California Motorcycle Manual | California Motorcycle Handbook

8/2/2019 California Motorcycle Manual | California Motorcycle Handbook

1/60

Edmund G. Brown Jr., Governor

State of California

Brian P. Kelly, Secretary

California State Transportation AgencyJean Shiomoto, Director

California Department of Motor Vehicles

ENGLISH

2015DMV HANDBOOK

MOTORCYCLE


2/60

PAGE LEFT

INTENTIONALLY

BLANK


3/60

- i -- i -

NEW LAWS 2015 .................................ii

DISCLAIMER .......................................ii

WHERE TO WRITE ..............................ii

DMV INFORMATION...........................iii

INTRODUCTION ...................................1

TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE OPERATION.......1Motorcycles .......................................1

Motor-Driven Cycles ..........................2

Motorized Bicycles ............................2

Motorized Scooter .............................2

Motorcycle License Type Chart .........3

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS....................4Earning Your License ........................4

Applying for a Motorcycle Permit .......5

Motorcycle Safety Training Course ....6

Cheating ............................................6

Motorcycle Skills Test ........................6

PREPARING TO RIDE...........................8

Wear the Right Gear .........................8Helmet Use.....................................8

Helmet Selection............................9

Face, Eye, and Ear Protection.........9

Clothing........................................ 10

Know Your Motorcycle ..................... 10

The Right Motorcycle................... 11

Get Familiar With the Motorcycle

Controls........................................ 11

Check Your Motorcycle................. 11Know Your Responsibilities ............. 12

RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES........... 13Basic Vehicle Control ...................... 13

Body Position............................... 13

Shifting Gears............................... 14

Braking......................................... 14

Turning.......................................... 15

U-turns.......................................... 15Keeping Your Distance .................... 16

Lane Positions.............................. 16

Carpool/High-Occupancy Vehicle

(HOV) Lanes................................. 17

Toll Highways and Vehicle

Crossings: Using Transponders or

Electronic Payment Devices.........17

Following Another Vehicle............17

Being Followed............................ 18

Passing and Being Passed..........19

Passing......................................... 19

Being Passed............................... 19

Lane Splitting................................ 19

Merging Vehicles..........................20

Vehicles Alongside.......................20

Search, Evaluate, andExecute (SEE) .................................21

Search..........................................21

Evaluate........................................21

Execute.........................................22

Intersections ....................................22Blind Intersections........................23

Passing Parked Vehicles..............23

Parking at the Roadside...............26

Increasing Visibility ..........................26

Clothing........................................27

Headlight......................................27

Turn Signals..................................27

Brake Light...................................28

Using Your Mirrors ........................28Head Checks................................29

Horn..............................................29

Riding at Night.............................30

Collision Avoidance .........................30

Quick Stops..................................31

Swerving or Turning Quickly.........31

Cornering......................................32

Handling Dangerous Surfaces ........33Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles....33

Slippery Surfaces.........................34

Railroad or Trolley Tracks and

Pavement Seams.........................35

Grooves and Gratings.................. 35

Mechanical Problems ......................36

Tire Failure....................................36

Stuck Throttle................................36

Wobble.........................................37Chain Problems............................37

Engine Seizure.............................38

Animals ...........................................38

Flying Objects .................................38

Getting Off the Road .......................38

Carrying Passengers and Cargo .....38

Equipment....................................39

TABLE OF CONTENTS


4/60

- ii -- ii -

NEW LAWS 2015

EFFECTIVEJANUARY1, 2015Vehicles: Motor ized Bicycles

The definition of motorized bicycles or "moped" has increased themaximum gross brake horsepower from less than two gross brake to lessthan four gross brake horsepower. The fulldefinition of this vehicle'sdescription can be found inCalifornia Vehicle Code (CVC) 406.

DISCLAIMERThis handbook is only a summary of laws and regulations. DMV, lawenforcement, and courts follow the full and exact language of the lawcontained in the California Vehicle Code. You may buy a copy of theCalifornia Vehicle Codeat any DMV office or visit our website at www.dmv.ca.gov.

WHERETOWRITEIf you have any comments or suggestions regarding this publication,please send them to:

Department of Motor VehiclesCustomer Communications Section MS H165PO Box 932345Sacramento, CA 94232-3450

Copyright, Department Of Motor Vehicles 2015

All rights reserved.This work is protected by U. S. Copyright Law. DMV owns the copyright of this work.Copyright law prohibits the following: (1) reproduction of the copyrighted work; (2)distribution of copies of the copyrighted work; (3) preparation of derivative works basedupon the copyrighted work; (4) displaying the copyrighted work publicly; or (5) performingthe copyrighted work publicly. All requests for permission to make copies of all or any partof this publication should be addressed to:

Department of Motor VehiclesLegal Office MS C128

PO Box 932382Sacramento, CA 94232-3820

Motorcycles Towing Trailers..........39

Instructing Passengers.................39

Riding With Passengers...............40

Child Passengers.........................40

Carrying Loads.............................40

Group Riding ...................................41

Keep the Group Small..................41

Keep the Group Together.............41

Keep Your Distance......................42

BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE..................43Blood Alcohol Concentration ...........43

GET A DUI LOSE YOUR LICENSE!..... 44Alcohol and the Law ........................45

Minimize the Risks ..........................45

Fatigue ............................................45

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE FACTS...... 45

EVADING A PEACE OFFICER............... 46

TREAD LIGHTLY!...............................46

KNOWLEDGE TEST SAMPLE 1............ 49

KNOWLEDGE TEST SAMPLE 2............ 51


5/60

- iii -- iii -

DMV INFORMATION

Most DMV offices are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday,Thursday, and Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Somefield offices have extended hours (open earlier), and a few offices offeronly driver license or vehicle registration services. To find out if yourlocal field office has extended hours, or to find a field office locationand service options, go online or call the toll-free number.

Make sure to have your driver license or identification card number,motorcycle plate number, and/or vehicle identification number (VIN)available.Go online at www.dmv.ca.govfor (to):

Field office locations, hours,directions, and phone numbers. Make appointments to visit a

field office or take a driving test(except for commercial drivingtests).

Order personalized plates. Driver license and identification

card information. Vehicle/vessel registration infor-

mation. Downloadable forms. Publicationshandbooks, bro-

chures, and sample tests. Senior driver information.

Teen driver information. Links to other state and federalagencies.

Renew your driver license orvehicle registration.

Call 1-800-777-0133 during nor-mal business hours to:

Obtain/request driver licenseand vehicle registration informa-tion, forms, and publications.

Find office locations and hours. Make a driving test appoint-

ment. Speak to a DMV representative

or request a call back during

business hours.Call 1-800-777-0133 for automatedservice 24 hours a day, 7 days aweek to:

Renew your driver license orvehicle registration with therenewal identification number

(RIN) provided on your billingnotice. You can pay with a creditcard or e-check.

Make an office appointment.

Persons with speech or hearing impairments can call toll free, 1-800-368-4327 for assistance with DMV services. Only typed messages from

another TTY are received and responded to at this number.

Advertising sponsorship helps defray the printing costs of this publication. The products

and services provided by the advertising sponsors are not promoted or endorsed by

DMV, but the significant contribution by the advertising sponsors is most appreciated.

If you would like to advertise in this publication, please call the Office of State

Publishing Advertising Department at 1-866-824-0603.


6/60

PAGE LEFT

INTENTIONALLY

BLANK


7/60

- 1 -- 1 -

INTRODUCTION

This handbook supplements theCalifornia Driver Handbookcon-cerning traffic laws, safe driving

rules, and driver licenses. Studythe California Driver Handbook

as well as this supplement.

This supplement provides infor-mation for both novice andexperienced drivers of two-wheelvehicles. Portions of this handbookwhich deal with safe driving prac-tices (rather than traffic laws) weredeveloped initially by the NationalPublic Services Research Institutein cooperation with the MotorcycleSafety Foundation (MSF).

The MSF, California HighwayPat rol (CHP), Cal i fornia

Motorcyclist Safety Program(CMSP), various motorcyclistenthusiast groups, and theDepartment of Motor Vehicles(DMV) all agree that improved

licensing, along with qualitymotorcycle rider education andincreased public awareness, has the

potential to reduce the number andseverity of motorcycle collisions.

When using this handbook,

remember that it is only a summaryof laws and regulations. DMV, lawenforcement, and courts follow thefull and exact language of the lawcontained in the California VehicleCode (CVC).

TWO-WHEEL VEHICLE

OPERATION

The basic rules of the road con-tained in the California Vehicle

Code apply to all two-wheel vehi-cles which include motorcycles,motor-driven cycles, mopeds, or

bicycles with a motor attached.

Minibikes, tote-goats, trail bikes,and similar vehicles may fall with-in the definition of motorcycle,motor-driven cycle, or motorized

bicycle. If any of these vehicles areoperated on a highway, they mustmeet applicable equipment, reg-istration, licensing, and operationrequirements, if appropriate. Any

person registering a two-wheelmotorcycle is required to obtaina Class M1 or M2 driver license

prior to operating the vehicle.

It is illegal to ride a moped on afreeway. Additionally, it is illegalto ride a moped on a bicycle path

or trail, equestrian (horse) trail,hiking trail, or recreational trailunless that path or trail is on ornext to a road, or permission touse the trail or roadway is granted

by local law.

MOTORCYCLESA motorcycle has a seat or saddlefor the rider and is designed totravel on not more than threewheels.


8/60

- 2 -

MOTOR-DRIVENCYCLESA motor-driven cycle is a motor-cycle with a 149 cc or less enginesize.

NOTE:You may not operate amotor-driven cycle on a freeway

if signs are posted to prohibitmotor-driven cycle operation.

MOTORIZEDBICYCLESThere are two definitions for

motorized bicycles (mopeds). Amotorized bicycle is:

A two-or three-wheeled device,capable of no more than 30 mph

on level ground, and equippedwith:

Fully operative pedals forhuman propulsion.

A motor producing less than

four gross brake horsepowerand an automatic transmis-sion.

An electric motor, with or

without pedals for humanpropulsion (CVC 406(a)).

A vehicle with pedals and anelectric motor (not more than1,000 watts) which cannot bedriven at speeds of more than

20 mph on level ground even ifassisted by human power (CVC406(b)).

If you operate a motorizedbicycle which meets the defini-

tion of CVC 406(b), you:

Must be 16 years of age orolder.

Must wear a bicycle safetyhelmet.

Are exempt from the motorvehicle financial responsibility,driver license, and moped platerequirements (CVC 12804.9).

May ride a moped in a bicyclelane at a reasonable speed. Becareful of bicyclists using thelane.

MOTORIZEDSCOOTERA motorized scooter is defined asany two-wheeled device with:

A motor, handlebars, and afloorboard for standing on

when riding, and

The options of having:

A driver seat which cannotinterfere with the operatorsability to stand and ride.

The ability to be powered by

human propulsion.NOTE:A motorized scooter may

be driven with any class driverlicense. A motorized scooter maynot be used to take a Class M1 or

M2 skills test.

The motorized scooters exhaustsystem must not be modified oraltered.


9/60

- 3 -

MOTORCYCLELICENSETYPECHART

M

OTORCYCLELICE

NSETYPECHART

DESCRIPT

ION

Amotorcyclehasaseatorsaddlefortheriderandisdesignedto

travelonno

tmorethanthreewheels.

Amotor-drivencycleisamotorcyclewitha149ccorlessengin

e

size.

Atwo-orth

ree-wheeleddevice,capab

leofnomorethan30mphon

levelground,andequippedwithfully

operativepedalsforhuma

n

propulsion,

amotorproducinglesstha

nfourgrossbrakehorsepower

andanautomatictransmissionoranelectricmotor,withorwithout

pedalsforhumanpropulsion.

Avehiclew

ithpedalsandanelectricm

otor(notmorethan1,00

0

watts)whichcannotbedrivenatspeedsofmorethan20mphon

levelgroundevenifassistedbyhumanpower.

Amotorized

scooterisdenedasany

two-wheeleddevicewit

ha

motor,hand

lebars,andaoorboardfo

rstandingonwhenriding,and

theoptionsofhavingadriverseatwhichcannotinterferewithth

e

operatorsabilitytostandandrideand

/ortheabilitytobepower

edby

humanprop

ulsion.

*Vehiclesunder150ccdonothav

etheenginecapabilitytobesafelydrivenonafreew

ay.

TYPEOF

LICENSE

M1

M1*

M1(with

restric-

tion)or

M2*

Not

required

Anyclass

of

license

CALIFORNIA

VEHICLE

CODE

CVC400

CVC405

CVC

406(a)

CVC

406(b)

CVC

407.5

TYPEOF

VEHICLE

Moto

rcycle

Motor

driven

cy

cle

Moto

rized

bicycle

(Moped)

(capableofno

morethan30

mph)

Moto

rized

bicycle

*(capa-

bleofnomore

than20mph)

Moto

rized

sco

oter


10/60

- 4 -

LICENSE

REQUIREMENTS

California issues the followinglicense classes for two-wheel

vehicle operation:

Class M1You may operateany two-wheel motorcycle,motor-driven cycle, or motor-ized scooter and all vehicles

listed under Class M2.

NOTE:The permit and licenserequirements in this handbook

pertain to two-wheel vehiclesand are referenced in Section12804.9 of the CaliforniaVehicle Code.

Class M2You may operateany motorized bicycle, moped,or a bicycle with an attachedmotor, or a motorized scooter.

NOTE:Class C licensees mayoperate a motorcycle with a sidecar attached or a three-wheel

motorcycle.EARNINGYOURLICENSESafe riding requires knowledgeand skill. Testing two-wheelvehicle operators is the bestmeasurement of the skills neces-sary to operate safely in traffic

because people often overesti-

mate their own abilities. DMVslicensing exams are designed to

be scored objectively.

You may apply for a Class M1 orM2 license at any DMV office

which provides driver licenseservices. To obtain your license,

you must pass a knowledge testand pass a motorcycle skills

test or obtain a Certificateof Completion of MotorcycleTraining (DL 389) as defined inthe Motorcycle Safety TrainingCourse section below.

To locate a field office that offersthe motorcycle skills test and/or

to schedule an appointment, call1-800-777-0133 or visit www.dmv.ca.gov.

Knowledge test questions are

based on information, practices,and ideas from this handbook and

the California Driver Handbook.The motorcycle skills test is con-ducted in either an actual trafficenvironment or in a controlledoff-street area.


11/60

- 5 -

APPLYINGFORAMOTORCYCLEPERMIT

TO OBTAIN A PERMIT

REQUIREMENTS

ADULTS

AGE

21 ANDOVER

ADULTS

AGE

18 TO 20

MINORS AGE

15 TO 17

(Requires parent orguardian signature)

Complete a DMV application(DL44 or DL44C) form

Pay required fees

Meet DMV vision standards

Have fingerprint captured

Have photo taken

Provide required signature(s)

Have had instruction permitfor at least 6 months

Pass applicable knowledgeexams

Provide Certificate ofCompletion of MotorcycleTraining (DL389)

NOTE: While not required, motorcycle applicants age 21 and older areencouraged to enroll in the motorcycle safety training course.

The Class M1/M2 permit includes the following restrictions:

No carrying passengers.

No freeway driving.

No nighttime driving.

NOTE: Minors age 1517 must bring proof of completion of bothdriver education and driver training or be currently licensed.


12/60

- 6 -

MOTORCYCLESAFETYTRAININGCOURSEMotorcycle applicants under 21years of age are required to

complete a motorcycle safetytraining course beforereceiving

a motorcycle instruction permit.

Motorcycle applicants 21 yearsof age and older are encouragedto enroll in the motorcycle safetytraining course. The motorcyclesafety training course offered

by the California MotorcyclistSafety Program (CMSP) provideshands-on motorcycle knowledgeand skill training for novice andexperienced riders. CMSP has

trained thousands of riders overthe past several years. The DMVmotorcycle skills test may bewaived upon completion of themotorcycle safety training courseand submission of the Certificateof Completion of Motorcycle

Training (DL 389). For moreinformation you may contactCMSP at 1-877-RIDE-411 or visitwww.californiamotorcyclist.

com.

NOTE:The DL 389 is valid for12 months from the issue date.

CHEATINGThe use of testing aids is strictly

prohibited. This includes, butis not limited to: the California

Motorcycle Handbook,CaliforniaDriver Handbook,cheat sheets,

or electronic communicationdevices such as a cell phone,computer, tablet, etc. If anytesting aid(s) are used during the

knowledge test, the knowledgetest will be marked as a failure.

An action may also be takenby DMV against your drivingprivilege or the driving privilegeof anyone else who assists you inthe examination process.

MOTORCYCLESKILLSTESTBasic vehicle control skills areincluded in the motorcycle skillstest to determine your abilityto maneuver in normal trafficsituations. The skills test may be

waived for a person presenting avalid Certificate of Completionof Motorcycle Training (DL 389);however, you may be required to

perform an observation test whenapplying for a motorcycle only(Class M1/M2) license. The DL

389 is valid for 12 months fromthe issue date.

The motorcycle skills test allowsthe rider to demonstrate his or herability to control the motorcyclethrough several skills. Applicants

taking the motorcycle skills testshould consider the size of themotorcycle they plan to operate.The motorcycle skills test is a

pass/fail test.

The motorcycle skills testincludes the following:


13/60

- 7 -

Pre-trip Inspection - You will beasked to identify items on yourmotorcycle. The items you will

be asked to identify are the:

Starter Kill switch

Clutch (if equipped)

Throttle

Gear selector

Dimmer switch

Brakes

Turn signals

Horn

You will be asked to demon-strate the following skills, whichinclude tracking paths (the area

within and including the trackinglines):

Serpentine Ride Beginningon the right of the first cone,you will weave through a row

of five traffic cones. At the endof the row of cones you will

begin the circle ride.

Circle Ride Ride aroundthe circle twice in a clockwisedirection keeping the frontwheel within the tracking path,

and return to the starting point,weaving once more through therow of five cones.

Slow Ride Ride slowly

between two parallel lineskeeping the front tire withinthe tracking path. At the end

of the tracking path, begin thecircle ride twice in a counter-clockwise direction.

Gear Shift Ride Ride in a

straight path, shifting gears up,then down, complete a U-turnand return, shifting gears up,then down and end in a smoothstop at the starting point. This isonly performed on motorcycles

with a clutch and gears.A. The width inside of theparallel ride lane is one foot.

B. The width inside the circleride lane is two feet.

C. The diameter of the outsidecircle is twenty-four feet.

D. The cones are spaced twelvefeet apart. The wideth of thearea for the cones is eightfeet.


14/60

- 8 -

Observation Test (if applying

for a motorcycle-only license) The examiner will observeyour driving from a preselected

vantage point, usually on thecorner, near the office. They willinstruct you to follow a route thatwill keep you in view for thelongest period of time.

PREPARING TO RIDE

WEARTHERIGHTGEARWhen you ride, your gear isright if it protects you. In anycollision, you have a far betterchance of avoiding serious injury

when you wear:

A motorcycle safety helmetthat is U.S. Department ofTransportation (DOT) compli-ant.

Face or eye protection.

Protective clothing; for exam-ple, a leather or long sleeve

jacket, long heavy pants overankle boots, full-fingeredleather gloves.

More information on wearingthe right gear is covered in thefollowing pages.

Helmet Use

All operators and passengersare required by law to wear amotorcycle safety helmet whenriding a motorcycle, motor-drivencycle, or motorized bicycle. The

motorcycle safety helmet mustbe certified by the manufacturerthat the helmet complies with theDepartment of Transportation

(DOT), Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard (FMVSS) 218.Research shows that head injuriesaccount for a majority of seriousand fatal motorcyclist injuriesand that with few exceptions,head injuries are reduced by

properly wearing a motorcyclesafety helmet. Here are somefacts to consider:

A motorcycle safety helmetallows you to see as far to thesides as necessary.

Most collisions happen onshort trips (less than five mileslong) just a few minutes after

starting out.

Most riders are riding slowerthan 30 mph when a collision

occurs. At these speeds, a

motorcycle safety helmet cancut both the number and theseverity of head injuries byhalf.

No matter what your speed in acollision, if you are wearing amotorcycle safety helmet you arethree times more likely to survivea head injury than if you arentwearing one.


15/60

- 9 -

Helmet Selection

There are four types of helmetsto consider: A half shell, three-quarters, modular, or full-facehelmet. However, a full-facehelmet with a lock-in visor, offersthe best coverage and protection

to the back and sides of your head.

Whichever style you choose,you get the most protection bymaking sure the helmet:

Meets DOT safety standardsand has the manufacturer-

applied DOT lettering on theback of the helmet.

NOTE: DOT lettering shouldnot be a stick-on label or easilyremoved.

Fits snugly, all the way around.

Has no obvious defects suchas cracks, loose padding, orfrayed straps.

Keep your motorcycle safetyhelmet securely fastened on yourhead when you ride. Otherwise,if you are involved in a collision,

it may come off your head beforeit gets a chance to protect you.

Face, Eye, and Ear

Protection

A plastic shatter-resistant faceshield can help protect your wholeface in a collision. It also protectsyou from wind, dust, dirt, rain,insects, and pebbles thrown upfrom the vehicles ahead.

Goggles protect your eyes, butthey dont protect the rest ofyour face as a face shield does.A windshield is not a substitutefor a face shield or goggles. Mostwindshields will not protect your

eyes from the wind, nor will

eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasseswont keep your eyes from water-ing, and they might blow off whenyou turn your head.

To be effective, eye or face shieldprotection must:

Be free of scratches. Be resistant to punctures.

Give a clear view to either side.

Fasten securely, so it does notblow off or up.

Permit air to pass through, to

reduce fogging. Permit enough room for eye-

glasses or sunglasses, if needed.

Tinted eye protection should not

be worn at night or any other timewhen little light is available.


16/60

- 10 -

To protect against the elementsof nature, such as wind, whichcan cause hearing loss, youmay want to use ear protection.

CVC 27400 states that a personmay not wear a headset coveringor earplugs in both ears, unless

the protectors (earplugs or molds)are specifically designed toreduce harmful (injurious) noiselevels. They shall be designed

not to inhibit the wearer's abilityto hear a siren or horn from anemergency vehicle or anothermotor vehicle.

Clothing

The right clothing protects you in

a collision. It also provides com-fort, as well as protection fromheat, cold, debris, and the hot andmoving parts of the motorcycle.

Jacket and pants should coverarms and legs completely.

They should fit snugly enoughto keep from flapping in thewind, but still allow you tomove freely. Leather or a sturdysynthetic material offers themost protection. Wear a jacketeven in warm weather to pre-

vent dehydration. Many jacketsare designed to protect withoutgetting you overheated, even onsummer days.

Boots or shoes should be highand sturdy enough to cover

and support your ankles. Solesshould be made of hard, dura-

ble, slip-resistant material. Theheels should be short so they

do not catch on rough surfaces.Tuck in laces so they wontcatch on your motorcycle.

Gloves allow a better gripand help protect your hands.Your gloves should be madeof leather or similar durable

material.Riding for long periods in coldweather can cause severe chilland fatigue. Numbness can make

it difficult to control a motor-cycle. In cold or wet weather,

layer clothes to keep yourselfwarm and dry, as well as protectyou from injury. A winter jacketshould resist wind and fit snuglyat the neck, wrists, and waist.Good quality rain suits designedfor motorcycle riding resist tear-

ing apart or ballooning up at highspeeds.

KNOWYOURMOTORCYCLEThere are many things on thehighway that can cause youtrouble. Your motorcycle should

not be one of them. To make surethat your motorcycle wont letyou down:

Start with the right motorcyclefor you.

Read the owners manual first.


17/60

- 11 -

Be familiar with the motorcyclecontrols.

Check the motorcycle beforeevery ride.

Keep it in safe riding conditionbetween rides.

Avoid add-ons and modifica-tions that make your motorcycleharder to handle.

The Right Motorcycle

First, make sure your motorcyclefits you. Your feet should reachthe ground while you are seatedon the motorcycle. At minimum,your street-legal motorcycle musthave:

Tires with sufficient tread forsafe operation.

A headlight, taillight, brakelight, and turn signals.

Front and rear brakes.

A horn and two mirrors.

Get Famil iar With theMotorcycle Controls

Be completely familiar with themotorcycle before you take itout on the street. If you use anunfamiliar motorcycle:

Make all the safety and main-tenance checks you would onyour own motorcycle.

Find out where everythingis, particularly the turn sig-

nals, horn, headlight switch,fuel-supply valve, and engine

cut-off switch. You should beable to find them without hav-

ing to look for them.

Know the gear pattern. Work

the throttle, clutch, and brakesa few times before you startriding. All controls react a littledifferently.

Ride very cautiously and beaware of your surroundings.Accelerate gently, take turns

more slowly, and leave extraroom for stopping.

Check Your Motorcycle

A motorcycle needs more fre-quent attention than a car. Ifsomething is wrong with the

motorcycle, youll want to findout about it before you get in traf-fic. Make the following checks

before every ride:

TiresCheck the air pressure,general wear, and tread.

FluidsOil and fluid levels.At a minimum, check hydraulicfluids and coolants weekly.Look under the motorcycle forsigns of an oil or gas leak.

Headlights and TaillightCheck them both. Test your

switch to make sure both highand low beams work.

Turn SignalsTurn on bothright and left turn signals.Make sure all lights work

properly.


18/60

- 12 -

BatteryCheck the batterycondition and electrolyte level;ensure the terminals are cleanand tight, and that the battery

is fastened securely. Brake LightTry both brake

controls and make sure eachone turns on the brake light.

Chain or BeltCheck the ten-sion, lubrication, and sprockets.

Kick-StandCheck the kick-stand for cracks, bent springs,and tension to hold position.

Once you are on the motorcycle,complete the following checks

before starting out:

Clutch and ThrottleMake

sure they work smoothly. Thethrottle should snap back when

you let go. The clutch shouldfeel tight and smooth.

MirrorsClean and adjustboth mirrors before starting.Adjust each mirror so you cansee the lane behind and as muchas possible of the lane next toyou. When properly adjusted,a mirror may show the edge ofyour arm or shoulderbut itsthe road behind and to the side

that is most important. BrakesTry the front and rear

brake levers one at a time. Makesure each one feels firm andholds the motorcycle when the

brake is fully applied.

HornMake sure the hornworks.

In addition to the checks beforeevery trip, check the follow-

ing items at least once a week:wheels, cables, fasteners, andfluids. Follow the manufacturersrecommendations.

Collisions are fairly commonamong new riders. Riding anunfamiliar motorcycle adds tothe problem. Get familiar withany motorcycle that is new to you,

preferably in a controlled area.

(No matter how experiencedyou may be, ride extra carefullyon any motorcycle that is new or

unfamiliar to you.) Rememberthat more than half of all col-lisions occur on motorcyclesridden by riders with less thansix months experience.

KNOWYOURRESPONSIBILITIESAccident implies an unfore-seen event that occurs withoutanyones fault or negligence.Most often in traffic, that is not

the case. In fact, most peopleinvolved in a collision can usu-

ally claim some responsibility forwhat takes place.

Blame doesnt matter whensomeone is injured in a collision.There is rarely a single cause ofany collision. The ability to beaware, make critical decisions,


19/60

- 13 -

and carry them out separatesresponsible riders from all therest. It is up to you to keepfrom being the cause of, or an

unprepared participant in, anycollision.

As a rider, you cant be surethat others will see you or yield

the right of way. To reduce thechances of a collision:

Be visible. Wear proper cloth-ing, use your headlight, andride in the best lane positionto see and be seen.

Communicate your inten-

tions. Use the proper signals,brake light, and lane position.

Maintain an adequate spacecushion . Allow yourselfenough space when following,

being followed, lane splitting,passing, and being passed.

Be aware. Monitor vehicletraffic in front of you andapproaching traffic from

behind and maintain an escaperoute.

Scan your path of travel. Lookat least 10 to 15 seconds ahead.

Identify and separate mul-

tiple hazards. Be prepared to act. Remain

alert and know how to carryout proper collision-avoidanceskills.

RIDE WITHIN YOUR

ABILITIES

This handbook cannot teach youhow to control direction, speed,

or balance. You learn this onlythrough practice and by knowingyour abilities and riding withinthem.

BASICVEHICLECONTROL

Body Position

To control a motorcycle well:

PostureSit so you can useyour arms to steer the motorcy-cle rather than to hold yourselfup.

SeatSit far enough forward

so your arms are slightly bentwhen holding the handlegrips.Bending your arms permitsyou to press on the handlebarswithout having to stretch.

HandsHold the handlegripsfirmly. Start with your rightwrist flat so you wont acci-dentally use too much throttle.Also, adjust the handlebars soyour hands are even with or

below your elbows. This allowsyou to use the proper muscles

for precision steering. KneesKeep your knees

against the gas tank to helpwith your balance as you turnthe motorcycle.

FeetKeep your feet firmly onthe footpegs for balance. Dont


20/60

- 14 -

drag your feet or you could beinjured and lose control of themotorcycle. Keep your feetnear the controls. Also, dont

point your toes downwardthey may get caught betweenthe road and the footpegs.

Shifting Gears

There is more to shifting gears

than simply getting the motor-

cycle to pick up speed smoothly.Learning to use the gears whendownshifting, turning, or start-ing on hills is important for safemotorcycle operation.

Shift down through the gearswith the clutch as you slow or

stop. Remain in first gear whilestopped so you can move outquickly, if needed.

Ride slowly enough when you

shift into a lower gear or themotorcycle will lurch and the

rear wheel may skid. Whenriding downhill or shifting intofirst gear you may need to slowto downshift safely. Work towarda smooth, even clutch releaseespecially when downshifting.

It is best to change gears before

starting a turn. However, some-times you may need to shiftwhile in the turn. Remember toshift smoothly because a sudden

change in power to the rear wheelcan cause a skid.

Braking

Your motorcycle has two brakes:one each for the front and rearwheel. Use both brakes at the

same time. The front brake ismore powerful and can provide

at least three-quarters of yourtotal stopping power. The front

brake is safe to use when you useit properly.

REMEMBER:

Use both brakes every time youslow or stop. Using both brakesfor normal stops permits youto develop the proper habitand skill of using both brakes

properly, which you may need

in an emergency. Squeeze thefront brake and press down on

the rear brake. Grabbing at thefront brake or jamming downon the rear brake can causethe brakes to lock and resultin control problems.

If you know the technique,using both brakes in a turn is

possible, although it shouldbe done very carefully. Whenyou lean the motorcycle, someof the traction is used for

cornering and less traction isavailable for stopping. A skidcan occur if you apply too much

brake. Also, using the front

brake incorrectly on a slipperysurface may be hazardous. Use


21/60

- 15 -

caution and gently squeeze thebrake lever, never grab it.

Some motorcycles have inte-grated braking systems that

link the front and rear brakestogether when you apply therear brake pedal. (Consult yourowners manual.)

Turning

Riders often try to take curves or

turns too fast. When they canthold the turn, they end up cross-

ing into another lane of trafficor going off the road. In somecases, riders overreact and braketoo hard causing a skid and lossof control. Approach turns and

curves with caution.Use four steps for better control:

1. SlowReduce your speedbefore the turn by rolling offthe throttle and, if necessary,applying both brakes.

2. LookLook through the turnto where you want to go. Turnonly your head, not yourshoulders, and keep your

eyes level with the horizon.

3. PressTo turn, the motor-cycle must lean. To lean the

motorcycle, press on thehandlegrip in the directionof the turn. Press leftleanleftgo left. Press rightlean rightgo right. Higherspeeds and/or tighter turns

require the motorcycle tolean more.

4. RollRoll on the throttlethrough the turn to stabilize

suspension. Maintain steadyspeed or accelerate graduallythrough the turn. This willhelp keep the motorcycle

stable.

In normal turns, the rider and themotorcycle should lean together

at the same angle.

In slow tight turns, the rider shouldkeep his or her body straight andonly lean the motorcycle.

U-turns

Completing U-turns on a motor-cycle requires more effort than anautomobile. You need to maintaincontrol and balance to maneuvera motorcycle through a tightU-turn. Here are some tips forcompleting U-turns successfully:

LookLook through theturn to where you want to go.Turn only your head, not yourshoulders, and keep your eyeslevel with the horizon.

Friction ZoneThe frictionzone is the area of the clutch

between completely engagedand completely released.

Riding within the frictionzone will give you more controlthrough the turn.


22/60

- 16 -

Dragging the Rear BrakeDragging the rear brake is the

practice of utilizing the rearbrake to control the bike speed

and maintain stability, such asin a U-turn. The front brakeshould not be used as it couldcause the bike to tip over.

Centralize WeightA motor-cycle will be easier to maneuverwhen the weight is kept close to

the bike. Keep your feet on thepegs and, if necessary, applyweight to the outside peg toequalize balance.

PracticePractice executingU-turns in an empty open

parking lot. Start with wideU-turns and gradually tightenthe turning radius. Also prac-tice U-turns in both directions

by ridingin figure (8)patternsuntil you are comfortable withU-turns in both right and left

directions.KEEPINGYOURDISTANCEThe best protection you canhave is distancea cushion ofspaceall around your motor-cycle. If someone else makes a

mistake, distance gives you:

Time to react.

Space to maneuver.

Lane Positions

In some ways the size of themotorcycle can work to your

advantage. Each traffic lane givesa motorcycle three paths of travel,as indicated in the illustration.

LANE POSITIONS

Your lane position should:

Increase your ability to see andbe seen.

Avoid others blind spots.

Protect your lane from otherdrivers.

Communicate your intentions.

Help you avoid wind blastsfrom other vehicles.

Provide an escape route.

Select the appropriate lane posi-tion to maximize your spacecushion and make yourself morevisible to others on the road.

In general, there is no best lane

position for riders in which to

be seen and to maintain a spacecushion around the motorcycle.Position yourself in the lane thatallows the most visibility andspace around you. Change yourlane position as traffic situa-tions change. Ride in paths 2 or


23/60

- 17 -

3 if vehicles and other potentialproblems are on your left side. Ifvehicles are on both sides of you,the center of the lane (path 2) is

usually the best option.The oily strip in the center por-tion of the lane is usually no morethan two feet wide. You can ride

just to the left or right of the oilystrip and still be within the center

portion of the traffic lane. Avoid

riding on oil and grease buildups.

Carpool/High-Occupancy

Vehicle (HOV) Lanes

A carpool lane is a special free-way lane used only for carpools,

buses, motorcycles, or decaled

low-emission vehicles. The pave-ment in this lane is marked with a

diamond symbol and the words

Carpool Lane. These lanes are

also known as high-occupancyvehicle (HOV) lanes. Do notcross over double parallel linesto enter or exit any carpool laneexcept at designated entry orexit places. Motorcyclists areallowed to use Carpool/HOVlanes, unless otherwise posted.

Toll Highways and

Vehicle Crossings: UsingTransponders or Electronic

Payment Devices

In California, high-occupancytoll (HOT) lanes and toll high-ways are fee-paid roadways that

are used in heavily traveled areasto relieve traffic congestion.

Commuters traveling on tollhighways or using HOT lanes

may purchase transponders,which track their vehicle's usageof these roadways. Transponders

allow drivers to pay toll feesthrough electronic billing.

When using a transponder orother electronic payment devicewhile driving on a toll highway,HOT lane, or toll bridge, motor-cyclists are allowed to place the

payment device in five locations(on the motorcycle or carried bythe driver), as long as the toll

reader can detect the device.The locations are:

In the motorcyclists pocket.

Inside a cycle net draped acrossthe gas tank of the motorcycle.

On the license plate device, if

the toll operator provides sucha device.

In a storage compartment onthe motorcycle.

On the windshield of themotorcycle.

Following Another VehicleFollowing too closely (tailgat-ing) could be a factor in collisionsinvolving motorcyclists. In traf-fic, motorcycles need as much

distance to stop as other vehicles.


24/60

- 18 -

Normally, you should maintain atwo-second following distance.

To gauge your following distance:

Ahead of you, pick out a marker

such as a pavement marking orlamp post.

When the rear bumper of thevehicle ahead of you passesthe marker, count off the

seconds: one-thousand-one,

one-thousand-two. If youreach the marker before youreach one-thousand-two, youare following too closely.

A two-second following dis-tance gives you a minimumamount of space to stop or

swerve, if the driver aheadstops suddenly. It also givesyou a better view of potholesand other road hazards.

Increase following distancewhen the motorcycle is towinga trailer as increased stoppingdistance is required.

You will need a larger spacecushion if your motorcycletakes longer than normal tostop. Open up a three-second or

more following distance when

the pavement is slippery, or youcannot see through the vehicleahead, or traffic is heavy, orsomeone may squeeze in frontof you.

When you are stopped, keepwell behind the vehicle ahead

of you. This will make it easierto get out of the way if a driver

behind you is traveling tooquickly or the vehicle ahead

starts to back up. When behind a vehicle, ride

where the driver can see youin his or her rearview mirror.

If you ride in the left or right por-tion of the lane, the driver maysee you in his or her side view

mirror. If the traffic situationallows, the center lane position isusually the best place for you to

be seen by the driver in his or herrearview mirror and to preventlane splitting by others.

Being Followed

When you speed up to lose atailgater, you only end up withsomeone tailgating you at ahigher speed.

A better way to handle tailgaters

is to allow them to pass you. Ifyou cant do this, slow down andopen up extra space ahead of you.This will allow space for both you

and the tailgater to stop. This willalso encourage the tailgater to

pass. But if the tailgater doesnt

pass, you have at least givenyourself and the tailgater moretime and space to react in casean emergency develops.


25/60

- 19 -

vehicle, stay in the center portionof your lane. Riding any closercould put you in a hazardoussituation.

Avoid being hit by: The other vehicleA slight

mistake by you or the passingdriver could cause a sideswipe.

Extended mirrorsSomedrivers forget that their mir-

rors hang out farther than theirfenders.

Objects thrown from win-

dowsEven if the driver

knows you are there, a pas-senger may not see you andmight toss something on you

or the road ahead of you. Blasts of wind from larger

vehiclesThey can affect yourcontrol. You have more roomfor error if you are in the middle

portion of the lane when hitby this blast than if you are oneither the left or right portionsof the lane.

Do not move into the portion ofthe lane farthest from the passingvehicle. It might invite the otherdriver to move back into your

lane too early.

Lane Splitting

The term lane splitting, alsoknown as lane sharing, filter-ing, or white-lining refers to the

process of a motorcyclist riding

Passing and Being Passed

Passing and being passed by alarger vehicle is not much differ-ent than with a smaller passenger

vehicle. However, visibility ismore critical. Be sure otherdrivers see you and that you see

potential hazards.

Passing

1. Ride in the left portion of

your lane at a safe followingdistance to increase your lineof sight and make you morevisible. Signal and check foroncoming traffic. Use your

mirrors and turn your head tolook for traffic behind.

2. When safe, move into the leftlane and accelerate. Selecta lane position that doesntcrowd the vehicle you are

passing and provides spaceto avoid hazards in your lane.

3. Ride through the drivers blindspot as quickly as possible.

4. Signal again and completemirror and head checks beforereturning to your originallane. Then cancel your turnsignal.

Remember, passing must becompleted within posted speedlimits, and only where permitted.

Being Passed

When you are being passedfrom behind or by an oncoming


26/60

- 20 -

between lanes of stopped orslower-moving traffic or mov-ing between lanes to the frontof traffic stopped at a traffic

light. Vehicles and motorcycleseach need a full lane to operatesafely and riding between rows

of stopped or moving vehiclesin the same lane can leave youvulnerable. A vehicle could turnsuddenly or change lanes, a door

could open, or a hand could comeout the window.

Merging Vehicles

Drivers on an entrance ramp maynot see you on the highway. Givethem plenty of room. Change

to another lane if one is open.If there is no room for a lanechange, adjust your speed to openup space for the merging driver.

MERGING

Vehicles Alongside

Do not ride next to passengervehicles or trucks in other lanesif you dont have tobecause youmight be in the drivers blindspot. The driver could changelanes without warning.

Also, vehicles in the next lanecan block your escape if youcome upon danger in your ownlane. Speed up or drop back tofind a place clear of traffic on

both sides.


27/60

- 21 -

BLIND SPOTS

SEARCH, EVALUATE, ANDEXECUTE(SEE)

Experienced riders remain awareof what is going on around them.They improve their riding strat-egy by using SEE, a three-step

process for making appropriatejudgments and applying them

correctly in different traffic situ-ations. SEE stands for: Search,Evaluate, and Execute.

Search

Actively search ahead, to thesides, and behind to help youavoid potential hazards. How yousearch and how much time andspace you have, can eliminate orreduce harm. Focus even more onfinding potential escape routes inor around intersections, shopping

areas, or school and constructionzones.

Search for factors such as:

Oncoming traffic that may turn

left in front of you.

Traffic coming from either theleft, right, or behind.

Hazardous road conditions.

Evaluate

Think about how hazards cancreate risks for you. Anticipate

potential problems and have aplan to reduce risks.

Road and surface charac-teristics such as potholes,guardrails, bridges, telephone

poles, and trees wont moveinto your path but may influ-ence your riding strategy.

Traffic control devices suchas traffic signals, regulatorysigns, warning signs, and pave-ment markings will help youevaluate circumstances ahead.

Vehicles and other trafficmay move into your path andincrease the likelihood of acollision.

Think about your time and space

requirements in order to maintaina margin of safety. You mustleave yourself time to react if anemergency arises.


28/60

- 22 -

Execute

Carry out your decision. To createmore space and minimize harmfrom any hazard:

Communicate your presencewith lights and/or your horn.

Adjust your speed by accelerat-

ing, stopping, or slowing.

Adjust your lane position and/or direction of travel.

Apply the old saying one stepat a time to handle two or more

hazards. Adjust your speed soyou can deal with each hazardseparately. Then deal with themone at a time as single hazards.Decision-making becomes more

complex with three or more haz-ards. Weigh the consequences ofeach and give equal distance tothe hazards.

In high-risk areas, such as inter-sections, shopping areas, or

school and construction zones,cover the clutch and both brakes

to reduce your reaction time.

INTERSECTIONSThe greatest potential for conflict

between you and other traffic is atintersections. An intersection isanywhere traffic may cross your

path. It can be in the middle of anurban area or at a driveway on aresidential street. Over one-halfof motorcycle/passenger vehiclecollisions are caused by drivers

entering a riders right-of-way.

Vehicles that turn left in frontof you, including those illegallyturning left from the wrong lane,

and vehicles on side streets thatpull into your lane, are the biggestdangers. Your use of the SEE

process at intersections is critical(see page 21).

There are no guarantees thatothers will see you. Never count

on eye contact as a sign thata driver will yield to you. Too

often, a driver can look right ata motorcyclist and still fail tosee him or her. The only eyesthat you can count on are yourown. If a vehicle can enter your

path, assume that it will. Goodriders are always looking fortroublenot to get into it, butto stay out of it.

LARGE INTERSECTIONS

Increase your chances of beingseen at intersections. Ride withyour headlight on in a lane posi-tion that provides you with the

best view of oncoming traffic.Maintain a space cushion around


29/60

- 23 -

your motorcycle that permits youto take evasive action.

As you approach an intersec-tion, select a lane position that

increases your visibility to thedriver. Cover the clutch and both

brakes to reduce reaction time.

Reduce your speed as youapproach an intersection. Afterentering the intersection, moveaway from vehicles preparingto turn. Do not change speedor position radically. The drivermight think that you are prepar-ing to turn.

Blind Intersections

When you approach a blindintersection, move to the portionof the lane that brings you intoanother drivers field of vision atthe earliest possible moment. In

this picture the rider has moved tothe left portion of the laneaway

from the parked vehicleso thedriver on the cross street can seehim or her as soon as possible.

If you have a stop sign or stopline, stop there first. Then edgeforward and stop again, just shortof where the cross-traffic lane

meets your lane. From that posi-tion, lean your body forward andlook around buildings, parkedvehicles, or bushes to see if

anything is coming. Make sureyour front wheel stays out of the

cross lane of travel while you arelooking.

BLIND INTERSECTION

Passing Parked Vehicles

When passing parked vehicles,stay toward the left portion of

your lane. This way, you canavoid problems caused by doorsopening, drivers getting out ofvehicles, or people stepping from

between vehicles. If oncomingtraffic is present, it is usually bestto remain in the center portion ofthe lane to maximize your spacecushion.


30/60

STA

TE

OFCALIFOR

NIA

www.dmv.ca.gov

1-800-777-0133

BLINDSPOTS

It is not only trucks that have

All vehicles have them. Whereare your vehicles blind spots?


31/60


32/60

- 26 -

A bigger problem can occur if adriver pulls away from the curbwithout checking for traffic from

behind. Even if the driver looks,

he or she may fail to see you.In either event, the driver mightenter your path. Slow down orchange lanes to make room for

someone to enter.

PARKED VEHICLES

Vehicles making a sudden U-turnare the most dangerous. They

may cut you off entirely, blockingthe whole roadway and leavingyou with no place to go. Sinceyou cant tell what a driver willdo, slow down and get the drivers

attention. Sound your horn andcontinue with caution.

Parking at the Roadside

Park at an angle of 45 to 90

degrees to the curb with a wheelor fender touching the curb.

PARKING AT CURBS

INCREASINGVISIBILITYIn collisions with motorcyclists,

drivers often say that they never

saw the motorcycle. From aheador behind, a motorcycles outlineis much smaller than a passengervehicles. Also, its hard to seesomething you are not lookingfor, and most drivers are not look-

ing for motorcycles. More likely,they are looking through theskinny, two-wheeled silhouettein search of vehicles that may

pose a problem to them.

Even if a driver does see you com-ing, you arent necessarily safe.


33/60

- 27 -

Smaller vehicles appear fartheraway and seem to be travelingslower than they actually are. Itis common for drivers to pull out

in front of motorcyclists, think-ing they have plenty of time. Toooften, they are wrong.

However, you can do many things

to make it easier for others to rec-ognize you and your motorcycle.

ClothingMost collisions occur in broaddaylight. Wear brightly-coloredclothing to increase your chancesof being seen. Remember, your

body is half of the visible surfacearea of the rider/motorcycle unit.

Bright orange, red, yellow, orgreen jackets or vests are the bestfor being seen. Brightly-coloredhelmets can also help others see

you.

Reflective material on a vest and

on the sides of the helmet willhelp drivers see you from theside. Reflective material can also

be a big help for drivers comingtoward you or from behind.

Headlight

The best way to help others seeyour motorcycle is to always keepthe headlight on. Studies showthat during the day, a motorcyclewith its light on is twice as likelyto be noticed. Using your high

beam during the day and at

night increases the chances thatoncoming drivers will see you.Use your high beam when it islegal and safe to do so. When it

is foggy, use the low beam.

Turn Signals

The turn signals on a motorcycleare similar to those on a vehicle.They tell others what you planto do.

LEFT

TURN

RIGHT

TURN

SLOW or

STOP

However, due to a riders added

vulnerability, turn signals areeven more important. Use themanytime you plan to changelanes or turn. Signal your leftor right turn during the last 100

feet before reaching the turningpoint. At highway speeds, it is

best to signal at least five secondsbefore changing lanes. Use yourturn signals even when you thinkno one else is around. Your turnsignals also make you easier tosee. If bright sunlight makes your


34/60

- 28 -

turn signal lights hard to see, usehand signals.

When you enter a freeway, driv-ers approaching from behind

are more likely to see your turnsignal blinking and make roomfor you.

SIGNALS

Using your turn signals before

each turn reduces confusion andfrustration for the traffic aroundyou. Once you turn, be sure toturn them off or a driver may pulldirectly into your path, thinkingyou plan to turn again.

Brake LightYour motorcycles brake lightis usually not as noticeable as avehiclesespecially when thetaillight is on. If the situation

permits, help others notice you byflashing your brake light before

you slow down. It is especiallyimportant to flash your brakelight before you slow:

For a tight, fast turn off a high-

speed highway. Where others may not expect

it (in the middle of a block orat an alley).

If you are being tailgated, itsa good idea to flash your brakelight before you slow.

Using Your Mirrors

While its most important toknow whats happening ahead,you cant ignore situations behindyou. Traffic conditions change

quickly. To make safe decisionsabout how to handle troubleahead, you must know what isgoing on behind you.

Frequent mirror checks shouldbe part of your normal searching

routine. Make a special point of

using your mirrors: When you are stopped at an

intersection. Watch vehiclescoming up from behind. If thedriver isnt paying attention, hecould be on top of you before

he sees you. Before you change lanes.

Make sure no one is about topass you.

Before you slow down. Thedriver behind you may notexpect you to slow, or may be


35/60

- 29 -

unsure about where you willslow. For example, you signal

a turn and the driver thinksyou plan to turn at a distant

intersection, rather than at anearer driveway.

Some motorcycles have rounded(convex) mirrors. These mirrors

provide a wider view of the roadbehind than flat mirrors. Theyalso make vehicles seem farther

away than they really are. If youare not used to convex mirrors,you can get familiar with them

by:

Picking out a parked vehiclein your mirror (while you are

stopped). Forming a mental image of how

far away it is.

Then, turning around and look-ing to see how close you came.

Practicing with your mirrorsuntil you become a good judgeof distance.

Allowing extra distance beforeyou change lanes.

Head Checks

Checking your mirrors is not

enough. Motorcycles have blindspots just like other vehicles.Before you change lanes, turnyour head and check that lane forother vehicles.

On a road with several lanes,check the far lane and the one next

to you. A driver in the distant lanemay drive into the same spaceyou plan to take.

Frequent head checks should be

part of your normal scanningroutine. Only by knowing whatis happening all around, can you

be fully prepared to deal with it.

BLIND SPOTS

Horn

Be ready to use your horn to getsomeones attention quickly.

It is a good idea to give a quickbeep before passing anyone thatmay move into your lane.

Here are some situations:

A driver in the lane next to youis driving too closely to thevehicle ahead and may wantto pass.

A driver is seated in a parkedvehicle ahead.


36/60

- 30 -

Someone is in the street ridinga bicycle or walking.

In an emergency, press the hornbutton loud and long. Be ready

to stop or swerve away from thedanger.

Remember that a motorcycleshorn isnt as loud as other vehi-cles, so use it, but dont relyon it. Other strategies may beappropriate along with the horn.

Riding at Night

At night it is harder for you tosee and be seen. Picking yourmotorcycles headlight or taillightout of the other lights is not easyfor drivers. To make up for this,you should:

Reduce your speed. Rideeven slower than you wouldduring the dayparticularlyon roads you dont know well.This increases your chances of

avoiding a hazard. Increase distance. Distances

are harder to judge at nightthan during the day. Your eyes

rely upon shadows and lightcontrasts to determine how faraway an object is and how fastit is coming. These contrastsare missing or distorted atnight. Open up a three-secondor more following distance.Allow more distance to passand be passed.

Use the vehicle ahead. Theheadlights of the vehicle aheadcan give you a better view ofthe road than your high beam.

Taillights bouncing up anddown can alert you to bumpsor rough pavement.

Use your high beam. Get allthe light you can. Use yourhigh beam whenever you are

not following or approaching

another vehicle. Be visible.Wear reflective materials whenriding at night.

Be flexible about lane posi-tion. Change to the portion ofthe lane that helps you see, be

seen, and keep an adequatespace cushion.

COLLISIONAVOIDANCENo matter how careful you are,there will be times when youfind yourself in a tight spot. Yourchances of getting out safely

depend on your ability to reactquickly and properly. Often, acollision occurs because a rideris not prepared or skilled incollision-avoidance maneuvers.

Two skills critical in avoiding a

collision are knowing when andhow to stop or swerve. You cantalways stop quickly to avoid anobstacle. You must also be ableto swerve around an obstacle.

Studies show that most collisionsinvolve riders who:


37/60

- 31 -

Underbrake the front tire andoverbrake the rear.

Did not separate braking fromswerving or did not choose to

swerve when it was appropri-ate.

Quick Stops

To stop quickly, apply bothbrakes at the same time. Dontbe shy about using the front

brake, but dont grab it either.Squeeze the brake lever firmlywith continuing steady pressure.If the front wheel locks, releasethe front brake immediately andthen reapply it firmly. At thesame time, press down on the

rear brake. If you accidentallylock the rear brake on a goodtraction surface, you can keep itlocked until you have completelystopped.

NOTE: Even with a locked

rear wheel, you can control themotorcycle on a straightawayif it is upright and going in astraight line.

Always use both brakes at thesame time to stop. The front

brake can provide almost three-

quarters of your stopping power.If you must stop quickly whileturning or riding a curve, the

best technique is to straighten themotorcycle first and then brake.However, it may not always be

possible to straighten the motor-cycle and then stop. If you must

brake while leaning, apply thebrakes lightly and reduce the

throttle. As you slow, reduce yourlean angle and apply more brakepressure until the motorcycle isstraight and maximum brake

pressure is possible. Then in thelast few feet of stopping, youshould straighten the handle-

bars. The motorcycle should nowbe straight up and in balance.

Swerving or Turning Quickly

Sometimes you may not haveenough room to stop, even ifyou use both brakes properly. An

object might appear suddenly inyour path or the vehicle aheadmight stop abruptly. The onlyway to avoid a collision may be toturn quickly or swerve around it.

A swerve is any sudden changein direction. It can be two quickturns, or a rapid shift to the side.To swerve, apply a small amountof hand pressure to the handle-grip on the side of your intendeddirection of escape. This causesthe motorcycle to lean quickly.

The sharper the turn(s), the morethe motorcycle must lean.


38/60

- 32 -

BRAKE, THEN SWERVE

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE

Keep your body upright andallow the motorcycle to lean inthe direction of the turn. Keepyour knees against the tank andyour feet solidly on the pegs. Letthe motorcycle move underneathyou. Make your escape routethe target of your vision. Presson the opposite handlegrip once

you clear the obstacle and areready to return to your original

direction of travel. To swerve tothe left, press the left handlegrip,

then press the right to recover. Toswerve to the right, press right,

then left.If braking is required, separate

it from swerving. Brake beforeor afternever while swerving.

Cornering

A primary cause of single-vehicle

collisions is motorcyclists run-ning wide in a curve or turn andcolliding with the roadway or afixed object.

Every curve is different. Bealert to whether a curve remains

constant, gradually widens, getstighter, or involves multipleturns.

Ride within your skill level andposted speed limits. Your best

path may not always follow thecurve of the road.

Change your lane position basedon traffic, road conditions, andcurve of the road. If there is notraffic, start at the outside of acurve to increase your line ofsight and the effective radius

of the turn. As you turn, movetoward the inside of the curve,and as you pass the center, moveto the outside to exit.

Another choice is to move to

the center of your lane beforeentering a curve and stay there


39/60

- 33 -

until you exit. This allows you tosee approaching traffic as soonas possible. You can also adjustfor traffic crowding the center

line or debris blocking part ofyour lane.

HANDLINGDANGEROUSSURFACESYour chance of falling or beinginvolved in a collision increaseswhenever you ride across:

Uneven surfaces or obstacles

Slippery surfaces Railroad tracks or pavement

seams

Grooves and gratings

Uneven Surfaces and

Obstacles

Watch for uneven road surfacessuch as bumps, broken pavement,

potholes, or trash on the highway.

Avoid obstacles by slowing orgoing around them. However, ifyou must go over the obstacle,

MULTIPLE CURVESCONSTANT CURVES

DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES


40/60

- 34 -

first determine if its possible.Approach it at as close to a90-degree angle 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 possible

before contact.

Make sure the motorcycle isstraight.

Rise slightly off the seat withyour weight on the footpegs

to absorb the shock with yourknees and elbows and avoid

being thrown off the motor-cycle.

Just before contact, roll on thethrottle slightly to lighten thefront end.

If you ride over an object, pull offthe road and check your tires andrims for damage before ridingany farther.

Slippery Surfaces

Motorcycles handle better onsurfaces with good traction.

Motorcyclists may find it chal-lenging to maintain safe controlon surfaces with poor tractionsuch as:

Wet pavement, particularlyjust after it starts to rain andbefore surface oil washes tothe side of the road.

Gravel roads or where sandand gravel collect.

Mud, snow, and ice.

Lane markings, steel plates,

and manhole covers, especiallywhen wet.

To ride safely on slipperysurfaces:

Reduce speed. Slow downbefore you get to a slippery

surface to reduce your chancesof skidding. When slippery,your motorcycle needs moredistance to stop. It is especiallyimportant to reduce speed

before entering wet curves.

Avoid sudden moves. Any

sudden change in speed ordirection can cause a skid. Beas smooth as possible whenyou speed up, shift gears, turn,or brake.

Use both brakes. The frontbrake is still effective, evenon a slippery surface. Squeezethe brake lever gradually toavoid locking the front wheel.Remember to use gentle pres-

sure on the rear brake.

Remember that the center

of a lane can be hazardouswhen wet. When it starts torain, ride in a vehicles tiretracks. Often, the left tire trackwill be the best lane position,depending on traffic and otherroad conditions as well.


41/60

- 35 -

Watch for oil spots when youput your foot down to stop orpark. You may slip and fall.

Be cautious of the edge of the

road. Dirt and gravel collectalong the sides of the road,especially on curves and rampsleading to and from highways.

Remember rain dries and

snow melts faster on some

sections of a road than on

others. Patches of ice tend todevelop in low or shaded areas

and on bridges and overpasses.Wet leaves are just as slipperyas wet road surfaces. Ride onthe least slippery portion of the

lane and reduce your speed.Cautious riders steer clear ofroads covered with ice or snow.If you cant avoid an icy or snowysurface, keep your motorcyclestraight up and proceed as slowlyas possible. If you encounter a

large surface so slippery that youmust coast, or travel at a walking

pace, consider letting your feet

skim along the surface. If themotorcycle starts to fall, you cancatch yourself. Be sure to keep offthe brakes. If possible, squeeze

the clutch and coast. Attemptingthis maneuver at anything otherthan the slowest of speeds could

prove hazardous.

Railroad or Trolley Tracks

and Pavement Seams

Usually it is safer to ride straightwithin your lane to cross tracks.

Turning to take tracks head-on(at a 90-degree angle) can be

more dangerous because yourpath may carry you into anotherlane of traffic.

For track and road seams that runparallel to your course, move far

enough away from tracks, ruts,or pavement seams to cross atan angle of at least 45 degrees.Then, make a quick, sharp turn.Edging across could catch yourtires and throw you off balance.

CROSSING TRACKS-RIGHT

CROSSING TRACKS-WRONG

Grooves and Gratings

Riding over rain grooves orbridge gratings may causeyour motorcycle to weave. Thisuneasy, wandering feeling isgenerally not hazardous. Relaxand maintain a steady speed and


42/60

- 36 -

ride straight across. Crossing atan angle forces riders to zigzagto stay in the lane. The zigzagis far more hazardous than the

wandering feeling.

GRATE CROSSING-WRONG

GRATE CROSSING-RIGHT

MECHANICALPROBLEMSYou can find yourself in anemergency the moment some-thing goes wrong with yourmotorcycle. In dealing with anymechanical problem, take intoaccount the road and trafficconditions you face. Here are

some guidelines that can helpyou handle mechanical problemssafely.

Tire Failure

You will seldom hear a tire goflat. If the motorcycle startshandling differently, it may be atire failure. You must be able totell from the way the motorcycle

reacts if you have tire failure. Ifone of your tires suddenly losesair, react quickly to keep your

balance. Stop riding and check

the tires as soon as possible.If the front tire goes flat, thesteering will feel heavy. Afront-wheel flat is particularlyhazardous because it affects yoursteering. You have to steer wellto keep your balance.

If the rear tire goes flat, the backof the motorcycle may jerk orsway from side to side.

If either tire goes flat whileriding:

Hold the handlegrips firmly,

ease off the throttle, and keepa straight course.

If braking is required, gradu-ally apply the brake of the tire

that isnt flat, if you are surewhich one it is.

When the motorcycle slows,ride to the side of the road,squeeze the clutch, and stop.

Stuck Throttle

Twist the throttle back and forthseveral times. If the throttle cable

is stuck, this may free it. If thethrottle stays stuck, immedi-ately operate the engine cut-offswitch and pull in the clutch atthe same time. This will remove


43/60

- 37 -

power from the rear wheel,though engine noise may notimmediately decline. Once themotorcycle is under control,

leave the road and stop.After you have stopped, checkthe throttle cable carefully tofind the trouble. Make certain

the throttle works freely beforeyou start riding again.

WobbleA wobble occurs when thefront wheel and handlebars sud-denly start to shake from side toside at any speed. Most wobblescan be traced to improper load-ing, unsuitable accessories,

or incorrect tire pressure. Ifyou are carrying a heavy load,lighten it. If you cant lighten the

load, shift it. Center the weightlower and farther forward onthe motorcycle. Make sure thetire pressure, spring preload, airshocks, and dampers are at therecommended settings for thatmuch weight. Make sure wind-shields and fairings are mounted

properly.

Check for poorly adjusted steer-

ing, worn steering parts, a frontwheel that is bent, misaligned,or out of balance, loose wheel

bearings or spokes, and swingarm bearings. If none of these arethe cause, have the motorcycle

thoroughly checked by a quali-fied professional.

Trying to accelerate out of awobble will only make the

motorcycle more unstable.Instead:

Grip the handlebars firmly, but

dont fight the wobble.

Close the throttle gradually toslow down. Do not apply the

brakes; braking could makethe wobble worse.

Move your weight as far for-

ward and down as possible.

Leave the road as soon as youcan to fix the problem.

Chain ProblemsA drive belt or chain that slips or

breaks while youre riding couldlock the rear wheel and causeyour motorcycle to skid. Belt orchain slippage or breakage can beavoided by proper maintenance.

Slippage If the belt/chainslips when you try to speedup or ride uphill, pull off theroad. Check the belt/chain andsprockets. Tightening the belt/chain may help. Replace the

belt/chain, sprockets, or bothbefore riding again, if needed.

Breakage Youll notice aninstant loss of power to the rearwheel. Close the throttle and

brake to a stop.


44/60

- 38 -- 38 -

Engine Seizure

When the engine locks orfreezes it is usually low onoil. If the engines moving parts

cant move smoothly against eachother, the engine overheats. The

first sign may be a loss of enginepower or a change in the enginessound. Squeeze the clutch leverto disengage the engine from therear wheel. Pull off the road and

stop. Check the oil. If needed,add oil as soon as possible orthe engine will seize. When thishappens, the effect is the sameas a locked rear wheel. Let theengine cool before restarting.

ANIMALSDo everything you safely can do

to avoid hitting an animal. If youare in traffic; however, remain inyour lane.

FLYINGOBJECTS

From time to time riders arestruck by insects, cigarettesthrown from vehicles, or pebbles

kicked up by the tires of thevehicle ahead. If you are wear-ing face protection, it might getsmeared or cracked, making it

difficult to see. Without faceprotection, an object could hityou in the eye, face, or mouth.Whatever happens, keep youreyes on the road and your handson the handlebars. When safe,

pull off the road and repair thedamage.

GETTINGOFFTHEROADIf you need to leave the road to

check the motorcycle (or just torest for a while), be sure you:

Check the roadside. Make surethe roadside is firm enough toride on. If it is soft grass, loosesand, or if youre just not sure

about it, slow way down beforeyou turn onto it.

Signal. Drivers behind mightnot expect you to slow down.Give a clear signal that youwill be slowing and changing

direction. Check your mirror

and make a head check beforeyou take any action.

Pull off the road. Get as far offthe road as you can. It can bevery hard to see a motorcycle

by the side of the road. You

dont want someone else leav-ing the road at the same placeyou are.

Park carefully. Loose orsloped shoulders, as well as softground, can make setting theside or center stand difficult.

CARRYINGPASSENGERSANDCARGOOnly experienced riders shouldcarry passengers or large loads.The extra weight changes the waythe motorcycle handles, balances,


45/60

- 39 -- 39 -

speeds up, and slows down.Before taking a passenger or aheavy load on the street, practiceaway from traffic.

Equipment

To carry passengers safely:

Equip and adjust your motor-cycle to carry passengers.

Instruct the passenger beforeyou start.

Adjust your riding techniquefor the added weight.

Equipment should include:

A proper seat large enough

to hold both of you withoutcrowding. You should not sit

any farther forward than youusually do.

Footrests for the passenger.Firm footing prevents your

passenger from falling off andpulling you off, too.

Protective equipment shouldbe the same protective gearrecommended for operators.

Adjust the suspension to handlethe additional weight. You will

probably need to add a fewpounds of pressure to the tires

if you carry a passenger. (Checkyour owners manual for appro-

priate set tings.) While yourpassenger sits on the seat withyou, adjust the mirror and head-

light according to the change inthe motorcycles angle.

Motorcycles Towing Trailers

Motorcycles towing trailers:

Mustnot exceed 55 mph.

Mustremain in the right lane

unless it is a four lane highway,then the right two lanes, exceptwhen passing.

Are not allowed in carpoollanes.

For more information, see the

Recreational Vehicles and TrailersHandbook available online atwww.dmv.ca.gov or you mayobtain a copy at your local DMVoffice.

Instructing Passengers

Even if your passenger is a motor-cycle rider, provide complete

instructions before you start. Tellyour passenger to:

Get on the motorcycle onlyafter you start the engine.

Sit as far forward as possiblewithout crowding you.

Hold firmly to your waist, hips,or belt.

Keep both feet on the pegs,

even when stopped.

Keep legs away from the

muffler(s), belts, chains, ormoving parts.

Stay directly behind you lean-

ing as you lean.

Avoid unnecessary talk ormotion.


46/60

- 40 -

Also, tell your passenger totighten his or her hold when you:

Approach surface problems.

Are about to start from a stop.

Warn that you will make asudden move.

Riding With Passengers

Your motorcycle will respondmore slowly with a passenger.The heavier your passenger, the

longer it will take to slow down,stop, and speed upespeciallyon a light-duty motorcycle. Your

braking distance will increase

due to the added weight.

Ride a little slower, especially

when taking curves, corners,or bumps.

Begin slowing sooner as youapproach a stop.

Open up a larger cushion ofspace ahead and to the sides.

Wait for larger gaps to cross,

enter, or merge with traffic.

Warn your passenger of these

special conditions: starting, stop-ping quickly, turning sharply, orriding over bumps. Turn yourhead slightly to make yourself

understood, but keep your eyeson the road ahead.

Child Passengers

Riding with child passengersshould only be done when the

proper precautions are taken. The

motorcycle should be equippedwith passenger foot-pegs andthe child's feet mustbe able toreach them.

Children should wear a full-faced, DOT compliant, properly

fitted helmet. It should fit snuglyso, in the event of an accident, itdoes not come off.

Children should wear appropriateclothing, such as pants, a jacketmade from a heavy material,and protective gloves that aidin the child's protection in anaccident or fall. Shoes should also

be durable, and fastened tightenough so that they will not come

off in the event of a fall.Restraint systems are available

that secure a child passenger tothe rider by means of a belt orharness. In the event of a fall,the child passenger will remainsecured to the rider instead of

being thrown free.

Carrying Loads

Most motorcycles are notdesigned to carry much cargo.Small loads can be carriedsafely, if positioned and fastened

properly.

Keep the load low. Fastenloads securely, or put themin saddlebags. Stacking loadsagainst a sissybar or frame onthe back of the seat raises the


47/60

- 41 -

motorcycles center of gravityand shifts its balance.

Keep the load forward. Placethe load over, or in front of, the

rear axle. Tank bags keep loadsforward, but use caution whenloading hard or sharp objects.Make sure the tank bag doesnot interfere with handlebarsor controls. Mounting a load

behind the rear axle affects

how the motorcycle turns andbrakes. It can also cause awobble.

Distribute the load evenly.Load saddlebags with aboutthe same weight. An uneven

load can cause the motorcycleto drift to one side.

Secure the load. Fasten theload securely with elastic cords(bungee cords or nets). Elasticcords with more than oneattachment point per side are

more secure. A tight load wontcatch in the wheel or chain,causing it to lock up and skid.

Ropes tend to stretch and knotscan come loose, permitting theload to shift or fall.

Check the load. Stop andcheck the load often to makesure it has not worked looseor moved.

GROUPRIDINGIf you ride with others, do it ina way that promotes safety and

doesnt interfere with the flow oftraffic. Assign a lead and a drag(tail) rider. Both riders should beexperienced and familiar with

group riding.

Keep the Group Small

Small groups make it easier andsafer for other drivers to getaround them. A small numberisnt separated as easily by traffic

or red lights. Some riders wontalways be hurrying to catch up.If your group is larger than fouror five riders, divide it into twoor more smaller groups.

Keep the Group Together

Plan. The leader should lookahead for changes and signalearly so there is plenty of timefor everyone to follow. Startlane changes early to permiteveryone to complete the lanechange safely.

Put beginners up front. Placeinexperienced riders behind theleader so the more experiencedriders can watch them.

Monitor those behind. Let thelast rider set the pace. Use your

mirrors to keep an eye on theperson behind. If a rider fallsbehind, everyone should slowdown a little to stay together.

Know the route. Make sureeveryone knows the route.Then, if someone is separated


48/60

- 42 -

he or she wont have to hurry tokeep from getting lost or takinga wrong turn. Plan frequentstops on long rides.

Keep Your Distance

Maintain close ranks but at thesame time keep a safe distance to

allow each rider in the group timeand space to react to hazards. Aclose group takes up less space

on the highway, is easier to see,and is less likely to be separated.However, this formation must bedone properly.

Dont pair up. Never operatedirectly alongside anotherrider. There is no place to go

to avoid a vehicle or a hazardon the road. To talk, wait until

you are both stopped.

Staggered formation. This isthe best way to keep ranks close

yet maintain an adequate space

cushion. The leader

Documents

California Motorcycle Manual | California Motorcycle Handbook