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Minnesota Department of Public SafetyDriver and Vehicle Services Divisiondvs.dps.mn.gov
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Minnesota Motorcycle
and Motorized BicycleManual
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle ServicesDivision prepared this manual. Visit the Department of Public Safety Websiteat dvs.dps.mn.govto access online versions of our drivers manuals.
PS30001-15 (5/14)
About this Manual
This manual is about operatingmotorcycles and motorized bicycleson Minnesota streets and highways.
The first section concerns Minnesotalaws and requirements. For completestandards, consult Minnesota statestatutes and rules. This document isnot a proper legal authority to citein court.
The second section (OperationManual) contains information on safemotorcycling. The Operation Manual,provided by the Motorcycle SafetyFoundation, is not about Minnesotalaw it is about riding smart andstaying safe.
For more information on Minnesotadriving laws and rules for all drivers,refer to the Minnesota DriversManual.
This manual is printed by permissionof the Minnesota Department ofPublic Safety.
This manual is prepared by theDivision of Driver and Vehicle Serviceswith permission of the MinnesotaDepartment of Public Safety.
This information can be madeavailable in alternative format to
individuals with disabilities. Forassistance, call 651-297-3298 orTTY 651-282-6555.
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NEW RIDING INFORMATION
AND LAW FOR 2014
Late Merge Zipper MergeThe Zipper Merge is a new driving
strategy that requires a change in the
mindset of motorists who traditionallyhave been taught to merge early whenrecognizing that a lane will end. Theresults of early merging are longerbackups, an increase in crashes androad rage incidents.
The new driving procedure to followis when you see the lane closed aheadsign and traffic is backing up, stay in your
current lane up to the point of merge.Then take turns with other driversto safely and smoothly ease into theremaining lane. When traffic is heavyand slow, it is much safer for motoriststo remain in their current traffic laneuntil the point where traffic can orderlytake turns merging.
The Zipper Merge benefits drivers by:Reducing the difference in speeds
between two lanes. Changing laneswhen traffic is traveling at approxi-mately the same speed is easierand safer.
Reducing the overall length of trafficbackup by as much as 40%.
Reducing congestion on freeway
interchanges, especially in themetropolitan area.
Creating a sense of fairness andequity that all lanes are movingat the same rate.
Reducing incidents of road rage.
RoundaboutsRoundabouts are designed to increase
traffic flow and provide a safer inter-section than a normal fourway stop.When approaching a roundabout:
Slow down as you approach theroundabout.
For multilane roundabouts, aswith any intersection, get into theappropriate lane as you approach
the roundabout.Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists
crossing the roadway.
Watch for signs or pavementmarkings that require or prohibitcertain movements.
When entering a roundabout yieldto vehicles already in the round-about. Do not cross into the round-
about until all traffic from the lefthas cleared.
After entering the roundabout, drivein a counter clockwise direction untilyou reach your exit.
Do not stop, pass or change laneswithin a roundabout.
If an emergency vehicle approaches,
exit the roundabout.It is especially important for motor-
cyclists to use extra caution whenapproaching painted pavementmarkings, especially in a roundabout.Pavement markings can be hazar-dous to motorcyclists due to a lossof traction, even when the pavementis dry.
Donation for Anatomical GiftProgram (M.S. 168.12 andM.S. 171.06)
Recent legislation established a $2donation option related to anatomicalgifts to be collected as part of vehicleregistration and driver license appli-cations.Funds received are to be pro-vided as grants to organ procurementorganizations certified by the U.S.Department of Health and to nonprofitorganizations that advocate for organ,tissue and eye donation.
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SKILLS TEST CHECKLIST
Do you have all the infor-mation you need for yourskills test? Here is a checklist
to help you prepare:o I have made a skills test appointment.
o I have my valid drivers license.
o I have my valid motorcycle instructionpermit.
o I have my helmet and eye protection.
o I will provide a motorcycle on which
to take the test. Basicsafetyequipmentmustbein
working condition (see equipmentrequirements on page IV).
Vehicleregistrationmustbecurrent(license plates and registrationstickers) or the motorcycle mustdisplay a 21day permit.
o I have valid proof of insurance (suchas the original insurance identificationcard or policy) for the motorcycle I amtaking the test on. Photocopies orcopies from the Internet are notacceptable.
o I have brought money (check, moneyorder, or cash) to pay the driverslicense fee and the retesting fee,
if applicable. There is a $20 test feefor a third or subsequent test (afterfailing first two).
Creditanddebitcardsarenotaccepted.
If under 18 years of age:o I have my certificate of course comple-
tion from an approved rider safety
course.Note:Riders under 18 will be requiredto have a parent or courtappointedguardian sign the application to addthe motorcycle endorsement.
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CONTENTS
PrefaceRider Training. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I
MotorcyclesLicense Endorsement and Permit . . . IIPermit Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IISkills Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IINew Resident Information . . . . . . . .IIIEndorsement Renewal . . . . . . . . . . . IIILicense Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IIIMotorcycle Registration/Insurance . . IIIEquipment Requirements . . . . . . . . IVOperating Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IVAlcohol and Motorcycles . . . . . . . . . VRed Light, Green Light . . . . . . . . . . .V
Motorized Bicycles and MopedMotorized Bicycle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIOperators Permit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIInstruction Permit Process . . . . . . . VISkills Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIDuplicate Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII
Vehicle Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . VIIInsurance Requirements . . . . . . . . . VIIEquipment Requirements . . . . . . . . VIIOperating Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII
The Rider andthe Motorcycle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Preparing to RideWear the Right Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Know Your Motorcycle . . . . . . . . . . 4
Know Your Responsibilities . . . . . . . 7
Ride Within Your AbilitiesBasic Vehicle Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Keeping Your Distance . . . . . . . . . 12SEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Intersections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Increasing Conspicuity . . . . . . . . . 21Crash Avoidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Handling Dangerous Surfaces . . . . 27Mechanical Problems . . . . . . . . . . 30Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Flying Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Getting Off the Road . . . . . . . . . . 32Carrying Passengersand Cargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Group Riding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Being in Shape to RideWhy This Informationis Important . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Alcohol and Other Drugsin Motorcycle Operation . . . . . . . . 39Alcohol in the Body . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Alcohol and the Law . . . . . . . . . . . 41Minimize the Risks . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Step in to Protect Friends . . . . . . . 42Marijuana and Motorcycle
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Fatigue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Earning Your License . . . . . . . . .44
Three-Wheel SupplementSupplementary Informationfor Three-Wheel Motorcycles . . . . . 46Know Your Vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Basic Vehicle Control. . . . . . . . . . . 48
Carrying Passengers and Cargo . . . 51
Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
T-CLOCS Pre-Ride Checklist . .62
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PREFACE I
This manual is intended to help ridersprepare for the knowledge and skillstests required to obtain a permit and
endorsement. It includes rider informa-tion that will help beginner and experi-enced riders alike. This manual includesMinnesota state requirements as wellas a guide to safe riding practices.
Skill and care are safety necessitiesfor riders. Twowheeled vehicles havethe disadvantage of being less stableand more vulnerable than other vehicles
on the road. In a crash, riders oftensustain severe injuries because they lackthe protection provided to occupantsof larger vehicles.
Over the last ten years, crash studiesshow motorcyclists are seven times morelikely to be injured and 34 times morelikely to die in a crash than passengersin any other type of vehicle.
Approximately 80 percent of motor-cycle crashes result in death or injury,compared with less than 30 percent ofauto crashes. These numbers emphasizethe importance of knowing the rulesof motorcycle and moped operation.While cornering, steering and accelera-tion characteristics of motorcycles
can exceed other vehicles, their shortcomings with regard to safety shouldnot be ignored.
The hazards of riding a twowheeledvehicle constantly test the skills of eventhe most experienced rider. For this
reason, Minnesota tests everyoneseeking permits and license endorse-ments to legally operate a motorcycleor moped in the state.
Rider Training
The Minnesota Department of PublicSafety recommends rider trainingcourses for both beginner and experi-
enced riders. Motorcyclists are encour-aged to update their riding skills asoften as possible. Studies have shownthat riders who have taken trainingcourses are better equipped to copewith riding emergencies and less likelyto be involved in a crash.
In 1982, the state of Minnesotaestablished a Motorcycle Safety Fund
to upgrade and improve trainingcourses, test procedures, publicawareness and motorcycle safety. TheMinnesota Motorcycle Safety Programadministers these funds and offersstateapproved rider training courses.
For more information on motorcyclerules, safety or training classes, contact
the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Centerat 8004076677 or visitwww.motorcyclesafety.org
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MOTORCYCLE III
After passing the skills test, you willneed to apply for a duplicate driverslicense and have your endorsement
added. Your receipt from the duplicatelicense application will allow you to rideyour motorcycle without restrictionsuntil you receive your new license.
New ResidentsIf you are a new Minnesota resident
and have a valid drivers license with amotorcycle endorsement from anotherstate (or one that has been expired forless than one year) you will need to takea knowledge test to get a Minnesotadrivers license. You may take the motor-cycle knowledge test at the same timeyou take the drivers license knowledgetest. The motorcycle skills test will bewaived when you pass the knowledgetest. An endorsement fee of $21 willbe added to the cost of your Minnesotadrivers license.
Endorsement RenewalWhen your Minnesota drivers license
has a two-wheeled motorcycle endorse-ment, you will pay the license fee plusa $13 motorcycle endorsement feewhen you renew your license withyour endorsement.
License FeesFees are determined by law and are
subject to change.
Motorcycle Fees * Motorcycle instruction
permit/endorsement fee . . . . $21.00
** Motorcycle endorsement
renewal (2 wheel only) . . . . . $13.00 Duplicate drivers license . . . . $15.75
Motorized Bicycle Operators Permit * Knowledge test and 30-day
instruction permit . . . . . . . . . . $6.75
Operators permit underage 21, valid to age 21 . . . . . . $9.75
Duplicate of operators permit. .$5.25
Renewal, age 21 or older. . . . $15.75
Retesting Fees * Third and subsequent
knowledge test(after failing first two) . . . . . . $10.00
* Third and subsequentroad/skills test(after failing first two) . . . . . . $20.00
* Available at driver exam stations only.
** Fee does not include the cost ofa new license.
Motorcycle RegistrationAll motorcycles must be registered
with the state and display a license plateshowing that registration tax has beenpaid. The registration period is fromMarch 1 through the last day of Febru-ary. Re-registration is required annuallyand expires at the end of February. Newresidents have 60 days after becomingMinnesota residents to register theirmotorcycles. For more information,contact your local deputy registrar orcall 651-297-2126.
Motorcycle InsuranceAll motorcycles registered in Minne-
sota must have liability insurance cover-age for property damage or injuryto another party. No-fault injury anduninsured motorist protections areoptional. Coverage for damage, loss ormotorcycle theft is also optional. TheCommissioner of Public Safety may
revoke the registration and suspend thelicense of any motorcycle operator whodoes not carry the required insurance.
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IV MOTORCYCLE
Motorcycle EquipmentRequirements
All motorcycles must have basic
safety equipment in working condition.In addition to a rearview mirror, hornand muffler, motorcycles must beequipped with the following:
Atleastone,andnotmorethantwo, headlights with high andlowbeam settings. (Headlightmodulators are legal in Minnesota.)
One
red
taillight,
including
brake
light/stop lamp. A blue dot of upto one inch in diameter on the tail-light is legal.
Footrestsforapassengermustbe provided if the motorcycle isequipped with a seat designed orsuited for use by a passenger.
Atleastonebrake,frontorrear,which may be operated by handor foot.
All provisions of Minnesota Statutes,Chapter 169, pertaining to othermotor vehicle equipment also applyto motorcycles, except those whichby their nature have no application.
Protective Eyewear
Motorcyclists are required to wearprotective eyewear, such as glasses,goggles or a face shield, even if themotorcycle is equipped with a wind-screen. Contact lenses do not qualifyas protective eyewear.
HelmetsMotorcyclists and passengers under
18 years of age and those operatingon a motorcycle permit must wear aDOTapproved helmet. Helmet use isstrongly recommended by the Depart-ment of Public Safety for all motor-cyclists and passengers.
Motorcycle Operating RulesThere are a number of basic operating
rules that are unique to twowheeled
vehicles. Theoperatormayrideonlyona
permanent, regular seat.
Apassengermayrideonlyonapermanent, regular passengersseat on the motorcycle or in asidecar attached to the vehicle.
Passengersmaynotrideona
motorcycle unless they can reachthe footrests on each side of themotorcycle with both feet whileseated.
Operatorsandpassengersunder18 and those operating on amotorcycle permit must wearDOTapproved helmets.
The
operator
and
the
passenger
must sit astride the motorcycle seat,facing forward, with one leg oneach side of the motorcycle (passen-gers in a sidecar are exempt).
Operatorsmaynotcarrypackagesor articles that interfere withkeeping both hands on thehandlebars.
Operators
may
not
ride
a
motor-cycle between lanes of moving orstationary vehicles headed in thesame direction.
Theoperatormusthavethehead-light on at all times when ridingin Minnesota.
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MOTORCYCLE V
Live to Ride.Alcohol andMotorcycles Dont Mix
Riding a motorcycle requires more
skills and different skills thandrivingacarortruck.Becauseofthis,alcohol use impairs a riders skills soonerand more severely than a drivers, evenat blood alcohol levels below the legallevel of .08.
Fact: drinking and riding kills motor-
cyclists.State law requires that coroners
test the blood alcohol level of trafficcrash victims who die within four hoursof a crash. About 40 percent of themotorcyclists killed since 2002 hadalcohol in their system.
Minnesota State Patrol officers, localpolice and county sheriffs patrol Minne-sota highways every day to enforceDWI laws. In the past decade, they
made about 30,000 DWI arrests peryear. A DWI will affect all your drivingprivileges not only your privilegeto operate a motorcycle.
If you drink, dont ride, and ifyou ride, dont drink. Do it for yourfamily and friends as well as for yourown safety. Set the example for otherriders, and dont be afraid to step inwhen you see someone else about tomake a mistake. Do it for theirfamiliesand theirfriends.
For a summary of Minnesota lawson driving and riding under the influ-ence of alcohol and other drugs, andthe consequences of doing so, pleaserefer to chapter 8 of the Minnesota
Drivers Manual, available online atdvs.dps.mn.gov
Red Light, Green Light:Minnesota Law
Minnesota law addresses instances
when motorcycles, bicycles and mopedsare not detected by control systems attraffic lights, and a signal change doesnot occur.
The law gives motorcyclists, bicyclistsand moped riders the option toproceed through the intersection aftera reasonable amount of time, andprovides an affirmative legal defense tothis action, based on five conditions:
Themotorcycle,bicycleormopedhas been brought to a completestop.
Thetrafc-controlsignalcontinuesto show a red light for anunreasonable time.
Thetrafc-controlsignalisappar-
ently malfunctioning or, if pro-grammed to change to a green lightonly after detecting the approachof a motor vehicle, the signal hasapparently failed to detect themotorcycle, bicycle or moped.
Novehicleorpersonisapproachingon the roadway to be crossed or
entered, orApproachingvehiclesorpersonsare
so far away that they do not consti-tute an immediate hazard.
The affirmative defense applies onlyto an alleged violation for entering orcrossing an intersection controlled bya trafficcontrol signal against a redlight. It does not provide a defenseto any other civil or criminal action.
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VI MOTORIZED BICYCLE AND MOPED
Motorized BicycleMotorized bicycles are registered as
mopeds. A motorized bicycle must meet
the following requirements:Electricmotororaliquid-fueled
engine with piston displacementof 50 cubic centimeters or less.
Maximumoftwobrakehorsepower.
Maximumspeedof30mphonaflat surface.
Moped Operators PermitAny person who has a valid drivers
license may operate a moped withouttaking a moped test. Anyone withouta drivers license, regardless of age,must obtain a moped operators permitto legally operate a moped (see sectionbelow). You must carry your license orpermit with you when you ride.
Moped Instruction PermitProcess
To obtain a moped operators instruc-tion permit you must:
Beatleast15yearsold.
Presentproperidentication.
Presentacerticateofcompletionissued by a state approved moped
safety course.
Passavisionscreening.
Passaknowledgetest.
If you are under 18 years old, you mustmeet these requirements and present acertified approval slip from your parentor legal guardian before taking theknowledge test and skills test. Approvalforms are available at license examstations.
To find out about moped safety coursesnear you, contact your local driver examstation or call 8004076677. Findcourse information and exam stationlocations at www.mndriveinfo.orgorcall 6512972005.
The knowledge test includes questionson driving laws and rules of the roadas well as information specific to two
wheeled vehicles. In addition to thismanual, study the Minnesota DriversManual.
When you have passed the knowledgetest and paid the $6.75 examinationfee, you will receive a 30day mopedinstruction permit. This instructionpermit allows you to practice ridinga moped only within a onemile radius
of your residence.
For operators under the age of 16,during the instruction permit period,only a parent or guardian of the operatormay ride on the moped as a passenger.
Moped Operators PermitSkills Test
You must pass a skills test to obtaina moped operators permit.
When you take your skills test, youmust bring:
Your30-daymopedoperatorsinstruction permit.
Currentproofofinsuranceforthe moped used for testing.
A
DOT-approved
helmet
and
eye
protection.
You will not be allowed to test ifyou do not have all of the above items.
A parental approval slip is requiredfor persons under age 18. Approvalforms are available at license examstations.
The moped operators permit skillstest consists of:
Starting
Tightcircles
Quickstop
Turns(rightandleft)
Lanechanging
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MOPED VII
Stop signs and/or trafc lights
Right of way
This test is conducted on public streets,unlike the motorcycle skills test. Uponsuccessful completion of the skills testyou will need to apply for a mopedoperators permit.
If your moped operators permit is lostor there is a change of name or address,you may apply for a duplicate permit.
Moped Vehicle RegistrationMopeds must be registered, and
registrations must be renewed annually.The vehicle must display current regis-tration tabs. Registration and renewalcan be done at any Driver and VehicleServices deputy registrars office.
MopedInsurance Requirements
All mopeds registered in Minnesotamust have liability insurance coveragefor property damage or injury to anotherparty. No-fault injury and uninsuredmotorist protections are optional. Cover-age for damage, loss or moped theftis also optional. The Commissioner ofPublic Safety may revoke the registration
and suspend the license of any mopedoperator who does not carry the requiredinsurance.
MopedEquipment Requirements
These rules apply to required equip-ment and gear for moped riders:
A moped must meet the same
lighting requirements as a motor-cycle, with a headlight, taillight andstop lamp. The headlight must be onduring operation. Mopeds manufac-tured before 1987 are not normallyequipped with a headlight or taillightand may be operated during daylighthours only.
A horn and mirror are requiredsafety equipment for a moped.
Moped riders must wear protective
eyewear.
Moped riders under 18 years oldmust wear a DOT-approved motor-cycle helmet.
The Department of Public Safetyrecommends that moped operatorsobserve the same rules of safetyand wear the same protective equip-
ment suggested for motorcycle riders.
Moped Operating Rules
These rules and restrictions apply tooperating mopeds:
Because of the relatively low speedsof mopeds, you should ride in thetraffic lane as far right on the road-way as possible unless you are
making a left turn. Riding on side-walks is not permitted except whereit would be necessary for a shortdistance to get from a driveway, alleyor building to an adjacent roadway.
Mopeds are not allowed on lanesor trails that have been set asidefor bicycles and the exclusive useof non-motorized traffic.
Moped riders on a roadway shall notride more than two abreast and shallnot impede the normal and reason-able movement of traffic.
Mopeds are not allowed on inter-state freeways.
A moped equipped with a headlight
and taillight that meet motorcyclelighting requirements may be oper-ated during nighttime hours. Nightor nighttime means the time fromone-half hour after sunset to one-halfhour before sunrise.
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MINNESOTA RIDER TRAINING
VIII AND EDUCATION
Basic Rider Course (BRC)The basic rider course is intended for
novice riders no experience is neces-
sary but experienced riders benefitfrom this course, as well. Trainingmotorcycles are provided. A rider 18years of age or older who has a validmotorcycle permit can earn a motor-cycle endorsement upon successfulcompletion of the skills test at theend of the course (skills test waiver).Riders younger than 18 years of age
are
required
to
take
the
BRC
beforetaking the state motorcycle knowledge
(permit) and skills tests.
Special Evening Hours forState Riding Test
The Minnesota Department of
Public Safety Office of Driver andVehicle Services has a convenientevening testing program just formotorcycle riders. Several exam stationsare open from 5 to 7 p.m. one nightper week throughout the summer formotorcycle endorsement skills testing.Visit www.motorcyclesafety.orgor8004076677 for more information.
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2
PREFACE
Welcome to the Seventeenth Editionof the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual(MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely
in traffic requires special skills andknowledge. The Motorcycle SafetyFoundation (MSF) has made this manualavailable to help novice motorcyclistsreduce their risk of having a crash. Themanual conveys essential safe ridinginformation and has been designedfor use in licensing programs. Whiledesigned for the novice, all motorcyclists
can benefit from the information thismanual contains.
The original Motorcycle OperatorManual was developed by the NationalPublic Services Research Institute (NPSRI)under contract to the National HighwayTraffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)and within the terms of a cooperativeagreement between NHTSA and the
MSF. The manual and related testswere used in a multi-year study ofimproved motorcycle operator licensingprocedures, conducted by the CaliforniaDepartment of Motor Vehicles undercontract to NHTSA.
The purpose of this manual is toeducate riders and to help them avoidcrashes while safely operating eithera standard two-wheel motorcycle or athree-wheel motorcycle.
This latest edition has undergonesignificant improvements, and containsnew, more in-depth information,
designed to: Guide riders in preparing to ride
safely
Develop effective street strategies
Give riders more comprehensiveunderstanding of safe group ridingpractices
Describe in detail best practices for
carrying passengers and cargo
In promoting improved licensingprograms, the MSF works closely withstate licensing agencies. The Foundationhas helped more than half the statesin the nation adopt the MotorcycleOperator Manual for use in theirlicensing systems.
Improved licensing, along with highquality motorcycle rider education andincreased public awareness, has thepotential to reduce crashes. Staff atthe Foundation are available to assistgovernmental and private agencies inefforts to improve motorcycle safety.
Tim BuchePresident,Motorcycle Safety Foundation
msf-usa.org
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1 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE
Motorcycling is aunique experience.Compared to a car,
you dont sit in amotorcycle, youbecome part of it.Not as a passivedriver, but as anactive rider arcinginto a string ofsmooth corners,playing along with
the rhythm of theroad; shifting,accelerating,and brakingwith precision.Whether youride to and fromwork or preferthe camaraderie of a group ride on the
weekend, motorcycling engages all yoursenses and creates an invigorating senseof freedom.
Along with that freedom comesresponsibility. All states requiresome form of license endorsementdemonstrating you possess a minimumlevel of skill and knowledge. Thisbooklet and other motorcycle
publications can help prepare you tobe successful. You might also considertaking a formal hands-on trainingcourse, even if your state doesnt requirethat you complete one. Youll learn howto improve your riding skills and mentalstrategies, so you can be a safer, morealert rider.
The diagram above illustrates thecomplex environment that awaits
you, and supports the concept that,as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
says, Safe riding depends as muchon the mental skills of awareness andjudgment as it does on a physical skill ofmaneuvering the machine.
Successfully piloting a motorcycle is amuch more involved task than driving acar. Motorcycling requires a fine senseof balance and a heightened sense ofawareness and position amidst other
roadway users. A motorcycle respondsmore quickly to rider inputs than a car,but is also more sensitive to outsideforces, like irregular road surfaces orcrosswinds. A motorcycle is also lessvisible than a car due to its narrowerprofile, and offers far less protection byexposing its rider to other traffic andthe elements. All these risks can be
managed through study, training, andpractice.
RIDING ENVIRONMENT
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PREPARING TO RIDE 2
What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determiningwhether or not youll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off on anytrip, 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
When you ride, your gear is right
if it protects you. In any crash, you havea far better chance of avoiding seriousinjury if you wear:
A DOT-compliant helmet.
Face or eye protection.
Protective clothing.
Helmet Use
Crashes can occur particularlyamong untrained, beginning riders.And one out of every five motorcyclecrashes results in head or neck injuries.Head injuries are just as severe as neckinjuries and far more common. Crashanalyses show that head and neckinjuries account for a majority of seriousand fatal injuries to motorcyclists.
Research also shows that, with fewexceptions, head and neck injuries arereduced by properly wearing a qualityhelmet.
Some riders dont wear helmetsbecause they think helmets will limittheir view to the sides. Others wearhelmets only on long trips or whenriding at high speeds. But, here aresome facts to consider:
A DOT-compliant helmet letsyou see as far to the sides asnecessary. A study of more than900 motorcycle crashes, where40% of the riders wore helmets,did not find even one case in which
a helmet kept a rider from spottingdanger.
Most crashes happen on shorttrips (less than five miles long), justa few minutes after starting out.
Most riders are riding slower than30 mph when a crash occurs. Atthese speeds, helmets can cut boththe number and the severity of headinjuries by half.
No matter what the speed, helmeted
riders are three times more likely tosurvive head injuries than those notwearing helmets at the time of thecrash. The single most important thingyou can do to improve your chances ofsurviving a crash is to wear a securely-fastened, quality helmet.
Helmet Selection
There are two primary types ofhelmets, providing two different levelsof coverage: three-quarter and full face.
Whichever style you choose, you canget the most protection by making surethat the helmet:
Is designed to meet U.S.Department of Transportation(DOT) and state standards. Helmetswith a label from the Snell MemorialFoundation also give you anassurance of quality.
Fits snugly, all the way around.
Has no obvious defects such ascracks, loose padding or frayedstraps.
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Whatever helmet youdecide on, keep it securelyfastened on your head
when you ride. Otherwise,if you are involved in acrash, its likely to fly offyour head before it gets achance to protect you.
Eye and FaceProtection
A plastic impact-resistant
faceshield can help protectyour whole face in acrash. It also protects youfrom wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects andpebbles thrown up from cars ahead.These problems are distracting andcan be painful. If you have to dealwith them, you cant devote your fullattention to the road.
Goggles protect your eyes, thoughthey wont protect the rest of your facelike a faceshield does. A windshieldis not a substitute for a faceshield orgoggles. Most windshields will notprotect your eyes from the wind. Neitherwill eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasseswont keep your eyes from watering,and they might blow off when you turn
your head while riding.
To be effective, eye or faceshieldprotection must:
Be free of scratches.
Be resistant to penetration.
Give a clear view to either side.
Fasten securely, so it does not
blow off. Permit air to pass through, to
reduce fogging.
Permit enough room foreyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed.
Tinted eye protection should not beworn when little light is available.
Clothing
The right clothing protects you ina collision. It also provides comfort,as well as protection from heat, cold,debris and hot and moving parts of themotorcycle. It can also make you more
visible to others. Jacket and pants should cover
arms and legs completely. Theyshould fit snugly enough to keepfrom flapping in the wind, yetloosely enough to move freely.Leather offers the most protection.Sturdy synthetic material providesa lot of protection as well. Wear
a jacket even in warm weather toprevent dehydration. Many aredesigned to protect without gettingyou overheated, even on summerdays. Some riders choose jacketsand pants with rigid body armorinserts in critical areas for additionalprotection.
Boots or shoes should be highand sturdy enough to cover yourankles and give them support. Solesshould be made of hard, durable,slip-resistant material. Keep heelsshort so they do not catch on roughsurfaces. Tuck in laces so they wontcatch on your motorcycle.
HELMETS
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4
Gloves allow a better grip and helpprotect your hands in a crash. Yourgloves should be made of leather or
similar durable material. Hearing protection reduces
noise while allowing you to hearimportant sounds such as car hornsor sirens. Long term exposure toengine and wind noise can causepermanent hearing damage evenif you wear a full face helmet.Whether you choose disposable
foam plugs or reusable custommolded devices, be sure you adhereto state laws regarding hearingprotection.
In cold or wet weather, your clothesshould keep you warm and dry, aswell as protect you from injury. Youcannot control a motorcycle well ifyou are numb. Riding for long periodsin cold weather can cause severe chilland fatigue. A winter jacket shouldresist wind and fit snugly at the neck,wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits
designed for motorcycle riding resisttearing apart or ballooning up at highspeeds.
KNOW YOUR
MOTORCYCLE
There are plenty of things on thehighway that can cause you trouble.Your motorcycle should not be oneof them. To make sure that yourmotorcycle wont let you down:
Start with the right motorcyclefor you.
Read the owners manual.
Be familiar with the motorcyclecontrols.
Check the motorcycle beforeevery ride.
Keep it in safe riding conditionbetween rides.
Avoid add-ons and modificationsthat make your motorcycle harder
to handle.
The Right Motorcycle For You
First, make sure your motorcycle isright for you. It should fit you. Yourfeet should reach the ground whileyou are seated on the motorcycle, andthe 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 andbrakelight.
CLOTHING
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 wellas goggles.
TEST YOURSELF 1
Answer - page 45
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5 PREPARING TO RIDE
Front and rear brakes.
Turn signals.
Horn.
Two mirrors.
Borrowing and Lending
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles,beware. Crashes are more likely to occuramong beginning riders especiallyin the first months of riding. Ridingan unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the
problem. If you borrow a motorcycle,get familiar with it in a controlled area.And if you lend your motorcycle tofriends, make sure they are licensed andknow how to ride before allowing themout into traffic.
No matter how experienced youmay be, ride extra carefully on anymotorcycle thats new or unfamiliar
to you. More than half of all crashes
involve riders with less than five monthsof experience on their motorcycle.
Get Familiar with the
Motorcycle Controls
Make sure you are completely familiarwith the motorcycle before you takeit out on the street. Be sure to reviewthe owners manual. This is particularlyimportant if you are riding a borrowedmotorcycle.
If you are going to use an unfamiliar
motorcycle:
Make all the checks you would onyour own motorcycle.
Find out where everything is,particularly the turn signals, horn,headlight switch, fuel-supply valveand engine cut-off switch. Find andoperate these items without having
to look for them.
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
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Know the controls. Work thethrottle, clutch, brakes, and shifter afew times before you start riding.
Ride very cautiously and be awareof surroundings. Accelerate gently,take turns more slowly and leaveextra room for stopping.
Check Your Motorcycle
A motorcycle needs more frequentattention than a car. A minor technicalfailure on a car is seldom more than an
inconvenience for the driver. The samefailure on a motorcycle may result in acrash or having to leave your motorcycleparked on the side of the road. Ifanythings wrong with your motorcycle,youll want to find out about it beforeyou get in traffic.
The primary source of informationabout how a motorcycle should beinspected and maintained is its ownersmanual. Be sure to absorb all of itsimportant information. A motorcycle willcontinue to ride like new if it is properlymaintained and routine inspectionsbecome part of its maintenance cycle.
A pre-ride inspection only takesa few minutes and should be done
before every ride to prevent problems.Its quick and easy to check the criticalcomponents and should be as routineand automatic as checking the weatherforecast before heading out for the day.A convenient reminder developed byMSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a T-CLOCStear-out sheet at the back of thismanual for you to keep with you when
you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection shouldbe conducted before every ride, andincludes checks of:
T Tires and Wheels
Check tire ination pressure,treadwear and general condition ofsidewalls and tread surface.
Try the front and rear brake leversone at a time. Make sure each feelsfirm and holds the motorcycle whenfully applied.
C Controls
Make sure the clutch and throttleoperate smoothly. The throttleshould snap back to fully closedwhen released. The clutch shouldfeel tight and should operatesmoothly.
Try the horn. Make sure it works.L Lights and Electrics
Check both headlight and taillight.Test your switch to make sure bothhigh and low beams work.
Turn on both right and left handturn signals. Make sure all lights areworking properly.
Try both brakes and make sure eachone turns on the brake light.
Clean and adjust your mirrorsbefore starting. Its difficult to ridewith one hand while you try toadjust a mirror. Adjust each mirrorso you can see the lane behind andas much as possible of the lane nextto you. When properly adjusted, a
mirror may show the edge of yourarm or shoulder but its the roadbehind you and to the side that aremost important.
O Oil and Other Fluids
Check engine oil and transmissionfluid levels.
Check the brake hydraulic uid and
coolant level weekly.
Be sure your fuel valve is openbefore starting out. With the fuelvalve closed, your motorcycle maystart with only the fuel that is still inthe lines, but will stall once the linesare empty.
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7 PREPARING TO RIDE
Look underneath the motorcycle forsigns of an oil or fuel leak.
C Chassis
Check the front suspension. Ensurethere is no binding. The rear shocksand springs should move smoothly.
Be sure the chain or belt is adjustedaccording to the manufacturersspecifications and that the sprocketsare not worn or damaged.
S Stands
Ensure the side stand operatessmoothly and that the spring holdsit tightly in the up position. Ifequipped, the center stand shouldalso be held firmly against the framewhenever the motorcycle is moving.
Additionally, regular maintenancesuch as tune-ups and oil changes are as
important for a motorcycle as routinecheckups by your doctor are for you.Wear and tear is normal with use;routine maintenance will help preventcostly breakdowns. The schedule forregular upkeep for motorcycle partsand controls is contained in yourmotorcycles owners manual.
KNOW YOUR
RESPONSIBILITIES
Accident implies an unforeseenevent that occurs without fault ornegligence. In traffic, that is not thecase. In fact, most people involved in acrash can claim some responsibility forwhat takes place.
Consider a situation where someonedecides to drive through an intersectionon a yellow light turning red. Yourlight turns green. You pull into theintersection without checking forpossible traffic. That is all it takes for thetwo of you to crash. It was the driversresponsibility to stop, and it was your
responsibility to look before pulling out.Both of you are at fault. Someone elsemight be the first to start the chain of
events leading to a crash, but it doesntleave any of us free of responsibility.
As a rider you cant be sure that otheroperators will see you or yield the rightof way. To lessen your chances of acrash occurring:
Be visible wear proper clothing,use your headlight, ride in the bestlane position to see and be seen.
Communicate your intentions use the proper signals, brake lightand lane position.
Maintain an adequate space
cushion when following, beingfollowed, lane sharing, passing andbeing passed.
Search your path of travel 12seconds ahead.
Identify and separate hazards.
Be prepared to act remain alertand know how to carry out propercrash-avoidance skills.
Blame doesnt matter when someoneis injured in a crash. The ability to ride
aware, make critical decisions and carrythem out separates responsible ridersfrom the rest. Remember, it is up to youto keep from being the cause of, or anunprepared participant in, any crash.
More than half of all crashes:
A. Occur at speeds greater than35mph.
B. Happen at night.
C. Are caused by worn tires.
D. Involve riders who have less thanfive months of experience on theirmotorcycles.
TEST YOURSELF 2
Answer - page 45
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RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 8
This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance.Thats something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formalcourse of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse.But control begins with knowing
your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rulesof the road.
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL
Body Position
To control a motorcycle well:
Posture Position yourself
comfortably so you are able tooperate all the controls and can useyour arms to steer the motorcycle,rather than to hold yourself up.This helps you bond with yourmotorcycle and allows you to reactquickly to hazards.
Seat Sit far enough forward sothat arms are slightly bent when
you hold the handgrips. Bendingyour arms permits you to press onthe handlebars without having tostretch.
Hands Hold the handgripsfirmly to keep your grip over roughsurfaces. Start with your rightwrist flat. This will help you keepfrom accidentally using too much
HOLDING HANDGRIPS
throttle. Also, adjust the handlebarsso your hands are even with orbelow your elbows. This permitsyou to use the proper muscles forprecision steering.
Knees Keep your knees againstthe gas tank to help you keep yourbalance as the motorcycle turns.
Feet Keep your feet firmly on thefootrests to maintain balance. Dontdrag your feet. If your foot catcheson something, you could be injuredand it could affect your control ofthe motorcycle. Keep your feet near
the controls so you can get to themfast if needed. Also, dont let yourtoes point downward they mayget caught between the road andthe footrests.
Shifting Gears
There is more to shifting gears thansimply getting the motorcycle to pick
up speed smoothly. Learning to use thegears when downshifting, turning orstarting on hills is equally important forsafe motorcycle operation.
The gearshift lever is located in frontof the left footrest and is operated bythe left foot. To shift up to a highergear, position your foot under theshift lever and lift. To downshift, press
the shift lever down. The shift leverchanges one gear each time it is liftedor pressed down. Whenever the leveris released, spring loading returns it tocenter, where the mechanism resetsfor the next shift up or down. A typicalgear pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is
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9 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
for neutral, which is selected by eithera half lift from 1st gear or a halfpress from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles
have five gears, but some have four orsix gears.
As your motorcycle increasesspeed, you will need to shift up to a
higher gear. Shift up well before theengine RPM reaches its maximumrecommended speed. As a general rule,shift up soon enough to avoid over-revving the engine, but not so soon tocause the engine to lug.
When upshifting, use a 3-stepprocess:1) Roll off the throttle as yousqueeze the clutch lever, 2) lift theshift lever firmly as far as it will go, 3)smoothly ease out the clutch and adjustthe throttle. Once the shift is completed,release the shift lever to permit it toreset for the next shift.
You should shift down through thegears with the clutch as you slow orstop, and can also shift down when you
need more power to accelerate.Make certain you are riding slowly
enough when you shift into a lowergear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch,and the rear wheel may skid. Whenriding downhill or shifting into first gearyou may need to use the brakes to slow
enough before downshifting safely.
When downshifting, use a 3-stepprocess:1) Roll off the throttle as you
squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press theshift lever down firmly, 3) ease out theclutch lever as you roll on the throttle.Once the shift is completed, releasethe shift lever to permit it to reset forthe next shift. Rolling on the throttleslightly while smoothly easing out theclutch can help the engine come upto speed more quickly and make the
downshift smoother. Shifting to a lowergear causes an effect similar to usingthe brakes. This is known as enginebraking. To use engine braking, shiftdown one gear at a time and ease outthe clutch through the friction zonebetween each downshift. Keep theclutch in the friction zone until theengine speed stabilizes. Then ease out
the lever fully until ready for the nextdownshift. Usually you shift gears one ata time, but it is possible to shift throughmore than one gear while the clutch issqueezed.
Remain in first gear while you arestopped so that you can move outquickly if you need to.
Work toward a smooth, even clutchrelease, especially when downshifting. Itis best to change gears before enteringa turn. However, sometimes shiftingwhile in the turn is necessary. If so,remember to do so smoothly. A suddenchange in power to the rear wheel cancause a skid.
Braking
Improper braking technique remainsa significant contributing factor in manymotorcycle crashes. Your motorcyclehas two brake controls: one for thefront wheel and one for the rear wheel.Always use both brakes every time you
SHIFTING GEARS
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slow or stop. The front brake is morepowerful and can provide at least 70%of your total stopping power. The front
brake is safe to use if you use it properly.Maximum straight-line braking is
accomplished by fully applying bothfront and rear brakes without lockingeither wheel.
To do this:
Squeeze the front brakesmoothly, firmly and with
progressively more force. Do notgrab the brake lever or use abruptpressure.
As the motorcycles weighttransfers forward, more tractionbecomes available at the frontwheel, so the front brake can beapplied harder after braking begins.
Keep your knees against the
tank and your eyes up, lookingwell ahead. This helps you stop themotorcycle in a straight line.
Apply light-to-lighter pressureto the rear brake pedal to prevent arear wheel skid. As weight transfersforward less traction is availableat the rear. Use less rear brake
pressure.Using both brakes for even normal
stops will permit you to develop theproper habit or skill of using both brakesproperly in an emergency. Squeeze thefront brake and press down on the rear.Grabbing at the front brake or jammingdown on the rear can cause the brakesto lock, resulting in control problems.
Braking in a Corner
Any time a motorcycle is leaned over,the amount of traction available forbraking is reduced. The greater the leanangle, the more the possibility of thetires losing traction.
To stop as quickly and as safely aspossible in a curve, and depending onroad and traffic conditions, try to get the
motorcycle as perpendicular to the roadas possible, then brake. If conditions donot allow, brake smoothly and gradually,but do not apply as much braking forceas you would if the motorcycle werestraight up. As you slow, you can reduceyour lean angle, and as more tractionbecomes available for braking, you canmore firmly apply the brakes, so that
by the time the motorcycle is stopped,the motorcycle is straight up, and thehandlebars are squared.
Linked and IntegratedBraking Systems
Some motorcycles have linked brakingwhich connects the front and rearbrakes on the motorcycle and applies
braking pressure to both brakes wheneither the front lever or rear pedal isapplied. An integrated braking systemis a variation of the linked system inwhich partial front braking is appliedwhenever the rear brake is activated.Consult your owners manual for adetailed explanation on the operationand effective use of these systems.
Anti-Lock Braking Systems(ABS)
ABS is designed to prevent wheellock-up and avoid skids when stoppingin straight-line, panic situations. ABSoperates when maximum pressure onboth the front and rear brake controlsis applied. If electronic sensors detect
the possibility of a wheel lock, brakehydraulic pressure is released thenreapplied to maintain maximum brakingeffectiveness.
The system is capable of releasing andreapplying pressure more than 15 timesper second.
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12
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE
The best protection you can have isdistance a cushion of space
separating yourself from other vehicleson the roadway. This will provide youwith a clear view of emerging trafficsituations, so that if someone elsemakes a mistake, you will have:
More time to respond.
More space to maneuver, includingan escape route if necessary.
Lane PositionsSuccessful motorcyclists know that
they are safer when clearly seen. Insome ways the size of the motorcyclecan work to your advantage. Each trafficlane gives a motorcycle three paths oftravel, as indicated in the illustration.
Your lane position should help you:
Increase your ability to see and beseen.
Avoid others blind spots.
Avoid surface hazards.
Protect your lane from other drivers.
Communicate your intentions.
Avoid windblast from other vehicles.
Provide an escape route.
Set up for turns.
Many motorcyclists consider the leftthird of the lane the left tire track ofautomobiles to be their default laneposition. You should then considervarying your lane position as conditionswarrant, keeping in mind that noportion of the lane need be avoided including the center.
You should position yourself in theportion of the lane where you are mostlikely to be seen and you can maintaina space cushion around you. Changeposition as traffic situations change.Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and otherpotential problems are on your leftonly. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazardsare on your right only. If vehicles arebeing operated on both sides of you,the center of the lane, path 2, is usuallyyour best option.
Remember, the center third of thelane is the place where debris and oildrippings from cars collect and wherehazards such as manhole covers arelocated. Unless the road is wet, theaverage center strip permits adequate
LANE POSITIONS
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13 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
traction to ride on safely. You canoperate to the left or right of the greasestrip and still be within the center thirdof the traffic lane. Avoid riding on bigbuildups of oil and grease usually foundat busy intersections or tollbooths.
Experienced riders rely on their ownbest judgment and instincts. Oneabsolute, however, is to avoid riding inanother vehicles blind spot.
Following Another Vehicle
Following too closely is a factor incrashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic,motorcycles need as much distanceto stop as cars. Normally, a minimumof two secondsdistance should bemaintained behind the vehicle ahead.
To gauge your following distance:
Pick out a marker, such as apavement marking or lamppost, onor near the road ahead.
When the rear bumper of thevehicle ahead passes the marker,count off the seconds: one-
thousand-one, one-thousand-two. If you reach the marker before
you reach two, you are followingtoo closely.
A two-second following distanceleaves a minimum amount of space tostop or swerve if the driver ahead stopssuddenly. It also permits a better view ofpotholes and other hazards in the road.
A larger cushion of space is neededif your motorcycle will take longerthan normal to stop. If the pavementis slippery, if you cannot see throughthe vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavyand someone may squeeze in front ofyou, open up a three-second or morefollowing distance.
Keep well behind the vehicle ahead
even when you are stopped. This willmake it easier to get out of the wayif someone bears down on you frombehind. It will also give you a cushion ofspace if the vehicle ahead starts to backup for some reason.
FOLLOWING
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CONTENTS 14
14
When behind a car, ride where thedriver can see you in the rearview mirror.Riding in the center portion of the laneshould put your image in the middle of
the rearview mirror where a driver ismost likely to see you.
Riding at the far side of a lane maypermit a driver to see you in a sideviewmirror. But remember that most driversdont look at their sideview mirrorsnearly as often as they check therearview mirror. If the traffic situationallows, the center portion of the lane is
usually the best place for you to be seenby the drivers ahead and to prevent lanesharing by others.
Being Followed
Speeding up to lose someone followingtoo closely only ends up with someonetailgating you at a higher speed.
A better way to handle tailgaters
is to get them in front of you. Whensomeone is following too closely,change lanes and let them pass. If youcant do this, slow down and open upextra space ahead of you to allow roomfor both you and the tailgater to stop.This will also encourage them to pass.If they dont pass, you will have givenyourself and the tailgater more time andspace to react in case an emergency
does develop ahead.Passing and Being Passed
Passing and being passed by anothervehicle is not much different than with acar. However, visibility is more critical. Besure other drivers see you, and that yousee potential hazards.
Passing
1. Ride in the left portion of thelane at a safe following distance
to increase your line of sight andmake you more visible. Signaland check for oncoming traffic.Use your mirrors and turn yourhead to look for traffic behind.
2. When safe, move into the leftlane and accelerate. Select a laneposition that doesnt crowd thecar and provides space to avoidhazards in your lane.
3. Ride through the blind spot asquickly as possible.
4. Signal again, and completemirror and headchecks beforereturning to your original laneand then cancel the signal.
Remember, passes must becompleted within posted speed
limits, and only where permitted.Know your signs and road markings!
PASSING
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MERGING BLIND SPOTS
Merging Cars
Drivers on an entrance ramp maynot see you on the highway. Give them
plenty of room. Change to another laneif one is open. If there is no room for alane change, adjust speed to open upspace for the merging driver.
Cars Alongside
Do not ride next to cars or trucks inother lanes if you do not have to. You
might be in the blind spot of a car in thenext lane, which could switch into yourlane without warning. Cars in the nextlane also block your escape if you comeupon danger in your own lane. Speedup or drop back to find a place clear oftraffic on both sides.
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SEE
Good, experiencedriders are always aware of
what is going on aroundthem. They reduce theirrisk by using MSFs three-step SEE strategy:
Search
Evaluate
Execute
SEE will help youassess what is going onin traffic so you can planand implement the safestcourse of action as trafficsituations change. Letslook at each of thesesteps.
Search
How assertively yousearch, and how muchtime and space you have,can eliminate or minimizerisk. As you search, focuson finding potential escape routes,especially in or around intersections,shopping areas and school and
construction zones.One way to search is to use your
RiderRadar to aggressively scan theenvironment ahead of you, to the sides,and behind you to avoid potentialhazards even before they arise. Thereare three lead times experiencedriders consider. First, be alert and scanfor hazards that are about 2 seconds
ahead of you, or within your followingdistance. Scanning your 4-secondimmediate path can allow you time fora quick response if something shouldgo wrong. Anything that is within 4seconds of your path is consideredimmediate because 4 seconds is
considered enough time and space toswerve and/or brake for fixed hazards orfor someone or something entering yourpath of travel.
Finally, experienced riders search forhazards that are further out, lookingahead to an area it would take about12 seconds to reach. This providestime to prepare for a situation before itbecomes immediate.
Using the SEE strategy will help you toSearchfor a variety of factors such as:
Oncoming trafficthat may turn leftin front of you.
Trafficcoming from the left andfrom the right.
Trafficapproaching from behind.
RIDER RADAR
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18
Hazardousroad conditions thatrequire you to be alert, especially inareas with limited visibility. Visually
busy surroundings could hide youand your motorcycle from others.
Evaluate
Evaluate means to think about howhazards can interact to create risks foryou. Anticipate potential problems andhave a plan to reduce risks, particularlywhen faced with:
Road and surface characteristicssuch as potholes, guardrails,bridges, telephone poles and treesthat wont move into your path, butmay influence your riding strategy.
Trafc control devices includingtraffic signals, warning signs, andpavement markings, which willrequire you to carefully evaluatecircumstances ahead.
Vehicles and other trafc thatmay move into your path andincrease the likelihood of a crash.Think about your time and spacerequirements in order to maintain amargin of safety, and give yourselftime to react if an emergency arises.
Execute
Finally, Executeyour decision. Tocreate more space and minimize harmfrom any hazard:
Communicate your presence withlights and/or horn.
Adjust your speed by accelerating,
stopping or slowing. Adjust your position and/or
direction by swerving, changinglanes, or moving to another positionwithin your lane.
Apply the old adage one step at atime to handle two or more hazards.Adjust speed to permit two hazards
to separate. Then deal with them oneat a time as single hazards. Decision-making becomes more complex withthree or more hazards. Evaluate theconsequences of each and give equaldistance to the hazards.
In potential high-risk areas, such asintersections, shopping areas and schooland construction zones, cover the clutch
and both brakes to reduce the time youneed to react.
INTERSECTIONS
The greatest potential for conflictbetween you and other traffic is atintersections. An intersection can bein the middle of an urban area or ata driveway on a residential street
anywhere traffic may cross your path oftravel. Over one-half of motorcycle/carcrashes are caused by drivers entering ariders right-of-way. Cars that turn left infront of you, including cars turning leftfrom the lane on your right, and cars onside streets that pull into your lane, arethe biggest dangers. Your use of SEEat intersections is critical.
To reduce your reaction time, youshould:
A. Ride slower than the speedlimit.
B. Cover the clutch and the brakes.C. Shift into neutral when slowing.
D. Pull in the clutch when turning.
TEST YOURSELF 5
Answer - page 45
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1919 PREPARING TO RIDE
19 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
There are no guarantees thatothers see you. Never count on eyecontact as a sign that a driver willyield. Too often, a driver looks right at amotorcyclist and still fails to see himor her. The only eyes that you can counton are your own. If a car can enter your
path, assume that it will. Good ridersare always looking for trouble notto get into it, but to stay out of it.
Increase your chances of beingseen at intersections. Ride with yourheadlight on and in a lane position thatprovides the best view of oncomingtraffic. Provide a space cushion aroundthe motorcycle that permits you totake evasive action. When approaching
an intersection where a vehicle driveris preparing to cross your path, slowdown and select a lane position toincrease your visibility to that driver.Cover the clutch lever and both brakesto reduce reaction time. As you enter
Making eye contact with otherdrivers:
A. Is a good sign they see you.
B. Is not worth the effort it takes.
C. Doesnt mean that the driver willyield.
D. Guarantees that the other driver willyield to you.
TEST YOURSELF 6
Answer - page 45
LARGE INTERSECTIONS
SMALL INTERSECTION
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STOP SIGNS
PARKED CARS
the intersection, move away from thevehicle. Do not change speed or positionradically, as drivers might think you
are preparing to turn. Be prepared tobrake hard and hold your position if anoncoming vehicle turns in front of you,especially if there is other traffic aroundyou. This strategy should also be usedwhenever a vehicle in the oncominglane 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 willbring you into another drivers field ofvision at the earliest possible moment.In this picture, the rider has moved tothe left portion of the lane awayfrom the parked car so the driver onthe cross street can see him as soon as
possible.Remember, the key is to see as much
as possible and remain visible to otherswhile protecting your space.
If you have a stop sign or stop line,stop there first. Then edge forwardand stop again, just short of where thecross-traffic lane meets your lane. Fromthat position, lean your body forwardand look around buildings, parked carsor bushes to see if anything is coming.Just make sure your front wheel staysout of the cross lane of travel whileyoure looking.
Passing Parked Cars
When passing parked cars, staytoward the left of your lane. Youcan avoid problems caused by doorsopening, drivers getting out of carsor people stepping from betweencars. If oncoming traffic is present, itis usually best to remain in the center-lane position to maximize your spacecushion.
BLIND INTERSECTIONS
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21 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
A bigger problem can occur if thedriver pulls away from the curb withoutchecking 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 changelanes to make room for someonecutting in.
Cars making a sudden U-turn arethe most dangerous. They may cutyou off entirely, blocking the wholeroadway and leaving you with noplace to go. Since you cant tell what adriver will do, slow down and get thedrivers attention. Sound your horn andcontinue with caution.
Parking at the Roadside
If parking in a parallel parking spacenext to a curb, position the motorcycleat an angle with the rear wheel to thecurb. (Note: Some cities have ordinancesthat require motorcycles to park parallelto the curb.)
Increasing Conspicuity
In crashes with motorcyclists, driversoften say that they never saw themotorcycle. From ahead or behind, amotorcycles outline is much smallerthan a cars. Also, its hard to seesomething you are not looking for,and most drivers are not looking formotorcycles. More likely, they arelooking through the skinny, two-wheeled silhouette in search of cars thatmay pose a problem to them.
Even if a driver does see you coming,
you arent necessarily safe. Smallervehicles appear farther away andseem to be traveling slower than theyactually are. It is common for driversto pull out in front of motorcyclists,thinking they have plenty of time. Toooften, they are wrong.
However, you can do many things tomake it easier for others to recognizeyou and your motorcycle.
Clothing
Most crashes occur in broad daylight.
Wear bright-colored clothing to increaseyour chances of being seen. Remember,your body is half of the visible surfacearea of the rider/motorcycle unit.
Bright orange, red, yellow or greenjackets/vests are your best bets for beingseen. Your helmet can do more thanprotect you in a crash. Brightly coloredhelmets can also help others see you.
Any bright color is better than drabor dark colors. Reflective, bright-coloredclothing (helmet and jacket/vest) is best.
Reflective material on a vest and onthe sides of the helmet will help driverscoming from the side to spot you.Reflective material can also be a bighelp for drivers coming toward you or
from behind.
Headlight
The best way to help others see yourmotorcycle is to keep the headlight on at all times(new motorcycles soldin the USA since 1978 automatically
PARKING AT CURBS
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22
have the headlights on when running).Studies show that, during the day, amotorcycle with its light on is twice aslikely to be noticed. Use low beam at
night and in fog.
Signals
The signals on a motorcycle are similarto those on a car. They tell others whatyou plan to do.
However, due to a riders addedvulnerability, signals are even moreimportant. Use them anytime you plan
to change lanes or turn. Use them evenwhen you think no one else is around.Its the car you dont see thats going togive you the most trouble. Your signallights also make you easier to spot.Thats why its a good idea to use yourturn signals even when what you planto do is obvious.
When you enter a freeway, driversapproaching from behind are more likelyto see your signal blinking and makeroom for you.
Turning your signal light on beforeeach turn reduces confusion andfrustration for the traffic around you.
Once you turn, make sure your signal isoff or a driver may pull directly into yourpath, thinking you plan to turn again.
Use your signals at every turn so driverscan react accordingly. Dont make themguess what you intend to do.
Brake Light
Your motorcycles brake light is usuallynot as noticeable as the brake lights ona car particularly when your taillightis on. (It goes on with the headlight.)
If the situation will permit, help othersnotice you by flashing your brake lightbefore you slow down. It is especiallyimportant to flash your brake lightbefore:
You slow more quickly thanothers might expect (turning off ahigh-speed highway).
You slow where others may notexpect it (in the middle of a block orat an alley).
If you are being followed closely, itsa good idea to flash your brake lightbefore you slow. The tailgater may bewatching you and not see somethingahead that will make you slow down.This will hopefully discourage them from
tailgating and warn them of hazardsahead they may not see.
Using Your Mirrors
While its most important to keeptrack of whats happening ahead, youcant afford to ignore situations behind.Traffic conditions change quickly.Knowing whats going on behind is
essential for you to make a safe decisionabout how to handle trouble ahead.
Frequent mirror checks should be partof your normal searching routine. Makea special point of using your mirrors:
When you are stopped at anintersection. Watch cars coming up
SIGNALING
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23 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
from behind. If the drivers arentpaying attention, they could be ontop of you before they see you.
Before you change lanes. Makesure no one is about to pass you.
Before you slow down. The driverbehind may not expect you to slow,or may be unsure about where youwill slow. For example, you signal aturn and the driver thinks you planto turn at a distant intersection,rather than at a nearer driveway.
Most motorcycles have rounded(convex) mirrors. These provide awider view of the road behind thando flat mirrors. They also make carsseem farther away than they really are.If you are not used to convex mirrors,get familiar with them. (While youare stopped, pick out a parked car in
your mirror. Form a mental image ofhow far away it is. Then, turn aroundand look at it to see how close youcame.)Practice with your mirrors untilyou become a good judge of distance.Even then, allow extra distance beforeyou change lanes.
Head Checks
Checking your mirrors is not enough.Motorcycles have blind spots like cars.Before you change lanes, turn your head,and look to the side for other vehicles.
On a road with several lanes, checkthe far lane and the one next to you. Adriver in the distant lane may head forthe same space you plan to take.
Frequent head checks should be
your normal scanning routine, also.Only by knowing what is happeningall aroundyou are you fully preparedto deal with it.
Horn
Be ready to use your horn to getsomeones attention quickly.
It is a good idea to give a quick beep
before passing anyone that may moveinto your lane.
Here are some situations:
A driver in the lane next to youis driving too closely to the vehicleahead and may want to pass.
A parked car has someone in thedrivers seat.
Someone is in the street, riding abicycle or walking.
In an emergency, sound your hornloud and long. Be ready to stop orswerve away from the danger.
Reflective clothing should:
A. Be worn at night.
B. Be worn during the day.
C. Not be worn.
D. Be worn day and night
TEST YOURSELF 7
Answer - page 45
USING MIRRORS
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Keep in mind that a motorcycles hornisnt as loud as a cars therefore, use it,but dont rely on it. Other strategies, like
having time and space to maneuver, maybe appropriate along with the horn.
Riding at Night
At night it is harder for you to seeand be seen. Picking your headlightor taillight out of the car lights aroundyou is not easy for other drivers. Tocompensate, you should:
Reduce Your Speed Ride evenslower than you would during theday particularly on roads youdont know well. This will increaseyour chances of avoiding a hazard.
Increase Distance Distancesare harder to judge at night thanduring the day. Your eyes rely uponshadows and light contrasts todetermine how far away an objectis and how fast it is coming. Thesecontrasts are missing or distortedunder artificial lights at night.Open up a three-second followingdistance or more. And allow moredistance to pass and be passed.
Use the Car Ahead Theheadlights of the car ahead can giveyou a better view of the road than
even your high beam can. Taillightsbouncing up and down can alertyou to bumps or rough pavement.
Use Your High Beam Get all thelight you can. Use your high beamwhenever you are not followingor meeting a car. Be visible: Wearreflective materials when riding atnight.
Be Flexible About Lane Position.Change to whatever portion of thelane is best able to help you see, beseen and keep an adequate spacecushion.
CRASH AVOIDANCE
No matter how careful you are, therewill be times when you find yourself in a
tight spot. Your chances of getting outsafely depend on your ability to reactquickly and properly. Often, a crashoccurs because a rider is not prepared orskilled in crash-avoidance maneuvers.
Know when and how to stop orswerve, two skills critical in avoidinga crash. It is not always desirable or
possible to stop quickly to avoid anobstacle. Riders must also be able toswerve around an obstacle. Deter-mining which skill is necessary for thesituation is important as well.
Studies show that most crash-involved riders:
Underbrake the front tire andoverbrake the rear.
Did not separate braking fromswerving or did not chooseswerving when it was appropriate.
The following information offerssome good advice.
Quick Stops
To stop quickly, apply both brakes
at the same time. Dont be shy aboutusing the front brake, but dont grabit, either. Squeeze the brake leverfirmly and progressively. If the frontwheel locks, release the front brakeimmediately then reapply it firmly. Atthe same time, press down on therear brake. If you accidentally lock therear brake on a good traction surface,
you can keep it locked until you havecompletely stopped; but, even with alocked rear wheel, you can control themotorcycle on a straightaway if it isupright and going in a straight line.
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25 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Stopping Quicklyin a Curve
If you know the technique,
using both brakes in a turn ispossible, although it shouldbe done very carefully. Whenleaning the motorcycle someof the traction is used forcornering. Less traction isavailable for stopping. A skidcan occur if you apply too muchbrake. Also, using the front
brake incorrectly on a slipperysurface may be hazardous. Use cautionand squeeze the brake lever, never grab.
If you must stop quickly while turningin a curve, first straighten and squarethe handlebars, then stop. If you findyourself in a situation that does not allowstraightening first, such as when there is
a danger of running off the road in a left-hand curve, or when facing oncomingtraffic in a right-hand curve, apply thebrakes smoothly and gradually. As youslow, you can reduce your lean angleand apply more brake pressure until themotorcycle is straight and maximumbrake pressure can be applied. Alwaysstraighten the handlebars in the last few
feet of stopping to maintain your balanceand remain upright.
Swerving or Turning Quickly
Sometimes you may not have enoughroom to stop, even if you use bothbrakes properly. You may encounter anunexpected object in your path. Or the
car ahead might sqeal to a stop. Theonly way to avoid a crash may be toturn quickly or swerve around it.
A swerve is a sudden change indirection. It can be two quick turns,or a rapid shift to the side. Apply asmall amount of hand pressure to thehandlegrip located on the side of yourintended direction of escape. This will
SWERVE, THEN BRAKE BRAKE, THEN SWERVE
STOPPING DISTANCE
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cause the motorcycle to lean quickly.The sharper the turn(s), the more themotorcycle must lean.
Keep your body upright and allowthe motorcycle to lean in the directionof the turn while keeping your kneesagainst the tank and your feet solidly onthe foot rests. Let the motorcycle moveunderneath you. Make your escaperoute the target of your vision. Presson the opposite handlegrip once youclear the obstacle to return you to your
original direction of travel. To swerve tothe left, press the left handlegrip, thenpress the right to recover. To swerve tothe right, press right, then left.
If braking is required, separate itfrom swerving. Brake before or after never while swerving.
Maximum Straight-Line
BrakingMaximum straight-line braking is
accomplished by fully applying frontand rear brakes without locking eitherwheel. Keep your body centered overthe motorcycle and look well ahead,not down. This will help you keepthe motorcycle in as straight a line as
possible, minimizing lean angle and thelikelihood of the wheels losing traction.
Front-Wheel Skids
If the front wheel locks, release thefront brake immediately and completely.
Reapply the brake smoothly. Front-wheel skids result in immediate loss ofsteering control and balance. Failure to
fully release the brake lever immediatelywill result in a crash.
Rear-Wheel Skids
A skidding rear tire is a dangerouscondition that can result in a violent
crash and serious injury or death. Toomuch rear brake pressure causes rear-wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel
locks, your ability to change direction islost. To regain control the brake mustbe released. However, if the rear wheelis out of alignment with the front, thereis a risk of a high-side crash. This occurswhen the wheels are out of alignmentand a locked rear wheel is released. Themotorcycle can abruptly snap uprightand tumble, throwing the rider into the
air ahead of the motorcycles path. Evenslight misalignment can result in a high-side crash.
Curves
A primary cause of single-vehiclecrashes is motorcyclists running wide ina curve or turn and colliding with theroadway or a fixed object.
Every curve is different. Be alert towhether a curve remains constant,gradually widens, gets tighter orinvolves multiple turns. Ride within yourskill level and posted speed limits.
Your best path may not always followthe curve of the road. Change laneposition depending on traffic, roadconditions and curve of the road. If notraffic is present, start at the outsideof a curve to increase your line of sightand the effective radius of the turn. Asyou turn, move toward the inside of thecurve, and as you pass the center, moveto the outside to exit.
Another alternative is to move to thecenter of your lane before entering a
curve and stay there until you exit.This permits you to spot approachingtraffic as soon as possible. You can alsoadjust for traffic crowding the centerline, or debris blocking part of your lane.
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HANDLING DANGEROUS
SURFACES
Your chance of falling or beinginvolved in a crash increases wheneveryou ride across:
Uneven surfaces or obstacles.
Slippery surfaces. Railroad tracks.
Grooves and gratings.
Uneven Surfacesand Obstacles
Watch for uneven surfaces such as
bumps, broken pavement, potholes orsmall pieces of highway trash.
Try to avoid obstacles by slowing orgoing around them. If you must goover the obstacle, first determine if it ispossible. Approach it at as close to a 90angle as possible. Look where you want
to go to control your path of travel. If youhave to ride over the obstacle, you should:
Slow down as much as possiblebefore contact.
Make sure the motorcycle isstraight.
Rise slightly off the seat with your
CONSTANT CURVES
DECREASING CURVES(TIGHTER TURNS)
MULTIPLE CURVES
WIDENING CURVES
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CONTENTS 28
28
The best way to stop quickly is to:
A. Use the front brake only.
B. Use the rear brake first.
C. Throttle down and use the frontbrake.
D. Use both brakes at the same time.
TEST YOURSELF 8
Answer - page 45
OBSTACLES
weight on the footrests to absorbthe shock with your knees andelbows, and avoid being thrown offthe motorcycle.
Just before contact, roll on thethrottle slightly to lighten the frontend.
If you ride over an object on thestreet, pull off the road and check yourtires and rims for damage before ridingany farther.
Slippery Surfaces
Motorcycles handle better whenridden on surfaces that permit goodtraction. Surfaces that provide poortraction include:
Wet pavement, particularly just afterit starts to rain and before surface oilwashes to the side of the road.
Gravel roads, or where sand andgravel collect.
Mud, leaves, snow, and ice.
Lane markings (painted lines),steel plates and manhole covers,especially when wet.
To ride safely on slippery surfaces:
Reduce Speed Slow down
before you get to a slipperysurface to lessen your chances ofskidding. Your motorcycle needsmore distance to stop. And it isparticularly important to reduce
speed before entering wet curves.
Avoid Sudden Moves Anysudden change in speed or directioncan cause a skid. Be as smooth aspossible when you speed up, shiftgears, turn or brake.
Use Both Brakes The frontbrake is still effective, even on aslippery surface. Squeeze the brake
lever gradually to avoid locking thefront wheel. Remember, gentlepressure on the rear brake.
The center of a lane can behazardous when wet. When it startsto rain, ride in the tire tracks left by
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2929 PREPARING TO RIDE
29 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
cars. Often, the left tire track willbe the best position, depending ontraffic and other road conditions.
Watch for oil spots when you putyour foot down to stop or park. Youmay slip and fall.
Dirt and gravel collect along thesides of the road especially oncurves and ramps leading to and fromhighways. Be aware of whats on the
edge of the road, particularly whenmaking sharp turns and getting on oroff freeways at high speeds.
Rain dries and snow melts fasteron some sections of a road than onothers. Patches of ice tend to developin low or shaded areas and on bridgesand overpasses. Wet surfaces or wetleaves are just as slippery. Ride on theleast slippery portion of the lane andreduce speed.
Cautious riders steer clear of roadscovered with ice or snow. If you cantavoid a slippery surface, keep yourmotorcycle straight up and proceedasslowlyas possible. If you encountera large surface so slippery that youmust coast, or travel at a walking pace,
CROSSTRACKSCORRECT
CROSSTRACKSINCORRECT
PARALLEL TRACKSCORRECT
GRATE CROSSINGSCORRECT
PARALLEL TRACKSINCORRECT
GRATE CROSSINGSINCORRECT
When it starts to rain it is usuallybest to:
A. Ride in the center of the lane.
B. Pull off to the side until the rainstops.
C. Ride in the tire tracks left by cars.
D. Increase your speed.
TEST YOURSELF 9
Answer - page 45
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