Head injuries account for the majority of serious and fatal motorcyclist injuries and, with few exceptions, head injuries are reduced by properly wearing a motorcycle safety helmet.
To be effective, eye or face shield protection must be free of scratches, be resistant to punctures, give a clear view to either side, fasten securely (so it does not blow off or up), permit air to pass through (to reduce fogging), permit enough room for glasses or sunglasses, if needed.
In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by leaning the motorcycle only and keeping your body straight.
While your passenger sits on the seat with you, adjust the mirror(s) and headlight according to the change in the motorcycle’s angle.
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.
Rider B is passing the vehicle and is currently in the driver's blind spot. He must ride through the blind spot as quickly as possible.
A primary cause of single-vehicle collisions is motorcyclists running wide in a curve or turn causing the motorcycle to leave the roadway or collide with an object.
While riding over metal bridge gratings, maintain a steady speed and ride straight across. Crossing at an angle forces riders to zigzag to stay in the lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous than the wandering feeling.
Ride even slower than you would during the day, particularly on roads you do not know well. This increases your chances of avoiding a hazard.
Place the load over, or in front of, the rear axle. Tank bags keep loads forward, but use caution when loading hard or sharp objects. Make sure tank bag does not interfere with handlebars or controls. Mounting loads behind the rear axle can affect how the motorcycle turns and brakes. It can also cause a wobble.
When the throttle is stuck, twist it back and forth a few times. If it stays stuck, immediately operate the cut-off switch and pull in the clutch at the same time.
It is especially important to flash your brake light before you slow more quickly than others might expect or you slow where others may not expect it.
The front brake is more powerful than the rear brake and can provide at least 70% of your total stopping power. The front brake is safe to use if you use it properly.
Apply a small amount of hand pressure to the handlegrip located on the side of your intended direction of escape to swerve in that direction.
There is no best lane position for motorcycle riders to be seen and maintain a space cushion around the motorcycle. Change your lane position as traffic situations change.
When approaching an intersection where a vehicle driver is preparing to cross your path, slow down. Cover the clutch lever and both brakes. As you enter the intersection, move away from the vehicle. Do not change speed or position radically, as drivers might think you are preparing to turn.
It is best to change gears before starting a turn. However, sometimes you may need to shift while in the turn. Remember to shift smoothly because a sudden change in power to the rear wheel can cause a skid.
If either tire goes flat while riding, hold the handlegrips firmly, ease off the throttle, and keep a straight course. If braking is required, gradually apply the brake of the tire that is not flat, if you are sure which one it is.
The best way to handle tailgaters is to allow them to pass you. If you cannot do this, slow down and open up extra space ahead of you. This will allow space for both you and the tailgater to stop.
