Florida HSMV 71905 Operator's Manual
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Includes Moped Information
A COMPLETE COPY OF THIS MANUAL IS AVAILABLE
VIA THE INTERNET AT: http://www/hsmv.state.fl.us
ACCESS TO GOVERNOR’S HOME PAGE VIA: http://MyFlorida.com
2006
WELCOME TO THE SUNSHINE STATE!
FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAY SAFETY AND MOTOR VEHICLES
Florida is a great place to ride motorcycles year round. Being properly licensed is required by law and
is one of the first steps to becoming a safe rider. This motorcycle operator’s manual contains valuable
information for both novice and experienced motorcyclists on techniques to operate a motorcycle
safely. It also contains information to assist age-eligible customers prepare for the Department of
Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles’ (DHSMV) knowledge examination for motorcycle licensing or
Temporary Instruction Permits.
Courses for beginner and for more experienced riders are offered through DHSMV’s Florida Rider
Training Program (FRTP). Courses cover strategies and techniques on managing the riding
environment and avoiding crashes. In addition, the courses offer on-cycle riding sessions in order to
practice these street-riding strategies and crash avoidance skills. Learning these skills is important as
Florida and other crash studies show rider course graduates having far less injury and fatality rates as
untrained riders, clearly depicting the need for rider education.
The greatest factor contributing to motorcycle related crashes, injuries and fatalities is alcohol
involvement. In 2003, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that
motorcycle operators in fatal crashes had BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) levels higher than any
other type of motor vehicle operator. The crash facts report also noted that almost half or 44 percent
of the 1,501 motorcycle operators who died in single vehicle crashes in 2003 had BAC Levels of .08 or
higher, and almost two-thirds or 65 percent of those killed in single-vehicle crashes on weekend nights
and had that same level or higher.
The first faculty impaired by alcohol is a person’s judgment, causing them to think they are “ok” to
operate a motorcycle safely. After just one drink, alcohol negatively affects a motorcyclist’s ability to
balance a motorcycle, and reduces coordination, vision, and all essential mental and physical skills for
safe motorcycle operation. It is up to all motorcyclists to separate alcohol or other drug impairment from
motorcycle operation. Moreover, it is up to all of us to step in and stop others from operating
motorcycles while impaired. Removing alcohol as a crash factor will reduce motorcycle crashes and
save lives. Part of the DHSMV mission is to make highways safe for all users and provide important
and essential safety information. After all, having an enjoyable and safe ride should be the goal of all
motorcyclists.
FRED O. DICKINSON
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
HSMV 71905
(Revised 07-01-05)
Visit the FRTP for information on Sponsor contacts and locations by county at:
http://www.motorcycles.hsmv.state.fl.us, or the DHSMV website at
http://www.hsmv.state.fl.us/
Or call 850-488-3286 for an automated listing also by county.
Note: The inclusion of advertising does not constitute an endorsement or the accuracy of the ad by the
State of Florida or the Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles of the products or
services advertised.
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FLORIDA RIDER TRAINING PROGRAM
(FRTP)
The 1988 Legislature established the Florida Motorcycle Safety Education Program under s. 322.0255 F.S. now known as the Florida
Rider Training Program (FRTP) requiring persons under 21
years old to complete a basic motorcycle safety education course prior
to being issued a motorcycle endorsement or “Motorcycle Only” License. The course is voluntary for individuals 21 and older though
successful completion will waive state tests.
Rider course providers (Sponsors) offer the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) sponsored Basic RiderCourse (BRC) and
Experienced Rider Course Suites (ERC). The BRC provides the basic entry-level skills for new riders to begin
practicing and developing the mental and motor skills important for safe street operation. The BRC has approximately five-hours of
classroom instruction and 10-hours of on-cycle instruction. Both sessions are facilitated by experienced motorcyclists trained as
Rider Coaches by the FRTP to assist your learning. To enroll in the BRC, a person must possess at least a valid Learners License
in order to have knowledge of Florida Traffic laws and road rules; however, the actual motorcycle endorsement may not be obtained
with a regular operator (Class E) license until age 16 per s. 322.05(1) F.S. The person must also be able to have sufficient balance
or capability to operate a bicycle.
Sponsors provide motorcycles less than 500cc for the BRC, usually 125cc to 250cc, helmets, and course handbooks for the BRC.
Students must provide gloves, full hand coverage, shatterproof eye protection, unless the helmet has a face shield, long pants, long
sleeve shirt or jacket, over the ankle shoes or boots and rain gear for light rain - non dangerous conditions. A call or email to the
Sponsor of your choice can clarify many issues regarding equipment, fees, method of payment and scheduling. Many sponsors allow
sign-up and payment via a website. Refer to the FRTP web site at http://www.motorcycles.hsmv.state.fl.us and click on the “course
locations” heading for sponsor locations by county
.
THE ERC SUITE COURSES are for those already endorsed for riding skill enhancement with course completion cards issued
for insurance reduction or other purposes. However, one is a six-hour ERC Suite course with knowledge and skills test approved
by the MSF for license endorsement. Persons 21 and older only in Florida may present a completion card from this course for
motorcycle endorsement.
NOTE: All ERC Suite courses require the participant to furnish their own street legal motorcycle with valid tag and
registration and proof of liability insurance coverage, or one borrowed with proof of permission; the participant must also furnish a
helmet, shatterproof eye protection and similar protective riding gear as outlined for the BRC. See FRTP website above for sponsor
locations or call the FRTP 850-488-3286 for an automated guided listing.
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY LAW-IT DOES APPLY TO MOTORCYCLES!
Florida’s No-Fault, or “PIP Law” does not apply to motorcycles, “Trikes” or motorcycles with sidecars. HOWEVER, the Financial
Responsibility FR Law applies to ALL motor vehicles in Florida, including motorcycles. Thus the voluntary purchase of motor vehicle liability insurance by an owner, operator or owner/ operator is highly recommended. Failure to carry property damage and bodily injury liability insurance in case of a crash, DUI conviction or other occurrences outlined in Florida’s FR Law, Ch. 324, may result
in some or all of the following: Loss of license/tag and registration, and/or restitution or civil court judgment, and future proof (three
years) of high risk, SR22 mandatory liability insurance coverage just to keep your driver license - even if you do not own any motor
vehicles.
MOTORCYCLE LICENSING (FIRST TIME FLORIDA MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT)
Persons 21 or older only
OUT OF STATE CUSTOMERS: MOTORCYCLE TESTS WAIVED IF OUT-OF-STATE LICENSE HAS MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT
Florida residents: Hold Class E license or higher, or meet requirements for Class E license and pass the motorcycle knowledge
and skills tests or, may submit a completion card or certificate from the following:
a) A Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) sponsored, civilian or military rider education course
b) Law Enforcement Officers onl
y- a certificate of completion of a police motorcycle training course sponsored by the
Institute of Police Technology and Management
HOW TO OBTAIN A “MOTORCYCLE ONLY” LICENSE
Same as the requirements listed for “Motorcycle Licensing” above; however, four-wheel vehicle road test is not required
OBTAINING A TEMPORARY INSTRUCTION PERMIT FOR MOTORCYCLE OPERATION
MUST BE 21 OR OLDER AND HOLD AT LEAST A REGULAR OPERATOR (CLASS E) LICENSE AND PASS THE MOTORCYCLE,
KNOWLEDGE TEST ONLY. PERMIT WILL BE ISSUED FOR 90 DAYS, RESTRICTED TO NO PASSENGERS UNTIL A SKILL TEST
OR RIDER EDUCATION COURSE IS PASSED.
AGE LIMITATIONS
No one under 16 years of age may legally operate or be licensed to operate any of the following two or three-wheel motor vehicles
in Florida roads, streets or highways: motorcycles, mopeds, motor-driven cycles, motorized scooters or electric helper-motor bicycles as defined in s. 316.003(2) F.S.
Persons under 21 must successfully complete the FRTP 15 hour Basic Rider Course (BRC), to add or obtain a Motorcycle
Endorsement or obtain a “Motorcycle Only” license.
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RESTRICTIONS
Persons holding a Florida Learner’s Driver’s License may not legally operate or be licensed to operate any two or three wheel
motor vehicles on Florida roads, streets or highways regardless of his or her age (Per s. 322.1615 F.S.)
Persons passing the motorcycle skills test using a three-wheel motorcycle or sidecar motorcycle will have their license restricted to
operating three-wheel motorcycles only until or unless they pass the skills test on a two-wheel motorcycle
MOPEDS
Moped operators have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle operators and can also receive citations for traffic violations;
therefore they should know and obey these moped laws.
1) Moped operators must be at least 16 years old and hold at least a Class E License to operate a moped on public streets
or roadways. A learner’s license is not sufficient. (Mopeds fit the definition of a motor vehicle in 322.01(26), Florida
Statutes, and s. 322.03, F.S. requires a driver license to operate any motor vehicle)
2) A motorcycle endorsement is not required to operate a moped
3) Mopeds must be registered annually and a tag must be purchased
4) Mopeds may not be operated on bicycle paths or footpaths when operated using the motor
5) Moped operators do not have to carry PIP insurance
6) A moped is defined in s. 320.01(28) F.S. as any vehicle with pedals to permit propulsion by human power, having a seat
or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels, with a motor rated not in excess
of 2-brake horsepower and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level
ground, and with a power-drive system that functions directly or automatically without clutching or shifting gears by the
operator after the drive system is engaged. If an internal combustion engine is used, the displacement may not exceed
50 cubic centimeters
MOTORIZED SCOOTERS: (NOT LEGAL ON PUBLIC STREETS OR SIDEWALKS)
Though considered motor vehicles in and tag/registration law, the registration laws do not provide for registration of these vehicles,
thus they cannot be operated on public streets or highways; if operated on a public roadway anyway, regardless of a person’
s age,
law officers can require the person to show at least a valid operator (Class E) license as per driver license law they are considered
motor vehicles (Statute Ref: s. 322.03(1) and 322.01(26). F.S.)
FLORIDA MOTOR VEHICLE LAWS AND DEFINTIONS
(Find these at: http://myFlorida.com)
(Statute definitions for the same term may differ from one section of State Law to another due to the nature of the law being enforced,
such as motor vehicle or motorcycle defined in traffic law vs. driver license law)
UNIFORM VEHICLE CONTROL, CHAPTER 316, F.S. DEFINITIONS- s. 316.003 F.S.
(2) BICYCLE: Every vehicle propelled solely by human power, and every motorized bicycle propelled by a
combination of human power and an electric helper motor capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of not more than 20 miles per
hour on level ground upon which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized
as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels. The term does not include such a vehicle with a seat height of no
more than 25 inches from the ground when the seat is adjusted to its highest position or a scooter or similar device. No person under
the age of 16 may operate or ride upon a motorized bicycle. Note: A driver license is not required
to operate an electric helper-motor
bicycle
MOTOR VEHICLE: Any self-propelled vehicle not operated upon rails or guide way, but not including any bicycle,
motorized scooter, electric personal assistive mobility device, or moped.
MOTORCYCLE: Any motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three
wheels in contact with the ground, but excluding a tractor or a moped.
BICYCLE PATH: Any road, path, or way that is open to bicycle travel, which road, path, or way is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or by a barrier and is located either within the highway right-of-way or within an independent
right-of-way.
MOTORIZED SCOOTER: Any vehicle not having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, designed to travel on not more than three
wheels, and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground
ELECTRIC PERSONAL ASSISTIVE MOBILITY DEVICE: Any self-balancing, two non-tandem-wheeled device, designed to transport only one person, with an electric propulsion system with average power of 750 watts (1 horsepower), the maximum speed of
which, on a paved level surface when powered solely by such a propulsion system while being ridden by an operator who weighs
170 pounds, is less than 20 miles per hour. Electric personal assistive mobility devices are not vehicles as defined in this section.
Note: The above refers to a stand-on-and-ride type vehicle with a handlebar control and two (usually large) side-by side wheels; it
is not necessarily a disability related vehicle. A driver license is not required for this vehicle; see s. 316.2068
F.S. for more details on operating this type vehicle.
316.1995 Driving upon sidewalk or bicycle path.
No person shall drive any vehicle other than by human power upon a bicycle path, sidewalk, or sidewalk area, except upon a
permanent or duly authorized temporary driveway. A violation of this section is a non-criminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation as provided in chapter 318.
316.208 Motorcycles and mopeds.
(1) Any person operating a motorcycle or moped shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable
to the driver of any other vehicle under this chapter, except as to special regulations in this chapter and except as to those
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provisions of this chapter, which by their nature can have no application.
(2)(a) Any person operating a moped upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the
conditions then existing shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
1) When overtaking or passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
2) When preparing for a left-turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
3) When reasonably necessary to avoid any condition, including, but not limited to, a fixed or moving object, parked or
moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, surface hazard, or substandard-width lane, that makes it unsafe to continue
along the right hand curb or edge. For purposes of this paragraph, a “substandard-width lane” is a lane that is too
narrow for a moped and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
4) Any person operating a moped upon a one-way highway with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the
left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable.
5) A person propelling a moped solely by human power upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a
crosswalk, has all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances, except that such
person shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a
pedestrian.
6) No person shall propel a moped upon and along a sidewalk while the motor is operating.
7) A violation of this section is a non-criminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation as provided in chapter 318.
316.209 Operating motorcycles on roadways laned for traffic.
(1) All motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane and no motor vehicle shall be driven in such manner as to deprive any
motorcycle of the full use of a lane. This subsection shall not apply to motorcycles operated two abreast in a
single lane.
(2) The operator of a motorcycle shall not overtake and pass in the same lane occupied by the vehicle being overtaken.
(3) No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles.
(4) Motorcycles shall not be operated more than two abreast in a single lane.
(5) Subsections (2) and (3) do not apply to police officers or firefighters in the performance of their official duties.
(6) A violation of this section is a non-criminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation as provided in chapter 318.
316.2095 Footrests, handholds, and handlebars.
(1) Any motorcycle carrying a passenger, other than in a sidecar or enclosed cab, shall be equipped with footrests and handholds
for such passenger.
(2) No person shall operate any motorcycle with handlebars or with handgrips that are higher than the top of the shoulders of the
person operating the motorcycle while properly seated upon the motorcycle.
(3) A violation of this section is a non-criminal traffic infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation as provided in chapter 318.
316.222 Stop lamps and turn signals.
(1) Every motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, and pole trailer shall be equipped with two or more stop lamps
meeting the requirements of s. 316.234(1). Motor vehicles, trailers, semi-trailers and pole trailers manufactured or assembled prior
to January 1, 1972, shall be equipped with at least one stop lamp. On a combination of vehicles, only the stop lamps on the rearmost vehicle need actually be seen from the distance specified in s.316.234(1).
(2) Every motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, and pole trailer shall be equipped with electric turn signal lamps meeting the requirements of s. 316.234(2).
(3) Passenger cars and trucks less than 80 inches in width, manufactured or assembled prior to January 1, 1972, need not be
equipped with electric turn signal lamps.
(4) A violation of this section is a non-criminal traffic infraction, punishable as a non-moving violation as provided in chapter 318.
316.304 Wearing of headsets.
(1) No person shall operate a vehicle while wearing a headset, headphone, or other listening device, other than a hearing aid or
instrument for the improvement of defective human hearing.
(2) This section does not apply to:
(a) Any law enforcement officer equipped with any communication device necessary in performing his or her assigned duties or to
any emergency vehicle operator equipped with any ear protection device.
(b) Any applicant for a license to operate a motorcycle while taking the examination required by s. 322.12(5).
(c) Any person operating a motorcycle who is using a headset that is installed in a helmet and worn so as
to prevent the speakers from making direct contact with the user’s ears so that the user can hear surrounding sounds.
(d) Any person using a headset in conjunction with a cellular telephone that only provides sound through one ear and allows surrounding sounds to be heard with the other ear.
(e) Any person using a headset in conjunction with communicating with the central base operation that only
provides sound through one ear and allows surrounding sounds to be heard with the other ear.
MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSES, CHAPTER 320
S. 320.02 Registration required; application for registration; forms.
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, every owner or person in charge of a motor vehicle, which is
operated or driven on the roads of this state shall register the vehicle in this state. The owner or person in charge shall apply to the
department or to its authorized agent for registration of each such vehicle on a form prescribed by the department. No registration
is required for any motor vehicle, which is not operated on the roads of this state during the registration period.
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DRIVER LICENSES, CHAPTER 322 DEFINTIONS, s. 322.01, F.S.
(25)”Motorcycle” means a motor vehicle powered by a motor with a displacement of more than 50 cubic centimeters, having a seat
or saddle for the use of the rider, and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, but excluding a
tractor or moped.
(26) ”Motor vehicle” means any self-propelled vehicle, including a motor vehicle combination, not operated upon rails or guide way,
excluding vehicles moved solely by human power, motorized wheelchairs, and motorized bicycles as defined in s. 316.003.
322.57 Tests of knowledge concerning specified vehicles; endorsement;nonresidents;violations.
(1) In addition to fulfilling any other driver’s licensing requirements of this chapter, a person who:
(g) Drives a motorcycle must successfully complete a test of his or her knowledge concerning the safe operation of such vehicles and
a test of his or her driving skills on such vehicle. A person who successfully completes such tests shall be issued an endorsement if
he or she is licensed to drive another type of motor vehicle. A person who successfully completes such tests and who is not licensed
to drive another type of motor vehicle shall be issued a Class E driver’s license that is clearly restricted to motorcycle use only.
HELMET AND EYE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS
Head injuries are reduced by wearing approved motorcycle helmets!
• Anyone under 16 years of age must wear a Department approved motorcycle helmet and may only ride as a passenger
on any motorcycle, moped, motor-driven cycle regardless of engine size.
• A person does not need to wear a helmet while operating or riding upon a moped, scooter or other two or three-wheel
motor vehicle 50cc or less, if at least 16 years of age.
• Anyone 16 years of age but less than 21 years of age must wear a Department approved helmet when
operating or riding upon a motorcycle. Per s. 316.211F.S.
• Persons at least 21 years of age may ride a motorcycle without a helmet if they can show proof of medical insurance
coverage in the amounts of at least $10,000.00 that will pay for injuries they may incur in a motorcycle crash. A separate
motorcycle medical insurance policy card or other forms of health insurance coverage will suffice, such as employee
HMO, or Blue Cross or other private health insurance cards. Law officers shall make final determination if proof of
insurance is acceptable.
• Per s. 316.211(2), a person may not operate a motorcycle as defined in s. 316.003(22), unless the person is wearing one
of these Department approved eye-protective devices over his or her eyes; goggles, face shields designed for use with,
and as part of an approved helmet or eyeglasses including sunglasses. Contact lenses are not acceptable. Each device
must be in good repair, free of sharp edges or projections and made of material suitable for ophthalmic use. It shall be
free from cracks, waves, bubbles or any other defect which may impair its normal visibility. Any tinted device should not
impair the wearer’s ability to see color and shall not be used at night.
The above requirements do not apply to persons riding within an enclosed cab or to persons 16 years of age or older who operate
or ride upon motorcycles powered by a motor with a displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or less or rated not in excess of 2 brake
horsepower and which are not capable of propelling such motorcycles at speeds greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground.
Note: If at anytime however, the 50 cc or less vehicle being operated exceeds any of the above statute limitations, such as having
the engine enhanced for more horsepower, then said vehicle no longer meets the exempt definition and the operator is subject to
enforcement of the eye-protection device statute.
How to Identify Unsafe & Illegal Motorcycle Helmets if Wearing or Required to Wear Helmets
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all motorcycle helmets sold in the U.S. meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard (FMVSS) 218. Accordingly, Florida law requires that motorcycle helmets meet FMVSS 218 requirements. Chapter 15B1006(3), Florida Administrative Code, deals with motorcycle helmet design and construction. The code clearly states: “Helmets not
designed for use by motorcycle occupants, including but not limited to the following, are not approved: bicycle helmets, toy helmets,
military combat helmets, flight helmets, soft helmets and team sports helmets.” Many Florida motorcycle riders wear cheap and
unsafe helmets that do not meet FMVSS 218. Most of these helmets are sold as novelty items by merchants and are used to
circumvent the FMVSS 218 requirements. The following information will exceed FMVSS 218. It is important to note that some
sellers of novelty helmets provide DOT stickers separately for motorcyclists to place on non-complying helmets. In this case, the DOT
sticker is invalid and does not certify compliance.
SNELL or ANSI Sticker
In addition to the DOT sticker, labels located inside the helmet showing that a helmet meets the standards of private organizations
like Snell or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) are a good indicator that the helmet meets the federal safety
standard. A novelty helmet that has a phony DOT sticker plus a phony Snell or ANSI sticker is rare and would probably not be seen.
Manufacturer’s Labeling
Manufacturers are required by FMVSS 218 to place a label on or inside the helmet stating the manufacturer’s name, model, size,
month and year of manufacture, construction materials, and other information. A helmet that does not meet the federal safety
standard usually does not have such a label. However, some non-compliant helmets are falsely labeled claiming to meet the
standards of FMVSS 218.
Impact Absorbing Liner
Helmets meeting the minimum federal safety standard have an inner liner, usually about one-inch thick, of firm polystyrene foam.
Sometimes the inner liner will not be visible, but you should still be able to feel its thickness. Unsafe helmets normally contain only
soft foam padding or a bare plastic shell with no foam at all.
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CONTENTS
PREPARING TO RIDE
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Helmet Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Helmet Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Eye and Face Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Clothing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Right Motorcycle for You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Borrowing and Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Get Familiar with theMotorcycle Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Check Your Motorcycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10
KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Body Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Shifting Gears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Lane Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Following Another Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Being Followed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Passing and Being Passed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Lane Sharing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Merging Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Cars Alongside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
SEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
INTERSECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Blind Intersections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Passing Parked Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Parking at the Roadside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
INCREASING CONSPICUITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Headlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Brake Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Using Your Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Head Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Riding at Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
CRASH AVOIDANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Quick Stops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Swerving or Turning Quickly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Cornering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
HANDLING DANGEROUS SURFACES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Uneven Surfaces and Obstacles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Slippery Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks and Pavement Seams. . . . . . 19
Grooves and Gratings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Tire Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Stuck Throttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Wobble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Chain Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Engine Seizure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
ANIMALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
FLYING OBJECTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
GETTING OFF THE ROAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Instructing Passengers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Riding With Passengers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Carrying Loads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
GROUP RIDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Keep the Group Small . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Keep the Group Together. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Keep Your Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
BEING IN SHAPE TO RIDE
WHY THIS INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS IN MOTORCYCLE
OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
ALCOHOL IN THE BODY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Blood Alcohol Concentration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
ALCOHOL AND THE LAW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Consequences of Conviction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
MINIMIZE THE RISKS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
STEP IN TO PROTECT FRIENDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
FATIGUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
EARNING YOUR LICENSE
Knowledge Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
On-Cycle Skill Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
7
PREPARING TO RIDE
What you do before you start a trip goes a long way toward determining whether or not you’ll get where you want to go safely. Before taking off
on any trip, a safe rider makes a point to:
1. Wear the right gear.
2. Become familiar with the motorcycle.
3. Check the motorcycle equipment.
4. Be a responsible rider.
WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR
When you ride, your gear is “right” if it protects you. In any crash, you have a far better chance of avoiding serious injury if you wear:
• An approved helmet.
• Face or eye protection.
• Protective clothing.
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 motorcycle crashes, where 40% of the
riders wore helmets, did not find even one case in which a helmet kept a rider from spotting danger.
• Most crashes happen on short trips (less than five miles long), just a few minutes after starting out.
• Most riders are riding slower than 30 mph when a crash occurs. At these speeds, helmets can cut both the number and the severity
of head injuries by half.
No matter what the speed, helmeted riders are three times more likely to survive head injuries than those not wearing helmets at the time of the crash.
HELMET SELECTION
There are two primary types of helmets, providing two different levels of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
Whichever style you choose, you can get the most protection by making sure that the helmet:
• Meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state standards. Helmets with a label from the Snell Memorial Foundation give
you an added assurance of quality.
• Fits snugly, all the way around.
• Has no obvious defects such as cracks, loose padding or frayed straps.
Whatever helmet you decide on, keep it securely fastened on your head when you ride. Otherwise, if you are involved in a crash, it’s likely to fly
off your head before it gets a chance to protect you.
EYE AND FACE PROTECTION
A plastic shatter-resistant faceshield can help protect your whole face in a crash. It also protects you from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. These problems are distracting and can be painful. If you have to deal with them, you can’t devote your full attention to the road. Goggles protect your eyes, though they
won’t protect the rest of your face like a faceshield does. A
windshield is not a substitute for a faceshield or goggles.
Most windshields will not protect your eyes from the wind.
Neither will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses won’t keep
your eyes from watering, and they might blow off when you
turn your head while riding.
To be effective, eye or faceshield protection must:
• Be free of scratches.
• Be resistant to penetration.
• Give a clear view to either side.
• Fasten securely, so it does not blow off.
• Permit air to pass through, to reduce fogging.
• Permit enough room for eyeglasses or sun-
glasses, if needed.
Tinted eye protection should not be worn at night or any other time when little light is available.
CLOTHING
The right clothing protects you in a collision. It also provides comfort, as well as protection from heat, cold, debris and hot and moving parts of
the motorcycle.
• Jacket and pants should cover arms and legs completely. They should fit snugly enough to keep from flapping in the wind, yet
loosely enough to move freely. Leather offers the most protection. Sturdy synthetic material provides a lot of protection as well. Wear a
jacket even in warm weather to prevent dehydration. Many are designed to protect without getting you overheated, even on summer days.
• Boots or shoes should be high and sturdy enough to cover your ankles and give them support. Soles should be made of hard, durable,
slip-resistant material. Keep heels short so they do not catch on rough surfaces. Tuck in laces 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.
8
HELMETS
In cold or wet weather, your clothes should keep you warm and dry, as well as protect you from injury. You cannot control a
motorcycle well if you are numb. Riding for long periods in cold weather can cause severe chill and fatigue. A winter jacket should resist wind
and f it snugly at the neck, wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits designed for motorcycle riding resist tearing apart or ballooning up at high
speeds.
KNOW YOUR MOTORCYCLE
There are plenty of things on the highway that can cause you trouble. Your motorcycle
should not be one of them. To make sure that your motorcycle won’t let you down:
• Read the owner’s manual first.
• Start with the right motorcycle for you.
• Be familiar with the motorcycle controls.
• Check the motorcycle before every ride.
• Keep it in safe riding condition between rides.
• Avoid add-ons and modif ications that make your motorcycle harder to handle.
THE RIGHT MOTORCYCLE FOR YOU
First, make sure your motorcycle is right for you. It should “fit” you. Your feet should reach the ground while you are seated on the motorcycle.
At minimum, your street-legal motorcycle should have:
• Headlight, taillight and brakelight.
• Front and rear brakes.
• Turn signals.
• Horn.
• Two mirrors.
BORROWING AND LENDING
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, beware. Crashes are fairly common among beginning riders — especially in the first months of riding.
Riding an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, get familiar with it in a controlled area. And if you lend your
motorcycle to friends, make sure they are licensed and know how to ride before allowing them out into traffic.
No matter how experienced you may be, ride extra carefully on any motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar to you. More than half of all crashes occur
on motorcycles ridden by the operator for less than six months.
GET FAMILIAR WITH THE
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
Make sure you are completely familiar with the
motorcycle before you take it out on the street. Be
sure to review the owner’s manual. This is
particularly important if you are riding a borrowed
motorcycle.
If you are going to use an unfamiliar motorcycle:
• Make all the checks you would on your
own motorcycle.
• Find out where everything is, particularly the turn signals, horn, headlight
switch, fuel-control valve and engine
cut-off switch. Find and operate these
items without having to look for them.
• Know the gear pattern. Work the
throttle, clutch and brakes a few times
before you start riding. All controls react a
little differently.
• Ride very cautiously and be aware of
surroundings. Accelerate gently, take
turns more slowly and leave extra room
for stopping.
CHECK YOUR MOTORCYCLE
A motorcycle needs more frequent attention than a car. A
minor technical failure in a car seldom leads to anything
more than an inconvenience for the driver.
If something’s wrong with the motorcycle, you’ll
want to find out about it before you get in traffic.
Make a complete check of your motorcycle before
every ride.
9
1 Test Yourself
A plastic shatter-resistance face shield:
A. Is not necessary if you have a windshield.
B. Only protects your eyes.
C. Helps protect your whole face.
D. Does not protect your face as well as goggles.
Answer - page 25
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS
Light Switch (high/low)
Engine Cut-Off
Switch
Electric
Start
Button
Choke (varies)
Horn Button
Clutch Lever
Throttle
Front Brake
Lever
Tachometer
(if equipped)
Rear Brake Pedal
Kick Starter
(if equipped)
Speedometer &
Odometer
Fuel Supply Valve
(if equipped)
Gear-Change Lever
Turn-Signal
Switch
Ignition Key
(varies)
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