bds110 MC Manual

May 2017
Wisconsin
Motorcyclists’
Handbook
DMV home page:
wisconsindmv.gov
DMV online services:

wisconsindmv.gov/online
Motorcycle license requirements:

wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/mc-how-aply/mc-md-lic.aspx
Motorcycle training providers and locations:

wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/mc-how-aply/training-loc.aspx
Schedule a motorcycle road test appointment:

wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/mc-how-aply/schedulearoadtest.aspx
Motorcycle safety program:

wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/mc-safety/default.aspx
Wisconsin driver handbooks including

Motorcyclists’ Handbook:
wisconsindmv.gov/handbooks
Motorcycle crash facts:

wisconsindot.gov/Documents/safety/education/crash-data/motorcyclefacts.pdf
For other information or inquiries:

wisconsindmv.gov
All other areas: (608) 264-7447
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface 4 Know Your Responsibilities 18
Wisconsin Licensing Ride Within Your Abilities 19
Information 6 Basic Vehicle Control
Requirements for Motorcycle Body Position 19
Operation 6 Shifting Gears 20
Type 1 Motorcycle 6 Braking 20
Type 2 Motorcycle 7 Turning 21
Motor Bicycle 7 Keeping your distance 22
Moped 7 Lane Positions 22
Class M License Following Another Vehicle 22
in Four Steps 8
Being Followed 23
1. Get Cycle Instruction Permit 8 Passing and Being Passed 24
2. Practice Riding 8
Being Passed 25
3. Take Motorcycle Skills Test 9
Lane Sharing 25
4. Obtain Class M License 9
Merging Cars 25
The Motorcycle Skills Test 9
Cars Alongside 26
The Pre-test Inspection 9 SEE 26
The Skills Test 10
Search 26
Motorcycle Laws 11
Evaluate 27
Lane Position (Turning) 12 Execute 27
Farm Safety/Rural Driving 13 Intersections 28
Railroad Crossings 13 Blind Intersections 29
Preparing to Ride 14 Passing Parked Cars 30
Wear the Right Gear 14 Parking at the Roadside 30
Helmet Use 14 Increasing
Helmet Selection 14 Conspicuity 31
Eye and Face Protection 15 Clothing 31
Clothing 15 Headlight(s) 31
Know Your Motorcycle 16 Signals 31
The Right Motorcycle Brake Light(s) 32
for You 16 Using Your Mirrors 32
Borrowing and Lending 16 Head Checks 33
Get Familiar With the Horn 33
Motorcycle Controls 17 Riding at Night 33
Check Your Motorcycle 17
Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 1 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Crash Avoidance 34 Being in Shape to Ride 47
Quick Stops 34 Why This Information
Swerving or Turning Quickly 35 is Important 47
Cornering 36 Alcohol and Other Drugs in
Motorcycle Operation 48
Handling Dangerous
Surfaces 38 Alcohol in the Body 48
Uneven Surfaces Alcohol Concentration 49
and Obstacles 38 Alcohol Laws 49
Slippery Surfaces 39 Minimize the Risks 50
Railroad Tracks, Trolley Don’t Drink or Use Drugs 50
Tracks and Pavement Seams 39 Step in to Protect Friends 50
Grooves and Gratings 40 Fatigue 51
Mechanical Problems 41 Earning Your License 51
Tire Failure 41 Sample Knowledge Test
Stuck Throttle 41 Questions 52
Wobble 41 On-Cycle Skills Test 53
Chain Problems 42 Motorcycle Rider Courses 54
Engine Seizure 42 Learn From the Pros 54
Animals 42 Learning to Ride 54
Flying Objects 43 Improving Riding Skills 55
Getting Off the Road 43 Specialized Courses 55
Carrying Passengers Rider Coaches 56
and Cargo 43 Provided For You 56
Equipment 43 You Provide 56
Instructing Passengers 44 Who Can Attend 56
Riding with Passengers 44 Waiver of Skills Test 57
Carrying Loads 44 Point Reduction 57
Group Riding 45 Motorcycle Training Providers 57
Keep the Group Small 45 Motorcycle Rider Courses 57
Keep the Group Together 45
Keep Your Distance 45
Single-File Formation 46

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
State Patrol Regions
(1) Southwest Region . . . . . (608) 846-8500
(2) Southeast Region . . . . . .(262) 785-4700
(3) Northeast Region . . . . . . (920) 929-3700
(4) North Central Region . . . (715) 845-1143
(5) Northwest Region . . . . . (715) 839-3800
Take a rider course—Get skills test waived

If you are applying for, or interested in applying for, a
motorcycle license, we strongly recommend that you
complete a motorcycle rider course. Under certain
circumstances, a rider course is required. The Basic Rider
Course, Scooter Basic Rider Course and Three-Wheel
Basic Rider Course are designed for beginning riders.
The courses were developed, and the rider coaches are
certified, by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and
approved by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation
(WisDOT). The courses are taught off-street, out of
traffic, and motorcycles and helmets are provided.
Visit: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/mc-how-
aply/education.aspx for detailed information.
Note: This manual is intended to inform the user of the
Rules of the Road (Wisconsin state laws and Administrative
Rules), as well as important safety tips. Information in this
and other handbooks and manuals published by the Division
of Motor Vehicles is not all-inclusive and is subject to change
at any time due to new or revised laws.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
PREFACE
Motorcycling can be an exciting way to travel.
While riding, a cyclist can hear, see and feel things
a driver inside a car cannot. But cycling calls for
special knowledge, skill and constant attention.
The chances of being involved and seriously
injured in a traffic crash are greater riding a
cycle than driving a car.
••A cycle is easily tipped over.
••Weather and road conditions
often make cycling difficult.
••A cycle is small. Other drivers, looking for cars
and trucks, do not always see the cycle.
••Other drivers may disregard the rights of cyclists.
••In a crash, a cycle offers little protection to the rider.
2014 WISCONSIN MOTORCYCLE STATISTICS

wisconsindot.gov/Documents/safety/education/crash-data/motorcyclefacts.pdf
••1,914 motorcyclists were injured on Wisconsin roads in 2014.
That represents a 0.7% decrease from the 1,927 injured in 2013 and
a 16% decrease from 2004. An additional 84 non-motorcyclists
were injured in crashes involving motorcycles in 2014.
••In 2014, 67 motorcyclists, including passengers, were killed in
traffic crashes compared to 83 in 2013, a 19% decrease. This figure
is also 16% lower than the 80 fatalities that occurred in 2004.
••16–24 year olds account for only 3.2% of the licensed
motorcyclists but account for 16.5% of those in crashes in 2014.
••Alcohol and/or speed were the primary contributing
factors in 61% of fatal single unit motorcycle crashes
in 2014 and in 29% of all single unit crashes.
••Nine out of 10 motorcycle crashes occurred on dry pavement in 2014.
The five most frequent possible contributing circumstances in
both fatal and non-fatal motorcycle crashes in 2014 were:
••Failure to control (the motorcycle)
••Inattentive driving
••Speed too fast/conditions
••Exceeding speed limit
••Driver condition (e.g. alcohol use, driving while sleepy, etc.)
IMPROVE YOUR RIDING SKILLS AND LEARN FROM EXPERIENCED RIDERS.
CONSIDER TAKING A MOTORCYCLE RIDER COURSE.
See “Motorcycle Rider Courses” in this handbook for more details.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
PREFACE (continued) CONSIDER SAVING A LIFE
BY BECOMING AN
ORGAN DONOR
Studying this manual, taking
a motorcycle rider course
and practicing your riding You will be asked if you wish to
skills can reduce your risk register as an organ, tissue and
and increase your safety. eye donor when you apply for
or renew your identification (ID)
This manual shows safe riding card, instruction permit or driver
techniques and contains what license. Upon death, donors
you need to know to pass the help save and improve lives
motorcycle knowledge test. You through transplantation, therapy,
should also study the Wisconsin research or education. If you
Motorists’ Handbook for safe are 18 or older, checking the
driving tips and additional box indicates your legal consent
information. However, these for donation. Check the box to
manuals are not a complete include your name in the donor
statement of Wisconsin traffic law. registry every time you update
For that you should consult your driver record. Please share
the general Statutes of the your decision with your family. You
State of Wisconsin. can also register online at: www.
Many organizations worked DonorRegistry.Wisconsin.gov.
together to develop the material The Department of Transportation
in the following pages: intends for the products and
••Wisconsin Department services it offers to be accessible
of Transportation to all. If you need accommodations
••National Public Service or do not understand any part
Research Institute of this publication, please
••Motorcycle Safety Foundation, email: driverrecords.dmv@dot.
with support from wi.gov or call (608) 266-2353.
••The National Highway Traffic Information in this and other
Safety Administration handbooks and manuals
published by the Division of
Motor Vehicles is subject to
change due to passage of new
laws. For the latest information
visit: wisconsindmv.gov or
contact a DMV Service Center.
Visit our website at:
wisconsindmv.gov for more
information on driver licensing
products and services. If you
have additional questions, email
them to: driverrecords.dmv@dot.
wi.gov or call (608) 266-2353.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
WISCONSIN LICENSING INFORMATION
REQUIREMENTS ••A 150 lb. operator AND is one
FOR MOTORCYCLE of the following:
OPERATION »» Designed and built with two
All Wisconsin residents who plan wheels in tandem, seating
to operate a Type 1 motorcycle for the operator and may
on public roads must have a have a side-car attached.
Class M (motorcycle) license. OR
Most Class M license holders also »» Designed and built to have
hold a Class D—car and light truck— no more than 3 wheels,
license. However, if you want to seating for the operator and
operate only a Type 1 motorcycle, no more than 3 passengers,
a “motorcycle only” license is and does not have the
available. For more details, email: operator area enclosed.
driverrecords.dmv@dot.wi.gov
Under 18 requirement:
or call: (608) 266-2353 or inquire
at your local DMV Service Center. Wisconsin residents under the
age of 18 must have proof that
Type 1 Motorcycle they have completed driver
••A Type 1 motorcycle is a motor education and have successfully
vehicle capable of speeds in complete a basic rider course to
excess of 30 mph on a dry level be eligible for a Class M license.
hard surface road with no wind,
with a power source as an integral
part of the vehicle, while carrying
PROTECTIVE GEAR FOR MOTORCYCLE OPERATION

Required Recommended
••Helmet, meeting standards, if ••Helmet highly recommended
you are under 18 years of age if you are 18 or older.
or if you have a motorcycle ••Gloves.
instruction permit. ••Jacket or shirt with long sleeves.
••Eye protection (face shield/ ••Long pants.
goggles/glasses or an ••Boots or shoes that
approved windshield). cover the ankles.
* All ages, all circumstances.
••Faceshield or goggles are
recommended for better
eye protection, even if
you have glasses or an
approved windshield.*
* “.....eye protection worn during hours of darkness may not be tinted or darkened.”
Section 347.485(2) Wis. Stats. (emphasis added). In other words, faceshields,
goggles, glasses worn at night must be clear. Prescription photosensitive
corrective lenses are acceptable. The wearing of other tinted or darkened eye
protection while operating a motorcycle during hours of darkness is illegal.
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
WISCONSIN LICENSING INFORMATION
Exemptions to rider course Motor Bicycle
requirements for persons A motor bicycle is a bicycle to
under 18: which a power unit has been added
••If you live more than 50 road miles to permit travel at no more than
from a basic rider course site. 30 mph on dry, level, hard surface,
••If you have a valid motorcycle with no wind, and a 150 lb. operator.
license from another jurisdiction. Moped
Non‑residents must have A moped is any of the following
appropriate licensing for motorcycle vehicles (excluding a tractor)
operation from their home state. capable of speeds not more
New Wisconsin residents with than 30 mph, with 150 lb. rider
a driver license from another on a dry, level, hard surface
jurisdiction authorizing operation of with no wind, a power source
motorcycles may be able to get a as an integral part of the vehicle,
Wisconsin Class M license without and a seat for the operator:
taking the knowledge or skills tests. ••A bicycle-type vehicle with fully
Residents of Wisconsin who operative pedals and an engine
plan to operate any of the certified by the manufacturer
following vehicles on public at not more than 130 cc.
roads need either a Class D ••A Type 1 motorcycle with
(regular or special restricted) or an automatic transmission
Juvenile Restricted License: and engine certified at
Type 2 Motorcycle not more than 50 cc.
A Type 2 motorcycle is: A Class M license or Motorcycle
••A motor vehicle designed and Instruction Permit (CYCI) is not
built to have at least three required to operate these vehicles,
wheels in contact with the however a Class D is and safe
ground with a curb weight riding techniques as outlined in
less than 1,500 lbs. and, this handbook should be followed.
••A passenger and operator area For details on special licensing to
with sides permanently enclosed operate the above vehicles, contact
with rigid construction and a your local DMV Service Center.
top which may be convertible.
Examples of Type 2 vehicles
are motorized golf carts, Postal
Department mailsters, etc.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
CLASS M LICENSE ••If you have held 3 CYCIs, you
IN FOUR STEPS must successfully complete, or be
1. Get Cycle Instruction enrolled in, a basic rider course
before applying for a 4th CYCI.
Permit
••Study this handbook. ••If you do not reside within 50
highway miles, by the most direct
••Be at least 16.
route, of a basic rider course site,
••If under 18, you must have you may obtain a 4th CYCI without
sponsorship of a parent or the rider course requirement.
guardian, and you must have ••If you choose to take the basic
proof you have completed rider course and NOT obtain
driver education. a CYCI prior to successfully
••If under 18, you must provide completing it, the fee for the
proof of enrollment in a basic CYCI is not required when
rider course. To obtain proof of you apply for your Class M.
enrollment, you will need to enroll
in a basic rider course (please
2. Practice Riding
••You must wear an approved
see list of motorcycle training
helmet, with the chin strap
providers at: wisconsindot.gov/ properly fastened, whether
Pages/dmv/motorcycles/mc- operating the cycle or riding as a
how-aply/training-loc.aspx) and passenger (see Protective Gear).
pay the required course fees. Ask
••You must have eye protection
your basic rider course provider
(see Protective Gear).
for the blue copy of DMV form
••You may carry a licensed
MV3575 (Motorcycle Skills Test
person as a passenger. However,
Waiver Authorization), which you
DMV does not recommend
can show at the DMV Service
carrying passengers until you
Center as proof of enrollment.
are experienced. (see Carrying
••Pass a test of knowledge Passengers and Cargo). The
of traffic laws as they relate licensed person must:
to cycle operation. »» Have at least 2 years licensed
••Depending upon what other driving experience.
instruction permits or licenses »» Have a Class M License.
you have, or wish to have, you ••During hours of darkness,
may need additional tests you must be accompanied
such as a Class D knowledge by a licensed person who:
test, highway signs test or
»» Is at least 25 years old.
vision and hearing screening.
»» Has at least 2 years licensed
••Upon meeting all requirements driving experience.
and paying a fee, you will receive
»» Has a Class M license.
a Cycle Instruction Permit (CYCI)
(The licensed person does
which is valid for 6 months.
not need to be a passenger on
••If you complete a department- your cycle, but must be nearby).
approved basic rider course, ••Practice on low speed, low
you are not required to hold traffic volume streets first, then
a motorcycle instruction gradually move to higher speed,
permit unless you do any higher traffic volume streets and
on-street practice riding. highways as skill progresses.
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
3. Take Motorcycle THE MOTORCYCLE
Skills Test SKILLS TEST
••Or successfully complete an The Pre-test Inspection
approved basic motorcycle Your cycle will be inspected
rider course, and present before the test. The test will not
satisfactory proof of course be given if any of the following
completion to the driver license equipment defects are found:
examiner. A basic motorcycle
rider course may be required. ••Handlebars defective, repaired
or improvised, or handlebars
••Schedule an appointment for
obviously rising more than 30"
a skills test (road test) online.
above the lowest part of the top
For the skills test, you must:
of the seat when occupied.
»» Provide a cycle in safe, legal
••No headlight.
operating condition.
••Defective mechanical signals
»» Wear eye protection.
(if cycle was manufactured
»» Wear an approved helmet. with signals, they must be
»» Be at least 16. installed and operating).
If you have failed 2 motorcycle- ••Defective or no horn.
in-traffic skills tests, and you ••Inadequate seat.
still wish to obtain a Class M ••Foot pegs or foot rest
license, you must successfully for operator missing.
complete a basic rider course.
••Defective/noisy muffler.
Then, upon application, your
skills test will be waived. ••Defective brakes (front or rear).
Cycle must have both brakes if
4. Obtain Class M License manufactured with two brakes.
Upon satisfactory completion of ••No brake light.
the skills test, or upon presentation ••No speedometer.
of a motorcycle skills test waiver ••Excessively worn tires (tire cord
form, and payment of a fee, a Class visible or inadequate tread depth).
M license will be issued to you.
••No left rear view mirror.
Note: Cycle riders with a physical ••Expired or no registration.
impairment or disability will After 30 days expiration, you
need to demonstrate their ability must show proof that you
to safely operate a motorcycle have applied for registration.
at a DMV Service Center. This
Note: If you take the test on a three
evaluation will determine if
wheel cycle you will be restricted
restrictions are necessary and
to operating on that type cycle.
cannot be waived by presenting a
motorcycle skills test waiver form.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
••Changing lanes.
••Making a U-turn.
••Turning left from a one-way street.
••Crossing an intersection on a
one-way street from a stop sign.
••Stopping and starting on a hill.
••Turning left across traffic.
••Preparing for oncoming vehicles
turning in front of cycle.
••Stopping behind other vehicles.
••Observing behind the
The Skills Test cycle using the mirrors.
The Motorcycle-in-Traffic Test is a
••Passing parked vehicles
series of traffic situations designed
or roadway hazards.
to measure how you respond to
road and traffic conditions. You ••Meeting and being overtaken
will be given a small radio receiver by other vehicles.
that is worn under the helmet. ••Observing proper
The examiner will follow several following distance.
car lengths behind you, giving While you ride, the driver license
directions over the radio. During examiner will be observing your:
the test, the examiner will score
••Use of front and rear brakes.
your speed, attention while riding,
skill and position in the lane and ••Observation of the traffic
through intersections, and a and pedestrian scene.
number of right and left turns. ••Obeying stop signs, speed
signs and other laws.
The following possible test
••Use of proper mini
situations will help you prepare:
lanes when turning.
••Crossing a blind intersection ••Position for seeing and being seen.
from a stop sign.
••Use of turn signals, and
••Turning at a blind intersection possibly hand signals.
from a stop sign.
••Proper selection of gaps
••Crossing an intersection when entering traffic or
from a stop sign on a turning across traffic.
street with 2-way traffic.
••Speed control.
••Turning right and left
••Mirror usage and checking blind
from a stop sign.
spots (use of head checks).
••Crossing blind intersection
••Keeping a proper
with right-of-way.
following distance.
••Turning at a blind intersection
••Lane selection and
with right-of-way.
position within the lane.
••Entering and leaving the
••Foot position on pegs,
street or roadway.
when in motion.
••Controlling speed.
If you have any questions please
••Making a quick stop.
ask the driver license examiner.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
MOTORCYCLE LAWS not ride in any part of a lane
Only motorcycles certified by the occupied by another vehicle
federal government for highway except when two cyclists agree
operation are permitted on the to ride side by side in one lane.
highway. Cycles cannot be attached Operators and passengers under
to any other moving vehicle unless 18 or with a cycle instruction permit
the cycle is being towed for repair. must wear approved helmets (U.S.
No person may operate a motor DOT standard at minimum) with
vehicle in Wisconsin, including the chin straps properly fastened.
a motorcycle, unless the owner All operators must wear eye
or operator of the vehicle has protection except when the cycle is
liability insurance in effect for the equipped with a windshield rising
vehicle being operated and carries at least 15" above the handlebars.
proof of insurance when driving.
During darkness or times when
Law enforcement may ask for proof little light is available, eye protection
of insurance at any traffic stop or must not be tinted or darkened.
accident. Failure to have insurance
could result in up to a $500 When riding on a highway, headlight
fine. Failure to have proof when and taillight must be on at all
requested could result in a $10 fine. times. During daylight hours, motor
driven cycles may be ridden to
You do not need proof of insurance a repair shop for replacement
when registering a vehicle or of a defective headlamp.
obtaining a driver license, unless
DMV specifically requested proof Motor driven cycles may be
of financial responsibility (SR-22) equipped with modulating
after a revocation or suspension. headlamps and deceleration
Refer to Section 344.61-344.65 warning lights.
Wis. Stats. for full details. Some Type 2 motorcycles or
Riding “side saddle” is forbidden. mopeds may not be allowed on
highways. Check with your local
A single passenger may ride upon
police department or State Patrol.
the motorcycle if the passenger:
••Rides on the seat designed Operators of Type 2 vehicles are
for passengers, subject to the same rules of the road
••Does not ride in front of as Type 1 motorcycle operators,
the operator, and with the following exceptions:
••Rests his/her feet on standard ••Helmets and eye protection are not
equipment foot rests or pegs. required (they are, nevertheless,
(The passenger must highly recommended).
be tall enough so his/her ••Mopeds may be operated 2
feet reach the pegs.) abreast in a single lane only where
More than one passenger may the speed limit is 25 mph or less.
ride upon the motorcycle if the ••Where speed limit is more than
motorcycle is designed for more 25 mph, mopeds may be
than one passenger. See the operated only single file, in
definition of a Type 1 motorcycle. extreme right-hand lane.
Motorcyclists are entitled to ••A moped may not carry
use a full traffic lane. You may any passengers.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
When facing a red light, you may LANE POSITION
proceed CAUTIOUSLY through (TURNING)
the intersection when the light You are entitled to full use of a
is still red if ALL of the following traffic lane. However, incorrect
conditions are present: positioning within the lane as you
••You reasonably believe the signal approach a turn can be hazardous.
is vehicle activated (if the signal Knowing how to make a safe
is timed, you may not proceed turn is a vital part of safe riding.
through a red light no matter how Proper lane position will increase
long it takes to change to green); visibility, communicate your
••No other vehicles are present intentions and protect your
to activate the signal; lane. As you ride, mentally
••You have stopped at the signal divide your traffic lane into
for at least 45 seconds; and, thirds. As you approach the turn,
••You yield right-of-way to evaluate which path is safest.
vehicles proceeding through
on a green signal and to SELECT THE PROPER
pedestrians and bicycles in LANE POSITION
the crosswalk or intersection.
A driver convicted of failure to
yield right-of-way (FYR) is required
to attend traffic safety school.
Type 1 motorcycles may park
at an angle in a parallel parking
area. If parallel or angle parking
spaces are marked, three cycles
may park in a space. If there is
a parking meter installed for the
space, and parking regulations When making a RIGHT turn,
are violated, the operator of each
you should position yourself
cycle parked in the space will
receive a citation for violation of so traffic cannot fit between
time restriction (parking ticket). you and the curb.
Mopeds are considered bicycles In addition, you want to control
for the purposes of parking. your lane of traffic so others do
Mopeds may be parked on a not try to squeeze through on the
sidewalk, in a bike rack, or other left side as well. However, you
area designated for bicycle will also need to evaluate the
parking. They may not impede condition of the roadway—loose
the flow of pedestrian traffic. gravel, parked cars, etc., when
determining the best path.
For a LEFT turn, the approach
should be similar to prevent
other drivers from sharing your
lane or passing you in the turn.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
FARM SAFETY/ RAILROAD CROSSINGS
RURAL DRIVING Motorcyclists should approach
You should be aware of special all highway-rail intersections
hazards in rural areas of Wisconsin. VERY slowly and be alert to the
These may include slow moving possibility of rough crossings.
tractors, horse drawn wagons or Expect a train on any track
carriages, farm machinery exiting in any direction at every
fields or on the roadway, wide highway-rail intersection.
machinery, debris on the road (such Never ride onto a railroad
as mud and manure), and livestock crossing until you are sure
on or crossing the highway. Farm you can clear the tracks
machinery operators may have on the other side without
difficulty seeing or hearing other stopping. Do not stop on the
traffic, and the machinery may not tracks and DO NOT SHIFT
have brake lights or turn signals. gears while crossing tracks.
If the gates are down, stay in your
lane and do not cross the tracks
until the gates are raised and the
red lights stop flashing. It is against
the law to drive around gates.
When you are at a multiple-
track crossing and the last
car of the closest train passes
by, before starting to cross,
look and listen carefully for
another train on another track
Be alert for deer, especially coming from either direction.
during the dusk to dawn hours Trains appear to be moving much
and when you see “Deer slower than they are. Do not take
Crossing” signs. Scan the sides a chance and try to beat a train at
of the road for motion during the a crossing. If there is any doubt,
day and the reflection of your stop and wait for the train to pass.
headlight in the eyes of deer at
night. Reduce speed and sound
RA
G
IL
the horn if you see a deer near

IN
SS
O
RO
CR
AD
the road. There may be other

deer nearby. If you must avoid R R
a deer, brake first, then swerve

if necessary. Do not combine
braking with swerving. Separate
the two to maintain control.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
PREPARING TO RIDE riders wore helmets, did not find
What you do before you start even one case in which a helmet
a trip goes a long way toward kept a rider from spotting danger.
determining whether or not you’ll ••Most crashes happen on short
get where you want to go safely. trips (less than five miles long), just
Before taking off on any trip, a a few minutes after starting out.
safe rider makes a point to: ••Most riders are riding slower than
••Wear the right gear. 30 mph when a crash occurs.
••Become familiar with At these speeds, helmets can
the motorcycle. cut both the number and the
••Check the motorcycle equipment. severity of head injuries by half.
••Be a responsible rider. No matter what the speed,
helmeted riders are three times
Wear the Right Gear more likely to survive head
When you ride, your gear is “right” injuries than those not wearing
if it protects you. In any crash, you helmets at the time of the crash.
have a far better chance of avoiding
serious injury if you wear: Helmet Selection
••An approved helmet. There are two primary types
of helmets, providing two
••Face or eye protection.
different levels of coverage—
••Protective clothing. full face and three-quarter.
Helmet Use
Crashes are not rare events—
particularly among beginning
riders. And one out of every five
motorcycle crashes results in head
or neck injuries. Head injuries are
just as severe as neck injuries—and
far more common. Crash analyses
show that head and neck injuries
account for a majority of serious
and fatal injuries to motorcyclists.
Research also shows that, with
few exceptions, head and neck
injuries are reduced by the proper
wearing of an approved helmet.
Some riders don’t wear helmets
because they think helmets will
limit their view to the sides. Others
wear helmets only on long trips
or when riding at high speeds.
Here are some facts to consider:
••An approved helmet lets you see
as far to the sides as necessary.
A study of more than 900 motor-
cycle crashes, where 40% of the

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Whichever style you choose, you To be effective, eye or
can get the most protection by faceshield protection must:
making sure that the helmet: ••Be free of scratches.
••Meets U.S. Department of ••Be resistant to penetration.
Transportation (DOT) and state ••Give a clear view to either side.
standards. The Motorcycle Safety ••Fasten securely, so it
Foundation (MSF) recommends does not blow off.
helmets with a label from the Snell ••Permit air to pass through,
Memorial Foundation which gives to reduce fogging.
you an added assurance of quality. ••Permit enough room
••Fits snugly, all the way around. for eyeglasses or
••Has no obvious defects sunglasses, if needed.
such as cracks, loose Tinted eye protection should not
padding or frayed straps. be worn at night or any other
Whatever helmet you decide on, time when little light is available.
keep it securely fastened on your
head when you ride. Otherwise, Clothing
The right clothing protects you
if you are involved in a crash, it’s
likely to fly off your head before in a collision. It also provides
it gets a chance to protect you. comfort, as well as protection from
heat, cold, debris, and hot and
Eye and Face Protection moving parts of the motorcycle.
A plastic shatter-resistant ••Jacket and pants should cover
faceshield can help protect your arms and legs completely. They
whole face in a crash. It also should fit snugly enough to
protects you from wind, dust, keep from flapping in the wind,
dirt, rain, insects, and pebbles yet loosely enough to move
thrown up from cars ahead. These freely. Leather offers the most
problems are distracting and protection. Sturdy synthetic
can be painful. If you have to material provides a lot of
deal with them, you can’t devote protection as well. Wear a jacket
your full attention to the road. even in warm weather to prevent
Goggles protect your eyes, though dehydration. Many are designed
they won’t protect the rest of to protect without getting you
your face like a faceshield does. overheated, even on summer days.
A windshield is not a substitute ••Boots or shoes should be high
for a faceshield or goggles. Most and sturdy enough to cover
windshields will not protect your your ankles and give them
eyes from the wind. Neither will support. Soles should be made
eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses of hard, durable slip resistant
won’t keep your eyes from watering, material. Keep heels short so
and they might blow off when they do not catch on rough
you turn your head while riding. surfaces. Tuck laces in so they
won’t catch on your motorcycle.
••Gloves allow a better grip and
help protect your hands in a crash.
Your gloves should be made of
leather or similar durable material.
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
In cold or wet weather, your clothes THE RIGHT MOTORCYCLE
should keep you warm and dry, FOR YOU
as well as protect you from injury. First, make sure your motorcycle
You cannot control a motorcycle is right for you. It should “fit”
well if you are numb. Riding for you. Your feet should reach
long periods in cold weather can the ground while you are
cause severe chill and fatigue. seated on the motorcycle.
A winter jacket should resist
wind and fit snugly at the neck, At minimum, your street-legal
wrists and waist. Good-quality motorcycle should have:
rainsuits designed for motorcycle • •Headlight, taillight and brakelight.
riding resist tearing apart or ••Front and rear brakes.
ballooning up at high speeds. ••Turn signals.
••Horn.
1. Test Yourself ••Two mirrors.
A plastic shatter-resistant BORROWING AND
faceshield:
LENDING
A. Is not necessary if you Borrowers and lenders of
have a windshield. motorcycles, beware. Crashes
B. Only protects your eyes. are fairly common among
C. Helps protect your whole face. beginning riders—especially
in the first months of riding.
Answers appear on page 52.
Riding an unfamiliar motorcycle
adds to the problem.
If you borrow a motorcycle, get
KNOW YOUR familiar with it in a controlled area.
MOTORCYCLE And if you lend your motorcycle
There are plenty of things on the to friends, make sure they are
highway that can cause you trouble. licensed and know how to ride
Your motorcycle should not be one before allowing them out into traffic.
of them. To make sure that your
No matter how experienced you
motorcycle won’t let you down:
may be, ride extra carefully on any
••Read the owner’s manual first. motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar
••Start with the right to you. More than half of all crashes
motorcycle for you. occur on motorcycles ridden by the
••Be familiar with the operator for less than six months.
motorcycle controls.
••Check the motorcycle
before every ride.
••Keep it in safe riding
condition between rides.
••Avoid add-ons and modifications
that make your motorcycle
harder to handle.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Get Familiar With the ••Know the gear pattern. Work the
Motorcycle Controls throttle, clutch, and brakes a few
Make sure you are completely times before you start riding. All
familiar with the motorcycle before controls react a little differently.
you take it out on the street. Be ••Ride very cautiously and be
sure to review the owner’s manual. aware of surroundings. Accelerate
This is particularly important gently, take turns more slowly, and
if you are riding a borrowed leave extra room for stopping.
motorcycle. If you are going to Check Your Motorcycle
use an unfamiliar motorcycle: A motorcycle needs more frequent
••Make all the checks you would attention than a car. A minor
on your own motorcycle. technical failure in a car seldom
••Find out where everything is, leads to anything more than an
particularly the turn signals, horn, inconvenience for the driver.
headlight switch, fuel-control If something’s wrong with the
valve, and engine cut-off switch. motorcycle, you’ll want to find out
Find and operate these items about it before you get in traffic.
without having to look for them. Make a complete check of your
motorcycle before every ride.
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
Light Switch (high/low) Engine Cut-off
Choke (varies) Switch
Electric
Turn-Signal
Start
Switch
Button
Ignition Key
(varies)
Horn Button Throttle
Clutch Lever Front Brake Lever

Speedometer
& Odometer
Tachometer
(if equipped)
Fuel Supply Valve

(if equipped)
Gear-Change Lever Rear Brake Pedal
Kick Starter
(if equipped)

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Before mounting the motorcycle In addition to the checks you
make the following checks: should make before every trip,
••Tires: Check the air pressure, check the following items at least
general wear and tread. once a week: wheels, cables,
••Fluids: Oil and fluid levels. fasteners, and fluid checks.
At a minimum, check hydraulic Follow your owner’s manual
fluids and coolants weekly. to get recommendations.
Look under the motorcycle for
signs of an oil or gas leak. 2. Test Yourself
••Headlights and Taillight: More than half of all crashes:
Check them both. Test your A. Occur at speeds greater
switch to make sure both high than 35 mph.
and low beams are working.
••Turn Signals: Turn on both right B. Happen at night.
and left turn signals. Make sure C. Involve riders who have
all lights are working properly. ridden their motorcycles
••Brake Light: Try both brake less than six months.
controls, and make sure each Answers appear on page 52.
one turns on the brake light.
Once you have mounted the
motorcycle, complete the following KNOW YOUR
checks before starting out: RESPONSIBILITIES
••Clutch and Throttle: Make “Accident” implies an unforeseen
sure they work smoothly. The event that occurs without anyone’s
throttle should snap back fault or negligence. Most often
when you let go. The clutch in traffic, that is not the case. In
should feel tight and smooth. fact, most people involved in a
••Mirrors: Clean and adjust both crash can usually claim some
mirrors before starting. It’s responsibility for what takes place.
difficult to ride with one hand
Consider a situation where
while you try to adjust a mirror.
someone decides to try to squeeze
Adjust each mirror so you can
through an intersection on a yellow
see the lane behind and as much
light turning red. Your light turns
as possible of the lane next to
green. You pull into the intersection
you. When properly adjusted,
without checking for possible
a mirror may show the edge
latecomers. That is all it takes for
of your arm or shoulder: but
the two of you to tangle. It was
it’s the road behind and to the
the driver’s responsibility to stop.
side that’s most important.
And it was your responsibility to
••Brakes: Try the front and rear look before pulling out. Neither of
brake levers one at a time. Make you held up your end of the deal.
sure each one feels firm and Just because someone else is the
holds the motorcycle when first to start the chain of events
the brake is fully applied. leading to a crash, doesn’t leave
••Horn: Try the horn. any of us free of responsibility.
Make sure it works.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
As a rider you can’t be sure that RIDE WITHIN YOUR
other operators will see you or yield ABILITIES
the right of way. To lessen your This manual cannot teach you
chances of a crash occurring: how to control direction, speed,
••Be visible: wear proper clothing, or balance. That’s something you
use your headlight, ride in the best can learn only through practice.
lane position to see and be seen. But control begins with knowing
••Communicate your intentions: your abilities and riding within
use the proper signals, brake them, along with knowing and
light, and lane position. obeying the rules of the road.
••Maintain an adequate Basic Vehicle Control
space cushion: following, Body Position
being followed, lane sharing, To control a motorcycle well:
passing and being passed.
••Posture: Sit so you can use your
••Scan your path of travel
arms to steer the motorcycle
12 seconds ahead.
rather than to hold yourself up.
••Identify and separate
••Seat: Sit far enough forward
multiple hazards.
so that arms are slightly bent
••Be prepared to act: remain when you hold the handlegrips.
alert and know how to carry out Bending your arms permits
proper crash-avoidance skills. you to press on the handlebars
Blame doesn’t matter when some- without having to stretch.
one is injured in a crash. There is ••Hands: Hold the handlegrips
rarely a single cause of any crash. firmly to keep your grip over
The ability to ride aware, make rough surfaces. Start with your
critical decisions, and carry them right wrist flat. This will help you
out separates responsible riders keep from accidentally using too
from all the rest. Remember, it much throttle. Also, adjust the
is up to you to keep from being handlebars so your hands are
the cause of, or an unprepared even with or below your elbows.
participant in, any crash. This permits you to use the proper
muscles for precision steering.
HOLDING HANDLEGRIPS ••Knees: Keep your knees against
the gas tank to help you keep your
balance as the motorcycle turns.
correct ••Feet: Keep your feet firmly on
the footpegs to maintain balance.
Don’t drag your feet. If your foot
catches on something, you can
be injured and it could affect your
control of the motorcycle. Keep
incorrect your feet near the controls so you
can get to them fast if needed.
Also, don’t let your toes point
downward—they may get caught
between the road and the footpegs.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Shifting Gears Braking
There is more to shifting Your motorcycle has two brakes—
gears than simply getting the one each for the front and rear
motorcycle to pick up speed wheels. Use both of them at the
smoothly. Learning to use the same time. The front brake is
gears when downshifting, turning, more powerful and can provide at
or starting on hills is important least three-quarters of your total
for safe motorcycle operation. stopping power. The front brake is
Shift down through the gears safe to use if you use it properly.
with the clutch as you slow or Remember:
stop. Remain in first gear while ••Use both brakes every time you
you are stopped so that you can slow or stop. Using both brakes
move out quickly if you need to. for even “normal” stops will permit
Make certain you are riding slowly you to develop the proper habit or
enough when you shift into a lower skill of using both brakes properly
gear. If not, the motorcycle will in an emergency. Squeeze the
lurch, and the rear wheel may skid. front brake and press down on
When riding downhill or shifting the rear. Grabbing at the front
into first gear you may need to use brake or jamming down on the
the brakes to slow enough before rear can cause the brakes to lock,
downshifting safely. Work towards resulting in control problems.
a smooth, even clutch release, ••If you know the technique, using
especially when downshifting. both brakes in a turn is possible,
It is best to change gears although it should be done very
before entering a turn. However, carefully. When leaning the
sometimes shifting while in motorcycle some of the traction
the turn is necessary. If so, is used for cornering. Less
remember to do so smoothly. A traction is available for stopping.
sudden change in power to the A skid can occur if you apply too
rear wheel can cause a skid. 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.)

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Turning
NORMAL TURNING
Riders often try to take curves or
turns too fast. When they can’t
hold the turn, they end up crossing
into another lane of traffic or going
off the road. Or, they overreact
and brake too hard, causing a
skid and loss of control. Approach
turns and curves with caution.
Use four steps for better control:
••SLOW ••LEAN
••LOOK ••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. In slow tight turns, counterbalance
by leaning the motorcycle only
LEAN: To turn, the motorcycle must and keeping your body straight.
lean. To lean the motorcycle, press
on the handgrip in the direction of
the turn. Press left—lean left—go SLOW TURNING
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.
3. Test Yourself

When riding, you should:
A. Turn your head and shoulders
to look through turns.
B. Keep your knees away from
the gas tank.
C. Turn just your head and eyes
to look where you are going.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE In general, there is no single
The best protection you can best position for riders to be
have is distance—a “cushion seen and to maintain a space
of space”—all around your cushion around the motorcycle.
motorcycle. If someone else makes No portion of the lane need be
a mistake, distance permits you: avoided—including the center.
••Time to react. Position yourself in the portion of
••Space to maneuver. the lane where you are most likely
to be seen and you can maintain a
space cushion around you. Change
LANE POSITIONS position as traffic situations change.
Ride in path 2 or 3 if 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
Lane Positions usually no more than two feet wide.
In some ways the size of the Unless the road is wet, the average
motorcycle can work to your center strip permits adequate
advantage. Each traffic lane gives a traction to ride on safely. You can
motorcycle three paths of travel, as operate to the left or right of the
indicated in the above illustration. grease strip and still be within
Your lane position should: the center portion of the traffic
lane. Avoid riding on big buildups
••Increase your ability
of oil and grease usually found at
to see and be seen.
busy intersections or toll booths.
••Avoid others’ blind spots.
••Avoid surface hazards. Following Another Vehicle
••Protect your lane from “Following too closely” is
other drivers. a major factor in crashes
••Communicate your intentions. involving motorcyclists. In traffic,
motorcycles need as much
••Avoid wind blast from
distance to stop as cars. A
other vehicles.
minimum of four seconds following
••Provide an escape route. distance is recommended under
Select the appropriate path to ideal driving conditions. Less than
maximize your space cushion perfect riding conditions require
and make yourself more easily increasing available time and space.
seen by others on the road.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
To gauge your following distance:
FOLLOWING
••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, one-thousand-
three, one-thousand-four.”
••If you reach the marker
Riding at the far side of a lane
before you reach “four,” you
may permit a driver to see you in
are following too closely.
a sideview mirror. But remember
A four-second following that most drivers don’t look at
distance leaves space to stop their sideview mirrors nearly as
or swerve if the driver ahead often as they check the rearview
stops suddenly. It also permits mirror. If the traffic situation allows,
a better view of potholes and the center portion of the lane is
other hazards in the road. usually the best place for you to
A larger cushion of space is be seen by the drivers ahead and
needed if your motorcycle will take to prevent lane sharing by others.
longer than normal to stop. If the Being Followed
pavement is slippery, if you cannot
Speeding up to lose someone
see through the vehicle ahead or
following too closely only ends
if traffic is heavy and someone
up with someone tailgating
may squeeze in front of you, open
you at a higher speed.
up more following distance.
A better way to handle tailgaters is
Keep well behind the vehicle
to get them in front of you. When
ahead even when you are
someone is following too closely,
stopped. This will make it easier
change lanes and let them pass.
to get out of the way if someone
Another option is to slow down
bears down on you from behind.
and open up extra space ahead of
It will also give you a cushion of
you to allow room for both you and
space if the vehicle ahead starts
the tailgater to stop. This will also
to back up for some reason.
encourage the tailgater to pass. If
When behind a car, ride where they don’t pass, you will have given
the driver can see you in the yourself and the tailgater more
rearview mirror. Riding in the time and space to react in case an
center portion of the lane should emergency does develop ahead.
put your image in the middle of
the rearview mirror—where a
driver is most likely to see you.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
PASSING AND 2. When safe, move into the left
BEING PASSED lane and accelerate. Select
Passing and being passed by a lane position that doesn’t
another vehicle is not much crowd the car you are passing
different than with a car. However, and provides space to avoid
visibility is more critical. Be sure hazards in your lane.
other drivers see you, and that 3. Ride through the blind spot
you see potential hazards. as quickly as possible.
4. Signal again, and complete
mirror and headchecks before
PASSING returning to your original lane
and then cancel signal.
BEING PASSED
1. Ride in the left portion of the Remember, passes must

lane at a safe following distance be completed within posted
to increase your line of sight and
speed limits, and only where
make you more visible. Signal
and check for oncoming traffic. permitted. Know your signs
Use your mirrors and turn your and road markings!
head to look for traffic behind.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Being Passed whenever drivers might be tempted
When you are being passed to squeeze by you. Drivers are
from behind or by an oncoming most tempted to do this:
vehicle, stay in the center ••In heavy, bumper-to-
portion of your lane. Riding bumper traffic.
any closer to them could put ••When they want to pass you.
you in a hazardous situation. ••When you are preparing to
Avoid being hit by: turn at an intersection.
••The other vehicle: A slight ••When you are getting in an exit
mistake by you or the passing lane or leaving a highway.
driver could cause a sideswipe. Merging Cars
••Extended mirrors: Some drivers Drivers on an entrance ramp may
forget that their mirrors hang not see you on the highway. Give
out farther than their fenders. them plenty of room. Change
••Objects thrown from windows: to another lane if one is open.
Even if the driver knows you’re If there is no room for a lane
there, a passenger may not see change, adjust speed to open up
you and might toss something space for the merging driver.
on you or the road ahead of you.
••Blasts of wind from larger
vehicles: They can affect your MERGING
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 need a
full lane to operate safely. Lane
sharing is usually prohibited.
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

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Cars Alongside SEE
Do not ride next to cars or trucks Good experienced riders
in other lanes if you do not have remain aware of what is going
to. You might be in the blind spot on around them. They improve
of a car in the next lane, which their riding strategy by using
could switch into your lane without SEE, a three-step process used
warning. Cars in the next lane also to make appropriate judgments,
block your escape if you come and apply them correctly in
upon danger in your own lane. different traffic situations:
Speed up or drop back to find a ••Search
place clear of traffic on both sides. ••Evaluate
••Execute
BLIND SPOTS Let’s examine each of these steps.
Search
Search aggressively ahead, to
the sides and behind by checking
mirrors and blind spots 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 and 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.
4. Test Yourself
••Hazardous road conditions.
Usually, a good way to Be especially alert in areas with
handle tailgaters is to: limited visibility. Visually “busy”
A. Change lanes and surroundings could hide you and
let them pass. your motorcycle from others.
B. Use your horn and make
obscene gestures.
C. Speed up to put distance
between you and the tailgater.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Evaluate Execute
Think about how hazards can Carry out your decision.
interact to create risks for you. To create more space and
Anticipate potential problems minimize harm from any hazard:
and have a plan to reduce risks. ••Communicate your presence
••Road and surface with lights and/or horn.
characteristics: ••Adjust your speed by
Potholes, guard rails, bridges, accelerating, stopping or slowing.
telephone poles and trees won’t ••Adjust your position
move into your path but may and/or direction.
influence your riding strategy.
Apply the old adage “one step
••Traffic control devices:
at a time” to handle two or more
Look for traffic signals, including
hazards. Adjust speed to permit
regulatory signs, warning signs,
two hazards to separate. Then
and pavement markings to help
deal with them one at a time as
you evaluate circumstances ahead.
single hazards. Decision making
••Vehicles and other traffic: becomes more complex with
May move into your path and three or more hazards. Weigh the
increase the likelihood of a crash. consequences of each and give
Think about our time and equal distance to the hazards.
space requirements in order to
In potential high risk areas, such
maintain a margin of safety. You
as intersections, shopping areas
must leave yourself time to
and school and construction zones,
react if an emergency arises.
cover the clutch and both brakes to
reduce the time you need to react.
5. Test Yourself

To reduce your reaction time,
you should:
A. Ride slower than
the speed limit.
B. Cover the clutch and
the brakes.
C. Shift into neutral
when slowing.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
INTERSECTIONS There are no guarantees that others
The greatest potential for conflict see you. Never count on “eye
between you and other traffic is at contact” as a sign that a driver
intersections. An intersection can will yield. Too often, a driver looks
be in the middle of an urban area right at a motorcyclist and still
or at a driveway on a residential fails to “see” him. The only eyes
street—anywhere traffic may cross that you can count on are your
your path of travel. Over one-half of own. If a car can enter your path,
motorcycle/car crashes are caused assume that it will. Good riders are
by drivers entering a rider’s right- always “looking for trouble”—not
of-way. Cars that turn left in front of to get into it, but to stay out of it.
you, including cars turning left from Increase your chances of being
the lane to your right, and cars on seen at intersections. Ride with
side streets that pull into your lane, your headlight on in a lane position
are the biggest dangers. Your use that provides the best view of
of SEE at intersections is critical. oncoming traffic. Provide a space
cushion around the motorcycle that
permits you to take evasive action.
LARGE INTERSECTIONS

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
SMALL INTERSECTIONS BLIND INTERSECTIONS
As you approach the intersection,

select a lane position to increase
your visibility to the driver. Cover
the clutch and both brakes If you have a stop sign or stop
to reduce reaction time. line, stop there first. Then edge
Reduce your speed as you forward and stop again, just
approach an intersection. After short of where the cross-traffic
entering the intersection, move lane meets your lane. From that
away from vehicles preparing to position, lean your body forward
turn. Do not radically change speed and look around buildings, parked
or position. The driver might think cars, or bushes to see if anything
that you are preparing to turn. is coming. Just make sure your
front wheel stays out of the cross
Blind Intersections lane of travel while you’re looking.
If you approach a blind intersection,
move to the portion of the lane
that will bring you into another STOP LINE
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 be
seen as soon as possible and
remain visible to others while
protecting your space.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Passing Parked Cars
PARKED CARS
When passing parked cars, stay
toward the left of your lane. You
can avoid problems caused by
doors opening, drivers getting out
of cars, or people stepping from
between cars. If oncoming traffic
is present, it is usually best to
remain in the center-lane position
to maximize your space cushion.
A bigger problem can occur
if the driver pulls away from
the curb without checking for
traffic behind. Even if he does
look, he may fail to see you.
In either event, the driver might
cut into your path. Slow down
or change lanes to make room
for someone cutting in.
Cars making a sudden U-turn
are the most dangerous. They
may cut you off entirely, blocking
the whole roadway and leaving
you with no place to go. Since
you can’t tell what a driver will
PARKING AT CURBS
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.
6. Test Yourself

Making eye contact
with other drivers:
A. Is a good sign they see you.
B. Is not worth the effort it takes.
C. Doesn’t mean that
the driver will yield.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
INCREASING be a big help for drivers coming
CONSPICUITY toward you or from behind.
In crashes with motorcyclists, Headlight(s)
drivers often say that they never The best way to help others
saw the motorcycle. From ahead see your motorcycle is to keep
or behind, a motorcycle’s outline the headlight(s) on—at all times
is much smaller than a car’s. Also, (although motorcycles sold in the
it’s hard to see something you are U.S. since 1978 automatically have
not looking for, and most drivers the headlights on when running.)
are not looking for motorcycles. Studies show that, during the
More likely, they are looking day, a motorcycle with its light(s)
through the skinny, two-wheeled on is twice as likely to be noticed.
silhouette in search of cars that Use of the high beam during
may pose a problem to them. the day increases the likelihood
Even if a driver does see you that oncoming drivers will see
coming, you aren’t necessarily you. Use low beam at night, in
safe. Smaller vehicles appear inclement weather and when
farther away, and seem to be meeting and following other traffic.
traveling slower than they actually
are. It is common for drivers to
Signals
pull out in front of motorcyclists, The signals on a motorcycle are
thinking they have plenty of similar to those on a car. They
time. Too often, they are wrong. tell others what you plan to do.
However, you can do many things
to make it easier for others to SIGNALING
recognize you and your cycle.
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
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
However, due to a rider’s added tailgater may be watching you
vulnerability, signals are even more and not see something ahead that
important. Use them anytime you will make you slow down. This
plan to change lanes or turn. Use will hopefully discourage them
them even when you think no from tailgating and warn them of
one else is around. It’s the car hazards ahead they may not see. 
you don’t see that’s going to give Using Your Mirrors
you the most trouble. Your signal While it’s most important to keep
lights also make you easier to track of what’s happening ahead,
spot. That’s why it’s a good idea you can’t afford to ignore situations
to use your turn signals even when behind. Traffic conditions change
what you plan to do is obvious. quickly. Knowing what’s going
When you enter onto a freeway, on behind is essential for you
drivers approaching from behind to make a safe decision about
are more likely to see your signal how to handle trouble ahead.
blinking and make room for you. Frequent mirror checks should
Turning your signal light on before be part of your normal scanning
each turn reduces confusion and routine. Make a special point
frustration for the traffic around of using your mirrors:
you. Once you turn, make sure ••When you are stopped at an
your signal is off or a driver may intersection. Watch cars coming
pull directly into your path, thinking up from behind. If the driver isn’t
you plan to turn again. Use your paying attention, he could be on
signals at every turn so drivers top of you before he sees you.
can react accordingly. Don’t make ••Before you change lanes. Make
them guess what you intend to do. sure no one is about to pass you.
Brake Light(s)
Your motorcycle’s brake lights
is/are usually not as noticeable USING MIRRORS
as the brake lights on a car—
particularly when your taillight(s)
is/are on. (It/They goes/go on
with the headlight(s)). If the
situation will permit, help others
notice you by flashing your brake
light(s) before you slow down. It
is especially important to flash
your brake light(s) 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’s a good idea to flash your
brake light before you slow. The
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
••Before you slow down. The Here are some situations:
driver behind may not expect ••A driver in the lane next to you
you to slow, or may be unsure is driving too closely to the vehicle
about where you will slow. For ahead and may want to pass.
example, you signal a turn and ••A parked car has someone
the driver thinks you plan to turn in the driver’s seat.
at a distant intersection, rather ••Someone is in the street,
than at a nearer driveway. riding a bicycle or walking.
Some motorcycles have rounded In an emergency, press the
(convex) mirrors. These provide a horn button loud and long.
wider view of the road behind than Be ready to stop or swerve
do flat mirrors. They also make away from the danger.
cars seem farther away than they
really are. If you are not used to Keep in mind that a motorcycle’s
convex mirrors, get familiar with horn isn’t as loud as a car’s,
them. (While you are stopped, pick therefore, use it, but don’t rely
out a parked car in your mirror. on it. Other strategies may be
Form a mental image of how far appropriate along with the horn.
away it is. Then, turn around and Riding at Night
look at it to see how close you At night it is harder for you to see
came.) Practice with your mirrors and be seen. Picking your headlight
until you become a good judge of or taillight out of the car lights
distance. Even then, allow extra around you is not easy for other
distance before you change lanes. drivers. To compensate, you should:
Head Checks ••Reduce your speed: Ride even
Checking your mirrors is not slower than you would during the
enough. Motorcycles have “blind day—particularly on roads you
spots” like cars. Before you change don’t know well. This will increase
lanes, turn your head, and look your chances of avoiding a hazard.
to the side for other vehicles. ••Increase distance: Distances
On a road with several lanes, are harder to judge at night
check the far lane and the one than during the day. Your eyes
next to you. A driver in the rely upon shadows and light
distant lane may head for the contrasts to determine how far
same space you plan to take. away an object is and how fast
it is coming. These contrasts
Frequent head checks should are missing or distorted under
be your normal scanning routine, artificial lights at night. Open up
also. Only by knowing what is a greater following distance than
happening all around you, are during daylight. And allow more
you fully prepared to deal with it. distance to pass and be passed.
Horn ••Use the car ahead: The
Be ready to use your horn to get headlights of the car ahead
someone’s attention quickly. can give you a better view of
It is a good idea to give a quick the road than even your high
beep before passing anyone beam can. Taillights bouncing
that may move into your lane. up and down can alert you to
bumps or rough pavement.
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
••Use your high beam: Get The following information
all the light you can. Use your offers some good advice.
high beam whenever you are Quick Stops
not following or meeting a To stop quickly, apply both brakes
car. Be visible, wear reflective at the same time. Don’t be shy
materials when riding at night. about using the front brake, but
••Be flexible about lane don’t “grab” it, either. Squeeze the
position: Change to whatever brake lever firmly and progressively.
portion of the lane is best able to If the front wheel locks, release
help you see, be seen, and keep the front brake immediately then
an adequate space cushion. reapply it firmly.
At the same time, press down on
7. Test Yourself the rear brake. If you accidentally
Reflective clothing should: lock the rear brake on a good
A. Be worn at night. traction surface, keep it locked
until you have completely stopped.
B. Be worn during the day. Even with a locked rear wheel,
C. Be worn day and night. you can control the motorcycle
Answers appear on page 52. on a straightaway if it is upright
and going in a straight line.
CRASH AVOIDANCE STOPPING DISTANCE

No matter how careful you are,
there will be times when you
find yourself in a tight spot. Your
chances of getting out safely REAR
depend on your ability to react
quickly and properly. Often, a
crash occurs because a rider FRONT
is not prepared or skilled in
crash-avoidance maneuvers.
Know when and how to stop BOTH
or swerve, two skills critical to
avoiding a crash. It is not always Always use both brakes at the
desirable or possible to stop same time to stop. The front
quickly to avoid an obstacle. Riders brake can provide 70% or more
must also be able to swerve of the potential stopping power.
around an obstacle. Determining
If you must stop quickly while
the skill necessary for the
turning or riding a curve, the
situation is important as well.
best technique is to straighten
Studies show that most the bike upright first and then
crash-involved riders: brake. However, it may not always
••Underbrake the front tire be possible to straighten the
and overbrake the rear. motorcycle and then stop. If you
••Did not separate braking from must brake while leaning, apply
swerving or did not choose light brakes and reduce the throttle.
swerving when it was appropriate. As you slow, you can reduce your
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
lean angle and apply more brake Keep your body upright and
pressure until the motorcycle allow the motorcycle to lean in
is straight and maximum brake the direction of the turn while
pressure is possible. You should keeping your knees against the
“straighten” the handlebars in tank and your feet solidly on the
the last few feet of stopping, pegs. Let the motorcycle move
the motorcycle should then be underneath you. Make your escape
straight up and in balance. route the target of your vision.
Swerving or Turning Quickly Press on the opposite handgrip
once you clear the obstacle to
Sometimes you may not have
return to your original direction of
enough room to stop, even if you
travel. To swerve to the left, press
use both brakes properly. An
the left handgrip, then press the
object might appear suddenly
right to recover. To swerve to
in your path. Or the car ahead
the right, press right, then left.
might squeal to a stop. The only
way to avoid a crash may be to IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED,
turn quickly, or swerve around it. SEPARATE IT FROM SWERVING.
A swerve is any sudden change in Brake before or after—
direction. It can be two quick turns, never while swerving.
or a rapid shift to the side. Apply a
small amount of hand pressure to
BRAKE, THEN SWERVE
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.
SWERVE, THEN BRAKE

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Cornering
CONSTANT CURVES
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.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
DECREASING CURVES WIDENING CURVES
(TIGHTER TURNS)
MULTIPLE CURVES
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.
8. Test Yourself

The best way to stop
quickly is to:
A. Use the front brake only.
B. Throttle down and use
the front brake.
C. Use both brakes at
the same time.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
HANDLING DANGEROUS angle as possible. Look where
SURFACES you want to go to control your
Your chance of falling or being path of travel. If you have to ride
involved in a crash increases over the obstacle, you should:
whenever you ride across: ••Slow down as much as
••Uneven surfaces or obstacles. possible before contact.
••Slippery surfaces. • •Make sure the motorcycle
••Railroad tracks. is straight.
••Grooves and gratings. ••Rise slightly off the seat with
your weight on the footpegs
Uneven Surfaces and to absorb the shock with your
Obstacles knees and elbows, and avoid
Watch for uneven surfaces such as being thrown off the motorcycle.
bumps, broken pavement, potholes, ••Just before contact, roll
or small pieces of highway trash. on the throttle slightly to
Try to avoid obstacles by slowing lighten the front end.
or going around them. If you If you ride over an object on the
must go over the obstacle, street, pull off the road and check
first, determine if it is possible. your tires and rims for damage
Approach it at as close to a 90° before riding any farther.
OBSTACLES

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Slippery Surfaces of what’s on the edge of the
Motorcycles handle better when road, particularly when making
ridden on surfaces that permit sharp turns and getting on or
good traction. Surfaces that off freeways at high speeds.
provide poor traction include: ••Rain dries and snow melts
••Wet pavement, particularly faster on some sections of
just after it starts to rain and a road than on others. Patches
before surface oil washes of ice tend to crop up in low or
to the side of the road. shaded areas and on bridges
••Gravel roads, or where and overpasses. Wet surfaces
sand and gravel collect. or wet leaves are just as slippery.
••Mud, snow, and ice. Ride in the least slippery portion
of the lane and reduce speed.
••Lane markings, steel
plates and manhole covers, Cautious riders steer clear of roads
especially when wet. covered with ice or snow. If you
can’t avoid a slippery surface, keep
To ride safely on slippery surfaces:
your motorcycle straight up and
••Reduce Speed: Slow down proceed as slowly as possible. If
before you get to a slippery you encounter a large surface so
surface to lessen your chances of slippery that you must coast, or
skidding. Your motorcycle needs travel at a walking pace, consider
more distance to stop. And, it is letting your feet skim along the
particularly important to reduce
surface. If the motorcycle starts
speed before entering wet curves.
to fall, you can catch yourself. Be
••Avoid Sudden Moves: Any sure to keep off the brakes. If
sudden change in speed or possible, squeeze the clutch and
direction can cause a skid. Be coast. Attempting this maneuver
as smooth as possible when you
at anything other than the slowest
speed up, shift gears, turn or brake.
of speeds could prove hazardous.
••Use Both Brakes: The front brake
is still effective, even on a slippery Railroad Tracks, Trolley
surface. Squeeze the brake lever Tracks and Pavement Seams
gradually to avoid locking the Usually it is safer to ride straight
front wheel. Remember, gentle within your lane to cross tracks.
pressure on the rear brake. Turning to take tracks head-on
••The center of a lane can be (at a 90° angle) can be more
hazardous when wet. When dangerous—your path may carry
it starts to rain, ride in the tire you into another lane of traffic.
tracks left by cars. Often, the
left tire track will be the best
position, depending on traffic and CROSS TRACKS–RIGHT
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
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Grooves and Gratings
CROSS TRACKS–WRONG
Riding over rain grooves or bridge
gratings may cause a motorcycle
to weave. The uneasy, wandering
feeling is generally 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
For track and road seams that than the wandering feeling.
run parallel to your course, move
far enough away from tracks, ruts,
or pavement seams to cross at GRATE CROSSINGS–RIGHT
an angle of at least 45°. Then,
make a quick, sharp turn. Edging
across could catch your tires
and throw you off balance.
PARALLEL TRACKS–RIGHT
GRATE CROSSINGS–WRONG
PARALLEL TRACKS–WRONG
9. Test Yourself

When it starts to rain
it is usually best to:
A. Ride in the center of the lane.
B. Pull off to the side
until the rain stops.
C. Ride in the tire tracks
left by cars.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS Stuck Throttle
You can find yourself in an Twist the throttle back and forth
emergency the moment something several times. If the throttle cable
goes wrong with your motorcycle. is stuck, this may free it. If the
In dealing with any mechanical throttle stays stuck immediately
problem, take into account the operate the engine cut-off switch
road and traffic conditions you and pull in the clutch at the same
face. Here are some guidelines time. This will remove power from
that can help you handle the rear wheel, though engine
mechanical problems safely. noise may not immediately decline.
Tire Failure Once the motorcycle is “under
control,” pull off and stop.
You will seldom hear a tire go flat.
If the motorcycle starts handling After you have stopped, check
differently, it may be a tire failure. the throttle cable carefully to find
This can be dangerous. You must the source of the trouble. Make
be able to tell from the way the certain the throttle works freely
motorcycle reacts. If one of your before you start to ride again.
tires suddenly loses air, react Wobble
quickly to keep your balance. A “wobble” occurs when the front
Pull off and check the tires. wheel and handlebars suddenly
If the front tire goes flat, the start to shake from side to side
steering will feel “heavy.” A at any speed. Most wobbles can
front-wheel flat is particularly be traced to improper loading,
hazardous because it affects unsuitable accessories, or incorrect
your steering. You have to steer tire pressure. If you are carrying
well to keep your balance. a heavy load, lighten it. If you
If the rear tire goes flat, the can’t, shift it. Center the weight
back of the motorcycle may lower and farther forward on the
jerk or sway from side to side. motorcycle. Make sure tire pressure,
spring pre-load, air shocks, and
If either tire goes flat while riding: dampers are at the settings
••Hold handlegrips firmly, recommended for that much
ease off the throttle, and weight. Make sure windshields and
keep a straight course. fairings are mounted properly.
••If braking is required, however, Check for poorly adjusted steering;
gradually apply the brake worn steering parts; a front wheel
of the tire that isn’t flat, if that is bent, misaligned, or out of
you are sure which one it is. balance; loose wheel bearings or
••When the motorcycle spokes; and swingarm bearings.
slows, edge to the side If none of these are determined
of the road, (disengage) to be the cause, have the
squeeze clutch and stop. motorcycle checked out thoroughly
by a qualified professional.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Trying to “accelerate out of a Engine Seizure
wobble” will only make the When the engine “locks” or
motorcycle more unstable. Instead: “freezes” it is usually low on oil.
••Grip the handlebars firmly, The engine’s moving parts can’t
but don’t fight the wobble. move smoothly against each other,
••Close the throttle gradually and the engine overheats. The
to slow down. Do not apply first sign may be a loss of engine
the brakes; braking could power or a change in the engine’s
make the wobble worse. sound. Squeeze the clutch lever to
••Move your weight as far disengage the engine from the rear
forward and down as possible. wheel. Pull off the road and stop.
••Pull off the road as soon as Check the oil. If needed, oil should
you can to fix the problem. be added as soon as possible or
the engine will seize. When this
10. Test Yourself happens, the effect is the same
as a locked rear wheel. Let the
If your motorcycle engine cool before restarting.
starts to wobble:
A. Accelerate out of the wobble. ANIMALS
B. Use the brakes gradually. Naturally, you should do everything
you safely can to avoid hitting
C. Grip the handlebars firmly and an animal. If you are in traffic,
close the throttle gradually. however, remain in your lane.
Answers appear on page 52. Hitting something small is less
dangerous to you than hitting
something big—like a car.
Chain Problems
Motorcycles seem to attract dogs.
A chain that slips or breaks while If you are chased, downshift and
you’re riding could lock the rear approach the animal slowly. As
wheel and cause your cycle to skid. you approach it, accelerate away
Chain slippage or breakage can be and leave the animal behind.
avoided by proper maintenance. Don’t kick at an animal. Keep
••Slippage: If the chain slips control of your motorcycle, and
when you try to speed up quickly look to where you want to go.
or ride uphill, pull off the road.
For larger animals (deer, elk,
Check the chain and sprockets.
cattle) brake and prepare to
Tightening the chain may help. If
stop. They are unpredictable.
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’ll notice an
instant loss of power to the
rear wheel. Close the throttle
and brake to a stop.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
11. Test Yourself don’t want someone else pulling
off at the same place you are.
If you are chased by a dog: ••Park carefully: Loose and sloped
A. Kick it away. shoulders can make setting the
B. Stop until the animal side or center stand difficult.
loses interest. CARRYING PASSENGERS
C. Approach the animal AND CARGO
slowly, then speed up. Only experienced riders should
Answers appear on page 52. carry passengers or large loads.
The extra weight changes the
way the motorcycle handles,
FLYING OBJECTS balances, turns, speeds up, and
slows down. Before taking a
From time to time riders are struck
passenger or heavy load on the
by insects, cigarette butts thrown
street, practice away from traffic.
from cars or pebbles kicked up
by the tires of the vehicle ahead. If Equipment
you are wearing face protection, To carry passengers safely:
it might get smeared or cracked, ••Equip and adjust your
making it difficult to see. Without motorcycle to carry passengers.
face protection, an object could ••Instruct the passenger
hit you in the eye, face or mouth. before you start.
Whatever happens, keep your eyes ••Adjust your riding technique
on the road and your hands on the for the added weight.
handlebars. When safe, pull off
Equipment should include:
the road and repair the damage.
••A proper seat large enough to
GETTING OFF THE ROAD hold both of you without crowding.
If you need to leave the road to You should not sit any farther
check the motorcycle (or just to forward than you usually do.
rest for a while), be sure you: ••Footpegs for the passenger.
••Check the roadside: Make sure Firm footing prevents your
the surface of the roadside is passenger from falling off
firm enough to ride on. If it is soft and pulling you off, too.
grass, loose sand, or if you’re ••Protective equipment:
just not sure about it, slow way the same protective gear
down before you turn onto it. recommended for operators.
••Signal: Drivers behind might Adjust the suspension to handle
not expect you to slow down. the additional weight. You will
Give a clear signal that you probably need to add a few pounds
will be slowing down and of pressure to the tires if you carry
changing direction. Check your a passenger. (Check your owner’s
mirror and make a head check manual for appropriate settings.)
before you take any action. While your passenger sits on the
••Pull off the road: Get as far off seat with you, adjust the mirror
the road as you can. It can be and headlight according to the
very hard to spot a motorcycle change in the motorcycle’s angle.
by the side of the road. You
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Instructing Passengers understood, but keep your
Even if your passenger is a eyes on the road ahead.
motorcycle rider, provide
complete instructions before you 12. Test Yourself
start. Tell your passenger to: Passengers should:
••Get on the motorcycle only after A. Lean as you lean.
you have started the engine.
B. Hold on to the
••Sit as far forward as possible motorcycle seat.
without crowding you.
C. Sit as far back as possible.
••Hold firmly to your
waist, hips, or belt.
••Keep both feet on the
pegs, even when stopped.
Carrying Loads
Most motorcycles are not designed
••Keep legs away from the
to carry much cargo. Small
muffler(s), chains or moving parts. loads can be carried safely if
••Stay directly behind you, positioned and fastened properly.
leaning as you lean. ••Keep the Load Low: Fasten
••Avoid unnecessary loads securely, or put them
talk or motion. in saddle bags. Piling loads
Also, tell your passenger to tighten against a sissybar or frame on
his or her hold when you: the back of the seat raises the
••Approach surface problems. motorcycle’s center of gravity
••Are about to start from a stop. and disturbs its balance.
••Warn that you will make ••Keep the Load Forward: Place
a sudden move. the load over, or in front of, the
rear axle. Tank bags keep loads
Riding with Passengers forward, but use caution when
Your motorcycle will respond loading hard or sharp objects.
more slowly with a passenger Make sure a tank bag does not
on board. The heavier your interfere with handlebars or
passenger, the longer it will take controls. Mounting loads behind
to slow down, speed up, or turn— the rear axle can affect how the
especially on a light motorcycle. motorcycle turns and brakes.
••Ride a little slower, It can also cause a wobble.
especially when taking ••Distribute the Load Evenly: Load
curves, corners, or bumps. saddlebags with about the same
••Start slowing earlier as weight. An uneven load can cause
you approach a stop. the motorcycle to drift to one side.
••Open up a larger cushion of ••Secure the Load: Fasten the
load securely with elastic cords
space ahead and to the sides.
(bungee cords or nets). Elastic
••Wait for larger gaps to cross, cords with more than one
enter, or merge in traffic. attachment point per side are more
Warn your passenger of special secure. A tight load won’t catch
conditions—when you will pull in the wheel or chain, causing it
out, stop quickly, turn sharply, to lock up and skid. Rope tends
or ride over a bump. Turn your to stretch and knots come loose,
head slightly to make yourself permitting the load to shift or fall.
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
••Check the Load: Stop and Keep Your Distance
check the load every so Maintain close ranks but at the
often to make sure it has not same time keep a safe distance to
worked loose or moved. allow each rider in the group time
and space to react to hazards. A
GROUP RIDING close group takes up less space
If you ride with others, do it in a way on the highway, is easier to see
that promotes safety and doesn’t and is less likely to be separated.
interfere with the flow of traffic. Ask However, it must be done properly.
about, and become familiar with,
the groups’ unique hand signals. ••Don’t Pair Up: Never operate
directly alongside another rider.
Keep the Group Small There is no place to go if you need
Small groups make it easier and to avoid an oncoming vehicle in
safer for car drivers who need your lane, pothole or something
to get around them. A small lying in the road. To talk, wait
number isn’t separated as easily until you are both stopped.
by traffic or red lights. Riders ••Staggered Formation: This is
won’t always be hurrying to catch the best way to keep ranks close
up. If your group is larger than yet maintain an adequate space
four or five riders, divide it up into cushion. The leader rides in the
two or more smaller groups. left side of the lane, while the
Keep the Group Together second rider stays two seconds
••Plan: The leader should look behind in the right side of the lane.
ahead for changes and signal
early so “the word gets back”
STAGGERED FORMATION
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
won’t have to hurry to keep from
getting lost or taking a wrong turn.
Plan frequent stops on long rides.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
A third rider maintains in the left
position, four seconds behind GROUP PASSING (STAGE 1)
the first rider. The fourth rider
would keep a four-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 that 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’s 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.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
13. Test Yourself
When riding in a group,
inexperienced riders should
position themselves:
A. Just behind the leader.
B. In front of the group.
C. At the tail end of the group.
BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE

GROUP PASSING (STAGE 2) Riding a motorcycle is a demanding
and complex task. Skilled
riders pay attention to the riding
environment and to operating the
motorcycle, identifying potential
hazards, making good judgments,
and executing decisions quickly
and skillfully. Your ability to perform
and respond to changing road
and traffic conditions is influenced
by how fit and alert you are.
Alcohol and other drugs, more
than any other factor, degrade
your ability to think clearly and to
ride safely. As little as one drink
can have a significant effect on
your performance, as can certain
drugs—prescription or not.
Let’s look at the risks involved in
riding after drinking or using drugs.
What to do to protect yourself and
your fellow riders is also examined.
Why This Information
is Important
Alcohol is a major contributor to
motorcycle crashes, particularly
fatal crashes. Studies show that
40% to 45% of all riders killed
in motorcycle crashes had been
drinking. One-third of those riders
had a blood alcohol concentration
above legal limits. The rest had
only a few drinks in their systems—
enough to impair riding skills. In
the past, drug levels have been
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
harder to distinguish or have not brag about their ability to hold
been separated from drinking their liquor or perform better on
violations for the traffic records. But drugs, but alcohol or drugs makes
riding “under the influence” of either them less able to think clearly and
alcohol or drugs poses physical perform physical tasks skillfully.
and legal hazards for every rider. Judgment and the decision-
Drinking and drug use is a bigger making processes needed for
problem among motorcyclists than vehicle operation are affected long
it is among automobile drivers. before legal limits are reached.
Motorcyclists are more likely to Many over-the-counter, prescription,
be killed or severely injured in and illegal drugs have side effects
a crash. In crashes that involve that increase the risk of riding. It
abuse of substances, injuries occur is difficult to accurately measure
in 90% of motorcycle crashes the involvement of particular drugs
compared to 33% of automobile in motorcycle crashes. But we do
crashes. On a yearly basis, 2,100 know what effects various drugs
motorcyclists are killed and about have on the process involved
50,000 are seriously injured in this in riding a motorcycle. We also
type of crash. These statistics know that the combined effects of
are too overwhelming to ignore. alcohol and other drugs are more
By becoming knowledgeable dangerous than either is alone.
about the effects of alcohol and Alcohol in the Body
other drugs, you will see that Alcohol enters the bloodstream,
riding and substance abuse tissue and organs quickly. Unlike
don’t mix. Take positive steps to most foods and beverages, it
protect yourself and to prevent does not need to be digested.
others from injuring themselves. Within minutes after being
Alcohol and Other Drugs in consumed, it reaches the brain
Motorcycle Operation and begins to affect the drinker.
No one is immune to the effects The major effect alcohol has is
of alcohol or drugs. Friends may to slow down and impair bodily
ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
functions—both mental and have more blood and other bodily
physical. Whatever you do, you do fluids. But because of individual
less well after consuming alcohol. differences it is better not to take
Alcohol Concentration the chance that abilities and
judgment have not been affected.
Alcohol Concentration (AC) is
the amount of alcohol in the Whether or not you are legally
intoxicated is not the real issue.
body. Generally, it takes 11/2 to
Impairment of judgment and skills
2 hours to eliminate from your
begins well below the legal limit.
body the alcohol in one drink.
However, a variety of other
factors may also influence the Alcohol and the Law
level of alcohol retained. The Alcohol Laws
more alcohol in your body, the ••Operating While Intoxicated
greater the degree of impairment. (OWI): You can be arrested for
Three factors play a major driving under the influence of
part in determining AC: alcohol if you have a Prohibited
Alcohol Concentration (PAC).
••The amount of alcohol
you consume. ••Consequences of
Conviction: Years ago, first
••How fast you drink.
offenders had a good chance of
••Your body weight. getting off with a small fine and
Other factors also contribute to the participation in alcohol-abuse
way alcohol affects your system. classes. Today the laws of most
Your gender, physical condition states impose stiff penalties on
and food intake are just a few that drinking operators. And those
may cause your AC level to be penalties are mandatory, meaning
even higher. But the full effects of that judges must impose them.
these are not completely known. If you are found guilty of an
Alcohol may still accumulate OWI violation and it is your first
in your body even if you are conviction, you will be fined and
drinking at a rate of one drink your license will be revoked for six
per hour. Abilities and judgment months or more. The penalties
can be affected by that one drink. are even more severe for second
A 12-ounce can of beer, a mixed and subsequent convictions. You
drink with one shot of liquor and a could face a minimum one-year
5-ounce glass of wine all contain revocation with no occupational
the same amount of alcohol. license during that period. All
The faster you drink, the more vehicles that have your name on the
alcohol accumulates in your title or registration may be subject
body. If you drink two drinks to immobilization. If it is your third
in an hour, at the end of that or greater conviction, your vehicle
hour at least one drink will could be seized. And, to top it all
remain in your bloodstream. off, in Wisconsin OWI convictions
There are times when a larger remain on your driving record for life.
person may not accumulate as Implied Consent: If a police or
high a concentration of alcohol traffic officer asks you to take a
for each drink consumed. They PAC test, you must comply. If you

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
refuse, you will lose your driver yourself are poor alternatives
license for at least one year. at best. Your ability to exercise
Absolute Sobriety or “Not a good judgment is one of the first
Drop”: Drivers under age 21 can things affected by alcohol or drug
be arrested for driving with any use. Even if you have tried to
amount of alcohol in their body. drink or use drugs in moderation,
you may not realize to what
Drugged Driving: Use of ANY extent your skills have suffered
measurable amount of a controlled from their impairing effects.
substance is considered to be
operating impaired and will be Or, Don’t Ride: If you haven’t
treated the same as an Operating controlled your drinking or drug
While Intoxicated offense. use, you must control your riding.
(Examples of restricted controlled Leave the motorcycle home—so
substances are marijuana, heroin, you won’t be tempted to ride.
LSD, PCP, cocaine, hallucinogens, Arrange another way to get home.
narcotics and methamphetamine.) Wait—If you exceed your limit, wait
If you are stopped and an officer until your system eliminates the
believes you are under the influence alcohol or drug and its’ impairing
of a controlled substance, they may effects. Remember, it takes 11/2 to
ask you to take a blood test which 2 hours to eliminate each drink you
will be used to identify a detectable have consumed. It may take much
amount of a controlled substance. longer to eliminate the drugs.
Refusal to take this blood test will Step in to Protect Friends
be treated the same as refusal to People who have used drugs or
take a chemical test for alcohol. have had too much to drink are
Your license will be revoked. unable to make a responsible
Should you have a valid prescription decision. It is up to others to step in
for a controlled substance, you can and keep them from taking too great
claim a defense by providing proof a risk. No one wants to do this—it’s
that you had a valid prescription for uncomfortable, embarrassing and
that drug at the time of the incident. thankless. You are rarely thanked
Minimize the Risks for your efforts at the time. But
Your ability to judge how well you the alternatives are often worse.
are riding is affected first. Although There are several ways to keep
you may be performing more and friends from hurting themselves:
more poorly, you think you are doing ••Arrange a safe ride: Provide
better and better. The result is that alternative ways for
you ride confidently, taking greater them to get home.
and greater risks. Minimize the risks ••Slow the pace of
of drinking and riding by taking drinking: Involve them
steps before you drink. Control in other activities.
your drinking or control your riding. ••Keep them there: Use any
Don’t Drink or Use Drugs excuse to keep them from getting
Don’t Drink or Use Drugs: Once on their motorcycle. Serve them
you start, your resistance becomes food and coffee to pass the
weaker. Setting a limit or pacing time. Explain your concerns for

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
their risks of getting arrested or ••Limit your
hurt, or hurting someone else. distance: Experienced riders
••Get friends involved: Use seldom try to ride more than
peer pressure from a group about six hours a day.
of friends to intervene. ••Take frequent rest breaks:
It helps to enlist support from Stop, and get off the motorcycle
others when you decide to step at least every two hours.
in. The more people on your ••Don’t drink or use
side, the easier it is to be firm drugs: Artificial stimulants
and the harder it is for the rider often result in extreme fatigue
to resist. While you may not be or depression when they start
thanked at the time, you will never to wear off. Riders are unable to
have to say, “If only I had...” concentrate on the task at hand.
FATIGUE 14. Test Yourself

Riding a motorcycle is more tiring If you wait an hour for each
than driving a car. On a long drink before riding:
trip, you’ll tire sooner than you
would in a car. Avoid riding when A. You cannot be arrested
you are tired. Fatigue can affect for drinking and riding.
your control of the motorcycle. B. Your riding skills will
••Protect yourself from the not be affected.
elements: Wind, cold, and C. Side effects from the
rain make you tire quickly. drinking may still remain.
Dress warmly. A windshield
is worth its’ cost if you plan
to ride long distances.
EARNING YOUR LICENSE

Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tests are the
best measurement of the skills necessary to operate safely in
traffic. Assessing your own skills is not enough. People often
overestimate their own abilities. It’s even harder for friends
and relatives to be totally honest about your skills. Licensing
exams are designed to be scored more objectively.
To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge test and
an on-cycle skill test. Knowledge test questions are based
on information, practices, and ideas from this manual. They
require that you know and understand road rules and safe riding
practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be conducted in an
actual traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
SAMPLE KNOWLEDGE TEST QUESTIONS
1. It is MOST important to
flash your brake light when:
A. Someone is following
too closely.
B. You will be slowing suddenly.
C. There is a stop sign ahead.
2. The FRONT brake supplies
how much of the potential
stopping power?
A. About one-quarter.
B. About one-half.
C. About three-quarters.
3. To swerve correctly:
A. Shift your weight quickly.
B. Turn the handlebars quickly. 5. In the image above, the car
C. Press the handgrip in on the left is waiting to enter
the direction of the turn. the intersection. It is best to:
A. Make eye contact
4. If a tire goes flat while
with the driver.
riding, and you must stop,
B. Reduce speed and
it is usually best to:
be ready to react.
A. Relax on the handlegrips.
C. Maintain speed
B. Shift your weight
and position.
toward the good tire.
C. Brake on the good tire and
steer to the side of the road.
ANSWERS TO SAMPLE ANSWERS TO TEST YOURSELF

KNOWLEDGE TEST (above) (throughout the book)
1. B 2. C 3. C 1. C 2. C 3. C
4. C 5. B 4. A 5. B 6. C
7. C 8. C 9. C
10. C 11. C 12. A
13. A 14. C

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
ON-CYCLE SKILLS TEST
Basic vehicle control and crash- Examiners may score on factors

avoidance skills are included related to safety such as:
in on-cycle tests to determine ••Selecting safe speeds to
your ability to handle normal and perform maneuvers.
hazardous traffic situations. You ••Choosing the correct path and
may be tested for your ability to: staying within boundaries.
••Know your motorcycle ••Completing normal
and your riding limits. and quick stops.
••Accelerate, brake, and turn safely. ••Completing normal and
••See, be seen and quick turns, or swerves.
communicate with others.
••Adjust speed and position
to the traffic situation.
••Stop, turn and swerve quickly.
••Make critical decisions
and carry them out.
To receive an unrestricted class “M” license, you must:

••Pass a motorcycle in traffic (MIT) skills test
using a two wheel motorcycle
OR
••Pass a basic motorcycle rider course using a two wheel motorcycle.
If you pass a motorcycle in traffic test (MIT) or a 3-Wheel Basic

Rider Course using a three-wheel motorcycle, your license will be
restricted to operating only that type of motorcycle.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
MOTORCYCLE RIDER COURSES
Learn From the Pros Learning to Ride

For many people, motorcycling is Basic Rider Course (BRC) and
a fun and energy‑efficient means Scooter Basic Rider Course
of transportation or recreation. (SBRC) provide the best start
However, motorcycling requires for new motorcycle or scooter
skill, concentration and reasonable riders once they have made the
precautions. Although it’s possible decision to ride. Basic Rider and
to learn to ride a motorcycle on Scooter Basic Rider courses
your own, trial and error is a tough include approximately 6 hours
teacher of motorcycling skills. of classroom and 10 hours of
That’s why virtually all motorcycling motorcycle/scooter rider exercises.
groups have endorsed the following The 3-Wheel Basic Rider Course
motorcycle rider courses. (3WBRC) is the best place for
new riders to start once they
have made the decision to ride
a three-wheel motorcycle. This
course includes approximately 6
hours of classroom and 10 hours
of on-cycle riding exercises.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
The Basic Rider Course 2 (BRC 2) The Advanced Rider Course
is for riders who already possess (ARC) is for experienced or
basic riding skills and are either seasoned riders who wish to
returning to riding or are seeking enhance their personal risk
a refresher course to practice management, sharpen their
and renew basic riding skills. The perception and hazard awareness,
course includes approximately 3 and improve their cornering,
hours of classroom and 5 hours braking and crash avoidance
of on-cycle riding exercises. skills. The course consists
Improving Riding Skills of approximately 3+ hours of
The Street Rider Course 2 (SRC 2) classroom and 5+ hours of on-cycle
riding in a controlled environment.
is for riders who wish to enhance
their basic skills and strategies to Specialized Courses
develop a deeper understanding of The Introductory Motorcycling
perceptual street riding strategies. Experience (IME) is a ‘first-touch’
A brief classroom session is experience and familiarization with
provided for administrative a motorcycle. It is not intended
activities and the Street Smart to teach an individual to ride a
Rider Perception Program. The motorcycle. This experiential
rest of the 4-5 hour course is course is approximately 90
conducted on various routes minutes in length. It helps potential
throughout the surrounding area. riders make the decision about
The Ultimate Bike-Bonding whether motorcycling is for them.
Rider Course (UBBRC) is The Safe Motorcyclists
for experienced or seasoned Awareness and Reaction Trainer
riders. It is designed to (SMARTRAINER) teaches basic
improve a rider’s overall riding motorcycle controls and enhances
performance through smooth hazard awareness. Riders
and precise control operation learn in a safe and controlled
as well as body positioning on motorcycle-trainer environment
the motorcycle. Short classroom how to respond quickly to roadway
segments are woven into a full and environmental factors.
day (total of 8 hours) of a wide
variety of riding exercises.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Rider Coaches You Provide
Rider coaches for the Basic Rider You should provide the
and Advanced Rider Courses following protective clothing:
are certified by the Motorcycle ••Boots with walking heels, high
Safety Foundation and approved enough to cover ankles;
by the Wisconsin Department of ••Long pants of denim or
Transportation (WisDOT). Please other heavy material;
see the list of motorcycle training ••Full fingered leather gloves,
providers at http://wisconsindot. unlined but not too thin;
gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/ ••Long sleeved jacket or
mc-how-aply/training-loc.aspx shirt made from denim or
and find a location near you. All other heavy material.
rider coaches are motorcycle
riders who have completed 84 You may provide your own helmet
hours of instructor training. and eye protection if you choose.
Provided For You Who Can Attend
A helmet may be provided for Any Wisconsin resident 15 1/2
you. Lightweight motorcycles are years of age or older may attend.
provided for class use. Sidecar rigs However, you must be 16 and have
may be available for use at some proof that you have completed
facilities but it is recommended driver eduction before you can
that you use your own sidecar rig obtain a CYCI and/or Class M
or trike. You must provide your license. It is necessary that you
own vehicles for the experienced know how to balance and ride a
riders/advanced riders classes. bicycle. Parents must sign for you
All student-owned vehicles must if you are under the age of 18.
be street-legal and insured.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
Waiver of Skills Test MOTORCYCLE TRAINING
The motorcycle skills test, ordinarily PROVIDERS
required for a Class M license, The Wisconsin Technical College
may be waived if you successfully System as well as privately-
complete an approved WisDOT owned training sites provide
rider education course. Other WisDOT-approved motorcycle
requirements for the waiver are: training throughout the state.
••You must pass the motorcycle Schedules vary from site to
knowledge test and be at site, but in most cases evening,
least 16 years of age. daytime and weekend courses are
••If taking the course on a three- scheduled to meet local needs.
wheel vehicle, the Class M Please see the list of motorcycle
license will be restricted to training providers at wisconsindot.
three-wheel vehicles only. gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/
Note: An approved Basic Rider mc-how-aply/training-loc.aspx.
Course taken outside Wisconsin Contact a provider near you for
may be sufficient for waiver of their exact schedule and fees.
Wisconsin skills test. Be sure to
bring your waiver form or course
completion card to DMV when you
apply for your Class M license.
Point Reduction
Successful completion of
either the Basic Rider Course
or Advanced Rider Course may
be used to reduce up to three
demerit points on your driving
record for motorcycle violations
of which you have been convicted
in the previous 12 months.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
For a beginning or experienced
motorcycle training course near you, visit:
wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/motorcycles/mc-how-aply/training-loc.aspx
or call toll free:

1-800-DOT-WMSP
(1-800-368-9677)
Thank you to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation

for most of the information contained
in this manual.
Additional thanks to the Wisconsin Department
of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Safety,
Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program and the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
for development and funding of the cover design.
Diagrams and drawings used in this manual

are for reference only and are not to correct
scale for size of vehicles and distances.

TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
The following is a statement from
the Motorcycle Safety Foundation:
The information contained in this publication
is offered for the benefit of those who have an
interest in riding motorcycles. The information
has been compiled from publications, interviews
and observations of individuals and organizations
familiar with the use of motorcycles, accessories
and training. Because there are many differences in
product design, riding styles, Federal, State and local
laws, there may be organizations and individuals
who hold differing opinions. Consult your local
regulatory agencies for information concerning the
operation of motorcycles in your area. Although
the Motorcycle Safety Foundation will continue
to research, field test and publish responsible
viewpoints on the subject, it disclaims any liability
for the views expressed herein.
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S
BDS110
May 2017
TA B L E O F
CO N T E N T S

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May 2017

DMV online services:

Motorcycle license requirements:

Motorcycle training providers and locations:

Schedule a motorcycle road test appointment:

Motorcycle safety program:

Wisconsin driver handbooks including

Motorcycle crash facts:

For other information or inquiries:

All other areas: (608) 264-7447

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 1 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 2 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

(2) Southeast Region . . . . . .(262) 785-4700

(3) Northeast Region . . . . . . (920) 929-3700

(4) North Central Region . . . (715) 845-1143

(5) Northwest Region . . . . . (715) 839-3800

Take a rider course—Get skills test waived

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 3 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

2014 WISCONSIN MOTORCYCLE STATISTICS

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 4 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 5 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

PROTECTIVE GEAR FOR MOTORCYCLE OPERATION

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 7 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 9 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 10 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 11 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 12 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

the horn if you see a deer near

the road. There may be other

a deer, brake first, then swerve

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 13 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 14 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 16 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Horn Button Throttle

Clutch Lever Front Brake Lever

Fuel Supply Valve

Gear-Change Lever Rear Brake Pedal

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 17 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 18 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 19 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 20 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

3. Test Yourself

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 21 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 22 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 23 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

1. Ride in the left portion of the Remember, passes must

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 24 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 25 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 26 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

5. Test Yourself

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 27 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 28 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

As you approach the intersection,

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 29 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

6. Test Yourself

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 30 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

CRASH AVOIDANCE STOPPING DISTANCE

SWERVE, THEN BRAKE

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 35 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 36 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

8. Test Yourself

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 37 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 38 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 1 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 2 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 3 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 4 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 5 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 7 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 9 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 10 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 11 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 12 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 13 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 14 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 16 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 17 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 18 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 19 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 20 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 21 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 22 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 23 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 24 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 25 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 26 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 27 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 28 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 29 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 30 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 35 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 36 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 37 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 38 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 40 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 41 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 42 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 45 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 46 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 48 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 49 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 50 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 51 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 52 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 53 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 54 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 55 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 56 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 57 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook — 64 — May 2017 • wisconsindmv.gov