Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Motorcycle
DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
Operator
Manual
DOR-2332 (05-2009)
PREFACE
Operating a motorcycle safely in • Comments and guidance provided
traffic requires special skills and by the motorcycling, licensing, and
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety traffic-safety communities.
Foundation (MSF) has made this • Expanded alcohol and drug
manual available to help novice
information.
motorcyclists reduce their risk of
having a crash. The manual conveys In promoting improved licensing
essential safe-riding information and programs, the MSF works closely
has been designed for use in licensing with state licensing agencies. The
programs. While designed for the Foundation has helped more than half
novice, all motorcyclists can benefit the states in the nation adopt the
from the information this manual “Motorcycle Operator Manual” for
contains. use in their licensing systems.
The original “Motorcycle Improved licensing, along with
Operator Manual” was developed by high quality motorcycle rider
the National Public Services education and increased public
Research Institute (NPSRI) under awareness, has the potential to reduce
contract to the National Highway crashes. Staff at the Foundation are
Traffic Safety Administration available to assist state, private and
(NHTSA) and within the terms of a governmental agencies in efforts to
cooperative agreement between improve motorcycle safety.
NHTSA and the MSF. The manual
and related tests were used in a multi-
year study of improved motorcycle
operator licensing procedures,
conducted by the California
Department of Motor Vehicles under Tim Buche
contract to NHTSA. President
The purpose of this manual is to Motorcycle Safety Foundation
educate the reader to help avoid
crashes while safely operating a
motorcycle. For this edition, the MSF
has updated and expanded the content
of the original manual. These
revisions reflect:
• The latest finding of motorcycle-
safety research.
2
CONTENTS
PREPARING TO RIDE HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES . . .27
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR . . . . . . . . . . .4 Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles . . . .27
Helmet Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Slippery Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Helmet Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks,
Eye and Face Protection . . . . . . . . . . .5 and Pavement Seams . . . . . . . . . . .29
Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Grooves and Gratings . . . . . . . . . . .29
KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE . . . . . . . . .6 MECHANICAL PROBLEMS . . . . . . . . . .30
The Right Motorcycle For You . . . . .6 Tire Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Borrowing and Lending . . . . . . . . . . .7 Stuck Throttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Get Familiar With the Motorcycle Wobble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Chain Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Check Your Motorcycle . . . . . . . . . . .8 Engine Seizure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES . . . . . .9 ANIMALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
RIDE WITHIN FLYING OBJECTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
YOUR ABILITIES GETTING OFF THE ROAD . . . . . . . . . .32
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL . . . . . . . . .10 CARRYING PASSENGERS
Body Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 AND CARGO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Shifting Gears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Instructing Passengers . . . . . . . . . . .33
Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Riding With Passengers . . . . . . . . . .33
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE . . . . . . . . .12 Carrying Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Lane Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 GROUP RIDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Following Another Vehicle . . . . . . . .13 Keep the Group Small . . . . . . . . . . .34
Being Followed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Keep the Group Together . . . . . . . . .34
Passing and Being Passed . . . . . . . .14 Keep Your Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Lane Sharing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 BEING IN SHAPE
Merging Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 TO RIDE
Cars Alongside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 WHY THIS INFORMATION IS
SEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 IMPORTANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
INTERSECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS IN
Blind Intersections . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
MOTORCYCLE OPERATION . . . . . . . . .36
Passing Parked Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Parking at the Roadside . . . . . . . . . .20 ALCOHOL IN THE BODY . . . . . . . . . . .37
INCREASING CONSPICUITY . . . . . . . . .21 Blood Alcohol
Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Concentration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Headlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 ALCOHOL AND THE LAW . . . . . . . . . . .38
Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Consequences of
Brake Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Conviction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Using Your Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 MINIMIZE THE RISKS . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Head Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 STEP IN TO PROTECT FRIENDS . . . . . .39
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 FATIGUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Riding at Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 EARNING
CRASH AVOIDANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 YOUR LICENSE
Quick Stops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Knowledge Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Swerving or Turning Quickly . . . . . .25 On-Motorcycle Skill Test . . . . . . . . .42
Cornering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
3
PREPARING TO RIDE
What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward
determining whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely.
Before taking off on any trip, a safe rider makes a point to:
1. Wear the right gear.
2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.
3. Check the motorcycle equipment.
4. Be a responsible rider.
crash, you have a far better chance of wore helmets, did not find even one
avoiding serious injury if you wear: case in which a helmet kept a rider
• An approved helmet. from spotting danger.
• Face or eye protection. • Most crashes happen on short trips
• Protective clothing. (less than five miles long), just a
few minutes after starting out.
HELMET USE • Most riders are riding slower than
Crashes can occur — particularly 30 mph when a crash occurs. At
among untrained beginning riders. these speeds, helmets can cut both
And one out of every five motorcycle the number and the severity of head
crashes result in head or neck injuries by half.
injuries. Head injuries are just as
No matter what the speed,
severe as neck injuries — and far
helmeted riders are three times more
more common. Crash analyses show
likely to survive head injuries than
that head and neck injuries account
those not wearing helmets at the time
for a majority of serious and fatal
of the crash.
injuries to motorcyclists. Research
also shows that, with few exceptions,
head and neck injuries are reduced by HELMET SELECTION
the proper wearing of an approved There are two primary types of
helmet. helmets, providing two different
Missouri law requires all levels of coverage: three-quarter and
motorcycle or motortricycle operators full face.
and passengers to wear protective Whichever style you choose, you
headgear at all times the vehicle is in can get the most protection by mak-
motion on the highways of this state. ing sure that the helmet:
Consider the following facts:
4
HELMETS
HELMET USE
• Meets U.S. Department of your face like a faceshield does. A
Transportation (DOT) and state windshield is not a substitute for a
5
CLOTHING KNOW YOUR
The right clothing protects you in MOTORCYCLE
CLOTHING
6
At minimum, your street-legal before allowing them out into traffic.
motorcycle should have: No matter how experienced you
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
Light Switch (high/low) Engine Cut-Off
Choke (varies) Switch
Electric
Turn Signal Switch Start
Ignition Button
Key
(varies)
7
• Find out where everything is, par- • Brake Light — Try both brake
ticularly the turn signals, horn, controls, and make sure each one
CHECK YOUR MOTORCYCLE
8
KNOW YOUR • Be visible — wear proper clothing,
RESPONSIBILITIES use your headlight, ride in the best
9
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
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.
SHIFTING GEARS
There is more to shifting gears
SHIFTING GEARS
HOLDING HANDLEGRIPS
than simply getting the motorcycle to
pick up speed smoothly. Learning to
RIGHT use the gears when downshifting,
turning, or starting on hills is impor-
tant 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.
WRONG
10
Make certain you are riding slow- occur if you apply too much brake.
ly enough when you shift into a lower Also, using the front brake
BRAKING
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, incorrectly on a slippery surface
and the rear wheel may skid. When may be hazardous. Use caution and
riding downhill or shifting into first squeeze the brake lever, never
gear you may need to use the brakes grab.
to slow enough before downshifting • Some motorcycles have integrated
safely. Work towards a smooth, even braking systems that activate the
clutch release, especially when down- front and rear brakes together by
shifting. applying the rear brake pedal.
It is best to change gears before (Consult the owner’s manual for a
entering a turn. However, sometimes detailed explanation on the opera-
shifting while in the turn is necessary. tion and effective use of these sys-
If so, remember to do so smoothly. A tems.)
sudden change in power to the rear
wheel can cause a skid. TURNING
Riders often try to take curves or
BRAKING
TURNING
turns too fast. When they can’t hold
Your motorcycle has two brakes: the turn, they end up crossing into
one each for the front and rear wheel. another lane of traffic or going off the
Use both of them at the same time. road. Or, they overreact and brake too
The front brake is more powerful and hard, causing a skid and loss of con-
can provide at least three-quarters trol. Approach turns and curves with
of your total stopping power. The caution.
front brake is safe to use if you use it Use four steps for better control:
properly.
• SLOW
Remember:
• LOOK
• Use both brakes every time you
slow or stop. Using both brakes for • PRESS
even “normal” stops will permit • ROLL
you to develop the proper habit or SLOW — Reduce speed before the
skill of using both brakes properly turn by closing the throttle and, if
in an emergency. Squeeze the front necessary, applying both brakes.
brake and press down on the rear.
Grabbing at the front brake or LOOK — Look through the turn to
jamming down on the rear can where you want to go. Turn just
cause the brakes to lock, resulting your head, not your shoulders,
in control problems. and keep your eyes level with the
horizon.
• If you know the technique, using
both brakes in a turn is possible, PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
although it should be done very must lean. To lean the motorcy-
carefully. When leaning the cle, press on the handgrip in the
motorcycle some of the traction is direction of the turn. Press left —
used for cornering. Less traction is lean left — go left. Press right —
available for stopping. A skid can lean right — go right. Higher
11
speeds and/or tighter turns require
the motorcycle to lean more.
ROLL — Roll on the throttle 3 Test Yourself
through the turn to stabilize the
suspension. Maintain steady When riding, you should:
speed or accelerate gradually A. Turn your head and shoulders to
through the turn. This will help look through turns.
keep the motorcycle stable. B. Keep your arms straight.
C. Keep your knees away from the
NORMAL TURNS gas tank.
D. Turn just your head and eyes to
look where you are going.
Answer — page 40
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:
LANE POSITIONS
• Time to react.
• Space to maneuver.
In normal turns, the rider and the
motorcycle should lean together at
the same angle. LANE POSITIONS
In some ways the size of the
SLOW, TIGHT TURNS 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.
In slow tight turns, counterbalance
by leaning the motorcycle only and • Provide an escape route.
keeping your body straight.
12
LANE POSITIONS
FOLLOWING
position for riders to be seen and to VEHICLE
maintain a space cushion around the “Following too closely” could be
motorcycle. No portion of the lane a factor in crashes involving
need be avoided — including the motorcyclists. In traffic, motorcycles
center. need as much distance to stop as cars.
Position yourself in the portion of Normally, a minimum of two
the lane where you are most likely to seconds distance should be
be seen and you can maintain a space maintained behind the vehicle ahead.
cushion around you. Change position To gauge your following distance:
as traffic situations change. Ride in
path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other • Pick out a marker, such as a
potential problems are on your left pavement marking or lamppost, on
only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards or near the road ahead.
are on your right only. If vehicles are • When the rear bumper of the
being operated on both sides of you, vehicle ahead passes the marker,
the center of the lane, path 2, is count off the seconds: “one-
usually your best option. thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”
The oily strip in the center • If you reach the marker before
portion that collects drippings from you reach “two,” you are following
cars is usually no more than two feet too closely.
wide. Unless the road is wet, the A two-second following distance
average center strip permits adequate leaves a minimum amount of space to
traction to ride on safely. You can stop or swerve if the driver ahead
operate to the left or right of the stops suddenly. It also permits a
grease strip and still be within the better view of potholes and other
center portion of the traffic lane. hazards in the road.
13
FOLLOWING
longer than normal to stop. If the ahead and to prevent lane sharing by
pavement is slippery, if you cannot others.
see through the vehicle ahead, or if
traffic is heavy and someone may BEING FOLLOWED
squeeze in front of you, open up a Speeding up to lose someone fol-
three second or more following lowing too closely only ends up with
distance. someone tailgating you at a higher
Keep well behind the vehicle speed.
ahead even when you are stopped. A better way to handle tailgaters
This will make it easier to get out of is to get them in front of you. When
the way if someone bears down on someone is following too closely,
you from behind. It will also give you change lanes and let them pass. If
a cushion of space if the vehicle ahead you can’t do this, slow down and
starts to back up for some reason. open up extra space ahead of you to
When behind a car, ride where allow room for both you and the tail-
the driver can see you in the rearview gater to stop. This will also encour-
mirror. Riding in the center portion of age them to pass. If they don’t pass,
the lane should put your image in the you will have given yourself and the
middle of the rearview mirror — tailgater more time and space to react
where a driver is most likely to see in case an emergency does develop
you. ahead.
14
PASSING stay in the center portion of your
1. Ride in the left portion of the lane. Riding any closer to them could
PASSING
lane at a safe following distance to put you in a hazardous situation.
increase your line of sight and Avoid being hit by:
make you more visible. Signal and
check for oncoming traffic. Use • The other vehicle — A slight mis-
your mirrors and turn your head to take by you or the passing driver
look for traffic behind. could cause a sideswipe.
2. When safe, move into the left • Extended mirrors — Some drivers
lane and accelerate. Select a lane forget that their mirrors hang out
position that doesn’t crowd the car farther than their fenders.
you are passing and provides • Objects thrown from windows —
space to avoid hazards in your Even if the driver knows you’re
lane. there, a passenger may not see you
3. Ride through the blind spot as and might toss something on you or
quickly as possible. the road ahead of you.
4. Signal again, and complete mirror • Blasts of wind from larger vehi-
BEING PASSED
and headchecks before returning cles — They can affect your con-
to your original lane and then can- trol. You have more room for error
cel signal. if you are in the middle portion
Remember, passes must be com- when hit by this blast than if you
pleted within posted speed limits, are on either side of the lane.
and only where permitted. Know Do not move into the portion of
your signs and road markings! the lane farthest from the passing
vehicle. It might invite the other driv-
BEING PASSED er to cut back into your lane too
When you are being passed from early.
behind or by an oncoming vehicle,
15
LANE SHARING no room for a lane change, adjust
Cars and motorcycles need a full speed to open up space for the merg-
LANE SHARING
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
MERGING
4 Test Yourself
Usually, a good way to handle tail-
gaters is to:
A. Change lanes and let them pass.
B. Use your horn and make obscene
gestures.
C. Speed up to put distance between
you and the tailgater.
D. Ignore them.
Answer — page 40
16
SEE • Road and surface characteristics
Good experienced riders remain — Potholes, guardrails, bridges,
SEE
aware of what is going on around telephone poles and trees won’t
them. They improve their riding strat- move into your path but may influ-
egy by using SEE, a three-step ence your riding strategy.
process used to make appropriate • Traffic control devices — Look
judgments, and apply them correctly for traffic signals, including regula-
in different traffic situations: tory signs, warning signs, and
• Search pavement markings, to help you
evaluate circumstances ahead.
• Evaluate
• Vehicles and other traffic — May
• Execute move into your path and increase
Let’s examine each of these steps. the likelihood of a crash.
Think about your time and space
SEARCH requirements in order to maintain a
Search aggressively ahead, to the margin of safety. You must leave
sides and behind to avoid potential yourself time to react if an emergency
hazards even before they arise. How arises.
assertively you search, and how much
time and space you have, can elimi- EXECUTE
nate or reduce harm. Focus even Carry out your decision.
more on finding potential escape
routes in or around intersections, To create more space and
shopping areas, school and construc- minimize harm from any hazard:
tion zones. • Communicate your presence with
Search for factors such as: lights and/or horn.
• Oncoming traffic that may turn • Adjust your speed by accelerating,
left in front of you. stopping or slowing.
• Traffic coming from the left and • Adjust your position and/or
right. direction.
• Traffic approaching from behind. Apply the old adage “one step at
a time” to handle two or more
• Hazardous road conditions.
hazards. Adjust speed to permit two
Be especially alert in areas with hazards to separate. Then deal with
limited visibility. Visually “busy” them one at a time as single hazards.
surroundings could hide you and your Decision-making becomes more
motorcycle from others. complex with three or more hazards.
Weigh the consequences of each and
EVALUATE give equal distance to the hazards.
Think about how hazards can
interact to create risks for you.
Anticipate potential problems and
have a plan to reduce risks.
17
In potential high-risk areas, such INTERSECTIONS
as intersections, shopping areas and The greatest potential for conflict
INTERSECTIONS
school and construction zones, cover between you and other traffic is at
the clutch and both brakes to reduce intersections. An intersection can be
the time you need to react. 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 motorcy-
5 Test Yourself cle/car crashes are caused by drivers
entering a rider’s right-of-way. Cars
To reduce your reaction time, you that turn left in front of you, includ-
should: ing cars turning left from the lane to
A. Ride slower than the speed limit. your right, and cars on side streets
B. Cover the clutch and the brakes. that pull into your lane, are the
C. Shift into neutral when slowing. biggest dangers. Your use of SEE
D. Pull in the clutch when turning. [p. 17] at intersections is critical.
Answer — page 40 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.
SMALL INTERSECTIONS
18
LARGE INTERSECTIONS
BLIND INTERSECTIONS
If you approach a blind intersec-
tion, move to the portion of the lane
that will bring you into another dri-
ver’s field of vision at the earliest
possible moment. In this picture, the Remember, the key is to see as
rider has moved to the left portion of much as possible and remain visible
the lane — away from the parked car to others while protecting your space.
— so the driver on the cross street
can see him as soon as possible.
19
STOP SIGNS PARKED CARS
PARKED CARS
20
INCREASING Reflective material on a vest and
CONSPICUITY on the sides of the helmet will help
CLOTHING
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers coming from the side spot
drivers often say that they never saw you. Reflective material can also be a
the motorcycle. From ahead or big help for drivers coming toward
behind, a motorcycle’s outline is you or from behind.
much smaller than a car’s. Also, it’s
hard to see something you are not HEADLIGHT
looking for, and most drivers are not The best way to help others see
looking for motorcycles. More likely, your motorcycle is to keep the
they are looking through the skinny, headlight on — at all times
two-wheeled silhouette in search of (although motorcycles sold in the
cars that may pose a problem to U.S. since 1978 automatically have
them.
the headlights on when running.)
Even if a driver does see you Studies show that, during the day, a
coming, you aren’t necessarily safe. motorcycle with its light on is twice
Smaller vehicles appear farther away, as likely to be noticed. Use low
and seem to be traveling slower than beam at night and in fog.
LIGHTS
they actually are. It is common for
drivers to pull out in front of motor-
SIGNALS
cyclists, thinking they have plenty of
time. Too often, they are wrong. The signals on a motorcycle are
similar to those on a car. They tell
However, you can do many others what you plan to do.
things to make it easier for others to
recognize you and your motorcycle. However, due to a rider’s added
vulnerability, signals are even more
important. Use them anytime you
CLOTHING
Most crashes occur in broad SIGNALING
daylight. Wear bright colored clothing
to increase your chances of being
seen. Remember, your body is half of
the visible surface area of the
SIGNALS
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.
21
plan to change lanes or turn. Use If you are being followed closely,
them even when you think no one it’s a good idea to flash your brake
else is around. It’s the car you don’t light before you slow. The tailgater
see that’s going to give you the most may be watching you and not see
trouble. Your signal lights also make something ahead that will make you
you easier to spot. That’s why it’s a slow down. This will hopefully dis-
good idea to use your turn signals courage them from tailgating and
even when what you plan to do is warn them of hazards ahead they may
obvious. not see.
When you enter onto a freeway,
drivers approaching from behind are USING YOUR MIRRORS
more likely to see your signal While it’s most important to keep
blinking and make room for you. track of what’s happening ahead, you
can’t afford to ignore situations
Turning your signal light on
behind. Traffic conditions change
before each turn reduces confusion
quickly. Knowing what’s going on
and frustration for the traffic around
behind is essential for you to make a
you. Once you turn, make sure your
safe decision about how to handle
signal is off or a driver may pull
trouble ahead.
USING YOUR MIRRORS
22
USING MIRRORS HEAD CHECKS
Checking your mirrors is not
HEAD CHECKS
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.
Only by knowing what is happening
Some motorcycles have rounded all around you, are you fully pre-
(convex) mirrors. These provide a pared to deal with it.
wider view of the road behind than
HORN
do flat mirrors. They also make cars HORN
seem farther away than they really Be ready to use your horn to get
are. If you are not used to convex someone’s attention quickly.
mirrors, get familiar with them.
It is a good idea to give a quick
(While you are stopped, pick out a
beep before passing anyone that may
parked car in your mirror. Form a
move into your lane.
mental image of how far away it is.
Then, turn around and look at it to Here are some situations:
see how close you came.) Practice • A driver in the lane next to you is
with your mirrors until you become a driving too closely to the vehicle
good judge of distance. Even then, ahead and may want to pass.
allow extra distance before you
• A parked car has someone in the
change lanes.
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 isn’t as loud as a car’s, there-
fore, use it, but don’t rely on it. Other
strategies may be appropriate along
with the horn.
23
RIDING AT NIGHT the lane is best able to help you
At night it is harder for you to see see, be seen, and keep an ade-
NIGHT RIDING
24
STOPPING DISTANCE pressure is possible. You should
“straighten” the handlebars in the last
SWERVING
few feet of stopping, the motorcycle
should then be straight up and in bal-
REAR ance.
25
feet solidly on the footrests. Let the CORNERING
motorcycle move underneath you. A primary cause of single-vehicle
CORNERING
Make your escape route the target of crashes is motorcyclists running wide
your vision. Press on the opposite in a curve or turn and colliding with
handgrip once you clear the obstacle the roadway or a fixed object.
to return you to your original direc-
tion of travel. To swerve to the left, Every curve is different. Be alert
press the left handgrip, then press the to whether a curve remains constant,
right to recover. To swerve to the gradually widens, gets tighter, or
right, press right, then left. involves multiple turns.
Brake before or after — never Your best path may not always
while swerving. follow the curve of the road. Change
lane position depending on traffic,
road conditions and curve of the road.
26
If no traffic is present, start at the HANDLING DANGEROUS
outside of a curve to increase your SURFACES
DANGEROUS SURFACES
line of sight and the effective radius
Your chance of falling or being
of the turn. As you turn, move
involved in a crash increases
toward the inside of the curve, and as
whenever you ride across:
you pass the center, move to the
outside to exit. • Uneven surfaces or obstacles.
Another alternative is to move to • Slippery surfaces.
the center of your lane before • Railroad tracks.
entering a curve — and stay there
• Grooves and gratings.
until you exit. This permits you to
spot approaching traffic as soon as
possible. You can also adjust for UNEVEN SURFACES AND
traffic “crowding” the center line, or OBSTACLES
debris blocking part of your lane. 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
8 Test Yourself a 90° angle as possible. Look where
The best way to stop quickly is to: you want to go to control your path
A. Use the front brake only. of travel. If you have to ride over the
B. Use the rear brake first. obstacle, you should:
C. Throttle down and use the front • Slow down as much as possible
brake. before contact.
D. Use both brakes at the same time.
• Make sure the motorcycle is
Answer — page 40
straight.
OBSTACLES
27
• Rise slightly off the seat with your front wheel. Remember, gentle
weight on the footrests to absorb pressure on the rear brake.
the shock with your knees and • The center of a lane can be
elbows, and avoid being thrown off hazardous when wet. When it starts
the motorcycle. to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by
• Just before contact, roll on the cars. Often, the left tire track will
throttle slightly to lighten the front be the best position, depending on
end. traffic and other road conditions as
If you ride over an object on the well.
street, pull off the road and check • Watch for oil spots when you put
your tires and rims for damage before your foot down to stop or park. You
riding any farther. may slip and fall.
• Dirt and gravel collect along the
SLIPPERY SURFACES sides of the road — especially on
Motorcycles handle better when curves and ramps leading to and
ridden on surfaces that permit good from highways. Be aware of what’s
traction. Surfaces that provide poor on the edge of the road, particularly
traction include: when making sharp turns and
• Wet pavement, particularly just getting on or off freeways at high
after it starts to rain and before speeds.
surface oil washes to the side of the
• Rain dries and snow melts faster
road.
on some sections of a road than on
• Gravel roads, or where sand and others. Patches of ice tend to
gravel collect. develop in low or shaded areas and
• Mud, snow, and ice. on bridges and overpasses. Wet
• Lane markings (painted lines), surfaces or wet leaves are just as
steel plates and manhole covers, slippery. Ride on the least slippery
especially when wet. portion of the lane and reduce
To ride safely on slippery surfaces: speed.
• Reduce Speed — Slow down Cautious riders steer clear of
before you get to a slippery surface roads covered with ice or snow. If
to lessen your chances of skidding. you can’t avoid a slippery surface,
Your motorcycle needs more keep your motorcycle straight up and
distance to stop. And, it is proceed as slowly as possible. If you
particularly important to reduce encounter a large surface so slippery
speed before entering wet curves. that you must coast, or travel at a
• Avoid Sudden Moves — Any walking pace, consider letting your
sudden change in speed or direction feet skim along the surface. If the
can cause a skid. Be as smooth as motorcycle starts to fall, you can
possible when you speed up, shift catch yourself. Be sure to keep off
gears, turn or brake. the brakes. If possible, squeeze the
clutch and coast. Attempting this
• Use Both Brakes — The front
maneuver at anything other than the
brake is still effective, even on a
slowest of speeds could prove
slippery surface. Squeeze the brake
hazardous.
lever gradually to avoid locking the
28
CROSSTRACKS—RIGHT pavement seams to cross at an angle
of at least 45°. Then, make a quick,
PARALLEL TRACKS—RIGHT
9 Test Yourself
29
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS STUCK THROTTLE
You can find yourself in an Twist the throttle back and forth
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS
31
FLYING OBJECTS CARRYING PASSENGERS
From time to time riders are AND CARGO
FLYING OBJECTS
32
INSTRUCTING PASSENGERS • Ride a little slower, especially
Even if your passenger is a when taking curves, corners, or
CARRYING PASSENGERS
motorcycle rider, provide complete bumps.
instructions before you start. Tell • Start slowing earlier as you
your passenger to: approach a stop.
• Get on the motorcycle only after • Open up a larger cushion of space
you have started the engine. ahead and to the sides.
• Sit as far forward as possible • Wait for larger gaps to cross,
without crowding you. enter, or merge in traffic.
• Hold firmly to your waist, hips, or Warn your passenger of special
belt, or to the bike’s passenger conditions — when you will pull out,
handholds. stop quickly, turn sharply, or ride
• Keep both feet on the footrests, over a bump. Turn your head slightly
even when stopped. to make yourself understood, but
keep your eyes on the road ahead.
• Keep legs away from the
muffler(s), chains or moving parts.
CARRYING LOADS
• Stay directly behind you, leaning
Most motorcycles are not
as you lean.
designed to carry much cargo. Small
• Avoid unnecessary talk or motion. loads can be carried safely if
Also, tell your passenger to positioned and fastened properly.
tighten his or her hold when you: • Keep the Load Low — Fasten
• Approach surface problems. loads securely, or put them in
saddle bags. Piling loads against a
• Are about to start from a stop. sissybar or frame on the back of the
• Warn that you will make a sudden seat raises the motorcycle’s center
move. of gravity and disturbs its balance.
• Keep the Load Forward — Place
RIDING WITH PASSENGERS the load over, or in front of, the
Your motorcycle will respond rear axle. Tank bags keep loads
more slowly with a passenger on forward, but use caution when
board. The heavier your passenger, loading hard or sharp objects. Make
the longer it will take to slow down sure tank bag does not interfere
and speed up — especially on a light with handlebars or controls.
motorcycle. Mounting loads behind the rear
axle can affect how the motorcycle
12 Test Yourself
turns and brakes. It can also cause a
wobble.
Passengers should:
• Distribute the Load Evenly —
A. Lean as you lean. Load saddlebags with about the
B. Hold on to the motorcycle seat. same weight. An uneven load can
C. Sit as far back as possible. cause the motorcycle to drift to one
D. Never hold onto you. side.
Answer — page 40
33
• Secure the Load — Fasten the • Know the Route — Make sure
load securely with elastic cords everyone knows the route. Then, if
(bungee cords or nets). Elastic someone is separated they won’t
GROUP RIDING
cords with more than one have to hurry to keep from getting
attachment point per side are more lost or taking a wrong turn. Plan
secure. A tight load won’t catch in frequent stops on long rides.
the wheel or chain, causing it to
lock up and skid. Rope tends to KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
stretch and knots come loose, Maintain close ranks but at the
permitting the load to shift or fall. same time keep a safe distance to
• Check the Load — Stop and check allow each rider in the group time
the load every so often to make and space to react to hazards. A close
sure it has not worked loose or group takes up less space on the
moved. highway, is easier to see and is less
likely to be separated. However, it
GROUP RIDING must be done properly.
If you ride with others, do it in a Don’t Pair Up — Never operate
way that promotes safety and doesn’t directly alongside another rider.
interfere with the flow of traffic. There is no place to go if you
have to avoid a car or something
KEEP THE GROUP SMALL on the road. To talk, wait until
Small groups make it easier and you are both stopped.
safer for car drivers who need to get Staggered Formation — This is the
around them. A small number isn’t
best way to keep ranks close yet
separated as easily by traffic or red
maintain an adequate space
lights. Riders won’t always be
cushion. The leader rides in the
hurrying to catch up. If your group is
left side of the lane, while the
larger than four or five riders, divide
it up into two or more smaller groups. second rider stays one second
STAGGERED FORMATION
KEEP THE GROUP TOGETHER
• Plan — The leader should look
ahead for 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.
34
behind in the right side of the Some people suggest that the
lane. leader should move to the right side
A third rider maintains in the left after passing a vehicle. This is not a
position, two seconds behind the first good idea. It encourages the second
rider. The fourth rider would keep a rider to pass and cut back in before
two-second distance behind the there is a large enough space cushion
second rider. This formation keeps in front of the passed vehicle. It’s
the group close and permits each simpler and safer to wait until there is
rider a safe distance from others enough room ahead of the passed
ahead, behind and to the sides. vehicle to allow each rider to move
into the same position held before the
• Passing in Formation — Riders in
pass.
a staggered formation should pass
one at a time. Single-File Formation — It is best
to move into a single-file forma-
• First, the lead rider should pull
tion when riding curves, turning,
out and pass when it is safe. After
entering or leaving a highway.
passing, the leader should return to
the left position and continue riding
at passing speed to open room for 13 Test Yourself
the next rider.
When riding in a group, inexperienced
• After the first rider passes safely, riders should position themselves:
the second rider should move up to A. Just behind the leader.
the left position and watch for a
B. In front of the group.
safe chance to pass. After passing,
this rider should return to the right C. At the tail end of the group.
position and open up room for the D. Beside the leader.
next rider. Answer — page 40
35
BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
Riding a motorcycle is a demanding and complex task. Skilled riders pay
BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
WHY THIS INFORMATION drugs you will see that riding and
IS IMPORTANT substance abuse don’t mix. Take posi-
tive steps to protect yourself and pre-
Alcohol is a major contributor to
vent others from injuring themselves.
motorcycle crashes, particularly fatal
crashes. Studies show that 40% to
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
36
ALCOHOL IN THE BODY Other factors also contribute to
Alcohol enters the bloodstream the way alcohol affects your system.
ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION
37
four hours to eliminate the four small fine and participation in
remaining drinks before they alcohol-abuse classes. Today the laws
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW
FATIGUE
ability to exercise good judgment is It helps to enlist support from
one of the first things affected by others when you decide to step in. The
alcohol. Even if you have tried to more people on your side, the easier it
drink in moderation, you may not is to be firm and the harder it is for the
realize to what extent your skills have rider to resist. While you may not be
suffered from alcohol’s fatiguing thanked at the time, you will never
effects. have to say, “If only I had...”
Or, Don’t Ride — If you
haven’t controlled your drinking, you
FATIGUE
Riding a motorcycle is more
must control your riding.
tiring than driving a car. On a long
• Leave the motorcycle — so you trip, you’ll tire sooner than you
won’t be tempted to ride. Arrange would in a car. Avoid riding when
another way to get home. tired. Fatigue can affect your control
• Wait — If you exceed your limit, of the motorcycle.
wait until your system eliminates • Protect yourself from the elements
the alcohol and its fatiguing effects. — Wind, cold, and rain make you
tire quickly. Dress warmly. A
STEP IN TO windshield is worth its cost if you
PROTECT FRIENDS plan to ride long distances.
• Limit your distance —
People who have had too much to
Experienced riders seldom try to
drink are unable to make a responsible ride more than about six hours a
decision. It is up to others to step in day.
and keep them from taking too great a • Take frequent rest breaks —
risk. No one wants to do this — it’s Stop, and get off the motorcycle at
uncomfortable, embarrassing and least every two hours.
thankless. You are rarely thanked for • Don’t drink or use drugs —
your efforts at the time. But the Artificial stimulants often result in
alternatives are often worse. extreme fatigue or depression when
There are several ways to keep they start to wear off. Riders are
friends from hurting themselves: unable to concentrate on the task at
• Arrange a safe ride — Provide hand.
alternative ways for them to get
home. 14 Test Yourself
• Slow the pace of drinking — If you wait one hour per drink for the
Involve them in other activities. alcohol to be eliminated from your
body before riding:
• Keep them there — Use any
A. You cannot be arrested for drink-
excuse to keep them from getting ing and riding.
on their motorcycle. Serve them B. Your riding skills will not be
food and coffee to pass the time. affected.
Explain your concerns for their C. Side effects from the drinking may
risks of getting arrested or hurt, or still remain.
hurting someone else. Take their D. You will be okay as long as you
key, if you can. ride slowly.
Answer — page 40
• Get friends involved — Use peer
39
EARNING YOUR LICENSE
Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tests are the best meas-
EARNING YOUR LICENSE
urement of the skills necessary to operate safely in traffic. Assessing your own
skills is not enough. People often overestimate their own abilities. It’s even
harder for friends and relatives to be totally honest about your skills. Licensing
exams are designed to be scored more objectively.
In Missouri, you must have a Class M motorcycle license or permit, or a
driver license with the M endorsement if you operate a motorcycle or
motortricycle on public roadways.
You may apply for a temporary motorcycle instruction permit at 15 1/2
years of age (15 years and 182 days). This permit will only be issued if you
have successfully completed an approved motorcycle rider training course
(MRTC). You must also pass the Class F and Class M written, vision and road
sign tests and have the written consent of your parent or legal guardian. The
cost of the permit is $6.25 ($2.75 of this fee applies to the MRTC).
NOTE: The following restrictions apply to all Missouri motorcycle instruction
permit holders that are under age 16:
• Engine with a displacement of not greater than 250 cc
• No passengers
• 50 mile limit from the operator’s home address
• Daylight driving only
If you are 16 years of age, you may apply for a temporary motorcycle
instruction permit. You must pass the Class M written test, but you do not have
to take the MRTC. The cost of the permit is $3.50. If you do not have a driver
license, you can take the Class F and Class M written tests to receive a
motorcycle permit (Class F with an M endorsement).
Applicant’s who are 15 1/2 to 18 years of age must also comply with
Graduated Driver License eligibility requirements and restrictions. Refer to the
Department of Revenue web site at www.dor.mo.gov/mvdl/drivers/ for details.
When you are ready, you may take the motorcycle skills test (MSHP or
MRTC) to be motorcycle qualified. The cost of a Class M motorcycle license is
$10.00 for a 3-year license and $20.00 for a 6-year license.
To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and an on-motorcycle
skill test. Knowledge test questions are based on information, practices and
ideas from this manual. They require that you know and understand road rules
and safe riding practices. An on-motorcycle skill test will either be conducted in
an actual traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area.
_________________________________________________________________
40
KNOWLEDGE TEST 4. If a tire goes flat while riding and
(Sample Questions.) you must stop, it is usually best to:
KNOWLEDGE TEST
1. It is MOST important to flash A. Relax on the handlegrips.
your brake light when: B. Shift your weight toward the good
A. Someone is following too closely. tire.
B. You will be slowing suddenly. C. Brake on the good tire and steer to
C. There is a stop sign ahead. the side of the road.
D. Your signals are not working. D. Use both brakes and stop quickly.
2. The FRONT brake supplies how 5. The car below is waiting to enter
much of the potential stopping the intersection. It is best to:
power? A. Make eye contact with the driver.
A. About one-quarter B. Reduce speed and be ready to react.
B. About one-half C. Maintain speed and position.
C. About three-quarters D. Maintain speed and move right.
D. All of the stopping power
3. To swerve correctly:
A. Shift your weight quickly.
B. Turn the handlebars quickly.
C. Press the handgrip in the direction
of the turn.
D. Press the handgrip in the opposite
direction of the turn.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
Answers to above Knowledge Test: 1. B 2. C 3. C 4. C 5. B
41
ON-MOTORCYCLE SKILL TEST
Basic vehicle control and crash-avoidance skills are included in on-
ON-MOTORCYCLE SKILL TEST
Diagrams and drawings used in this manual are for reference only and are
not to correct scale for size of vehicles and distances.
________________________________________________________________
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you plan to take the MRTC (in addition to, or in lieu
of testing by the Missouri State Highway Patrol), please note that only Missouri
Motorcycle Safety Program courses are acceptable for the purpose of obtaining
a Missouri motorcycle license/permit. To locate an approved course near you,
please contact the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program at (800) 801-3588, or
visit their web site at www.mmsp.org
42
IS LICENSING REQUIRED FOR A SCOOTER/MOPED?
Licensing depends partly on the ‘cc’ displacement of the engine in the scooter/
moped (motorized bicycle). The definition of a motorized bicycle (as opposed
to a motorcycle) is as follows:
“Any two-wheeler or three-wheeled device having an automatic
transmission and a motor with a cylinder capacity of not more than fifty (50)
cubic centimeters, which produces less than three (3) gross brake horsepower,
and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than
thirty (30) miles per hour on level ground.”
If the scooter/moped qualifies as a motorized bicycle, you must have a valid
driver license, though no motorcycle endorsement is required. A motorized
bicycle does not have to be registered with the Missouri Department of
Revenue.
Keep in mind that “no motorized bicycle may be operated on any public
thoroughfare located within this state which has been designated as part of the
federal interstate highway system.”
43
MOTORCYCLES MAKE SENSE. . .
SO DOES PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
Motorcycles are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and easy to park.
Unfortunately, many riders never learn critical skills needed to ride safely.
Professional training for beginning and experienced riders prepares them for
real world traffic situations. Motorcycle RiderCourses® teach and improve such
skills as:
• Effective turning • Braking maneuvers • Protective apparel selection
• Obstacle avoidance • Traffic strategies • Maintenance
For the basic or experienced
RiderCourse nearest you,
call toll-free: (800) 446-9227
44
45
46
Safety is on Your Shoulders
Since 1931, 27 Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers have
been killed in the line of duty. Eight of those officers were
killed after being struck by a vehicle, whose driver was either
impaired or not paying attention. The number one
contributing circumstance to traffic crashes in Missouri is
driver inattention. Please slow down and move over away
from stationary emergency vehicles along the side of the
road with their emergency equipment activated. IT’S THE
LAW.
47
48