is twice as a high-speed highway).
likely to be noticed. Use low beam at  You slow where others may not
night and in fog. expect it (in the middle of a block
or at an alley).
Signals
The signals on a motorcycle are similar If you are being followed closely, it’s
to those on a car. They tell others what a good idea to flash your brake light
you plan to do. before you slow. The tailgater may be
watching you and not see something
However, due to a rider’s added ahead that will make you slow down.
vulnerability, signals are even more This will hopefully discourage them
important. Use them anytime you plan from tailgating and warn them of
to change lanes or turn. Use them even hazards ahead they may not see.
when you think no one else is around.
It’s the car you don’t see that’s going to Using Your Mirrors
give you the most trouble. Your signal While it’s most important to keep
lights also make you easier to spot. track of what’s happening ahead, you
That’s why it’s a good idea to use your can’t afford to ignore situations behind.
turn signals even when what you plan Traffic conditions change quickly.
to do is obvious. Knowing what’s going on behind is
When you enter a freeway, drivers essential for you to make a safe decision
approaching from behind are more likely about how to handle trouble ahead.
to see your signal blinking and make Frequent mirror checks should be part
room for you. of your normal searching routine. Make a
Turning your signal light on before special point of using your mirrors:
each turn reduces confusion and  When you are stopped at an
frustration for the traffic around you. intersection. Watch cars coming up
from behind. If the drivers aren’t

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

A. Be worn at night.
bicycle or walking.
B. Be worn during the day. In an emergency, sound your horn
C. Not be worn. loud and long. Be ready to stop or
D. Be worn day and night
swerve away from the danger.
Answer - page 48
27
Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE

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

in a Curve
If you know the technique,
using both brakes in a turn is
possible, although it should be
done very carefully. When
leaning the motorcycle some of
the traction is used for cornering.
Less traction is available for
stopping. A skid can occur if you
apply too much brake. Also,
using the front brake incorrectly
on a slippery surface may be
hazardous. Use caution and squeeze the feet of stopping to maintain your balance
brake lever, never grab. and remain upright.
If you must stop quickly while turning Swerving or Turning Quickly

in a curve, first straighten and square the Sometimes you may not have enough
handlebars, then stop. If you find yourself room to stop, even if you use both brakes
in a situation that does not allow properly. You may encounter an
straightening first, such as when there is a unexpected object in your path. Or the
danger of running off the road in a left- car ahead might sqeal to a stop. The only
hand curve, or when facing oncoming way to avoid a crash may be to turn
traffic in a right-hand curve, apply the quickly or swerve around it.
brakes smoothly and gradually. As you
slow, you can reduce your lean angle and A swerve is a sudden change in
apply more brake pressure until the direction. It can be two quick turns, or a
motorcycle is straight and maximum brake rapid shift to the side. Apply a small
pressure can be applied. Always amount of hand pressure to the
straighten the handlebars in the last few handlegrip located on the side of your
intended direction of escape. This will
SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

29
cause the motorcycle to lean quickly. crash and serious injury or death. Too
The sharper the turn(s), the more the much rear brake pressure causes rear-
motorcycle must lean. wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel
locks, your ability to change direction is
Keep your body upright and allow the
lost. To regain control the brake must be
motorcycle to lean in the direction of the
released. However, if the rear wheel is
turn while keeping your knees against
out of alignment with the front, there is
the tank and your feet solidly on the foot
a risk of a high-side crash. This occurs
rests. Let the motorcycle move
when the wheels are out of alignment
underneath you. Make your escape
and a locked rear wheel is released. The
route the target of your vision. Press on
motorcycle can abruptly snap upright
the opposite handlegrip once you clear
and tumble, throwing the rider into the
the obstacle to return you to your
air ahead of the motorcycle’s path. Even
original direction of travel. To swerve to
slight misalignment can result in a high-
the left, press the left handlegrip, then
side crash.
press the right to recover. To swerve to
the right, press right, then left. Curves
If braking is required, separate it A primary cause of single-vehicle
from swerving~ Brake before or crashes is motorcyclists running wide in
after – never while swerving. a curve or turn and colliding with the
roadway or a fixed object.
Maximum Straight-Line
Braking Every curve is different. Be alert to
whether a curve remains constant,
Maximum straight-line braking is gradually widens, gets tighter or
accomplished by fully applying front and involves multiple turns. Ride within
rear brakes without locking either your skill level and posted speed limits.
wheel. Keep your body centered over
the motorcycle and look well ahead, not Your best path may not always
down. This will help you keep the follow the curve of the road. Change
motorcycle in as straight a line as lane position depending on traffic, road
possible, minimizing lean angle and the conditions and curve of the road. If no
likelihood of the wheels losing traction. traffic is present, start at the outside of
a curve to increase your line of sight
Front-Wheel Skids and the effective radius of the turn. As
If the front wheel locks, release the front you turn, move toward the inside of
brake immediately and completely. the curve, and as you pass the center,
move to the outside to exit.
Reapply the brake smoothly. Front-
wheel skids result in immediate loss of Another alternative is to move to the
steering control and balance. Failure to center of your lane before entering a
fully release the brake lever immediately curve — and stay there until you exit.
will result in a crash. This permits you to spot approaching
traffic as soon as possible. You can also
Rear-Wheel Skids adjust for traffic “crowding” the center
A skidding rear tire is a dangerous line, or debris blocking part of your lane.
condition that can result in a violent
HANDLING DANGEROUS bumps, broken pavement, potholes

or small pieces of highway trash.
SURFACES
Try to avoid obstacles by slowing or
Your chance of falling or being
going around them. If you must go over
involved in a crash increases whenever
the obstacle, first determine if it is possible.
you ride across:
Approach it at as close to a 90˚ angle as
. Uneven surfaces or obstacles. possible. Look where you want to go to
. Slippery surfaces. control your path of travel. If you have to
ride over the obstacle, you should:
. Railroad tracks.
. Slow down as much as possible
. Grooves and gratings.
before contact.
Uneven Surfaces . Make sure the motorcycle is
and Obstacles straight.
Watch for uneven surfaces such as . Rise slightly off the seat with your
31
weight on the footrests to absorb before you get to a slippery

the shock with your knees and surface to lessen your chances of
elbows, and avoid being thrown skidding. Your motorcycle needs
off the motorcycle. more distance to stop. And it is
 Just before contact, roll on the particularly important to reduce
throttle slightly to lighten the front speed before entering wet curves.
end.  Avoid Sudden Moves — Any
sudden change in speed or direction
If you ride over an object on the
can cause a skid. Be as smooth as
street, pull off the road and check possible when you speed up, shift
your tires and rims for damage before gears, turn or brake.
riding any farther.
 Use Both Brakes — The front
Slippery Surfaces brake is still effective, even on a
slippery surface. Squeeze the brake
Motorcycles handle better when lever gradually to avoid locking the
ridden on surfaces that permit good front wheel. Remember, gentle
traction. Surfaces that provide poor pressure on the rear brake.
traction include:  The center of a lane can be
 Wet pavement, particularly just after hazardous when wet. When it starts
it starts to rain and before surface oil to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by
washes to the side of the road.
 Gravel roads, or where sand and TEST YOURSELF 8
gravel collect.
 Mud, leaves, snow, and ice The best way to stop quickly is to:
A. Use the front brake only.
 Lane markings (painted lines),
steel plates and manhole covers, B. Use the rear brake first.
especially when wet. C. Throttle down and use the front
brake.
To ride safely on slippery surfaces:
D. Use both brakes at the same time.
 Reduce Speed — Slow down Answer - page 48
cars. Often, the left tire track will be edge of the road, particularly when
the best position, depending on making sharp turns and getting on or
traffic and other road conditions. off freeways at high speeds.
 Watch for oil spots when you put  Rain dries and snow melts faster
your foot down to stop or park. You on some sections of a road than on
may slip and fall. others. Patches of ice tend to develop
 Dirt and gravel collect along the in low or shaded areas and on bridges
and overpasses. Wet surfaces or wet
sides of the road — especially on
leaves are just as slippery. Ride on the
curves and ramps leading to and from
least slippery portion of the lane and
highways. Be aware of what’s on the
reduce speed.
CROSSTRACKS—CORRECT Cautious riders steer clear of roads
covered with ice or snow. If you can’t
avoid a slippery surface, keep your
motorcycle straight up and proceed as
slowly as possible. If you encounter a
large surface so slippery that you must
coast, or travel at a walking pace,
GRATE CROSSINGS—CORRECT
CROSSTRACKS—INCORRECT
PARALLEL TRACKS—CORRECT GRATE CROSSINGS—INCORRECT
PARALLEL TRACKS—INCORRECT TEST YOURSELF 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.
Answer - page 48
33
consider letting your feet skim along the can be dangerous. You must be able to
surface. If the motorcycle starts to fall, tell from the way the motorcycle reacts.
you can catch yourself. Be sure to keep If one of your tires suddenly loses air,
off the brakes. If possible, squeeze the react quickly to keep your balance. Pull
clutch and coast. Attempting this off and check the tires.
maneuver at anything other than the
If the front tire goes flat, the steering
slowest of speeds could prove hazardous.
will feel “heavy.” A front-wheel flat is
Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks particularly hazardous because it
affects your steering. You have to steer
and Pavement Seams
well to keep your balance.
Usually it is safer to ride straight within
If the rear tire goes flat, the back
your lane to cross tracks. Turning to take
of the motorcycle may jerk or sway
tracks head-on (at a 90˚ angle) can be
from side to side.
more dangerous — your path may carry
you into another lane of traffic. If either tire goes flat while riding:
For track and road seams that run  Hold handgrips firmly, ease off the
parallel to your course, move far enough throttle, and keep a straight course.
away from tracks, ruts, or pavement
seams to cross at an angle of at least  If braking is required, gradually
45˚. Then, make a deliberate turn. apply the brake of the tire that isn’t
Edging across could catch your tires and flat, if you are sure which one it is.
throw you off balance.
 When the motorcycle slows,
Grooves and Gratings edge to the side of the road,
Riding over rain grooves or bridge squeeze the clutch and stop.
gratings may cause a motorcycle to
weave. The uneasy, wandering feeling Stuck Throttle
is generally not hazardous. Relax, Twist the throttle back and forth
maintain a steady speed and ride several times. If the throttle cable is
straight across. Crossing at an angle
stuck, this may free it. If the throttle
forces riders to zigzag to stay in the
lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous stays stuck, immediately operate the
than the wandering feeling. engine cut-off switch and pull in the
clutch at the same time. This will remove
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS power from the rear wheel, though
engine sound may not immediately
You can find yourself in an
decline. Once the motorcycle is “under
emergency the moment something
control,” pull off and stop.
goes wrong with your motorcycle. In
dealing with any mechanical problem, After you have stopped, check the
take into account the road and traffic throttle cable carefully to find the source of
conditions you face. Here are some the trouble. Make certain the throttle works
guidelines that can help you handle freely before you start to ride again.
mechanical problems safely.
Wobble
Tire Failure A “wobble” occurs when the front
You will seldom hear a tire go flat. If wheel and handlebars suddenly start to
the motorcycle starts handling shake from side to side at any speed.
differently, it may be a tire failure. This Most wobbles can be traced to improper
loading, unsuitable accessories or to a stop in a safe area.

incorrect tire pressure. If you are carrying
On a motorcycle with a drive shaft,
a heavy load, lighten it. If you can’t,
loss of oil in the rear differential can
reposition it. Center the weight lower and
cause the rear wheel to lock, and you
farther forward on the motorcycle. Make
may not be able to prevent a skid.
sure tire pressure, spring preload, air
shocks and dampers are at the settings Engine Seizure
recommended for the weight you are
When the engine “locks” or “freezes”
carrying. Make sure windshields and
it is usually low on oil. The engine’s
fairings are mounted properly.
moving parts can’t move smoothly
Check for poorly adjusted steering; against each other, and the engine
worn steering parts; a front wheel that overheats. The first sign may be a loss
is bent, misaligned, or out of balance; of engine power or a change in the
loose wheel bearings or spokes; and engine’s sound. Squeeze the clutch lever
worn swingarm bearings. If none of to disengage the engine from the rear
these is determined to be the cause, wheel. Pull off the road and stop. Check
have the motorcycle checked out the oil. If needed, oil should be added
thoroughly by a qualified professional. as soon as possible or the engine will
Trying to “accelerate out of a seize. When this happens, the effect is
wobble” will only make the motorcycle the same as a locked rear wheel. Let the
more unstable. Instead: engine cool before restarting.
. Grip the handlebars firmly, but ANIMALS

don’t fight the wobble.
Naturally, you should do everything
. Close the throttle gradually to you safely can to avoid hitting an
slow down. Do not apply the animal. If you are in traffic, however,
brakes; braking could make the remain in your lane. Hitting something
wobble worse.
small is less dangerous to you than
. Move your weight as far forward hitting something big — like a car.
and down as possible.
Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If
. Pull off the road as soon as you you are being chased, downshift and
can to fix the problem.
approach the animal slowly. As you
Drive Train Problems approach it, accelerate and leave the
animal behind. Don’t kick at the animal.
The drive train for a motorcycle uses Keep control of your motorcycle and look
either a chain, belt, or drive shaft to to where you want to go.
transfer power from the engine to the
rear wheel. Routine inspection,
adjustment, and maintenance makes
TEST YOURSELF 10
failure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt If your motorcycle starts to wobble:
that slips or breaks while you’re riding
A. Accelerate out of the wobble.
could lock the rear wheel and cause your
B. Use the brakes gradually.
motorcycle to skid.
C. Grip the handlebars firmly and close
If the chain or belt breaks, you’ll the throttle gradually.
notice an instant loss of power to the D. Downshift.
rear wheel. Close the throttle and brake Answer - page 48
35
For larger animals (deer, elk, cattle) or cargo will affect the way your
brake and prepare to stop — they are motorcycle behaves, requiring extra
unpredictable. practice, preparation and caution. For
this reason, only experienced riders
FLYING OBJECTS should attempt to carry passengers or
From time to time riders are struck large loads. Before taking a passenger
by insects, cigarettes thrown from cars or a heavy load on the street, prepare
or pebbles kicked up by the tires of the yourself and your motorcycle for safe
vehicle ahead. If you are wearing face operation in traffic.
protection, it might get smeared or Preparing Your Motorcycle
cracked, making it difficult to see.
Without face protection, an object could Tire Pressure – Check the air
hit you in the eye, face or mouth. pressure of both tires. Refer to the
Whatever happens, keep your eyes on owner’s manual or the label affixed to
the road and your hands on the the motorcycle for the correct inflation
handlebars. When safe, pull off the road specifications. Though most of the
and repair the damage. added weight will typically be on the
rear wheel, don’t forget to also check
GETTING OFF THE ROAD the pressure on the front tire. Correct
If you need to leave the road to check inflation pressures will maintain
the motorcycle (or just to rest), be sure to: maximum stability, steering precision
and braking capability.
 Check the roadside — Make sure
the surface of the roadside is firm Suspension – With a heavy load, the
enough to ride on. If it is soft grass, riding characteristics and balance of the
loose sand or if you’re just not sure motorcycle will change. On some
about it, slow way down before you motorcycles, it will be necessary to
turn onto it.
adjust the suspension settings (spring
 Signal — Drivers behind might not preload, compression/damping settings,
expect you to slow down. Give a etc.) to compensate for the lowered rear
clear signal that you will be slowing of the motorcycle. Refer to the owner’s
down and changing direction. Check manual for adjustment procedures and
your mirror and make a head check specifications.
before you take any action.
 Pull off the road — Get as far off Headlight – Prior to loading, position
the road as you can. It can be the motorcycle about 10 feet from a
very hard to spot a motorcycle by wall in an unlighted garage and mark
the side of the road. You don’t the headlight beam location on the wall
want someone else pulling off at with chalk. With a full load and
the same place you are. passenger, recheck the headlight beam
 Park carefully — Loose and sloped location. Use the adjusting screws on
shoulders can make setting the side the headlight to lower the beam to the
or center stand difficult. same height. Check your owner’s
manual for adjustment procedure.
CARRYING PASSENGERS
AND CARGO Equipment for
Carrying a Passenger
The extra weight of a passenger
 Be sure your passenger is properly
attired, wearing the same level of you have started the engine and
personal protective gear as you. have the transmission in neutral.
As the passenger mounts, keep
 Be sure your motorcycle is equipped
both your feet on the ground and
with passenger footrests.
the brakes applied.
 Your motorcycle should have a
 Sit as far forward as possible
proper seat, one large enough to
without hindering your control
hold both you and your passenger
of the motorcycle.
without crowding. You should not sit
more forward than you usually do.  Hold firmly onto your waist, hips,
belt or passenger handholds for
 Check that there is a strap or solid
balance and security.
handholds for your passenger to
hold onto.  Keep both feet firmly on the cycle’s
footrests, even when stopped. Firm
Preparing Your footing will prevent your passenger
Passenger to Ride from falling off and pulling you off.
Ensure your passenger is able to reach  Keep legs away from the
the passenger footrests, and is able to muffler(s), chains or moving parts.
hold on to your waist, hips, belt, or the  Stay directly behind you and lean
bike’s passenger handholds. Children with you through turns and curves.
should be placed immediately behind the It is helpful for the passenger to
rider. A child sitting in front of the rider look over the rider’s shoulder in the
will not be able to properly balance direction of turns and curves.
him/herself and may interfere with the
rider’s control of the motorcycle.  Avoid unnecessary conversation and
avoid leaning or turning around.
Passenger safety begins with proper Make no sudden moves that might
instruction. Riders should not assume affect the stability of the motorcycle
that passengers are familiar with when it is in operation.
motorcycle handling, control, or
balance. As a routine practice, always  Rise slightly off the seat when
instruct your passenger on cycling crossing an obstacle.
basics prior to starting the trip, even if Also, remind your passenger to
your passenger is a motorcycle rider. tighten his or her hold when you:
As you prepare for your ride, tell  Approach surface hazards such as
your passenger to: bumps or uneven road surfaces.
 Get on the motorcycle only after  Are about to start from a stop or
begin moving into traffic.
TEST YOURSELF 11  Are about to turn sharply or make
If you are chased by a dog: a sudden move.
A. Kick it away. Riding With Passengers
B. Stop until the animal loses interest.
Your motorcycle will respond
C. Swerve around the animal.
differently when you ride with a
D. Approach the animal slowly, then passenger. The heavier your passenger,
speed up. Answer - page 48 the longer it will take to speed up, slow
37
down, or turn. day’s riding segment and allow

plenty of time for breaks. Poor
When riding with passengers: weather, breakdowns, and fatigue
 Ride a little slower, especially when are always possible.
taking curves, corners, or bumps. If  Consider selecting some interesting
any part of the motorcycle scrapes secondary roads to occasionally
the ground at lean angle, steering reduce the monotony of the highway.
control can be lost.
 Start as early in the morning as
 Start slowing earlier as you possible. When you are fresh, you
approach a stop, and maintain a ride at peak performance. For most
larger space cushion whenever riders, this is usually between 6 a.m.
slowing or stopping. and 11 a.m. – then, take a good
 Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, hour’s break for lunch. Your energy
or merge in traffic. will pick up again in the afternoon.
 Don’t forget sun protection in the
Carrying Loads
summer. Some combinations of
Everything you are likely to need for riding gear can leave your neck
a riding holiday or weekend trip can be exposed, risking sunburn.
packed on your motorcycle in many  If you wear a backpack, be sure it
different ways. There are complete is securely attached to you. Try to
luggage systems, saddlebags that are adjust the shoulder straps so that
permanently attached to the the backpack rests lightly on the
motorcycle, soft bags that do not seat. This will reduce the tension
require a carrier system and can be tied in your neck and shoulders.
to the seat, and a tank bag for other
small items. You can also travel simply  If you have a tank bag, be sure it is
with only a backpack. Whatever you securely mounted and does not
decide, do not exceed gross vehicle obstruct your view of the controls or
weight rating when traveling with cargo instruments. If necessary, pack it
and a passenger, and always make only partially full. When strapping
adjustments to the motorcycle to the tank bag in place, make sure it
compensate for the added weight. does not catch any of the brake
lines or cables in the area of the
Tips for Traveling with steering head.
Passengers and Cargo  Secure loads low, or put them in
 Keep the load forward. Pack heavier saddlebags. Attaching a load to a sissy
items in the front of the tank bag. bar raises the motorcycle’s center
Lighter items such as your sleeping
bag, ground pad or tent, should be TEST YOURSELF 12
packed on a luggage rack behind
you. Try to place the load over, or in Passengers should:
front of, the rear axle. Mounting A. Lean as you lean.
loads behind the rear axle can affect B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat.
how the motorcycle turns and
C. Sit as far back as possible.
brakes. It can also cause a wobble.
D. Never hold onto you.
 Plan your route and length of each Answer - page 48
of gravity and can upset its balance. be different than what you are used to.
 If you use saddlebags, load each Test the power when accelerating and
with about the same weight. An be aware that it will be lower, increasing
uneven load can cause the passing times and distances. Braking will
motorcycle to pull to one side. also feel different, and stopping
Overloading may also cause the distances may increase.
bags to catch in the wheel or chain, GROUP RIDING
locking the rear wheel and causing
the motorcycle to skid. Preparation
 Fasten the load securely with elastic Preparing yourself for a group ride is
cords (bungee cords or nets). Elastic as important as making sure your
cords with more than one motorcycle is ready. Riding with a group
attachment point per side are requires an alert mind that is free from
recommended. A loose load could worries, distractions and stress. It also
catch in the wheel or chain, causing means riding free from the influence of
alcohol or drugs. For some, even too
it to lock up, resulting in a skid.
much caffeine or prescription drugs can
Rope can stretch and knots can
adversely affect concentration.
come loose, permitting the load to
shift or fall. You should stop and Prior to a long trip, it’s a good idea to
check the load often to make sure it have your motorcycle serviced at your
has not shifted or loosened. local dealership if you aren’t able to do
the work yourself. A thorough pre-ride
 Include a small tool kit and some check is a must. Use the T-CLOCS
common spare parts that you might checklist as a reminder of the important
need. Water and some energy bars components to check before you leave.
or other food should also be part of Remember to consider such variables as
your preparation, and don’t forget a passengers and extra weight from cargo
first aid kit, especially if you are that might require a change in tire
pressure or suspension adjustment.
riding in a group.
Pre-Ride Test Plan

Before starting out, hold a rider’s
Prior to starting out, take a test ride meeting to discuss the route, length of
with your fully loaded motorcycle through riding segments, rest stops and locations
some familiar neighborhood roads to get for fuel, meals and lodging. Make sure
a feel for the operation of your everyone knows the route. That way, if
motorcycle. Be sure the suspension someone becomes separated, he or she
settings are correct, and that the side won’t have to hurry to keep from getting
stand, footrests, and exhaust pipes don’t lost or making the wrong turn. Choose a
scrape over bumps and in turns. Ensure lead rider and a sweep rider. These
the tank bag does not get in the way of should be the most experienced riders of
the handlebars or restrict the steering. the group. The lead rider should look
ahead for changes in road, traffic or
Also check the security of the load, so
weather conditions, and signal early so
that your luggage does not hit you in the the word gets back in plenty of time to
back under maximum braking. the other riders. The sweep rider is the
You will also find that the perfor- last rider in the group, and sets the pace
mance of a fully loaded motorcycle will for the group. Place inexperienced riders
just behind the
39
leader. That ensures that they won’t third maintains the left position of the
have to chase after the group, and the lane, at least two seconds behind the first
more experienced riders can watch rider. The fourth rider should keep at
them from the back. least a two second distance from the
second rider in the right side of the lane,
The most important rules for group
and so on. This formation keeps the
riding are: no competition, no passing of
group close and permits each rider to
other riders and no tailgating. If a rider
maintain a safe distance from others
insists on riding faster than the group,
ahead, behind and to the sides.
allow him or her to go ahead to an
agreed meeting point. It is best to move to single file formation
when riding in curves, turning, and
Hand signals entering or leaving freeways or highways.
During the rider’s meeting,
review the hand signals so all riders Intersections
can communicate during the ride. A Intersections present the highest risk
diagram of the most common hand for motorcyclists in a group. When
signals is at the end of this manual. making a left turn at an intersection with
a left turn signal arrow, tighten the
Follow those behind formation to allow as many riders
During the ride, use your mirrors to through the intersection as possible.
keep an eye on the person behind and Make the turn single file – do not ride
confirm that the group is staying side-by-side. If not all riders get through
together. If a rider falls behind, everyone the light, stop at a safe point ahead and
should slow down to keep the group wait. This will prevent riders from feeling
together. pressured to speed up or run a red light.
Keep Your Distance

Maintain close ranks, but at the same
time, maintain an adequate space
cushion to allow each rider in the group
time and distance to react to hazards. A
close group takes up less space on the
highway, is easier to see, and is less
likely to become separated. This must,
however, be done properly.
Don’t Pair Up
Never ride directly alongside another
rider in the same lane. There is no place
to go if you have to maneuver to avoid a
car or hazard in the roadway. Wait until
you are both stopped to talk.
Staggered Formation
This is the best way to keep the ranks
close yet maintain an adequate space
cushion. The group leader rides in the left
side of the lane, and the second rider stays
at least one second back and rides in the
right side of the lane. The
Interstate Highways and GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1)

Freeways
A staggered formation is essential
when riding on freeways and interstates.
However, enter in single file and form up
only after all riders have safely merged in
traffic. The lead rider should move the
group over at least one lane to prevent
vehicles that are entering and exiting
from disrupting your formation. In heavy
traffic, resist the temptation to ride too
close together. Maintain your minimum
one-second, two-second staggered
formation space cushion. When exiting,
use a single file formation for better
space cushion and time to react to
conditions at the end of the off-ramp.
Parking
When possible, park as a group, so
everyone can get off their motorcycles
more quickly. Avoid parking downhill or
head-in, and if possible, park where you
can pull through, making the arrival and
departure smoother. Whenever possible,
park so that the group can depart as a unit
in single file.
Passing in Formation
When the group wants to pass slow
traffic on a freeway or interstate, the
group may pass as a unit. On a two-lane
highway, riders in a staggered formation
should pass one at a time.
First, the lead rider should pull out
and pass when it is safe. After
passing the leader should return to
the left position and continue riding
TEST YOURSELF 13
When riding in a group,
inexperienced riders should position
themselves:
A. Just behind the leader.
B. In front of the group.
C. At the tail end of the group.
D. Beside the leader. Answer - page 48
41
at passing speed to open room for Ten Rules of Group Riding

the next rider.
 Base the length of the route and
 Next, the second rider should move segments on ability of the least
up to the left position in the lane experienced rider.
and wait for a chance to safely pass.
When passing be sure you have a  Take timely breaks to prevent
loss of concentration and
clear view of oncoming traffic. Just
because the lead rider passed, that reduce fatigue.
does not mean that conditions  Adjust the pace through curves
haven’t changed and that it is still to the ability of the least
safe for other riders to pass. After experienced rider. If
passing the rider should return to necessary, form two groups
the right position and open up room with different speeds.
for the next rider.
 Don’t tailgate or encourage the
Some people suggest that the lead rider in front to speed. If you
rider should move to the right side of the want to ride faster, ride ahead
lane after passing the vehicle. This is not of the group.
a good idea, since it might encourage the
second rider to pass and cut back in  Keep adequate following
before there is enough space cushion in distance and maintain a
front of the passed vehicle. It’s simpler staggered formation.
and safer to wait until there is enough
 Do not pass in the group,
room ahead of the passed vehicle to
allow each rider to move into the same except in the case of
position held before the pass. emergency.
 Place inexperienced riders just
behind the leader so they can
keep pace without riding faster
than it is safe.
 When passing, be conscious of
the traffic conditions and
oncoming traffic. Even though
the previous riders passed
safely, it may not be safe for
you.
 Maintain adequate time
distance between riders,
especially at intersections.
This allows you to avoid hard
braking.
 Check your mirrors frequently
to ensure the group stays
together.
42 BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay

attention to the riding environment and to operating the motorcycle, identifying
potential hazards, making good judgments and executing decisions quickly and
skillfully. Your ability to perform and respond to changing road and traffic
conditions is influenced by how fit and alert you are. Alcohol and drugs, more
than any other factor, degrade your ability to think clearly and to ride skillfullly.
As little as one drink can have a significant effect on your performance.
Let’s look at the risks involved in riding after drinking or using drugs. What
to do to protect yourself and your fellow riders is also examined.
WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND DRUGS

IS IMPORTANT IN MOTORCYCLE
Alcohol is a major contributor to OPERATION
motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal No one is immune to the effects of
crashes. Studies show that 29% of all alcohol or drugs. Friends may brag about
fatally injured motorcycle riders had BAC their ability to hold their liquor or
levels above the legal imit of 0.08%. An perform better on drugs, but alcohol or
additional 8% had lower alcohol levels drugs make them less able to think
(BAC 0.01 to 0.07%), demonstrating that clearly and perform physical tasks
having only a drink or two in one’s skillfully. Judgment and the decision-
system is enough to impair riding skills. making processes needed for vehicle
Drug levels are harder to distinguish or operation are affected long before legal
have not been separated from drinking limits are reached.
violations for the traffic records. But
riding “under the influence” of either Many over-the-counter, prescription
alcohol or drugs poses physical hazards and illegal drugs have side effects that
and legal consequences for every rider. increase the risk of riding. It is difficult to
accurately measure the involvement of
Drinking and drug use is as big a particular drugs in motorcycle crashes.
problem among motorcyclists as it is But we do know what the effects of
among automobile drivers. Motorcyclists, various drugs have on the processes
however, are more likely to be killed or involved in riding a motorcycle. We also
severely injured in a crash. Injuries occur know that the combined effects of
in 90% of motorcycle crashes and 33% of alcohol and drugs are more dangerous
automobile crashes that involve abuse of than either is alone.
substances. On a yearly basis, 2,000
motorcyclists are killed and about 50,000 ALCOHOL IN THE BODY
seriously injured in this same type of
crash. These statistics are too Alcohol enters the bloodstream
overwhelming to ignore. quickly. Unlike most foods and
beverages, it does not need to be
By becoming knowledgeable about the digested. Within minutes after being
effects of alcohol and drugs you will see consumed, it reaches the brain and
that riding and substance abuse don’t begins to affect the drinker. The major
mix. Take positive steps to protect effect alcohol has is to slow down and
yourself and prevent others from injuring impair bodily functions — both mental
themselves. and physical. Whatever you do, you do
less well after consuming alcohol.
43
Blood Alcohol Concentration liquor, and a 5-ounce glass of wine all

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

tasks such as picking up litter along
In all states, an adult with a BAC of the highway, washing cars in the
0.08% or above is considered motor-vehicle pool or working at an
intoxicated. For operators under the emergency ward.
age of 21, lower BAC limits (0.00 to  Costs — Additional lawyer’s fees,
0.02%, depending on state) apply. It lost work time spent in court or
doesn’t matter how sober you may look alcohol-education programs, public
or act. A breath, blood, or urine test is transportation costs (while your
what usually determines whether you license is suspended), and the
are riding legally or illegally. added psychological costs of being
known as a “drunk driver.”
Whether or not you are legally
intoxicated is not the real issue. MINIMIZE THE RISKS
Impairment of judgment and skills
begins well below the legal limit. Your ability to judge how well you
are riding is affected first. Although
Your chances of being stopped for riding you may be performing more and
under the influence of alcohol are more poorly, you think you are doing
increasing. Law enforcement is being better and better. The result is that
stepped up across the country in response you ride confidently, taking greater
to the senseless deaths and injuries caused and greater risks. Minimize the risks
by drinking drivers and riders. of drinking and riding by taking steps
before you drink or choose to totally
Consequences of Conviction separate the two. Control your
Years ago, first offenders had a good drinking or control your riding.
chance of getting off with a small fine
and participation in alcohol-abuse Make an Intelligent Choice
classes. Today the laws of most states Don’t Drink — Once you start, your
impose stiff penalties on drinking resistance is weaker.
operators. And those penalties are
mandatory, meaning that judges must Setting a limit or pacing yourself are
impose them. poor alternatives at best. Your ability
to use good judgment is one of the
If you are convicted of riding under the first things affected by alcohol. Even if
influence of alcohol or drugs, you may you have tried to drink in moderation,
receive any of the following penalties: you may not realize to what extent
 License Suspension — Mandatory your skills have suffered from alcohol’s
suspension for conviction, arrest or fatiguing effects.
refusal to submit to a breath test. Or Don’t Ride — If you haven’t
 Fines — Severe fines are another controlled your drinking, you
aspect of a conviction, usually must control your riding.
levied with a license suspension.
 Leave the motorcycle — so you
 Insurance Rate Increase — A DUI/ won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange
DWI conviction can put you into a another way to get home.
“high risk” category. So, having a DUI
on your driving record means you’ll be  Wait — If you exceed your limit, wait
paying for it long after your court or until your system eliminates the
legal interactions have ended. alcohol and its fatiguing effects.
45
STEP IN TO PROTECT A for medical use, and two allowed it for

recreational use by people 21 and over.
FRIEND
Although marijuana may be legal for
People who have had too much to drink
medicinal or recreational use in your
are unable to make a responsible decision.
state, it is still not legal, safe, or wise to
It is up to others to step in and keep them
operate a motor vehicle while impaired
from taking too great a risk. No one wants
by marijuana, since it tends to distort
to do this — it’s uncomfortable and
your perception of time, space and
embarrassing. And you are rarely thanked
speed. This is especially critical for
for your efforts at the time. But the
motorcycle riders, who must continually
alternatives are often worse.
make detailed assessments of complex
There are several ways to keep friends traffic situations and make split-second
from hurting themselves: decisions requiring precise rider input to
 Arrange a safe ride — Provide navigate safely and maintain an
alternative ways for them to get home. adequate safety margin.
 Slow the pace of drinking — States are beginning to set marijuana
Involve them in other activities. impairment limits based on blood
 Keep them there — Use any excuse content levels of marijuana’s primary
to keep them from getting on their psychoactive ingredient, THC. However,
motorcycle. Serve them food and compared to alcohol and BAC level, it is
coffee to pass the time. Explain your difficult to determine the relationship
concerns for their risks of getting between the amount of marijuana
arrested or hurt or hurting someone ingested and the resulting THC level in
else. Take their key, if you can, and the blood. Complicating factors include
secure their bike. marijuana’s potency, which is highly
 Get friends involved — Use peer variable, and ingestion method, which
pressure from a group of friends to has significant bearing on the onset and
intervene. duration of impairment.
It helps to enlist support from others When marijuana is smoked, its effects
when you decide to step in. The more generally begin within a few minutes and
people on your side, the easier it is to be can last from 2 to 4 hours. But when
firm and the harder it is for the rider to marijuana is eaten the onset of effects
resist. While you may not be thanked at could be delayed for more than an hour
the time, you will never have to say, “If and the duration of the “high” could be
only I had...” more than 6 hours.
MARIJUANA AND Be safe. Do not operate your
MOTORCYCLE motorcycle or any motor vehicle if you
are impaired by marijuana, and find
OPERATION alternate transportation if you are
Marijuana is gaining acceptance as planning to be under the influence of
having legitimate medicinal applications marijuana at your destination. Just as
and as a recreational drug in the United with alcohol, riders impaired by
States, as evidenced by recent trends in marijuana can be convicted of riding
state laws permitting its use. As of early under the influence, and be subjected
2014, 20 states allowed marijuana to similar harsh penalties.
FATIGUE
Riding a motorcycle is more tiring
than driving a car. On a long trip, you’ll
tire sooner than you would in a car.
Avoid riding when tired. Fatigue can
affect your control of the motorcycle.
 Protect yourself from the elements
— Wind, cold, and rain make you tire
quickly. Dress warmly. A windshield
is worth its cost if you plan to ride
long distances.
 Limit your distance —
Experienced riders seldom try to ride
more than about six hours a day.
 Take frequent rest breaks —
Stop and get off the motorcycle
at least every two hours.
 Don’t drink or use drugs —
Artificial stimulants often result in
extreme fatigue or depression when
they wear off. Riders are unable to
concentrate on the task at hand.
TEST YOURSELF 14
If you wait one hour per drink for the
alcohol to be eliminated from your body
before riding:
A. You cannot be arrested for drinking and
riding.
B. Your riding skills will not be affected.
C. Side effects from the drinking may still
remain.
D. You will be okay as long as you ride
slowly.
Answer – Page 48
EARNING YOUR LICENSE 47
Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tests are the best
measurement of the skills necessary to operate safely in traffic. Assessing your
own skills is not enough. People often overestimate their own abilities. It’s even
harder for friends and relatives to be totally honest about your skills. Licensing
exams are designed to be scored more objectively.
To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and an on-cycle skill
test. Knowledge test questions are based on information, practices and ideas
from this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules and
safe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an actual
traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area.
Knowledge Test 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and you

must stop, it is usually best to:
(Sample Questions)
A. Relax on the handgrips.
1. It is MOST important to flash your B. Shift your weight
brake light when: toward the good tire.
A. Someone is following too closely. C. Brake on the good tire and
steer to the side of the
B. You will be slowing suddenly. road.
C. There is a stop sign ahead. D. Use both brakes and stop
quickly.
D. Your signals are not working.
5. The car below is waiting to enter
2. The FRONT brake supplies how the intersection. It is best to:
much of the potential stopping
power? A. Make eye contact with the
driver.
A. About 25%.
B. Reduce speed and be ready to
B. About 50%.
react.
C. About 70%.
C. Maintain speed and position.
D. All of the stopping power.
D. Maintain speed and move
3. To swerve correctly: right.
A. Shift your weight quickly.
B. Turn the handlebars quickly.
C. Press the handgrip in the direction
of the turn.
D. Press the handgrip in the opposite
direction of the turn.
48 EARNING YOUR LICENSE
On-Motorcycle Skill Test . Stop, turn and swerve quickly.

Basic vehicle control and crash- . Make critical decisions and carry
avoidance skills are included in on- them out.
motorcycle tests to determine your Examiners may score on factors
ability to handle normal and hazardous related to safety such as:
traffic situations.
. Selecting safe speeds to perform
You may be tested for your ability to: maneuvers.
. Know your motorcycle and . Choosing the correct path and
your riding limits. staying within boundaries.
. Accelerate, brake and . Completing normal and quick
turn safely. stops.
. See, be seen and . Completing normal and quick
communicate with others. turns or swerves.
. Adjust speed and position to
the traffic situation.
Answers to Test Yourself (throughout

the booklet)
1-C, 2-D, 3-D, 4-A, 5-B,
6-C, 7-D 8-D, 9-C, 10-C,
11-D, 12-A, 13-A, 14-C
Diagrams and drawings used in this
manual are for reference only and are
Answers to Knowledge Test (p.47): not to correct scale for size of vehicles
1-B,2-C,3-C,4-C,5-B and distances.
THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT 49
SUPPLEMENTARY  Saddle seating

INFORMATION FOR – Seating in which the rider/
passenger straddles the
THREE-WHEEL vehicle.
MOTORCYCLES – Ifdesigned for a passenger,
Many states require a separate license the passenger must be seated
endorsement to operate a three-wheel behind the operator (or in a
motorcycle. This requires the rider to separate passenger
compartment in the case of a
pass both a written and a skills test. The
motorcycle with sidecar).
purpose of this supplement is to help
prepare riders to complete the written 3. Turning diameter of the
exam for a three-wheel motorcycle vehicle at its widest point
must be less than 40’.
license or endorsement. This information
is provided in addition to that offered in 4. The vehicle meets all applicable
the first part of this Motorcycle Operator federal on-road vehicle
Manual (MOM), so when preparing to standards.
take the written test, begin by reading The following vehicles are not
the information on two-wheel included in this definition, and therefore
motorcycles thoroughly. It provides testing requirements may not be
information on safe operation of your applicable. Always refer to your state
motorcycle in traffic. This supplement Department of Motor Vehicles,
contains information specific to the safe Department of Licensing or other
operation of a three-wheel motorcycle, appropriate state regulatory agency for
including both three-track motorcycles exact regulations regarding testing for:
and motorcycles with sidecars.
 Automotive hybrids or
KNOW YOUR VEHICLE automotive conversions
 Vehicles with automotive
There are many types of three-wheel
controls or seating
motorcycles available on the market
today. Requirements for licensing  Vehicles with front or rear
three-wheel motorcycles vary by state. mounted engines (engines must
be mounted mid-frame below the
In general, three-wheel motorcycles
rider to be considered motorcycle-
will have the following characteristics: based)
1.Three wheels leaving two or  Vehicles with enclosed or semi-
three separate tracks during enclosed riding compartments
straight line operation.
 Motorcycles or scooters with two
2.Motorcycle-based conversion or close-set wheels in front (contact
design with: patches less than 18.1 inches
 Handlebar steering apart) that lean and maneuver like
 Motorcycle-type controls standard, single-track, two-wheel
motorcycles
with the standard layout.
Convenience alterations like or
a single brake pedal or lever
control, automatic clutch, or  Vehicles with any other departure
automatic transmission. from the above standards.
50 THREE-WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
Three-Wheel handlebars without excessive upper

body movements that could jeopardize
Motorcycle Designs
stability and control.
Three-wheel motorcycle designs vary
among manufacturers. Unlike traditional Borrowing and Lending
motorcycles, which are considered Borrowers and lenders, beware.
single-track motorcycles, three-wheel
motorcycles could be either dual or Crashes are fairly common among
triple track design. Dual track vehicles beginning operators, especially in the
are motorcycles with sidecars, while first months of riding. Operating an
triple track motorcycles can be unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the
configured either with dual front wheels problem. If you borrow a three-wheel
or dual rear wheels. motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar,
get familiar with it in a controlled area
first. If you lend your three-wheel
MOTORCE motorcycle or motorcycle with sidecar
AND THREE-WHE to friends, make sure they are licensed
MOTORCYCLE DESIGNS and know how to ride before you allow
them to operate in traffic. Such
motorcycles operate very differently
than two-wheel motorcycles.
No matter how experienced you may
be, be extra careful on any vehicle that
is unfamiliar or new to you.
Get Familiar with

Motorcycle Controls
Be sure you are familiar with the
controls of the three-wheel motorcycle
or motorcycle with a sidecar before
attempting to operate it on any
highway, since some controls may differ
from those found on other motorcycles.
This is especially important if you are
riding on a borrowed motorcycle. Before
beginning the ride:
Make all the checks you would on
your own motorcycle.
Familiarize yourself with all
The Right Motorcycle for You controls, such as the turn signals,
Make sure your three-wheel horn, headlight switch, fuel control
motorcycle or sidecar-equipped valve, and cut-off switch. Locate
motorcycle is right for you. You should and operate these items without
be able to comfortably reach and having to search for them.
operate all of the controls, and be able
to complete full turns using the
51
 Operate all the controls before Under some conditions during the
you start riding. Know the operation of a three-wheel motorcycle,
gearshift pattern and operate the it is possible to have only two wheels in
throttle, clutch and brakes a few contact with the road surface. This
times. Controls react differently on could occur during turning or tight
different motorcycles, and exact maneuvers whenever enough weight is
locations of controls may vary transferred outside of what are called
slightly. Additionally, some tip-over lines. This tendency requires
motorcycle conversions may be careful load and passenger positioning
equipped with a single brake pedal inside the tip-over lines to help
or lever control, automatic clutch, or maintain maximum stability.
automatic transmission.
Body Position
 As you begin to ride, start out
slowly and carefully and be aware of As with any motor vehicle, operator
your surroundings. Accelerate gently, position is important for control and for
take turns a little more slowly, and reducing or preventing fatigue. The
leave extra room for stopping. operator should be able to reach both
handgrips comfortably, since more
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL handlebar movement is necessary than
when riding a two-wheel motorcycle.
Steering & Tip While it is not necessary for the rider of
Three-wheel motorcycles handle a three-wheel motorcycle to move
differently than two-wheel motorcycles. drastically during operation, shifting
With three wheels on the ground, they weight in the direction of the turn can
are naturally more stable than a two- improve control.
wheel motorcycle. They also steer
differently. Because conventional three- Braking
wheel motorcycles cannot lean, they On a motorcycle with a sidecar, during
cannot countersteer. Instead, the front braking in a sharp turn, the sidecar wheel
wheel is pointed in the direction the may lift off the ground. Motorcycle and
rider wants the motorcycle to go. sidecar tires have limited traction or grip
on the road surface, and traction is
greater when the motorcycle is rolling,
not skidding or slipping. During turning,
some of the available tire traction is used
for cornering, so less is available for
stopping. Thus, a skid can occur if you
brake too hard.
Turning
The tendency of the rear inside wheel
to lift during turning is greater with
increased speed and tighter curve radii.
During a turn, inertia causes the center
of gravity of the motorcycle to shift
sideways and outward toward the
52 THREE–WHEEL SUPPLEMENT
tip-over line. The reduced weight over When turning right on a

the opposite side wheel can cause it motorcycle with sidecar:
to lift slightly.  Anticipate the degree of turn
The weight of a three-track required.
motorcycle is distributed almost  Reduce speed before entering the
equally between the two front or two curve by downshifting or braking.
rear wheels. These motorcycles handle
 Slightly lean your upper body in
the same in left and right hand turns. the direction you intend to turn.
When turning a three-track  Maintain speed as you enter the
motorcycle: curve.
 Approach a turn at speed with  Accelerate gradually as you exit
your head up, and look through the the curve.
turn.
During a left hand turn, the sidecar
 Concentrate on pointing the front acts as a stabilizer, so the sidecar
wheel/wheels in the direction you wheel stays on the ground. However, if
want the motorcycle to go.
the turn is taken too sharply or at too
 Roll off the throttle before high a rate of speed, there is a
entering the turn. tendency for the motorcycle rear
 Apply the brakes enough to slow suspension to extend, and this may
the motorcycle to a speed at which cause the rear wheel of the motorcycle
you can ride safely through the to lift off the ground.
turn, then release the brakes before
the turn. When turning left on a motorcycle
with sidecar:
 Slightly lean your upper body in
the direction you intend to turn.  Reduce speed prior to entering
the turn
 Steer the front wheel/wheels
toward the turn.  Apply more pressure on the rear
brake then on the front
 Roll on the throttle to pull the
motorcycle through the turn. Hills
On the other hand, because the When riding uphill on a three-wheel
center of gravity of a motorcycle with motorcycle or motorcycle with a sidecar,
sidecar is close to the motorcycle itself, some weight will shift to the rear,
the behavior of the vehicle when causing the front of the motorcycle to
turning right and when turning left is become lighter. This weight shift reduces
quite different. the traction on the front tire/ tires for
steering and tire grip.
During a right turn, a slight
sideways movement of the center of When riding downhill, gravity
gravity creates a greater tendency for increases the amount of braking force
the sidecar wheel to lift. The lift will be required to slow or stop the motorcycle.
greater if the sidecar is empty or It is important, therefore, to begin
lightly loaded. slowing earlier for cornering and
stopping.
53
Lane Position the sidecar will feel as though it is

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

built-in storage compartments for cargo,
either in front of, or behind the rider. On
these motorcycles, center the load and
keep it low in the storage areas so it is
positioned within the tip-over lines and
balanced side-to-side. If a passenger is
being carried, the passenger will sit
directly behind the rider.
On a motorcycle with a sidecar, the
best place for a passenger is in the
sidecar. Never put a single passenger
always slow before entering a corner. on the saddle; the added weight on the
tip-over-line will increase the instability
The best path to follow in the curve may of the motorcycle. While a second
not be the one that follows the curve of passenger can be carried on the seat
the road. Following the center of the lane behind the rider, the heavier passenger
may actually increase the tip over forces. should always be in the sidecar.
Check opposing traffic carefully, and if
The passenger sitting behind the rider
safe, enter the curve toward the outside
should sit upright at all times. It is not
of your lane. This increases your line of
necessary for the passenger to lean into
sight through the curve and reduces the
curves with the rider.
effective radius of the curve. As you turn,
move toward the inside of the curve, and When carrying loads in a sidecar,
as you pass the center, move to the secure the load firmly in place, since if
outside to exit, always remembering to the load shifts, handling will be affected.
stay in your lane. Loads should be distributed toward the
rear of the sidecar to reduce tipping of
CARRYING PASSENGERS the nose of the sidecar in the event of a
AND CARGO sudden left turn.
Three-wheel motorcycles are When loaded, you may find
designed to carry passengers and performance is reduced and that
cargo, but always be sure not to exceed stopping distances are longer, so allow
the tire or motorcycle loading capacity. a little extra distance. The addition of a
The extra weight could change the sidecar passenger will greatly improve
handling characteristics of the vehicle stability, and right hand turns can be
slightly, so you must give some thought made at a slightly higher speed.
to where the loads are positioned. Turning left, however, will require more
turning force.
HAND SIGNALS
1 Single 2 Double File—

File— arm and arm with index and
index finger middle finger
extended straight extended straight up.
up.
3 Stop— 4 Speed Up—

arm extended arm extended
straight down, straight out, palm
palm facing facing up, swing
back. upward.
5 Slow Down— 6 Follow

arm extended Me— arm
straight out, palm extended straight
facing down, swing up from shoulder,
down to your side. palm forward.
7 You Lead/Come—
arm extended upward 45 degrees,
palm forward pointing with index
finger, swing in arc from back to front.
HAND SIGNALS
8 Hazard in Roadway-
on the left, point with left
hand; on the right, point with
right foot.
9 Highbeam- 10 Fuel-arm out

tap on top of to side pointing to
helmet with open tank with finger
palm down. extended.
11 Comfort Stop- 12 Refreshment

forearm extended, Stop-
fist clenched with fingers closed,
short up and down thumb to mouth.
motion.
13 Turn Signal On- open

and close hand with fingers
and thumb extended.
14 Pull Off-arm
positioned as for right
turn, forearm swung
toward shoulder.
NOTES
NOTES
NOTES
VEHICLE REGISTRATION OFFICES
City & County of Honolulu
Open Monday-Friday except holidays 7:45 AM to 4:00 PM
Ala Moana Shopping Center, 1450 Ala Moana Boulevard #1286,
Phone 768-4300
Fort Street Mall, 1000 Fort Street Mall, Phone 768-4103
Hawaii Kai, 6600 Kalanianaole Highway #101, Phone 768-4800
Kalihi, 1199 Dillingham Boulevard, Phone 768-4500
Kailua, 1090 Keolu Drive, Phone 768-4600
Kapolei, 1000 Uluohia Street, Phone 768-3400
Pearlridge Shopping Center, 98-1005 Moanalua Road (9:00 AM–5:00
PM), Phone 768-5000
Wahiawa, 330 N. Cane Street, Phone 768-4700
Waianae, 85-670 Farrington Highway, Phone 768-4900
Windward City Shopping Center, 45-480 Kaneohe Bay Drive C06,
Phone 768-4100
County of Hawaii
Open Monday – Friday 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM except holidays
Hilo: 25 Aupuni Street, Zip: 96740; Phone 961-8351
Kailua-Kona: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy, Zip: 96740; Phone
323-4818
Waimea: Waimea Center, 65-1158 Mamalahoa Hwy, #1-A, Kamuela,
HI, 96743 Telephone - (808) 881-3488
County of Maui
Kahului, 70 E. Kaahumanu Ave, 96732; Phone 270-7363
Kihei, 303 E. Lipoa St, 96753; Phone 270-7363
Lahaina, 335 Keawe St, #209, 96761, Phone 270-7363
Pukalani, 91 Pukalani St, 96768, Phone 270-7363
Hana, Hana Hwy & Uakea Rd, 96713, Phone 248-7280
Lanai, 309 7th St, #101, 96763, Phone 565-7878
Molokai, 100 Ailoa St, 96748, Phone 533-3430
County of Kauai
Lihue Civic Center, 4444 Rice St, Suite 466, 96766, Phone 241-6577

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,*4k.

City & County of Honolulu

March 2016 DOT-H 2053 (R 3/16) Printed by Hawaii Department of

RESPONSIBLE AGENCIES AND WEBSITES

OBTAINING A DRIVER’S LICENSE OR INSTRUCTION

DRIVER’S EDUCATION CERTIFICATION

TEMPORARY INSTRUCTION PERMIT

DRIVER PERFORMANCE TEST

DRIVER’S LICENSES FOR MOPEDS

WARNING: To be sure you are able to get the

Motorcycling is a unique experience. you, and supports the concept that, as

Whatever helmet you

Eye and Face

. Gloves allow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR

 Look underneath the motorcycle responsibility to look before pulling out.

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars

for neutral, which is selected by either a enough before downshifting safely.

Turning In normal turns, the rider and the

When riding, you should:

KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE  Avoid windblast from other

When behind a car, ride where the Passing

Passing and Being Passed

Being Passed Do not move into the portion of the

Merging Cars Cars Alongside

There are no guarantees that Increase your chances of being seen

the intersection, move away from the

Passing Parked Cars

A bigger problem can occur if the

from behind. If the drivers aren’t

Reflective clothing should:  Someone is in the street, riding a

Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s horn CRASH AVOIDANCE

Stopping Quickly STOPPING DISTANCE

If you must stop quickly while turning Swerving or Turning Quickly

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

HANDLING DANGEROUS bumps, broken pavement, potholes

weight on the footrests to absorb before you get to a slippery

PARALLEL TRACKS—CORRECT GRATE CROSSINGS—INCORRECT

PARALLEL TRACKS—INCORRECT TEST YOURSELF 9

loading, unsuitable accessories or to a stop in a safe area.

. Grip the handlebars firmly, but ANIMALS

down, or turn. day’s riding segment and allow

Pre-Ride Test Plan

Keep Your Distance

Interstate Highways and GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1)

at passing speed to open room for Ten Rules of Group Riding

Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay

WHY THIS INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND DRUGS

Blood Alcohol Concentration liquor, and a 5-ounce glass of wine all

ALCOHOL AND THE LAW  Community Service — Performing

STEP IN TO PROTECT A for medical use, and two allowed it for

Knowledge Test 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and you

On-Motorcycle Skill Test . Stop, turn and swerve quickly.

Answers to Test Yourself (throughout

SUPPLEMENTARY  Saddle seating

Three-Wheel handlebars without excessive upper

Get Familiar with

tip-over line. The reduced weight over When turning right on a

Lane Position the sidecar will feel as though it is

PATH THROUGH A CURVE Many three-track motorcycles will have