 |
RIDE
WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Original Source: http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/mcmanual/ride_within.htm
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL
This manual cannot teach you how to
control direction, speed, or balance. That's
something you can learn only through
practice. But control begins with knowing
your abilities and riding within them, along
with knowing and obeying the rules of the
road.
BODY POSITION
 To
control a motorcycle well:
Posture - Sit so you can use your arms to steer the
motorcycle rather than to hold yourself up.
Seat - Sit far enough
forward so that arms are slightly bent when
you hold the handlegrips. Bending your arms
permits you to press on the handlebars
without having to stretch.
Hands - Hold the
handlegrips firmly to keep your grip over
rough surfaces. Start with your right wrist
flat. This will help you keep from
accidentally using too much throttle. Also,
adjust the handlebars so your hands are even
with or below your elbows. This permits you
to use the proper muscles for precision
steering.
Knees - Keep your knees
against the gas tank to help you keep your
balance as the motorcycle turns.
Feet - Keep your feet
firmly on the footpegs to maintain balance.
Do not drag your feet. If your foot catches
on something, you can be injured and it
could affect your control of the motorcycle.
Keep your feet near the controls so you can
get to them fast if needed. Also, do not let
your toes point downward - they may get
caught between the road and the footpegs.
SHIFTING GEARS
There is more to shifting gears than simply
getting the motorcycle to pick up speed
smoothly. Learning to use the gears when
downshifting, turning, or starting on hills
is important for safe motorcycle operation.
Shift down through the gears with the clutch
as you slow or stop. Remain in first gear
while you are stopped so that you can move
out quickly if you need to.
Make certain you are riding slowly enough
when you shift into a lower gear. If not,
the motorcycle will lurch, and the rear
wheel may skid. When riding downhill or
shifting into first gear you may need to use
the brakes to slow enough before
downshifting safely. Work towards a smooth,
even clutch release, especially when
downshifting.
It is best to change gears before entering a
turn. However, sometimes shifting while in
the turn is necessary. If so, remember to do
so smoothly.
A sudden change in power to the rear wheel
can cause a skid.
BRAKING
Your motorcycle has two brakes: one each for
the front and rear wheel. Use both of them
at the same time. The front brake is more
powerful and can provide at least
three-quarters of your total
stopping power. The front brake is safe to
use if you use it properly.
Remember:
Use both brakes
every time you slow or stop. Using
both brakes for even "normal" stops will
permit you to develop the proper habit or
skill of using both brakes properly in an
emergency. Squeeze the front brake and press
down on the rear. Grabbing at the front
brake or jamming down on the rear can cause
the brakes to lock, resulting in control
problems.
If you know the technique,
using both brakes in a turn is possible,
although it should be done very carefully.
When leaning the motorcycle some of the
traction is used for cornering. Less
traction is available for stopping. A skid
can occur if you apply too much brake. Also,
using the front brake incorrectly on a
slippery surface may be hazardous. Use
caution and squeeze the
brake lever, never grab.
Some motorcycles have
integrated braking systems that link the
front and rear brakes together by applying
the rear brake pedal. (Consult the owner's
manual for a detailed explanation on the
operation and effective use of these
systems.)
TURNING
Riders often try to take curves or turns too
fast. When they cannot hold the turn, they
end up crossing into another lane of traffic
or going off the road. Or, they overreact
and brake too hard, causing a skid and loss
of control. Approach turns and curves with
caution.
Use four steps for better control:
SLOW
LOOK
LEAN
ROLL
SLOW - Reduce speed before
the turn by closing the throttle and, if
necessary, applying both brakes.
LOOK - Look through the
turn to where you want to go. Turn just your
head, not your shoulders, and keep your eyes
level with the horizon.
LEAN - To turn, the
motorcycle must lean. To lean the
motorcycle, press on the handgrip in the
direction of the turn. Press left - lean
left - go left. Press right - lean right -
go right. Higher speeds and/or tighter turns
require the motorcycle to lean more.
ROLL - Roll on the throttle
through the turn to stabilize suspension.
Maintain steady speed or accelerate
gradually through the turn. This will help
keep the motorcycle stable.
 |
In normal turns, the rider and the
motorcycle should lean together at
the same angle. |
 |
In slow tight turns, counterbalance
by leaning the motorcycle only and
keeping your body straight. |
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE
The best protection you can have is distance
- a "cushion of space" - all around your
motorcycle. If someone else makes a mistake,
distance permits you:
Time to react.
Space to maneuver.
LANE POSITIONS
In some ways the size of the motorcycle can
work to your advantage. Each traffic lane
gives a motorcycle three paths of travel, as
indicated in the illustration. Your lane
position should:
Increase your ability to see and be
seen.
Avoid others' blind spots.
Avoid surface hazards.
Protect your lane from other drivers.
Communicate your intentions.
Avoid wind blast from other vehicles.
Provide an escape route.
Select the appropriate path to maximize your
space cushion and make yourself more easily
seen by others on the road.
In general, there is no single best position
for riders to be seen and to maintain a
space cushion around the motorcycle. No
portion of the lane need be avoided -
including the center.
 Position
yourself in the portion of the lane where
you are most likely to be seen and you can
maintain a space cushion around you. Change
position as traffic situations change. Ride
in path 2 or 3 it vehicles and other
potential problems are on your left only.
Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards are on your
right only. If vehicles are being operated
on both sides of you, the center of the
lane, path 2, is usually your best option.
The oily strip in the center portion that
collects drippings from cars is usually no
more than two feet wide. Unless the road is
wet, the average center strip permits
adequate traction to ride on safely. You can
operate to the left or right of the grease
strip and still be within the center portion
of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big
buildups of oil and grease usually found at
busy intersections or toll booths.
FOLLOWING ANOTHER VEHICLE
"Following too closely" is a major factor in
crashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic,
motorcycles need as much distance to stop as
cars. Normally, a minimum of two
seconds distance should be
maintained behind the vehicle ahead.
To gauge your following distance:
Pick out a marker, such as a pavement
marking or lamppost, on or near the road
ahead.
When the rear bumper of the vehicle
ahead passes the marker, count off the
seconds: "one-thousand-one,
one-thousand-two."
If you reach the marker before you reach
"two," you are following too closely.
A two-second following distance leaves a
minimum amount of space to stop or swerve if
the driver ahead suddenly stops. It also
permits a better view of potholes and other
hazards in the road.
A larger cushion of space is needed if your
motorcycle will take longer than normal to
stop. If the pavement is slippery, if you
cannot see through the vehicle ahead, or if
traffic is heavy and someone may squeeze in
front of you, open up a three second or more
following distance.
Keep well behind the vehicle ahead even when
you are stopped. This will make it easier to
get out of the way if someone bears down on
you from behind. It will also give you a
cushion of space if the vehicle ahead starts
to back up for some reason.
 When
behind a car, ride where the driver can see
you in the rearview mirror. Riding in the
center portion of the lane should put your
image in the middle of the rearview mirror -
where a driver is most likely to see you.
Riding at the far side of a lane may permit
a driver to see you in a sideview mirror.
But remember that most drivers do not look
at their sideview mirrors nearly as often as
they check the rearview mirror. If the
traffic situation allows, the center portion
of the lane is usually the best place for
you to be seen by the drivers ahead and to
prevent lane sharing by others.
BEING FOLLOWED
Speeding up to lose someone following too
closely only ends up with someone tailgating
you at a higher speed.
A better way to handle tailgaters is to get
them in front of you. When someone is
following too closely, change lanes and let
them pass. If you cannot do this, slow down
and open up extra space ahead of you to
allow room for both you and the tailgater to
stop. This will also encourage them to pass.
If they do not pass, you will have given
yourself and the tailgater more time and
space to react in case an emergency does
develop ahead.
PASSING AND BEING PASSED
Passing and being passed by another vehicle
is not much different than with a car.
However, visibility is more critical. Be
sure other drivers see you, and that you see
potential hazards.
PASSING
1. Ride in the left portion of the lane at a
safe following distance to increase your
line of sight and make you more visible.
Signal and check for oncoming traffic. Use
your mirrors and turn your head to look for
traffic behind.
2. When safe, move into the left lane and
accelerate. Select a lane position that does
not crowd the car you are passing and
provides space to avoid hazards in your
lane.
3. Ride through the blind spot as quickly as
possible.
4. Signal again, and complete mirror and
headchecks before returning to your original
lane and then cancel signal.
Remember, passes must be completed within
posted speed limits, and only where
permitted. Know your signs androad markings!
BEING PASSED
When you are being passed from behind or by
an oncoming vehicle, stay in the center
portion of your lane. Riding any closer to
them could put you in a hazardous situation.
Avoid being hit by:
The other vehicle. A slight mistake by
you or the passing driver could cause a
sideswipe.
Extended mirrors - Some drivers forget
that their mirrors hang out farther than
their fenders.
Objects thrown from windows - Even if
the driver knows you're there a passenger
may not see you and might toss something on
you or the road ahead of you.
Blasts of wind from larger vehicles can
affect your control. You have more room for
error if you are in the middle portion when
hit by this blast than if you are on either
side of the lane.
Do not move into the
portion of the lane farthest from the
passing vehicle. It might invite the other
driver to cut back into your lane too early.
LANE SHARING
Cars and motorcycles cannot share a lane
safely. Lane sharing is permitted only for
two motorcycles.
Riding between rows of stopped or moving
cars in the same lane can leave you
vulnerable to the unexpected. A hand could
come out of a window; a door could open; a
car could turn suddenly. Discourage lane
sharing by others. Keep a center-portion
position whenever drivers might be tempted
to squeeze by you. Drivers are most tempted
to do this:
In heavy, bumper-to-bumper traffic.
When they want to pass you.
When you are preparing to turn at an
intersection.
When you are getting in an exit lane or
leaving a highway.
MERGING CARS
|
Drivers on an entrance ramp may
not see you on the highway. Give
them plenty of room. Change to
another lane if one is open. If
there is no room for a lane
change, adjust speed to open up
space for the merging driver.
|
 |
CARS ALONGSIDE
|
Do not ride next to cars or
trucks in other lanes if you do
not have to. You might be in the
blind spot of a car in the next
lane, which could switch into
your lane without warning. Cars
in the next lane also block your
escape if you come upon danger
in your own lane. Speed up or
drop back to find a place clear
of traffic on both sides.
|
 |
SEE
Good experienced riders remain aware of what
is going on around them. They improve their
riding strategy by using SEE, a three-step
process used to make appropriate judgments,
and apply them correctly in different
traffic situations:
Search
Evaluate
Execute
Let's examine each of these steps.
SEARCH
Search aggressively ahead, to the sides and
behind to avoid potential hazards even
before they arise. How assertively you
search, and how much time and space you
have, can eliminate or reduce harm. Focus
even more on finding potential escape routes
in or around intersections, shopping areas,
school and construction zones.
Search for factors such as:
Oncoming traffic that may turn left in
front of you.
Traffic coming from the left and right.
Traffic approaching from behind.
Hazardous road conditions.
Be especially alert in areas with limited
visibility. Visually "busy" surroundings
could hide you and your motorcycle from
others.
EVALUATE
Think about how hazards can interact to
create risks for you. Anticipate potential
problems and have a plan to reduce risks.
Stationary objects - potholes, guard
rails, bridges, telephone poles, and trees
won't move into your path but may influence
your riding strategy.
Traffic control devices - Look for
traffic signals, including regulatory signs,
warning signs, and pavement markings, to
help you evaluate circumstances ahead.
Other vehicles, pedestrians and animals
- may suddenly move into your path and
increase the likelihood of a crash.
Think about your time and space requirements
in order to maintain a margin of safety. You
must leave yourself time to react if an
emergency arises.
EXECUTE
Carry out your decision.
To create more space and minimize harm from
any hazard:
Communicate your presence with lights
and/or horn.
Adjust your speed by accelerating,
stopping or slowing.
Adjust your position and/or direction.
Apply the old adage "one step at a time" to
handle two or more hazards. Adjust speed to
permit two hazards to separate. Then deal
with them one at a time as single hazards.
Decision making becomes more complex with
three or more hazards. Weigh consequences of
each and give equal distance to the hazards.
In potential high risk areas, such as
intersections, shopping areas, school and
construction zones, cover the clutch and
both brakes to reduce the time you need to
react.
INTERSECTIONS
The greatest potential for conflict between
you and other traffic is at intersections.
An intersection can be in the middle of an
urban area or at a driveway on a residential
street - anywhere traffic may cross your
path of travel. Over one half of
motorcycle/car crashes are caused by drivers
entering a rider's right-of-way. Cars that
turn left in front of you, including cars
turning left from the lane to your right,
and cars on side streets that pull into your
lane, are the biggest dangers. Your use of
SEE at intersections is critical.
There are no guarantees that others see you.
Never count on "eye contact" as a sign that
a driver will yield. Too often, a driver
looks right at a motorcyclist and still
fails to "see" him. The only eyes that you
can count on are your own. If a car can
enter your path, assume that it will. Good
riders are always "looking for trouble" -
not to get into it, but to stay out of it.
Increase your chances of being seen at
intersections. Ride with your headlight on
in a lane position that provides the best
view of oncoming traffic. Provide a space
cushion around the motorcycle that permits
you to take evasive action.
As you approach the intersection, select a
lane position to increase your visibility to
the driver. Cover the clutch and both brakes
to reduce reaction time.
Reduce your speed as you approach an
intersection. After you have entered the
intersection, move away from vehicles
preparing to turn.
Do not radically change speed or position.
The driver might think that you are
preparing to turn.
BLIND INTERSECTIONS
If you approach a blind intersection, move
to the portion of the lane that will bring
you into another driver's field of vision at
the earliest possible moment. In this
picture, the rider has moved to the left
portion of the lane - away from the parked
car - so the driver on the cross street can
see him as soon as possible.
Remember, the key is to see as much as
possible and remain visible to others while
protecting your space.
If you have a stop sign or stop line, stop
there first. Then edge forward and stop
again, just short of where the cross-traffic
lane meets your lane. From that position,
lean your body forward and look around
buildings, parked cars, or bushes to see if
anything is coming. Just make sure your
front wheel stays out of the cross lane of
travel while you're looking.
PASSING PARKED CARS
When passing parked cars, stay toward the
left of your lane. You can avoid problems
caused by doors opening, drivers getting out
of cars, or people stepping from between
cars. If oncoming traffic is present, it is
usually best to remain in the center-lane
position to maximize your space cushion.
A bigger problem can occur if the driver
pulls away from the curb without checking
for traffic behind. Even if he does look, he
may fail to see you.
|
In either event, the driver
might cut into your path. Slow
down or change lanes to make
room for someone cutting in.
Cars making a sudden U-turn are
the most dangerous. They may cut
you off entirely, blocking the
whole roadway and leaving you
with no place to go. Since you
cannot tell what a driver will
do, slow down and get the
driver's attention. Sound your
horn and continue with caution.
|
 |
 |
PARKING AT THE ROADSIDE
 Park
at a 90° angle to the curb with your rear
wheel touching the curb.
INCREASING CONSPICUITY
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers often
say they never saw the motorcycle. From
ahead or behind, a motorcycle's outline is
much smaller than a car's. Also, it is hard
to see something you are not looking for,
and most drivers are not looking for
motorcycles. More likely, they are looking
through the skinny, two-wheeled silhouette
in search of cars that may pose a problem to
them.
Even if a driver does see you coming, you
are not necessarily safe. Smaller vehicles
appear farther away, and seem to be
traveling slower than they actually are. it
is common for drivers to pull out in front
of motorcyclists, thinking they have plenty
of time. Too often, they are wrong.
However, you can do many things to make it
easier for others to recognize you and your
motorcycle.
CLOTHING
Most crashes occur in broad daylight. Wear
bright colored clothing to increase your
chances of being seen. Remember, your body
is half of the visible surface area of the
rider/motorcycle unit.
Bright orange, red, yellow or green jackets
or vests are your best bets for being seen.
Your helmet can do more than protect you in
a crash. Brightly colored helmets can also
help others see you.
Any bright color is better than drab or dark
colors. Reflective, bright colored clothing
(helmet and jacket or vest) is best.
Reflective material on a vest and on the
sides of the helmet will help drivers coming
from the side spot you.
Reflective material can also be a big help
for drivers coming toward you or from
behind.
HEADLIGHT
The best way to help others see your
motorcycle is to keep the headlight on -
at all times (motorcycles
sold in the U.S. since 1978 have the
headlights on automatically when running.)
Studies show that, during the day, a
motorcycle with its light on is twice as
likely to be noticed. Use of the high beam
during the day increases the likelihood that
oncoming drivers will see you. Use the low
beam at night and in cloudy weather.
SIGNALS
 The
signals on a motorcycle are similar to those
on a car, They tell others what you plan to
do. However, due to a rider's added
vulnerability, signals are even more
important. Use them anytime you plan to
change lanes or turn. Use them even when you
think no one else is around. It's the car
you do not see that is going to give you the
most trouble. Your signal lights also make
you easier to spot. That is why it is a good
idea to use your turn signals even when what
you plan to do is obvious.
When you enter onto a freeway, drivers
approaching from behind are more likely to
see your signal blinking and make room for
you.
Turning your signal light on before each
turn reduces confusion and frustration for
the traffic around you. Once you turn, make
sure your signal is off or a driver may pull
directly into your path, thinking you plan
to turn again. Use your signals at every
turn so drivers can react accordingly. Do
not make them guess what you intend to do.
BRAKE LIGHT
Your motorcycle's brake light is usually not
as noticeable as the brake lights on a car -
particularly when your taillight is on. (It
goes on with the headlight.) If the
situation will permit, help others notice
you by flashing your brake light before you
slow down. It is especially important to
flash your brake light before:
You slow more quickly than others might
expect (turning off a high-speed highway).
You slow where others may not expect it
(in the middle of a block or at an alley).
If you are being followed closely, it is a
good idea to flash your brake light before
you slow. The tailgater may be watching you
and not see something ahead that will make
you slow down. This will hopefully
discourage them from tailgating and warn
them of hazards ahead they may not see.
USING YOUR MIRRORS
While it is most important to keep track of
what is happening ahead, you cannot afford
to ignore situations behind. Traffic
conditions change quickly. Knowing what is
going on behind is essential for you to make
a safe decision about how to handle trouble
ahead.
Frequent
mirror checks should be part of your normal
scanning routine. Make a special point of
using your mirrors:
When you are stopped at an intersection.
Watch cars coming up from behind. If the
driver is not paying attention, he could be
on top of you before he sees you.
Before you change lanes. Make sure no
one is about to pass you.
Before you slow down. The driver behind
may not expect you to slow, or may be unsure
about where you will slow. For example, you
signal a turn and the driver thinks you plan
to turn at a distant intersection, rather
than at a nearer driveway.
Some motorcycles have rounded (convex)
mirrors. These provide a wider view of the
road behind than do flat mirrors. They also
make cars seem farther away than they really
are. If you are not used to convex mirrors,
get familiar with them. (While you
are stopped, pick out a parked car in your
mirror. Form a mental image of how far away
it is. Then, turn around and look at it to
see how close you came.) Practice
with your mirrors until you become a good
judge of distance. Even then, allow extra
distance before you 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, check the far
lane and the one next to you. A driver in
the distant lane may head for the same space
you plan to take. Frequent head checks
should be your normal scanning routine,
also. Know what is happening all
around you.
HORN
Be ready to use your horn to get someone's
attention quickly.
It is a good idea to give a quick beep
before passing anyone that may move into
your lane.
Here are some situations:
A driver in the lane next to you is
driving too closely to the vehicle ahead and
may want to pass.
A parked car has someone in the driver's
seat.
Someone is in the street, riding a
bicycle or walking.
In an emergency, press the horn button loud
and long. Be ready to stop or swerve away
from the danger.
Keep in mind that a motorcycle's horn is not
as loud as a car's, therefore, use it, but
do not rely on it. Other strategies may be
appropriate along with the horn.
RIDING AT NIGHT
At night it is harder for you to see and be
seen. Picking your headlight or taillight
out of the car lights around you is not easy
for other drivers. To compensate, you
should:
Reduce Your Speed - Ride
even slower than you would during the day -
particularly on roads you don't know well.
This will increase your chances of avoiding
a hazard.
Increase Distance -
Distances are harder to judge at night than
during the day. Your eyes rely upon shadows
and light contrasts to determine how far
away an object is and how fast it is coming.
These contrasts are missing or distorted
under artificial lights at night. Open up a
three-second following distance or more. And
allow more distance to pass and be passed.
Use the Car Ahead - The
headlights of the car ahead can give you a
better view of the road than even your high
beam can. Its taillights bouncing up and
down can alert you to bumps or rough
pavement.
Use Your High Beam - Get
all the light you can. Use your high beam
whenever you are not following or meeting a
car. Be visible, wear reflective materials
when riding at night.
Be Flexible About Lane Position.
Change to whatever portion of the
lane is best able to help you see, be seen,
and keep an adequate space cushion.
CRASH AVOIDANCE
No matter how careful you are, there will be
times when you find yourself in a tight
spot. Your chances of getting out safely
depend on your ability to react quickly and
properly. Often, a crash occurs because a
rider is not prepared or skilled in
crash-avoidance maneuvers.
Know when and how to stop or swerve, two
skills critical to avoiding a crash. It is
not always desirable or possible to stop
quickly to avoid an obstacle. Riders must
also be able to swerve around an obstacle.
Determining the skill necessary for the
situation is important as well.
Studies show that most riders
involved in crashes:
Underbrake the front tire and overbrake
the rear.
Did not separate braking from swerving
or did not choose swerving when it was
appropriate.
The following information offers some good
advice.
QUICK STOPS
 To
stop quickly, apply both brakes at the same
time. Do not be shy about using the front
brake, but do not "grab" it, either. Squeeze
the brake lever firmly and progressively. If
the front wheel locks, release the front
brake immediately then reapply it firmly. At
the same time, press down on the rear brake.
If you accidentally lock the rear brake on a
good traction surface, keep it locked until
you have completely stopped. Even with a
locked rear wheel, you can control the
motorcycle on a straightaway if it
is upright and going in a straight line.
Always use both brakes at the same time to
stop. The front brake can provide 70% or
more of the potential stopping power.
If you must stop quickly while turning or
riding a curve, the best technique is to
straighten the bike upright first and then
brake. However, it may not always be
possible to straighten the motorcycle and
then stop. If you must brake while leaning,
apply light brakes and reduce the throttle.
As you slow, you can reduce your lean angle
and apply more brake pressure until the
motorcycle is straight and maximum brake
pressure is possible. You should
"straighten" the handlebars in the last few
feet of stopping, the motorcycle should then
be straight up and in balance.
SWERVING OR TURNING QUICKLY
Sometimes you may not have enough room to
stop, even if you use both brakes properly.
An object might appear suddenly in your
path. Or the car ahead might squeal to a
stop. The only way to avoid a crash may be
to turn quickly, or swerve around it.
A swerve is any sudden change in direction.
It can be two quick turns, or a rapid shift
to the side. Apply a small amount of hand
pressure to the handgrip located on the side
of your intended direction of escape. This
will cause the motorcycle to lean quickly.
 The
sharper the turn(s), the more the motorcycle
must lean.
Keep your body upright and allow the
motorcycle to lean in the direction of the
turn while keeping your knees against the
tank and your feet solidly on the foot
rests. Let the motorcycle move underneath
you. Make your escape route the target of
your vision. Press on the opposite handgrip
once you clear the obstacle to return you to
your original direction of travel. To swerve
to the left, press the left handgrip, then
press the right to recover. To swerve to the
right, press right, then left.
IF BRAKING IS
REQUIRED, SEPARATE IT FROM SWERVING.
Brake before or after - never while
swerving.
RIDING A CURVE
 A
primary cause of single-vehicle crashes is
motorcyclists running wide in a curve or
turn and colliding with the roadway or a
fixed object.
Every curve is different. Be alert to
whether a curve remains constant, gradually
widens, gets tighter, or involves multiple
turns.
Ride within your skill level and posted
speed limits.
Your best path may not always follow the
curve of the road. Change lane position
depending on traffic, road conditions and
curve of the road.
 If
no traffic is present, start at the outside
of a curve to increase your line of sight
and the effective radius of the turn. As you
turn, move toward the inside of the curve,
and as you pass the center, move to the
outside to exit.
Another alternative is to move to the center
of your lane before entering a curve - and
stay there until you exit. This permits you
to spot approaching traffic as soon as
possible. You can also adjust for traffic
"crowding" the center line, or debris
blocking part of your lane.
HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES
Your chance of falling or being involved in
a crash increases whenever you ride across:
Uneven surfaces or obstacles.
Slippery surfaces.
Railroad tracks.
Grooves and gratings.
UNEVEN SURFACES AND OBSTACLES
Watch for uneven surfaces such as bumps,
broken pavement, potholes, or small pieces
of highway trash.
 Try
to avoid obstacles by slowing or going
around them. If you must go over the
obstacle, first, determine if it is
possible. Approach it at as close to a 90º
angle as possible. Look where you want to go
to control your path of travel. If you have
to ride over the obstacle, you should:
Slow down as much as possible before
contact.
Make sure the motorcycle is straight.
Rise slightly off the seat with your
weight on the footpegs to absorb the shock
with your knees and elbows, and avoid being
thrown off the motorcycle.
Just before contact, roll on the
throttle slightly to lighten the front end.
If you ride over an object on the street,
pull off the road and check your tires and
rims for damage before riding any farther.
SLIPPERY SURFACES
Motorcycles handle better when ridden on
surfaces that permit good traction. Surfaces
that provide poor traction include:
Wet pavement, particularly just after it
starts to rain and before surface oil washes
to the side of the road.
Gravel roads, or where sand and gravel
collect.
Mud, snow, and ice.
Lane markings, steel plates and manhole
covers, especially when wet.
To ride safely on slippery surfaces:
Reduce Speed - Slow down before you get
to a slippery surface to lessen your chances
of skidding. Your motorcycle needs more
distance to stop. And, it is particularly
important to reduce speed before entering
wet curves.
Avoid Sudden Moves - Any sudden change
in speed or direction can cause a skid. Be
as smooth as possible when you speed up,
shift gears, turn or brake.
Use Both Brakes - The front brake is
still effective, even on a slippery surface.
Squeeze the brake lever gradually to avoid
locking the front wheel. Remember, gentle
pressure on the rear brake.
The center of a lane can be hazardous
when wet. When it starts to rain, ride in
the tire tracks left by cars. Often, the
left tire track will be the best position,
depending on traffic and other road
conditions as well.
Watch for oil spots when you put your
foot down to stop or park. You may slip and
fall.
Dirt and gravel collect along the sides
of the road - especially on curves and ramps
leading to and from highways. Be aware of
what is on the edge of the road,
particularly when making sharp turns and
getting on or off freeways at high speeds.
Rain dries and snow melts faster on some
sections of a road than on others. Patches
of ice tend to crop up in low or shaded
areas and on bridges and overpasses. Wet
surfaces or wet leaves are just as slippery.
Ride on the least slippery portion of the
lane and reduce speed.
Cautious riders steer clear of roads covered
with ice or snow. If you cannot avoid a
slippery surface, keep your motorcycle
straight up and proceed as slowly as
possible. If you encounter a large surface
so slippery that you must coast, or travel
at a walking pace, consider letting your
feet skim along the surface. If the
motorcycle starts to fall, you can catch
yourself. Be sure to keep off the brakes. If
possible, squeeze the clutch and coast.
Attempting this maneuver at anything other
than the slowest of speeds could prove
hazardous.
RAILROAD TRACKS, TROLLEY TRACKS AND
PAVEMENT SEAMS
 |
Usually it is safer to ride
straight within your lane to
cross tracks. Turning to take
tracks head-on (at a 90° angle)
can be more dangerous - your
path may carry you into another
lane of traffic.
For track and road seams that
run parallel to your course,
move far enough away from
tracks, ruts, or pavement seams
to cross at an angle of at least
45°. Then, make a quick, sharp
turn. Edging across could catch
your tires and throw you off
balance.
|
 |
GROOVES AND GRATINGS
|
Riding over rain grooves or
bridge gratings may cause a
motorcycle to weave. The uneasy,
wandering feeling generally is
not hazardous. Relax, maintain a
steady speed and ride straight
across. Crossing at an angle
forces riders to zigzag to stay
in the lane. The zigzag is far
more hazardous than the
wandering feeling.
|
 |
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS
You can find yourself in an emergency the
moment something goes wrong with your
motorcycle. In dealing with any mechanical
problem, take into account the road and
traffic conditions you face. Here are some
guidelines that can help you handle
mechanical problems safely.
TIRE FAILURE
You will seldom hear a tire go flat. If the
motorcycle starts handling differently, it
may be a tire failure. This can be
dangerous. You must be able to tell from the
way the motorcycle reacts. If one of your
tires suddenly loses air, react quickly to
keep your balance. Pull off and check the
tires.
If the front tire goes flat, the steering
will feel "heavy." A front-wheel flat is
particularly hazardous because it affects
your steering. You have to steer well to
keep your balance.
If the rear tire goes flat, the back of the
motorcycle may jerk or sway from side to
side.
If either tire goes flat while
riding:
Hold handlegrips firmly, ease off the
throttle, and keep a straight course.
If braking is required, however,
gradually apply the brake of the tire that
is not flat, if you are sure which one it
is.
When the motorcycle slows, edge to the
side of the road, squeeze the clutch and
stop.
STUCK THROTTLE
Twist the throttle back and forth several
times. If the throttle cable is stuck, this
may free it. If the throttle stays stuck
immediately operate the engine cut-off
switch and pull in the clutch at the same
time. This will remove power from the rear
wheel, though engine noise may not
immediately decline. Once the motorcycle is
"under control," pull off and stop.
After you have stopped, check the throttle
cable carefully to find the source of the
trouble. Make certain the throttle works
freely before you start to ride again.
WOBBLE
A "wobble" occurs when the front wheel and
handlebars start to shake suddenly from side
to side at any speed. Most wobbles can be
traced to improper loading, unsuitable
accessories, or incorrect tire pressure. If
you are carrying a heavy load, lighten it.
If you cannot, shift it. Center the weight
lower and farther forward on the motorcycle.
Make sure tire pressure, spring pre-load,
air shocks, and dampers are at the settings
recommended for that much weight. Make sure
windshields and fairings are mounted
property.
Check for poorly adjusted steering; worn
steering parts; a front wheel that is bent,
misaligned, or out of balance; loose wheel
bearings or spokes; and swingarm bearings.
If none of these are determined to be the
cause, have the motorcycle checked out
thoroughly by a qualified professional.
Trying to "accelerate out of a wobble" will
only make the motorcycle more unstable.
Instead:
Grip the handlebars firmly, but do not
fight the wobble.
Close the throttle gradually to slow
down. Do not apply the brakes; braking could
make the wobble worse.
Move your weight as far forward and down
as possible.
Pull off the road as soon as you can to
fix the problem.
CHAIN PROBLEMS
A chain that slips or breaks while you are
riding could lock the rear wheel and cause
your cycle to skid. Chain slippage or
breakage can be avoided by proper
maintenance.
Slippage - If the chain
slips when you try to speed up quickly or
ride uphill, pull off the road. Check the
chain and sprockets. Tightening the chain
may help. If the problem is a worn or
stretched chain or worn or bent sprockets,
replace the chain, the sprockets, or both
before riding again.
Breakage - You will notice
an instant loss of power to the rear wheel.
Close the throttle and brake to a stop.
ENGINE SEIZURE
When the engine "locks" or "freezes" it is
usually low on oil. The engine's moving
parts cannot move smoothly against each
other, and the engine overheats. The first
sign may be a loss of engine power or a
change in the engine's sound. Squeeze the
clutch lever to disengage the engine from
the rear wheel. Pull off the road and stop.
Check the oil. If needed, oil should be
added as soon as possible or the engine will
seize. When this happens, the effect is the
same as a locked rear wheel. Let the engine
cool before restarting.
ANIMALS
Naturally, you should do everything you
safely can to avoid hitting an animal. If
you are in traffic, however, remain in your
lane. Hitting something small is less
dangerous to you than hitting something big
- like a car.
Motorcycles seem to attract dogs. If you are
chased, downshift and approach the animal
slowly. As you approach it, accelerate away
and leave the animal behind. Do not kick at
an animal. Keep control of your motorcycle,
and look to where you want to go. For larger
animals (deer, elk, cattle) brake and
prepare to stop, they are unpredictable.
FLYING OBJECTS
From time to time riders are struck by
insects, cigarettes thrown from cars, or
pebbles kicked up by the tires of the
vehicle ahead. If you are wearing face
protection, it might get smeared or cracked,
making it difficult to see. Without face
protection, an object could hit you in the
eye, face, or mouth. Whatever happens, keep
your eyes on the road and your hands on the
handlebars. When safe, pull off the road and
repair the damage.
GETTING OFF THE ROAD
If you need to leave the road to check the
motorcycle (or just to rest for a while), be
sure you:
Check the roadside - Make sure the
surface of the roadside is firm enough to
ride on. If it is soft grass, loose sand, or
if you are just not sure about it, slow way
down before you turn onto it.
Signal - Drivers behind might not expect
you to slow down. Give a clear signal that
you will be slowing down and changing
direction. Check your mirror and make a head
check before you take any action.
Pull off the road - Get as far off the
road as you can. It can be very hard to spot
a motorcycle by the side of the road. You do
not want someone else pulling off at the
same place you are.
Park carefully - Loose and sloped
shoulders can make setting the side or
center stand difficult.
CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO
Only experienced riders should carry
passengers or large loads. The extra weight
changes the way the motorcycle handles,
balances, turns, speeds up, and slows down.
Before taking a passenger or heavy load on
the street, practice away from traffic.
EQUIPMENT
To carry passengers safely:
Equip and adjust your motorcycle to
carry passengers.
Instruct the passenger before you start.
Adjust your riding technique for the
added weight.
Equipment should include:
A proper seat - large enough to hold
both of you without crowding. You should not
sit any farther forward than you usually do.
Foot rests - for the passenger. Firm
footing prevents your passenger from falling
off and pulling you off, too.
Protective equipment - the same
protective gear recommended for operators.
Adjust the suspension to handle the
additional weight. You will probably need to
add a few pounds of pressure to the tires if
you carry a passenger. (Check your owner's
manual for appropriate settings.) While your
passenger sits on the seat with you, adjust
the mirror and headlight according to the
change in the motorcycle's angle.
INSTRUCTING PASSENGERS
Even if your passenger is a motorcycle
rider, provide complete instructions before
you start. Tell your passenger to:
Get on the motorcycle only after you
have started the engine.
Sit as far forward as possible without
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),
chains or moving parts.
Stay directly behind you, leaning as you
lean.
Avoid unnecessary talk or motion.
Also, tell your passenger to tighten his
or her hold when you:
Approach surface problems.
Are about to start from a stop.
Warn that you will make a sudden move.
RIDING WITH PASSENGERS
Your motorcycle will respond more slowly
with a passenger on board. The heavier your
passenger, the longer it will take to slow
down, speed up, or turn especially on a
light motorcycle.
Ride a little slower, especially when
taking curves, corners, or bumps.
Start slowing earlier as you approach a
stop.
Open up a larger cushion of space ahead
and to the sides.
Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, or
merge in traffic.
Warn your passenger of special conditions -
when you will pull out, stop quickly, turn
sharply, or ride over a bump. Turn your head
slightly to make yourself understood, but
keep your eyes on the road ahead.
CARRYING LOADS
Most motorcycles are not designed to carry
much cargo. Small loads can be carried
safely it positioned and fastened properly.
Keep the Load Low - Fasten loads
securely, or put them in saddle bags. Piling
loads against a sissybar or frame on the
back of the seat raises the motorcycle's
center of gravity and disturbs its balance.
Keep the Load Forward - Place the load
over, or in front of, the rear axle. Tank
bags keep loads forward, but use caution
when loading hard or sharp objects. Make
sure the tank bag does not interfere with
the handlebars or controls. Mounting loads
behind the rear axle can affect how the
motorcycle turns and brakes. It can also
cause a wobble.
Distribute the Load Evenly - Load
saddlebags with about the same weight. An
uneven load can cause the motorcycle to
drift to one side.
Secure the Load - Fasten the load
securely with elastic cords (bungee cords or
nets). Elastic cords with more than one
attachment point per side are more secure. A
tight load will not catch in the wheel or
chain, causing it to lock up and skid. Rope
tends to stretch and knots come loose,
permitting the load to shift or fall.
Check the Load - Stop and check the load
every so often to make sure it has not
worked loose or moved.
GROUP RIDING
If you ride with others, do it in a way that
promotes safety and doesn't interfere with
the flow of traffic.
KEEP THE GROUP SMALL
Small groups make it easier and safer for
car drivers who need to get around them. A
small number isn't separated as easily by
traffic or red lights. Riders will not
always be hurrying to catch up. If your
group is larger than four or five riders,
divide it up into two or more smaller
groups.
KEEP THE GROUP TOGETHER
Plan - The leader should look ahead for
road changes and signal early so "the word
gets back" in plenty of time. Start lane
changes early to permit everyone to complete
the change.
Put Beginners Up Front - Place
inexperienced riders just behind the leader.
That way the more experienced riders can
watch them from the back.
Follow Those Behind - Let the tailender
set the pace. Use your mirrors to keep an
eye on the person behind. If a rider falls
behind, everyone should slow down a little
to stay with the tailender.
Know the Route - Make sure everyone
knows the route. Then, if someone is
separated they will not have to hurry to
keep from getting lost or taking a wrong
turn. Plan frequent stops on long rides.
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Maintain close ranks but at the same time
keep a safe distance to allow each rider in
the group time and space to react to
hazards. A close group takes up less space
on the highway, is easier to see and is less
likely to be separated. However, it must be
done properly.
Don't Pair Up - Never operate directly
alongside another rider. There is no place
to go if you have to avoid a car or
something on the road. To talk, wait until
you are both stopped.
Staggered Formation
 This
is the best way to keep ranks close yet
maintain an adequate space cushion. The
leader rides in the left side of the lane,
while the second rider stays one second
behind in the right side of the lane.
A third rider maintains in the left
position, two seconds behind the first
rider. The fourth rider would keep a
two-second distance behind the second rider.
This formation keeps the group close and
permits each rider a safe distance from
others ahead, behind and to the sides.
Passing in Formation - Riders in a
staggered formation should pass one at a
time.
First, the lead rider should pull out
and pass when it is safe. After passing, the
leader should return to the left position
and continue riding at passing speed to open
room for the next rider.
After the first rider passes safely, the
second rider should move up to the left
position and watch for a safe chance to
pass. After passing, this rider should
return to the right position and open up
room for the next rider.
Some people suggest the leader should move
to the right side after passing a vehicle.
This is not a good idea. It encourages the
second rider to pass and cut back in before
there is a large enough space cushion in
front of the passed vehicle. It is simpler
and safer to wait until there is enough room
ahead of the passed vehicle to allow each
rider to move into the same position held
before the pass.
Single-File Formation
It is best to move into a single-file
formation when riding curves, turning,
entering or leaving a highway.
|
|
|
|
|
|
