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In a Split Second,
everything can change and your pleasant afternoon ride is turned into
tragedy. At times, you need the mindset of a WWII Fighter Pilot in the
air over Europe. Enjoy the flight, but keep a sharp eye peeled for the
enemy.
The enemy... is the driver that is out to get
You.
They're out there.
They didn't start their day off looking for
a motorcycle to run down, but it sure works out that way some days.
You can
greatly increase
your odds of avoiding trouble by following some simple rules:
- Start with a Good Machine.
Maintain your bike
to the highest standard
with good Tires, Brakes, Working Lights & a Solid Drive Train. At
least you might not crash yerself! Click here for this
Maintenance
Check List.
- Wear Proper Motorcycle Attire.
Leathers and
Boots take to Asphalt and Steel better than Knees and Ankles. No
Nikes & Shorts for riding Please!!! Eye protection is always a good
idea. Wear a *Helmet if conditions indicate, or if you are
inexperienced.
- Remember, You are on a Stealthy Vehicle.
NEVER assume another
driver sees you, Period.
Don't ride in the
right rear quarter of the car in front, the Blind Spot...
Always be prepared to evade disaster & don't get closed in by
surrounding vehicles if possible. Tail Gating invites Road Rage.
Watch Out
for the other fellow!
Don't assume
any driver has a brain
and will observe Stop Signs, Traffic Laws or Your Right of Way . Some
are talking on phones, reading papers and munching on snacks at 80mph.
Ride Defensively, don't put your life in their hands.
- Scan the Road Ahead.
Learn to habitually
scan the road
for gravel, pot
holes, road kill, ...whatever. This is an easy habit to
develop. In a curve, shoot a quick glance at the farthest point and
back through your line. Topping a hill, sweep the road ahead to the
next one.
- K
now what is
Behind You.
Use Your Mirrors!
Generally, cars need more distance to stop than a motorcycle does so
beware of making quick stops. Is your brake/stop light working?
- Watch for Vehicles Lane Swapping & Turning Left.
Abrupt Lane
Changes & Left Turns Across Your Lane are a common cause of the
worst car/bike accidents. Only your awareness and ability to react
stand between you and tons of steel that swerve around you in traffic.
Anticipate an Escape should you be cut off!
- Know the Road's Surface.
If it looks
slick, it probably is.
Avoid the dark
area (oil slick) down the center of lanes on roads and at busy
intersections. Go SLOW entering Petroleum Pump Areas. Slick concrete
and a little Oil... You'll hit the deck before you know you're
sliding!
- Simply SLOW DOWN!
Know when to tread
lightly!
Back it off for Intersections, Poor Weather and Heavy Traffic. Don't
speed in Parking Lots, Commercial Areas or Neighborhoods unless you're
hungry for a Fender Buffet.
- Ride Smart!
Keep a Sharp Mind on
the Road.
NEVER Ride while
you're High! Even if you don't trash your bike and splatter yourself
or someone else, DUI Laws and Substance Violations are Harsh
Everywhere. It just Ain't Worth It so pitch a tent, get a room or call
a Bro with a PU Truck if you party hard.
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These are
only guidelines for a safer ride. A motorcycle operator's training
course is the best way to learn about motorcycle handling and
safety. Talk to experienced riders and always ride a bike you are
comfortable with and can handle well.
Most of the time, motorcycles are only as dangerous as we make them.
Enjoy your time on the road by knowing that you are alert, prepared
and informed. Confidence in yourself and your bike are the key to a
long and rewarding relationship with two wheels, and the road...
Thanks to
Motorcycle City for this reminder sheet
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