Delaware Motorcycle Manual | Delaware Motorcycle Handbook

8/2/2019 Delaware Motorcycle Manual | Delaware Motorcycle Handbook

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MOTORCYCLE

OPERATOR

MOTORCYCLE

OPERATOR

MANUALMANUAL


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HOW TO OBTAIN A MOTORCYCLE EN

A DELAWARE DRIVER LIC1.You must be a Delaware licensed driver before applying for this en2.You can apply at one of the following Motor Vehicle Facilities:

* Wilmington at 2230 Hessler Blvd * Dover at 30* Georgetown at 23737 DuPont Blvd

3.If you are less than 18 years of age you must complete the State apEducation Course. Upon successful completion of the course, whicskill test, you will receive a Student Completion Card (SCC).

Present the SCC at the Division of Motor Vehicles, pay a fee of $8(for 8yr license), pass an eye test and a motorcycle endorsement weligibility to operate a motorcycle. The SCC is valid for a period oof issue. A parents signature is required for M endorsement.

4.

If you are over 18 years of age:

You must pass a written, eye and road sign test.

(a) Note:The DMV knowledge test will contain questions fro

You will be issued a six (6) month temporary motorcycle leapreliminary tests and paying a fee of $8.00 (for 5yr license) $six (6) month extension is available for $5.00.

You will be required to wait 10 days before taking the motor10 day period you can take the test anytime during the remain

permit, at the Lane where the permit was issued.

You can take a State approved Motorcycle Rider Education C

Skill test along with the six month learners permit will be wcompletion of the course.5.With a temporary motorcycle learners permit the law states:

No passengers shall be allowed on the motorcycle;

Operating a motorcycle between sunset and sunrise is prohib

A safety helmet and eye protection as approved by the Officeworn; and,

Operation is not permitted on the federal interstate highway s

Upon satisfactorily completing all of the above requirements, a new pissued indicating your eligibility to operate a motorcycle.

RENEWAL Renewal of a Driver License with a Motorcycle Endlicense) $12.00 (for 8yr license) in addition to your regular fee.

INSURANCE Liability Insurance coverage is compulsory for yo


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CONTENTS CONTENTS

THE RIDER AND

THE MOTORCYCLE ...........................4

PREPARING TO RIDE

Wear the Right Gear ............................5

Know Your Motorcycle ........................7

Know Your Responsibilities ...............10

RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES

Basic Vehicle Control ..........................11

Keeping Your Distance .......................15

SEE .......................................................20

Intersections .......................................21

Increasing Conspicuity .......................24

Crash Avoidance .................................27

Handling Dangerous Surfaces ...........30

Mechanical Problems .........................33

Animals ...............................................34

Flying Objects .....................................35

Getting Off the Road .........................35

Carrying Passengersand Cargo .......................................35

Group Riding .......................................38

BEING IN SH

Why This InfImportant

Alcohol andMotorcyc

Alcohol in th

Alcohol andMinimize th

Step in to Pr

Fatigue .....

EARNING Y

THREE-WHE

Supplementfor Three-

Know Your V

Basic VehicleCarrying Pas

HAND SIGN

T-CLOCS PR


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4 THE RIDER AND THE M

Motorcycling is a

unique experience.Compared to a car,you dont sit in amotorcycle, youbecome part of it.Not as a passive

driver, but as anactive rider arcinginto a string ofsmooth corners,playing along withthe rhythm of theroad; shifting,accelerating,and brakingwith precision.Whether youride to and fromwork or prefer

the camaraderie of a group ride on theweekend, motorcycling engages all yoursenses and creates an invigorating senseof freedom.

Along with that freedom comesresponsibility. All states require

some form of license endorsementdemonstrating you possess a minimumlevel of skill and knowledge. Thisbooklet and other motorcyclepublications can help prepare you to

and supports t

Motorcycle SaSafe riding iseyes and mindfeet.

Successfullymuch more incar. Motorcyclof balance andawareness androadway usersmore quickly t

RIDING


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PREPARING TO RIDE

What you do before you start a trip goes a long way whether or not youll get where you want to go safely. 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 rightif it protects you. In any crash, you have

a far better chance of avoiding seriousinjury if you wear:

A DOT compliant helmet.

Face or eye protection.

Protective clothing.

Helmet UseCrashes can occur particularly

among untrained, beginning riders.And one out of every five motorcyclecrashes results in head or neck injuries.Head injuries are just as severe as neckinjuries and far more common. Crashanalyses show that head and neckinjuries account for a majority of seriousand fatal injuries to motorcyclists.Research also shows that with few

a helmet danger.

Most cra

trips (less a few min

Most ride30 mph wthese speethe numbinjuries by

No matter wriders are thresurvive head iwearing helmcrash. The sinyou can do to

surviving a crafastened, qua

Helmet Se

There are tw


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6 PREPARI

Whatever helmet you

decide on, keep it securelyfastened on your headwhen you ride. Otherwise,if you are involved in acrash, its likely to fly offyour head before it gets a

chance to protect you.

Eye and FaceProtection

A plastic shatter-resistantfaceshield can help protect

your whole face in acrash. It also protects youfrom wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects andpebbles thrown up from cars ahead.These problems are distracting andcan be painful. If you have to dealwith them, you cant devote your fullattention to the road.

Goggles protect your eyes, thoughthey wont protect the rest of your facelike a faceshield does. A windshieldis not a substitute for a faceshield orgoggles. Most windshields will notprotect your eyes from the wind. Neitherwill eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasseswont keep your eyes from watering,and they might blow off when you turn

h d hil idi

Clothing

The right cloa collision. It aas well as protdebris and ho

motorcycle. It visible to othe

Jacket anarms and should fit from flapp

loosely enLeather ofSturdy syna lot of pra jacket e


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8 PREPARI

Front and rear brakes.

Turn signals.

Horn.

Two mirrors.

Borrowing and Lending

Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles,beware. Crashes are fairly commonamong beginning riders especiallyin the first months of riding. Ridingan unfamiliar motorcycle adds to theproblem. If you borrow a motorcycle,

get familiar with it in a controlled area.And if you lend your motorcycle tofriends, make sure they are licensed andknow how to ride before allowing themout into traffic.

No matter how experienced you

may be, ride extra carefully on anymotorcycle thats new or unfamiliarto you. More than half of all crashes

involve riders w

of experience

Get FamiliaMotorcycle

Make sure ywith the moto

it out on the sthe owners mimportant if yomotorcycle.

If you are gomotorcycle:

Make all your own

Find out particularheadlight

and enginoperate thto look fo

MOTORC


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Know the controls.Work the

throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter afew times before you start riding.

Ride very cautiouslyand be awareof surroundings. Accelerate gently,take turns more slowly and leaveextra room for stopping.

Check Your Motorcycle

A motorcycle needs more frequentattention than a car. A minor technicalfailure on a car is seldom more than aninconvenience for the driver. The same

failure on a motorcycle may result in acrash or having to leave your motorcycleparked on the side of the road. Ifanythings wrong with your motorcycle,youll want to find out about it beforeyou get in traffic.

The primary source of informationabout how a motorcycle should beinspected and maintained is its ownersmanual. Be sure to absorb all of itsimportant information. A motorcycle willcontinue to ride like new if it is properly

maintained and routine inspectionsbecome part of its maintenance cycle.

A pre-ride inspection only takesa few minutes and should be donebefore every ride to prevent problems

Try the fro

one at a tfirm and hfully appli

C Contro

Make sureoperate smshould snwhen relefeel tight smoothly.

Try the ho

Clean andbefore stawith one adjust a mso you canas much ato you. Wmirror maarm or shobehind yomost impo

L Lights

Check boTest your high and

Turn on bturn signa


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10 PREPARI

Look underneath the motorcycle for

signs of an oil or fuel leak.

C Chassis

Check the front suspension. Ensurethere is no binding. The rear shocksand springs should move smoothly.

Be sure the chain is adjustedaccording to the manufacturersspecifications and that the sprocketsare not worn or damaged.

S Stands

Ensure the side stand operates

smoothly and that the spring holdsit tightly in the up position. Ifequipped, the center stand shouldalso be held firmly against the framewhenever the motorcycle is moving.

Additionally, regular maintenance

such as tune-ups and oil changes are asimportant for a motorcycle as routinecheckups by your doctor are for you.Wear and tear is normal with use;routine maintenance will help preventcostly breakdowns. The schedule for

regular upkeep for motorcycle partsand controls is contained in yourmotorcycles owners manual.

KNOW YOUR

responsibility t

Both of you armight be the fievents leadingleave any of u

As a rider yooperators will

of way. To lesscrash occurrin

Be visibleuse your hlane posit

Communuse the prand lane p

Maintaincushion followed,

being pas Search yo

seconds a

Identify a

Be prepa

and knowcrash-avo

Blame doesis injured in a aware make c


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RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITI

This manual cannot teach you how to control directioThats something you can learn only through practice, pcourse of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse.But contryour abilities and riding within them, along with knowinof the road.

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL

Body Position

To control a motorcycle well:

Posture Position yourselfcomfortably so you are able tooperate all the controls and can useyour arms to steer the motorcycle,rather than to hold yourself up.This helps you bond with yourmotorcycle and allows you to reactquickly to hazards.

Seat Sit far enough forward sothat arms are slightly bent whenyou hold the handgrips. Bendingyour arms permits you to press onthe handlebars without having tostretch.

Hands Hold the handgripsfirmly to keep your grip over roughsurfaces. Start with your rightwrist flat. This will help you keepfrom accidentally using too much

throttle. A

so your habelow youyou to useprecision s

Kneesthe gas ta

balance a

Feet Kfootrests tdrag youron sometand it cou

the motorthe controfast if neetoes pointget caughthe footre

Shifting Ge

There is mosimply gettingup speed smo


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12 RIDE WITHIN YOU

for neutral, which is selected by either

a half lift from 1st gear or a halfpress from 2nd gear. Most motorcycleshave five gears, but some have four orsix gears.

As your motorcycle increasesspeed, you will need to shift up to ahigher gear. Shift up well before theengine RPM reaches its maximumrecommended speed. As a general rule,shift up soon enough to avoid over-revving the engine, but not so soon to

cause the engine to lug.

When upshifting, use a 3-stepprocess:1) Roll off the throttle as yousqueeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the

enough before

When dowprocess:1) Rosqueeze the cshift lever dowclutch lever asOnce the shift

the shift lever the next shift.slightly while sclutch can helto speed moredownshift smo

gear causes anthe brakes. Thbraking. To usdown one geathe clutch throbetween eachclutch in the fengine speed the lever fully downshift. Usa time, but it imore than onsqueezed.

Remain in fistopped so thquickly if you

Work towar

SHIFTING GEARS


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slow or stop. The front brake is more

powerful and can provide at least 70%of your total stopping power. The frontbrake is safe to use if you use it properly.

Maximum straight-line braking isaccomplished by fully applying bothfront and rear brakes without locking

either wheel.

To do this:

Squeeze the front brakesmoothly, firmly and withprogressively more force. Do notgrab the brake lever or use abrupt

pressure.

As the motorcycles weighttransfers forward, more tractionbecomes available at the frontwheel, so the front brake can beapplied harder after braking begins.

Keep your knees against thetank and your eyes up, lookingwell ahead. This helps you stop themotorcycle in a straight line.

Apply light-to-lighter pressure

to the rear brake pedal to prevent arear wheel skid. As weight transfersforward less traction is availableat the rear. Use less rear brakepressure.

To stop as q

possible in a croad and traffimotorcycle as as possible, thnot allow, brakbut do not app

as you would istraight up. Asyour lean anglbecomes availmore firmly apby the time ththe motorcyclehandlebars are

Linked andBraking Sy

Some motowhich connec

brakes on the braking pressueither the fronapplied. An inis a variation owhich partial f

whenever the Consult your odetailed explaand effective u

A i L k


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14 RIDE WITHIN YOU

Turning

Approach turns and curves withcaution. Riders often try to take curvesor turns too fast. When they cant holdthe turn, they end up crossing intoanother lane of traffic or going off theroad. Or, they overreact and brake too

hard, causing a skid and loss of control.

Use four steps for better control:

SLOW Reduce speed before theturn by closing the throttle and, ifnecessary, applying both brakes.

LOOK Look through the turnto where you want to go. Turn

just your head, not your shoulders,and keep your eyes level with thehorizon.

PRESS To turn, the motorcycle

must lean. To lean the motor-cycle, press on the handgrip inthe direction of the turn. Press lefthandgrip lean left go left.Press right handgrip lean right go right. The higher the speed in a

turn, the greater the lean angle. ROLL Roll on the throttle to

maintain or slightly increase speed.This helps stabilize the motorcycle.

In normal tu

motorcycle shsame angle.

In slow, tighleaning the myour body stra

SLOW, T


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KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE

The best protection you can have isdistance a cushion of space separating yourself from other vehicleson the roadway. This will provide youwith a clear view of emerging trafficsituations, so that if someone else

makes a mistake, you will have: More time to respond.

More space to maneuver, includingan escape route if necessary.

Lane Positions

Successful motorcyclists know thatthey are safer when clearly seen. Insome ways the size of the motorcyclecan work to your advantage. Each trafficlane gives a motorcycle three paths oftravel, as indicated in the illustration.

Your lane position should help you: Increase your ability to see and be

seen.

Avoid others blind spots.

Avoid surface hazards.

Protect your lane from other drivers. Communicate your intentions.

Avoid win

vehicles.

Provide an

Set up for

Many motothird of the la

automobiles position. You varying your lwarrant, keepof the lane neincluding the

You should

portion of thelikely to be sea space cushioposition as traRide in path 2potential probonly. Remain

are on your rigbeing operatethe center of your best opti

Remember,lane is the pla

drippings fromhazards such located. Unles

L


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16 RIDE WITHIN YOU

average center strip permits adequatetraction to ride on safely. You canoperate to the left or right of the greasestrip and still be within the center thirdof the traffic lane. Avoid riding on bigbuildups of oil and grease usually foundat busy intersections or tollbooths.

Experienced riders rely on their ownbest judgment and instincts. Oneabsolute, however, is to avoid riding in

h hi l bli d

count off thousand-

If you reayou reachtoo closely

A two-secoleaves a minimstop or swervesuddenly. It alpotholes and o

FOLLOWING


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When behind a car, ride where the

driver can see you in the rearview mirror.Riding in the center portion of the laneshould put your image in the middle ofthe rearview mirror where a driver ismost likely to see you.

Riding at the far side of a lane maypermit a driver to see you in a sideviewmirror. But remember that most driversdont look at their sideview mirrorsnearly as often as they check therearview mirror. If the traffic situationallows, the center portion of the lane isusually the best place for you to be seenby the drivers ahead and to prevent lanesharing by others.

Being Followed

Speeding up to lose someone followingtoo closely only ends up with someonetailgating you at a higher speed.

A better way to handle tailgatersis to get them in front of you. Whensomeone is following too closely,change lanes and let them pass. If youcant do this, slow down and open upextra space ahead of you to allow roomfor both you and the tailgater to stop.

This will also encourage them to pass.If they dont pass, you will have givenyourself and the tailgater more time andspace to react in case an emergencydoes develop ahead.

Passing

1. Ride inlane at to incremake yand cheUse you

head to2. When

lane anpositioncar andhazards

3. Ride thquickly

4. Signal mirror areturninand the

Remembercompleted wlimits, and onKnow your s

PASSING


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Being Passed

When you are being passed frombehind, stay in the center portion ofyour lane. Riding close to the passingvehicle could put you in a hazardoussituation.

Avoid being hit by:

The other vehicle A slightmistake by you or the passing drivercould cause a sideswipe.

Extended mirrors Some driversforget that their mirrors hang outfarther than their fenders.

Objects thrown from windows Even if the driver knows yourethere, a passenger may not see youand might toss something on you orthe road ahead of you.

Blasts of wind from larger

vehicles They can affect yourcontrol. You have more room forerror if you are in the middle portionwhen hit by this blast than if youare on either side of the lane.

Do notmo

lane farthest fmight invite thinto your lane

Lane Shari

Cars and mto operate safprohibited.

Riding betwmoving cars inyou vulnerablehand could co

a door could osuddenly. Discothers. Keep awhenever drivto squeeze bytempted to do

In heavy,traffic.

When th

When yoan interse

When yo

lane or leaBEING PASSED


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20 RIDE WITHIN YOU

considered enswerve and/orfor someone opath of travel.

SEE

Good, experiencedriders are always aware ofwhat is going on aroundthem. They reduce theirrisk by using MSFs three-step SEESMstrategy:

Search

Evaluate

Execute

SEE will help youassess what is going on

in traffic so you can planand implement the safestcourse of action as trafficsituations change. Letslook at each of thesesteps.

Search

How assertively yousearch, and how muchtime and space you have,can eliminate or minimize

risk. As you search, focuson finding potential escape routes,especially in or around intersections,shopping areas and school andconstruction zones.

RIDER RADAR


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Hazardousroad conditions that

require you to be alert, especially inareas with limited visibility. Visuallybusy surroundings could hide youand your motorcycle from others.

Evaluate

Evaluate means to think about howhazards can interact to create risks foryou. Anticipate potential problems andhave a plan to reduce risks, particularlywhen faced with:

Road and surface characteristics

such as potholes, guardrails,bridges, telephone poles and treesthat wont move into your path, butmay influence your riding strategy.

Traffic control devices includingtraffic signals, warning signs, and

pavement markings, which willrequire you to carefully evaluatecircumstances ahead.

Vehicles and other trafficthatmay move into your path andincrease the likelihood of a crash.

Think about your time and spacerequirements in order to maintain amargin of safety, and give yourselftime to react if an emergency arises.

E t

Apply the o

time to handAdjust speed tto separate. Tat a time as simaking becomthree or more

consequencesdistance to the

In potential intersections, and constructand both brak

need to react.

INTERSEC

The greatesbetween you intersections. in the middle a driveway onanywhere traftravel. Over oncrashes are cariders right-offront of you, i

from the lane side streets ththe biggest daat intersection


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There are no guarantees thatothers see you. Never count on eyecontact as a sign that a driver will

yield. Too often, a driver looks right at amotorcyclist and still fails to see himor her. The only eyes that you can counton are your own. If a car can enter yourpath, assume that it will. Good riders

Increase youseen at interseheadlight on a

provides the btraffic. Providethe motorcycltake evasive aan intersection

LARGE INTERSECTIONS


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STOP SI

the intersection, move away from the

vehicle. Do not change speed or positionradically, as drivers might think youare preparing to turn. Be prepared tobrake hard and hold your position if anoncoming vehicle turns in front of you,especially if there is other traffic around

you. This strategy should also be usedwhenever a vehicle in the oncominglane of traffic is signaling for a left turn,whether at an intersection or not.

Blind Intersections

If you approach a blind intersection,

move to the portion of the lane that willbring you into another drivers field ofvision at the earliest possible moment.In this picture, the rider has moved tothe left portion of the lane awayfrom the parked car so the driver on

the cross street can see him as soon aspossible.

Remember, the key is to see as muchas possible and remain visible to otherswhile protecting your space.

If you have a stop sign or stop line,stop there first. Then edge forwardand stop again, just short of where thecross-traffic lane meets your lane. Fromthat position, lean your body forward

BLIND


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have the headlights on when running).Studies show that, during the day, amotorcycle with its light on is twice as

likely to be noticed. Use low beam atnight and in fog.

Signals

The signals on a motorcycle are similarto those on a car. They tell others what

you plan to do.However, due to a riders added

vulnerability, signals are even moreimportant. Use them anytime you plant h l t U th

Once you turn

off or a driverpath, thinkingUse your signacan react accoguess what yo

Brake Ligh

Your motornot as noticeaa car particis on. (It goes If the situationnotice you by

before you sloimportant to flbefore:

You slowothers mihigh-spee

You slowexpect it (at an alley

If you are bea good idea to

before you slowatching you ahead that wiThis will hopetailgating and

SIGNALING

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26 RIDE WITHIN YOU

from behind. If the drivers arent

paying attention, they could be ontop of you before they see you.

Before you change lanes.Makesure no one is about to pass you.

Before you slow down. The driverbehind may not expect you to slow,

or may be unsure about where youwill slow. For example, you signal aturn and the driver thinks you planto turn at a distant intersection,rather than at a nearer driveway.

Most motorcycles have rounded(convex) mirrors. These provide awider view of the road behind thando flat mirrors. They also make carsseem farther away than they really are.If you are not used to convex mirrors,get familiar with them. (While you

are stopped, pick out a parked car inyour mirror. Form a mental image ofhow far away it is. Then, turn aroundand look at it to see how close youcame.)Practice with your mirrors untilyou become a good judge of distance.

Even then, allow extra distance beforeyou change lanes.

Head Checks

Checking your mirrors is not enough

Frequent heyour normal sOnly by knowall aroundyoto deal with i

Horn

Be ready to someones att

It is a good before passing

USING M


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Stopping Quickly

in a CurveIf you know the

technique, using bothbrakes in a turn is possible,although it should be donevery carefully. When leaning

the motorcycle some ofthe traction is used forcornering. Less traction isavailable for stopping. Askid can occur if you applytoo much brake. Also, using

the front brake incorrectly on a slipperysurface may be hazardous. Use cautionand squeeze the brake lever, never grab.

If you must stop quickly while turningin a curve, first straighten and squarethe handlebars, then stop. If you find

yourself in a situation that does notallow straightening first, such as whenthere is a danger of running off theroad in a left-hand curve, or whenfacing oncoming traffic in a right-hand curve, apply the brakes smoothly

and gradually. As you slow, you canreduce your lean angle and apply morebrake pressure until the motorcycle isstraight and maximum brake pressure

can be appliedthe handlebarstopping to mremain uprigh

Maximum Braking

Maximum saccomplished and rear brakewheel. Keep ythe motorcyclnot down. Thi

the motorcyclpossible, minilikelihood of t

STOPPING DISTANC


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Front-Wheel Skids

If the front wheel locks, release thefront brake immediately and completely.

Reapply the brake smoothly. Front-wheel skids result in immediate loss ofsteering control and balance. Failure tofully release the brake lever immediatelywill result in a crash.

Rear-Wheel Skids

A skidding rear tire is a dangerouscondition that can result in a violentcrash and serious injury or death. Too

much rear brake pressure causes rear-wheel lockup. As soon as the rear wheel

locks, your ab

lost. To regainbe released. His out of alignis a risk of a hwhen the wheand a locked rmotorcycle caand tumble, tair ahead of thslight misalignside crash.

Cornering

A primary ccrashes is mot

CONSTANT CURVES

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30 RIDE WITHIN YOU

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 orinvolves multiple turns. Ride within yourskill level and posted speed limits.

Your best path may not always followthe curve of the road. Change laneposition depending on traffic, roadconditions and curve of the road. If notraffic is present, start at the outsideof a curve to increase your line of sight

and the effective radius of the turn. Asyou turn, move toward the inside of thecurve, and as you pass the center, moveto the outside to exit.

Another alternative is to move to thecenter of your lane before entering a

curve and stay there until you exit.This permits you to spot approachingtraffic as soon as possible. You can alsoadjust for traffic crowding the centerline, or debris blocking part of your lane.

HANDLING DANGEROUS

SURFACES

Your chance of falling or beinginvolved in a crash increases whenever

id

possible. Appro

angle as possibto go to controhave to ride ov

Slow dowbefore co

Make sur

straight. Rise sligh

weight onthe shockelbows, athe motor

Just befothrottle slend.

If you ride ostreet, pull offtires and rims

any farther.Slippery

Motorcyclesridden on surftraction. Surfatraction includ

Wet paveit starts to washes to

Gravel ro


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OBSTACLES

can cause a skid. Be as smooth aspossible when you speed up, shift

gears, turn or brake. Use Both Brakes The front

brake is still effective, even on aslippery surface. Squeeze the brakelever gradually to avoid locking thefront wheel. Remember, gentlepressure on the rear brake.

The center of a lanecan behazardous when wet. When it startsto rain, ride in the tire tracks left bycars. Often, the left tire track will

and overpleaves are

least slippereduce spe

Cautious ridcovered with icavoid a slippermotorcycle str

asslowlyas poa large surfacemust coast, orconsider lettinthe surface If

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Railroad Tracks, Trolley Tracks

and Pavement SeamsUsually it is safer to ride straight within

your lane to cross tracks. Turning to taketracks head-on (at a 90 angle) can bemore dangerous your path may carryyou into another lane of traffic.

CROSSTRACKSRIGHT

CROSSTRACKSWRONG

PARALLEL TRACKSRIGHT

GRATE CR

GRATE CR

For track an

parallel to youaway from traseams to cros45. Then, maEdging acrossthrow you off

Grooves aRiding over gratings may weave. The ungenerally not a steady speedCrossing at an

zigzag to stayfar more hazafeeling.


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MECHANICAL PROBLEMS

You can find yourself in an emergencythe moment something goes wrongwith your motorcycle. In dealing withany mechanical problem, take intoaccount the road and traffic conditionsyou face. Here are some guidelines

that can help you handle mechanicalproblems safely.

Tire Failure

You will seldom hear a tire go flat.If the motorcycle starts handling

differently, it may be a tire failure. Thiscan be dangerous. You must be able totell from the way the motorcycle reacts.If one of your tires suddenly loses air,react quickly to keep your balance. Pulloff and check the tires.

If the front tire goes flat, the steeringwill feel heavy. A front-wheel flat isparticularly hazardous because it affectsyour steering. You have to steer well tokeep your balance.

If the rear tire goes flat, the back of

the motorcycle may jerk or sway fromside to side.

If either tire goes flat while riding:

Hold handgrips firmly ease off the

power from th

engine sound decline. Once control, pull

After you hathrottle cable cof the trouble.

works freely be

Wobble

A wobblewheel and hanto shake fromspeed. Most wimproper loador incorrect tircarrying a heacant, shift it. and farther foMake sure tire

load, air shocksettings recomweight. Makefairings are mo

Check for pworn steering

is bent, misaligloose wheel bworn swingarthese is determ

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Drive Train Problems

The drive train for a motorcycle useseither a chain, belt, or drive shaft totransfer power from the engine tothe rear wheel. Routine inspection,adjustment, and maintenance makesfailure a rare occurrence. A chain or belt

that slips or breaks while youre ridingcould lock the rear wheel and causeyour motorcycle to skid.

If the chain or belt breaks, youllnotice an instant loss of power to therear wheel. Close the throttle and brake

to a stop in a safe area.

On a motorcycle with a drive shaft,loss of oil in the rear differential cancause the rear wheel to lock, and youmay not be able to prevent a skid.

Engine SeizureWhen the engine locks or

freezes it is usually low on oil. Theengines moving parts cant movesmoothly against each other, and theengine overheats. The first sign may be

a loss of engine power or a change inthe engines sound. Squeeze the clutchlever to disengage the engine from therear wheel. Pull off the road and stop.Check the oil If needed oil should be

approach it, a

animal behindKeep control olook to where

For larger abrake and preunpredictable

FLYING O

From time tby insects, cigor pebbles kicthe vehicle ah

face protectioor cracked, mWithout face could hit you Whatever hapon the road anhandlebars. W

and repair the

GETTING

If you need tthe motorcycle

Check thethe surfacenough toloose sandabout it, sturn onto


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Pull off the road Get as far off

the road as you can. It can be veryhard to spot a motorcycle by theside of the road. You dont wantsomeone else pulling off at thesame place you are.

Park carefully Loose and slopedshoulders can make setting the side

or center stand difficult.

CARRYING PASSENGERS

AND CARGO

The extra weight of a passengeror cargo will affect the way your

motorcycle behaves, requiring extrapractice, preparation and caution. Forthis reason, only experienced ridersshould attempt to carry passengers orlarge loads. Before taking a passengeror a heavy load on the street, prepare

yourself and your motorcycle for safeoperation in traffic.

Preparing Your Motorcycle

Tire Pressure Check the airpressure of both tires. Refer to theowners manual or the label affixedto the motorcycle for the correctinflation specifications. Though mostof the added weight will typically beon the rear wheel, dont forget to also

the motorcycl

wall in an unlithe headlight wall with chalpassenger, reclocation. Use tthe headlight the same heigmanual for ad

EquipmentCarrying a

Be sure yoattired, w

personal p

Be sure yowith passe

Your motoseat, one l

you and yocrowding. forward th

Check thahandholdhold onto

Preparing Passenger

Ensure yourthe passenger

36 RIDE WITHIN YOU


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As you prepare for your ride, tell your

passenger to: Get on the motorcycle only after

you have started the engine andhave the transmission in neutral. Asthe passenger mounts, keep bothyour feet on the ground and the

brakes applied. Sit as far forward as possible

without hindering your control ofthe motorcycle.

Hold firmly onto your waist, hips,belt or passenger handholds for

balance and security.

Keep both feet firmly on the cyclesfootrests, even when stopped. Firmfooting will prevent your passengerfrom falling off and pulling you off.

Keep legs away from the muffler(s),chains or moving parts.

Stay directly behind you and leanwith you through turns and curves.It is helpful for the passenger tolook over the riders shoulder in thedirection of turns and curves.

Avoid unnecessary conversation andavoid leaning or turning around.Make no sudden moves that mightaffect the stability of the motorcycle

Approach

bumps or Are about

begin mov

Are aboutsudden m

Riding WitYour motor

when you rideheavier your ptake to speed

When riding

Ride a littltaking curany part othe grouncontrol ca

Start slowapproach larger spaslowing o

Wait for laor merge

Carrying LEverything y

a riding holidabe packed on


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38 RIDE WITHIN YOU


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Pre-Ride Test

Prior to starting out, take a testride with your fully loaded motorcyclethrough some familiar neighborhoodroads to get a feel for the operation ofyour motorcycle. Be sure the suspensionsettings are correct, and that the side

stand, footrests, and exhaust pipes dontscrape over bumps and in turns. Ensurethe tank bag does not get in the way ofthe handlebars or restrict the steering.Also check the security of the load, sothat your luggage does not hit you inthe back under maximum braking.

You will also find that the perfor-mance of a fully loaded motorcycle willbe different than what you are used to.Test the power when accelerating andbe aware that it will be lower, increas-

ing passing times and distances. Brakingwill also feel different, and stoppingdistances may increase.

GROUP RIDING

Preparation

Preparing yourself for a group rideis as important as making sure yourmotorcycle is ready. Riding with a grouprequires an alert mind that is free fromworries distractions and stress It also

Plan

Before startmeeting to disriding segmenfor fuel, mealseveryone knowif someone beshe wont hav

getting lost orChoose a leadThese should riders of the gshould look ahtraffic or weatearly so the w

of time to therider is the lassets the pace finexperiencedleader. That ehave to chase more experien

them from the

The most imriding are: no of other ridersrider insists ongroup, allow h

an agreed me

Hand signa

During the the hand sign


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Keep Your Distance

Maintain close ranks, but at thesame time, maintain an adequate spacecushion to allow each rider in the grouptime and distance to react to hazards.A close group takes up less space onthe highway, is easier to see, and is lesslikely to become separated. This must,

however, be done properly.

Dont Pair Up

Never ride directly alongside anotherrider in the same lane. There is no placeto go if you have to maneuver to avoida car or hazard in the roadway. Waituntil you are both stopped to talk.

Staggered Formation

This is the best way to keep the ranksclose yet maintain an adequate spacecushion. The group leader rides in the

left side of the lane, and the secondrider stays at least one second back andrides in the right side of the lane. Thethird maintains the left position of thelane, at least two seconds behind thefirst rider. The fourth rider should keepat least a two second distance from

the second rider in the right side of thelane, and so on. This formation keepsthe group close and permits each riderto maintain a safe distance from othersahead, behind and to the sides.

Interstate

FreewaysA staggered

when riding oHowever, enteonly after all riin traffic. The group over at vehicles that afrom disruptintraffic, resist thclose togetherone-second, twformation spause a single filspace cushion conditions at t

Parking

When possieveryone can

more quickly. head-in, and ican pull throudeparture smopark so that thunit in single fi

STAGGER


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Ten Rules of Group Riding

Base the length of the route andsegments on ability of the leastexperienced rider.

Take timely breaks to prevent loss ofconcentration and reduce fatigue.

Adjust the pace through curves tothe ability of the least experiencedrider. If necessary, form two groupswith different speeds.

Dont tailgate or encourage therider in front to speed. If you wantto ride faster, ride ahead of thegroup.

Keep adequate following distanceand maintain a staggeredformation.

Do not pa

the case o Place inex

behind thpace withsafe.

When pas

traffic contraffic. Everiders passsafe for yo

Maintain between r

intersectioavoid hard

Check youensure the


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44 BEING IN SHA


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Four drinks over the span of twohours, you would have at least two(4 2 = 2) drinks remaining in yoursystem at the end of the two hours. Youwould need at least another two hoursto eliminate the two remaining drinksbefore you consider riding.

There are times when a largerperson may not accumulate as higha concentration of alcohol for eachdrink consumed. They have moreblood and other bodily fluids. Butbecause of individual differences itis better not to take the chance that

abilities and judgment have not beenaffected. Whether or not you arelegally intoxicated is not the real issue.Impairment of judgment and skillsbegins well below the legal limit.

ALCOHOL AND THE LAW

In all states, an adult with a BACof 0.08% or above is consideredintoxicated. For operators under the ageof 21, lower BAC limits (0.00 to 0.02%,depending on state) apply. It doesnt

matter how sober you may look or act.The breath or urine test is what usuallydetermines whether you are ridinglegally or illegally.

If you are cothe influence you may receipenalties:

License Ssuspensiorefusal to

Fines Saspect of with a lice

Communtasks suchthe highwmotor-veh

emergenc

Costs lost work alcohol-edtransportalicense is s

psychologa drunk

MINIMIZ

Your ability are riding is afyou may be pepoorly, you thand better. Thconfidently, tarisks. Minimize


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Or Dont Ride If you haventcontrolled your drinking, you mustcontrol your riding.

Leave the motorcycle so youwont be tempted to ride. Arrangeanother way to get home.

Wait If you exceed your limit,

wait until your system eliminates thealcohol and its fatiguing effects.

STEP IN TO PROTECT

FRIENDS

People who have had too much to

drink are unable to make a responsibledecision. It is up to others to step inand keep them from taking too greata risk. No one wants to do this itsuncomfortable, embarrassing andthankless. You are rarely thankedfor your efforts at the time. But the

alternatives are often worse.

There are several ways to keep friendsfrom hurting themselves:

Arrange a safe ride Providealternative ways for them to gethome.

Slow the pace of drinkingInvolve them in other activities.

Keep them there Use anyk h f i

It helps to ewhen you decpeople on youfirm and the hresist. While ythe time, you only I had ...

FATIGUERiding a mo

than driving a tire sooner thaAvoid riding waffect your co

Protect y Wind, you tire quwindshieldplan to rid

Limit you

enced ridethan abou

Take freqand get oevery two

Dont dri

Artificial sextreme fthey start unable to hand

46 EARNING YO


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Safe riding requires knowledge and skill. Licensing tesmeasurement of the skills necessary to operate safely inown skills is not enough. People often overestimate theharder for friends and relatives to be totally honest aboexams are designed to be scored more objectively.

To earn your license, you must pass a knowledge testtest. Knowledge test questions are based on informatiofrom this manual. They require that you know and undesafe riding practices. An on-cycle skill test will either be traffic environment or in a controlled, off-street area.

Knowledge Test(Sample Questions)

1. It is MOST important to flashyour brake light when:

A. Someone is following too closely.

B. You will be slowing suddenly.

C. There is a stop sign ahead.

D. Your signals are not working.

2. The FRONT brake supplies howmuch of the potential stopping

power?

A. About 25%.

B. About 50%.

4. If a tire goyou mustto:

A. Relax o

B. Shift yogood ti

C. Brake oto the s

D. Use bot

5. The car bethe inters

A. Make e

B. Reducereact.


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On-Motorcycle Skill Test

Basic vehicle control and crash-avoidance skills are included in on-motorcycle tests to determine yourability to handle normal and hazardoustraffic situations.

You may be tested for your ability to:

Know your motorcycleand yourriding limits.

Accelerate, brake and turnsafely.

See, be seenand communicatewith others.

Adjust speedand position to thetraffic situation.

Stop, tur

Make critthem out.

Examiners mrelated to safe

Selectingmaneuver

Choosingstaying w

Completistops.

Completiturns or sw

48 THREE-WHEEL SU


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SUPPLEMENTARY

INFORMATIONFOR THREE-WHEEL

MOTORCYCLES

Many states require a separate licenseendorsement to operate a three-wheel

motorcycle. This requires the rider topass both a written and a skills test. Thepurpose of this supplement is to helpprepare riders to complete the writtenexam for a three-wheel motorcyclelicense or endorsement. This informationis provided in addition to that offered inthe first part of this Motorcycle OperatorManual (MOM), so when preparingto take the written test, begin byreading the information on two-wheelmotorcycles thoroughly. It providesinformation on safe operation of your

motorcycle in traffic. This supplementcontains information specific to the safeoperation of a three-wheel motorcycle,including both three-track motorcyclesand motorcycles with sidecars.

KNOW YOUR VEHICLE

There are many types of three-wheelmotorcycles available on the markettoday. Requirements for licensingth h l t l b t t

Saddl

Seapasveh

If dthesea(or commo

3. Turninat its wthan 40

4. The ve

federal

The followinincluded in ththerefore testinot be applicastate Departm

Department oappropriate stexact regulatio

Automotautomotiv

Vehicleswcontrols o

Vehicles mountedbe mount


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Three-Wheel

Motorcycle DesignsThree-wheel motorcycle designs

vary among manufacturers. Unliketraditional motorcycles, which areconsidered single-track motorcycles,three-wheel motorcycles could be either

dual or triple track design. Dual trackvehicles are motorcycles with sidecars,while triple track motorcycles can beconfigured either with dual front wheelsor dual rear wheels.

MOTORCYCLEAND THREE-WHEEL

MOTORCYCLE DESIGNS

handlebars wibody movemestability and c

Borrowing

Borrowers a

Crashes are

beginning opethe first montan unfamiliar problem. If yomotorcycle or get familiar wfirst. If you len

motorcycle or to friends, maand know howallow them tomotorcycles othan two-whe

No matter hbe, be extra cais unfamiliar o

Get FamiliaMotorcycle

Be sure youcontrols of theor motorcycle attempting to

50 THREE-WHEEL SU


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Operate all the controlsbeforeyou start riding. Know thegearshift pattern and operate thethrottle, clutch and brakes a fewtimes. Controls react differentlyon different motorcycles, andexact locations of controls mayvary slightly. Additionally, some

motorcycle conversions may beequipped with a single brake pedalor lever control, automatic clutch, orautomatic transmission.

As you begin to ride,start outslowly and carefully and be aware of

your surroundings. Accelerate gently,take turns a little more slowly, andleave extra room for stopping.

BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL

Steering & Tip

Three-wheel motorcycles handledifferently than two-wheel motorcycles.With three wheels on the ground,they are naturally more stable than atwo-wheel motorcycle. They also steerdifferently. Because conventional three-

wheel motorcycles cannot lean, theycannot countersteer. Instead, the frontwheel is pointed in the direction therider wants the motorcycle to go.

Under someoperation of ait is possible toin contact witcould occur dmaneuvers whtransferred outip-over lines.

careful load aninside the tip-maximum stab

Body Posit

As with any

position is impfor reducing ooperator shouhandgrips comhandlebar movwhen riding a While it is not of a three-whedrastically duriweight in the dimprove contro

Braking

On a motorduring brakingsidecar wheel Motorcycle an


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tip-over line. The reduced weight overthe opposite side wheel can cause it tolift slightly.

The weight of a three-trackmotorcycle is distributed almost equallybetween the two front or two rearwheels. These motorcycles handle thesame in left and right hand turns.

When turning a three-trackmotorcycle:

Approach a turnat speed withyour head up, and look through theturn.

Concentrateon pointing the frontwheel/wheels in the direction youwant the motorcycle to go.

Roll offthe throttle before enteringthe turn.

Apply the brakesenough to slow

the motorcycle to a speed at whichyou can ride safely through theturn, then release the brakes beforethe turn.

Slightly leanyour upper body inthe direction you intend to turn.

Steerthe front wheel/wheelstoward the turn.

Roll onthe throttle to pull themotorcycle through the turn

When turnmotorcycle w

Anticipatrequired.

Reduce scurve by d

Slightly l

the direct Maintain

curve.

Acceleratcurve.

During a lef

acts as a stabistays on the gturn is taken ta rate of speefor the motorcextend, and th

wheel of the mground.

When turnwith sidecar:

Reducesturn

Applymobrake the

Hills

52 THREE-WHEEL SU


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Lane Position

The track of the dual wheels of athree-wheel motorcycle or motorcyclewith a sidecar is almost the samewidth as some automobiles. Unlike amotorcycle, you are limited, therefore, inlane positioning. Keep toward the center

of the lane to be sure the track of thedual wheels does not cross the paintedlines into opposing traffic. Riding too farto the right could cause loss of traction ifthe tire leaves the pavement.

Lane positioning when riding

in groups is also an importantconsideration. You will not be ableto use a staggered formation, suchas you would when riding two-wheelmotorcycles. Ride single file and alwaysmaintain a safe margin, two secondsminimum, between vehicles.

Parking at the Roadside

Because of the limitations on mobilityand motorcycle length, it is not practicalto park your motorcycle at a 90 degreeangle with your rear wheel touching

the curb, as you would with a two-whelmotorcycle. Position your motorcycle in aparking space so you are parked parallelto the curb and set the parking brake.

the sidecar wlagging behinto feel as thouto the right. Dbraking, the mcontinues to cthe feeling thpass you, mak

though it is be

On accelethis tendein the oppsidecar.

On decel

this tendethe directalso pull in

Swerving

A quick stop

sufficient to avpath, even if ybrakes. Sometavoid a collisiois any sudden be two quick side when ma

Often, there isyour body pos

A three-whmotorcycle wi


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always slow before entering a corner.The best path to follow in the curve

may not be the one that follows thecurve of the road. Following the centerof the lane may actually increase thetip over forces. Check opposing traffic

carefully, and if safe, enter the curvetoward the outside of your lane. Thisincreases your line of sight through thecurve and reduces the effective radiusof the curve. As you turn, move towardthe inside of the curve, and as you passthe center, move to the outside to exit,always remembering to stay in your lane.

CARRYING PASSENGERS

AND CARGO

Many three-built-in storageeither in front On these motoand keep it lowit is positionedand balanced is being carried

directly behind

On a motorbest place for sidecar. Neveron the saddle;tip-over-line w

of the motorcpassenger canbehind the ridshould always

The passengshould sit upri

necessary for curves with th

When carrysecure the loaif the load shifaffected. Load

toward the reatipping of the event of a sud

Wh l d

PATH THROUGH A CURVE

54


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HAND SIGNALS


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Stop

arm extended

straight down,

palm facing

back.

arm

str

fro

pal

Slow Down

arm extended

straight out, palm

facing down, swing

down to your side.

Speed Up

arm extended

straight out,

palm facing up,

swing upward.

Double File

arm with index

and middle finger

extended straight

Single File

arm and index

finger extended

straight up.

HAND SIGNALS


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Comfort Stop

forearm extended,

fist clenched with

short up and down

motion.

Highbeam

tap on top of

helmet with open

palm down.

Hazard in Roadway

on the left, point

with left hand; on the

right, point with right foot.

Refresh

Stop

fingers close

thumb to mo

Fuel

arm out to sid

pointing to ta

finger extend


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MOTORCYCLE TRAINING OPPO


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DELAWARE

THE BEGINNER RIDING COURThis course is a 15-hour course (5 hours classroom

and breaks). Training motorcycles (500 cc or less) a

provided to all students. Helmets are available for th

their own.

Statewide, approximately 85% of students successfcourse their first time.

ADDITIONAL RIDING COUThe class consists of approximately 1 hour classroo

hours of range instruction/riding. The classroom por

Management, Riding Gear and Range Rules. The ranaddress starting/stopping, limited space maneuvers, chazards. At the completion of the range instruction t

Evaluation will be administered.

The Additional Riding Course is available to those completed a Delaware Motorcycle Program BRC. T

enrollment in the Additional Riding Course you musKnowledge Test with a minimum score of 80% and apoints on the Riding Skills Evaluation. The courses

If you would like to take the Additional Riding Couadditional training, please contact the Delaware Moto

Registration Office to enroll.

EXPERIENCED RIDER COThis course is designed to teach the more experienc

that will enable the rider to respond with precision an

ADVANCED RIDER COURSE Sport


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pThis course designed for experienced motorcycle ri

of this course, an experienced rider is one who has bacurrent rider with a motorcycle endorsement. Speciaself-assessment, risk management, rider behavior, rid

overall skill development, particularly in braking, co

The course is an 8-hour course consisting of 3 hourriding, lunch and breaks (bag lunch and snacks sugge

have a motorcycle endorsement and provide their oware required to provide documentation to show the m

insured and legally registered in their name. The mo

required to pass an instructor's pre-ride check.

RECEIVING COURSE INFORYou can receive course information in the followinGo to www.dmv.de.gov/motorcycle. Select the typ

to take. Print out the registration form and completel

your first, second and third choices for classes, and mOffice with a check or money order made payable to

Vehicles.Or e-mail your name and address, city, state, zip to

[email protected] and a brochure and

will be mailed to you. You may call (302) 744-2658 853-1030 in Sussex County or (302) 326-5030 in Ne

the requested information on the voice mail recorder

slowly. You will be sent a brochure and course regist

ONLINE REGISTRATIOIf you would like to register online go to www.dmvl h f d lik k h l

MOTORCYCLES MAKE S

SO DOES PROFESSIONAL


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Motorcycles are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and Unfortunately, many riders never learn critical skills needed

Professional training for beginning and experienced ridereal-world traffic situations. Motorcycle Safety Foundationimprove such skills as:

Effective turning Braking maneuvers Pro

Obstacle avoidance Traffic strategies Ma

The Motorcycle Safety Foundations (MSF) purpose is to of motorcyclists on the nations streets and highways. In amotorcycle crashes and injuries, the Foundation has progrlicensing improvement, public information and statistics. Tare designed for both motorcyclists and motorists. A natioorganization, the MSF is sponsored by BMW, BRP, Ducati, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio/Vespa, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory a

The information contained in this publication is offered who have an interest in riding motorcycles. The informatiofrom publications, interviews and observations of individufamiliar with the use of motorcycles, accessories, and trainmany differences in product design, riding styles, federal, there may be organizations and individuals who hold diffe

your local regulatory agencies for information concerning cycles in your area. Although the MSF will continue to resepublish responsible viewpoints on the subject, it disclaims expressed herein.

For the basic or experienced RiderCour

call toll free: 800.446.922

or visit www.msf-usa.or

Motorcycle Tests are Given At:

Wilmington, 2230 Hessler Blvd


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Dover, 303 Transportation Circle

Georgetown, 23737 DuPont Blvd

For Motorcycle Course Registration Call

Or Register Online at:

New Castle County. . . . . . . . . 326-5030

Kent County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 744-2658

Sussex County. . . . . . . . . . . . . 853-1030

www.dmv.de.gov/motorcycle

Document No:45-07-00-07-12

Documents

Delaware Motorcycle Manual | Delaware Motorcycle Handbook