MANUAL MOTORCYCLE AND MOTORIZED BICYCLE - Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services Division dvs.dps.mn.gov - Minnesota ...
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MOTORCYCLE AND
MOTORIZED BICYCLE
MANUAL
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Driver and Vehicle Services Division
dvs.dps.mn.gov
Minnesota Motorcycle
and Motorized Bicycle
Manual
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services
Division prepared this manual. Visit the Department of Public Safety Website
at dvs.dps.mn.gov to access online versions of our driver’s manuals.
PS30001-19 (10/18)
About this Manual…
This manual is about operating For more information on Minnesota
motorcycles and motorized bicycles driving laws and rules for all drivers,
on Minnesota streets and highways. refer to the Minnesota Driver’s
Manual.
The first section concerns Minnesota
laws and requirements. For complete This manual is printed by permission
standards, consult Minnesota state of the Minnesota Department of
statutes and rules. This document is Public Safety.
not a proper legal authority to cite This manual is prepared by the
in court. Division of Driver and Vehicle Services
The second section (Operation with permission of the Minnesota
Manual) contains information on safe Department of Public Safety.
motorcycling. The Operation Manual, This information can be made
provided by the Motorcycle Safety available in alternative format to
Foundation, is not about Minnesota individuals with disabilities. For
law — it is about riding smart and assistance, call 651-297-3298 or
staying safe. TTY 651-282-6555.
NEW RIDING INFORMATION
AND LAWS FOR 2018
Motorcycle Instruction Permit (M.S. 169.974. Subd. 2)
Effective August 1, 2018
A person with a motorcycle instruction permit is allowed to ride a motorcycle on the
interstate highway.
Autocycle (M.S. 169.011) Effective August 1, 2016
An autocycle is a motorcycle that:
• has three wheels in contact with the ground;
• is designed with seating that does not require operators or any occupants to
straddle or sit astride it;
• has a steering wheel;
• is equipped with antilock brakes; and
• is originally manufactured to meet federal motor vehicle safety standards for
motorcycles in Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 571, and successor
requirements.
A person may operate an autocycle with a valid driver’s license. A motorcycle
endorsement or a three-wheel motorcycle restriction is not required.
Persons riding within an enclosed cab autocycle are exempt from wearing
protective headgear and eye-protective device. A properly adjusted and fastened
seat belt, including both the shoulder and lap belt when the autocycle is so
equipped, shall be worn by the driver and any passengers.
Examples of Autocycles
Enclosed cab Non-enclosed cab
Examples of three-wheel motorcycles - Which requires a three-wheel motorcycle
restriction on a driver’s license
SKILLS TEST CHECKLIST
Do you have all the infor • Credit and debit cards are not
mation you need for your accepted.
skills test? Here is a checklist If under 18 years of age:
to help you prepare: I have my certificate of course
completion from an approved rider
I have made a skills test appointment. safety course.
I have my valid driver’s license. Note: Riders under 18 will be required
I have my valid motorcycle to have a parent or court-appointed
instruction permit. guardian sign the application to add
I have my helmet and eye protection. the motorcycle endorsement.
I will provide a motorcycle on which
to take the test.
• Basic safety equipment must be in
working condition (see equipment
requirements on page IV).
• Vehicle registration must be
current (license plates and
registration stickers) or the
motorcycle must display a 21-day
permit.
I have current proof of insurance
for the motorcycle I am taking
the test on. Acceptable proof of
insurance includes: original insuance
card issued by the company; policy
declaration page; e-insurance
printed from the insurance company
website or presented on an
electronic device.
I have brought money (check, money
order, or cash) to pay the driver’s
license fee and the retesting fee,
if applicable. There is a $20 test fee
for a third or subsequent test (after
failing first two).
CONTENTS
Preface SEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Rider Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I Intersections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Increasing Conspicuity . . . . . . . . . 21
Motorcycles Crash Avoidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
License Endorsement and Permit . . . . II Handling Dangerous Surfaces . . . 27
Permit Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . II Mechanical Problems . . . . . . . . . . 30
Skills Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . II Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
New Resident Information . . . . . . . . III Flying Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Endorsement Renewal . . . . . . . . . . III Getting Off the Road . . . . . . . . . . 32
License Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . III Carrying Passengers
Motorcycle Registration/Insurance . . III and Cargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Equipment Requirements . . . . . . . . IV Group Riding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Operating Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV
Alcohol and Motorcycles . . . . . . . . . V Being in Shape to Ride
Red Light, Green Light . . . . . . . . . . V Why This Information
is Important . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Motorized Bicycles and Moped Alcohol and Other Drugs
Motorized Bicycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI in Motorcycle Operation . . . . . . . 39
Operator’s Permit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI Alcohol in the Body . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Instruction Permit Process . . . . . . . . VI Alcohol and the Law . . . . . . . . . . 41
Skills Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI Minimize the Risks . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Duplicate Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII Step in to Protect Friends . . . . . . . 42
Vehicle Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . VII Marijuana and Motorcycle
Insurance Requirements . . . . . . . . VII Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Equipment Requirements . . . . . . . VII Fatigue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Operating Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII
Earning Your License . . . . . . . . 44
Rider Training and Education . . . . . VIII
Three-Wheel Supplement
The Rider and Supplementary Information
the Motorcycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 for Three-Wheel Motorcycles . . . . 46
Preparing to Ride Know Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Wear the Right Gear . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Basic Vehicle Control . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Know Your Motorcycle . . . . . . . . . . 4 Carrying Passengers and Cargo . . . 51
Know Your Responsibilities . . . . . . 7 Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Ride Within Your Abilities T-CLOCS Pre-Ride Checklist . . 62
Basic Vehicle Control . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Keeping Your Distance . . . . . . . . . 12
PREFACEI
This manual is intended to help riders The hazards of riding a two or three-
prepare for the knowledge and skills wheeled vehicle constantly test the skills
tests required to obtain a permit and of even the most experienced rider. For
endorsement. It includes rider informa- this reason, Minnesota tests everyone
tion that will help beginner and experi- seeking permits and license endorse-
enced riders alike. This manual includes ments to legally operate a motorcycle
Minnesota state requirements as well or moped in the state.
as a guide to safe riding practices.
Skill and care are safety necessities Rider Training
for riders. Two or three-wheeled vehicles The Minnesota Department of Public
have the disadvantage of being less Safety recommends rider training
stable and more vulnerable than other courses for both beginner and experi-
vehicles on the road. In a crash, riders enced riders. Motorcyclists are encour-
often sustain severe injuries because aged to update their riding skills as
they lack the protection provided to oc- often as possible. Studies have shown
cupants of larger vehicles. that riders who have taken training
courses are better equipped to cope
Over the last ten years, crash studies
with riding emergencies and less likely
show motorcyclists are seven times more
to be involved in a crash.
likely to be injured and 34 times more
likely to die in a crash than passengers In 1982, the state of Minnesota
in any other type of vehicle. established a Motorcycle Safety Fund
to upgrade and improve training
Approximately 80 percent of motor-
courses, test procedures, public
cycle crashes result in death or injury,
awareness and motorcycle safety. The
compared with less than 30 percent of
Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Program
auto crashes. These numbers emphasize
administers these funds and offers
the importance of knowing the rules
state-approved rider training courses.
of motorcycle and moped operation.
While cornering, steering and accelera- For more information on motorcycle
tion characteristics of motorcycles rules, safety or training classes, contact
can exceed other vehicles, their short the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center
comings with regard to safety should at 800-407-6677 or visit
not be ignored. www.motorcyclesafety.org
IIMOTORCYCLE
Motorcycle License Motorcycle Endorsement
Endorsement and Permit Skills Test
Every person who operates a When you feel that you have
motorcycle on public roads in Minne- reached an acceptable skill level, you
sota must have a valid driver’s license may return to a driver examining station
with the appropriate instruction permit and take the skills test on your motor-
or license endorsement. You must carry cycle. You can schedule your test in
these documents with you when riding person, by phone or online at
a motorcycle on public roadways. www.mndriveinfo.org. If you test on
a three-wheeled motorcycle, you will
Motorcycle Permit Process
be restricted to operating three-wheelers
A valid Minnesota driver’s license is only. You can remove restrictions by
required to obtain a motorcycle instruc- taking the skills test on the type of
tion permit. To obtain a motorcycle
motorcycle you want to operate.
instruction permit, you must first pass
a knowledge (written) test at a driver The skills test consists of four riding
examination station. If you are under exercises that measure your vehicle
18 years old, you must also present control and hazard response skills.
a certificate of completion of a state- The two-wheel motorcycle skills test is
approved motorcycle rider training outlined in this manual on pages 54-57.
course. The three-wheel motorcycle skills test is
The knowledge test may be taken outlined on pages 58-61 in this manual.
only once per day. When you pass the These tests are administered on the same
test and pay the $21 permit fee, you course and will not be given if the sur-
will receive an instruction permit valid face is wet, or if ice or snow is present.
for one year. You will then be entitled For the skills test, you must bring:
to practice riding your motorcycle on • Your current driver’s license and
public roadways so you can become motorcycle permit.
familiar with it and its controls. If your
instruction permit expires, you must • A motorcycle, properly equipped,
retake the knowledge test and pay with proof of current registration
the fee for a new permit. and insurance.
While you are operating a motor- • DOT-approved helmet and eye
cycle with your instruction permit, the protection.
following restrictions apply: • If you are under 18 years old, a
• You must wear a helmet and eye certificate of course completion
protection approved by the federal from an approved motorcycle rider
Department of Transportation (DOT). training program.
• You may not carry passengers. You will not be allowed to test if you
• You may not ride at night. “Night” do not bring all of these items.
or “nighttime” means the time
from one-half hour after sunset If you fail the skills test, you may
to one-half hour before sunrise. retake it after you have had time to
improve your riding skills. You will be
assigned practice time that must be
completed before your next skills test
is given.
MOTORCYCLE III
After passing the skills test, you will Operator’s permit under
need to apply for a duplicate driver’s age 21, valid to age 21 . . . . . . $17.75
license and have your endorsement Duplicate of operator’s permit. .$13.25
added. Your receipt from the duplicate
license application will allow you to ride Renewal, age 21 or older. . . . . $23.75
your motorcycle without restrictions Retesting Fees
until you receive your new license. * Third and subsequent
knowledge test
New Residents (after failing first two) . . . . . . $10.00
If you are a new Minnesota resident
and have a valid driver’s license with a * Third and subsequent
motorcycle endorsement from another road/skills test
state (or one that has been expired for (after failing first two) . . . . . . $20.00
less than one year) you will need to take * Available at driver exam stations only.
a knowledge test to get a Minnesota ** Fee does not include the cost of
driver’s license. You may take the motor- a new license.
cycle knowledge test at the same time
you take the driver’s license knowledge Motorcycle Registration
test. The motorcycle skills test will be All motorcycles must be registered
waived when you pass the knowledge with the state and display a license plate
test. An endorsement fee of $21 will showing that registration tax has been
be added to the cost of your Minnesota paid. The registration period is from
driver’s license. March 1 through the last day of Febru-
ary. Re-registration is required annually
Endorsement Renewal and expires at the end of February. New
When your Minnesota driver’s license residents have 60 days after becoming
has a two-wheeled motorcycle endorse- Minnesota residents to register their
ment, you will pay the license fee plus motorcycles. For more information,
a $13 motorcycle endorsement fee contact your local deputy registrar or
when you renew your license with call 651-297-2126.
your endorsement.
Motorcycle Insurance
License Fees All motorcycles registered in Minne-
Fees are determined by law and are sota must have liability insurance cover-
subject to change. age for property damage or injury
Motorcycle Fees to another party. No-fault injury and
* Motorcycle instruction uninsured motorist protections are
permit/endorsement fee . . . . $21.00 optional. Coverage for damage, loss or
motorcycle theft is also optional. The
** Motorcycle endorsement
Commissioner of Public Safety may
renewal (2 wheel only) . . . . . $13.00
revoke the registration and suspend the
Duplicate driver’s license . . . . $14.75 license of any motorcycle operator who
Motorized Bicycle Operator’s Permit does not carry the required insurance.
* Knowledge test and 30-day
instruction permit . . . . . . . . . . $6.75
IVMOTORCYCLE
Motorcycle Equipment Motorcycle Operating Rules
Requirements There are a number of basic operating
All motorcycles must have basic rules that are unique to two-wheeled
safety equipment in working condition. vehicles.
In addition to a rearview mirror, horn • The operator may ride only on a
and muffler, motorcycles must be permanent, regular seat.
equipped with the following: • A passenger may ride only on a
• At least one, and not more than permanent, regular passenger’s
two, headlights with high- and seat on the motorcycle or in a
low-beam settings. (Headlight sidecar attached to the vehicle.
modulators are legal in Minnesota.)
• Passengers may not ride on a
• One red taillight, including brake motorcycle unless they can reach
light/stop lamp. A blue dot of up the footrests on each side of the
to one inch in diameter on the tail- motorcycle with both feet while
light is legal. seated.
• Footrests or floorboards for a • Operators and passengers under
passenger must be provided if the 18 and those operating on a
motorcycle is equipped with a seat motorcycle permit must wear
designed or suited for use by a pas- DOT-approved helmets.
senger.
• The operator and the passenger
• At least one brake, front or rear, must sit astride the motorcycle seat,
which may be operated by hand facing forward, with one leg on
or foot. each side of the motorcycle (passen-
All provisions of Minnesota Statutes, gers in a sidecar are exempt).
Chapter 169, pertaining to other • Operators may not carry packages
motor vehicle equipment also apply or articles that interfere with
to motorcycles, except those which keeping both hands on the
by their nature have no application. handlebars.
Protective Eyewear • Operators may not ride a motor-
Motorcyclists are required to wear cycle between lanes of moving or
protective eyewear, such as glasses, stationary vehicles headed in the
goggles or a face shield, even if the same direction.
motorcycle is equipped with a wind-
screen. Contact lenses do not qualify • The operator must have the head-
as protective eyewear. light on at all times when riding
in Minnesota.
Helmets
Motorcyclists and passengers under
18 years of age and those operating
on a motorcycle permit must wear a
DOT-approved helmet. Helmet use is
strongly recommended by the Depart-
ment of Public Safety for all motor-
cyclists and passengers.
MOTORCYCLE V
Live to Ride. Alcohol and Red Light, Green Light:
Motorcycles Don’t Mix Minnesota Law
Riding a motorcycle requires more Minnesota law addresses instances
skills — and different skills — than when motorcycles, bicycles and mopeds
driving a car or truck. Because of this, are not detected by control systems at
alcohol use impairs a rider’s skills sooner traffic lights, and a signal change does
and more severely than a driver’s, even not occur.
at blood alcohol levels below the legal The law gives motorcyclists, bicyclists
level of .08. and moped riders the option to
Fact: drinking and riding kills motor- proceed through the intersection after
cyclists. State law requires that coroners a reasonable amount of time, and
test the blood alcohol level of traffic provides an affirmative legal defense to
crash victims who die within four hours this action, based on five conditions:
of a crash. About 40 percent of the • The motorcycle, bicycle or moped
motorcyclists killed since 2002 had has been brought to a complete
alcohol in their system. stop.
Minnesota State Patrol officers, local • The traffic-control signal continues
police and county sheriffs patrol Minne- to show a red light for an
sota highways every day to enforce unreasonable time.
DWI laws. In the past decade, they • The traffic-control signal is appar-
made about 30,000 DWI arrests per ently malfunctioning or, if pro-
year. A DWI will affect all your driving grammed to change to a green light
privileges — not only your privilege only after detecting the approach
to operate a motorcycle. of a motor vehicle, the signal has
If you drink, don’t ride, and if apparently failed to detect the
you ride, don’t drink. Do it for your motorcycle, bicycle or moped.
family and friends as well as for your • No vehicle or person is approaching
own safety. Set the example for other on the roadway to be crossed or
riders, and don’t be afraid to step in entered, or
when you see someone else about to
make a mistake. Do it for their families • Approaching vehicles or persons are
and their friends. so far away that they do not consti-
tute an immediate hazard.
For a summary of Minnesota laws
on driving and riding under the influ- The affirmative defense applies only
ence of alcohol and other drugs, and to an alleged violation for entering or
the consequences of doing so, please crossing an intersection controlled by
refer to chapter 8 of the Minnesota a traffic-control signal against a red
Driver’s Manual, available online at light. It does not provide a defense
dvs.dps.mn.gov to any other civil or criminal action.VI MOTORIZED BICYCLE AND MOPED
Motorized Bicycle The knowledge test includes questions
Motorized bicycles are registered as on driving laws and rules of the road
mopeds. A motorized bicycle must meet as well as information specific to two-
the following requirements: wheeled vehicles. In addition to this
• Electric motor or a liquid-fueled manual, study the Minnesota Driver’s
engine with piston displacement Manual.
of 50 cubic centimeters or less. When you have passed the knowledge
• Maximum of two brake horsepower. test and paid the $6.75 examination
fee, you will receive a 30-day moped
• Maximum speed of 30 mph on a instruction permit. This instruction
flat surface. permit allows you to practice riding
Moped Operator’s Permit a moped only within a one-mile radius
of your residence.
Any person who has a valid driver’s
license may operate a moped without For operators under the age of 16,
taking a moped test. Anyone without during the instruction permit period,
a driver’s license, regardless of age, only a parent or guardian of the operator
must obtain a moped operator’s permit may ride on the moped as a passenger.
to legally operate a moped (see section
below). You must carry your license or
Moped Operator’s Permit
permit with you when you ride. Skills Test
You must pass a skills test to obtain
Moped Instruction Permit a moped operator’s permit.
Process
When you take your skills test, you
To obtain a moped operator’s instruc- must bring:
tion permit you must: • Your 30-day moped operator’s
• Be at least 15 years old. instruction permit.
• Present proper identification. • Current proof of insurance for
• Present a certificate of completion the moped used for testing.
issued by a state approved moped • A DOT-approved helmet and eye
safety course. protection.
• Pass a vision screening. You will not be allowed to test if
• Pass a knowledge test. you do not have all of the above items.
If you are under 18 years old, you must A parental approval slip is required
meet these requirements and present a for persons under age 18. Approval
certified approval slip from your parent forms are available at license exam
or legal guardian before taking the stations.
knowledge test and skills test. Approval
The moped operator’s permit skills
forms are available at license exam
test consists of:
stations.
• Starting
To find out about moped safety courses
• Tight circles
near you, contact your local driver exam
station or call 800-407-6677. Find • Quick stop
course information and exam station • Turns (right and left)
locations at www.mndriveinfo.org or
call 651-297-2005. • Lane changingMOPED VII
• Stop signs and/or traffic lights • A horn and mirror are required
safety equipment for a moped.
• Right of way
• Moped riders must wear protective
This test is conducted on public streets,
eyewear.
unlike the motorcycle skills test. Upon
successful completion of the skills test • Moped riders under 18 years old
you will need to apply for a moped must wear a DOT-approved motor-
operator’s permit. cycle helmet.
If your moped operator’s permit is lost • The Department of Public Safety
or there is a change of name or address, recommends that moped operators
you may apply for a duplicate permit. observe the same rules of safety
and wear the same protective equip-
Moped Vehicle Registration
ment suggested for motorcycle riders.
Mopeds must be registered, and
registrations must be renewed annually. Moped Operating Rules
The vehicle must display current regis- These rules and restrictions apply to
tration tabs. Registration and renewal operating mopeds:
can be done at any Driver and Vehicle
• Because of the relatively low speeds
Services deputy registrar’s office.
of mopeds, you should ride in the
Moped traffic lane as far right on the road-
Insurance Requirements way as possible unless you are
making a left turn. Riding on side-
All mopeds registered in Minnesota walks is not permitted except where
must have liability insurance coverage it would be necessary for a short
for property damage or injury to another distance to get from a driveway, alley
party. No-fault injury and uninsured or building to an adjacent roadway.
motorist protections are optional. Cover-
age for damage, loss or moped theft • Mopeds are not allowed on lanes
is also optional. The Commissioner of or trails that have been set aside
Public Safety may revoke the registration for bicycles and the exclusive use
and suspend the license of any moped of non-motorized traffic.
operator who does not carry the required • Moped riders on a roadway shall not
insurance. ride more than two abreast and shall
not impede the normal and reason-
Moped able movement of traffic.
Equipment Requirements
• Mopeds are not allowed on inter-
These rules apply to required equip-
state freeways.
ment and gear for moped riders:
• A moped must meet the same • A moped equipped with a headlight
lighting requirements as a motor- and taillight that meet motorcycle
cycle, with a headlight, taillight and lighting requirements may be oper-
stop lamp. The headlight must be on ated during nighttime hours. “Night”
during operation. Mopeds manufac- or “nighttime” means the time from
tured before 1987 are not normally one-half hour after sunset to one-half
equipped with a headlight or taillight hour before sunrise.
and may be operated during daylight
hours only.MINNESOTA RIDER TRAINING
VIII AND EDUCATION
Basic Rider Course (BRC) Motorcycle Road Guard
The basic rider course is intended for A person who holds a motorcycle
novice riders — no experience is neces- road guard certificate may operate as
sary — but experienced riders benefit a flagger and stop and hold vehicles
from this course, as well. Training in place to direct motorcycles within a
motorcycles are provided. A rider 18 motorcycle group ride through an inter-
years of age or older who has a valid section. Drivers of vehicles stopped by
motorcycle permit can earn a motor- a flagger may only proceed if instructed
cycle endorsement upon successful by a flagger or police officer.
completion of the skills test at the
end of the course (skills test waiver). Training
Riders younger than 18 years of age The Minnesota Motorcycle Safety
are required to take the BRC before Center has been authorized to provide
taking the state motorcycle knowledge training for the motorcycle road guard
(permit) and skills tests. certificate. Information on becoming
a motorcycle road guard and training
Special Evening Hours for can be found on the Minnesota
State Riding Test Department of Public Safety Office
The Minnesota Department of of Traffic Safety Website at
Public Safety Office of Driver and https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ots.
Vehicle Services has a convenient
evening testing program just for
motorcycle riders. Several exam stations
Visit www.motorcyclesafety.org or
800-407-6677 for more information.1 PREFACE
Welcome to the Seventeenth Edition This latest edition has undergone
of the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual significant improvements, and contains
(MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely new, more in-depth information,
in traffic requires special skills and designed to:
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety • Guide riders in preparing to ride
Foundation (MSF) has made this manual safely
available to help novice motorcyclists
reduce their risk of having a crash. The • Develop effective street strategies
manual conveys essential safe riding • Give riders more comprehensive
information and has been designed understanding of safe group riding
for use in licensing programs. While practices
designed for the novice, all motorcyclists
• Describe in detail best practices for
can benefit from the information this
carrying passengers and cargo
manual contains.
In promoting improved licensing
The original Motorcycle Operator
programs, the MSF works closely with
Manual was developed by the National
state licensing agencies. The Foundation
Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI)
has helped more than half the states
under contract to the National Highway
in the nation adopt the Motorcycle
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Operator Manual for use in their
and within the terms of a cooperative
licensing systems.
agreement between NHTSA and the
MSF. The manual and related tests Improved licensing, along with high
were used in a multi-year study of quality motorcycle rider education and
improved motorcycle operator licensing increased public awareness, has the
procedures, conducted by the California potential to reduce crashes. Staff at
Department of Motor Vehicles under the Foundation are available to assist
contract to NHTSA. governmental and private agencies in
efforts to improve motorcycle safety.
The purpose of this manual is to
educate riders and to help them avoid
crashes while safely operating either
a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a
three-wheel motorcycle. Tim Buche
President,
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
msf-usa.org1 THE RIDER AND THE MOTORCYCLE
Motorcycling is a
RIDING ENVIRONMENT
unique experience.
Compared to a car,
you don’t sit in a
motorcycle, you
become part of it.
Not as a passive
driver, but as an
active rider arcing
into a string of
smooth corners,
playing along with
the rhythm of the
road; shifting,
accelerating,
and braking
with precision.
Whether you
ride to and from
work or prefer you, and supports the concept that,
the camaraderie of a group ride on the as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
weekend, motorcycling engages all your says, “Safe riding depends as much
senses and creates an invigorating sense on the mental skills of awareness and
of freedom. judgment as it does on a physical skill of
Along with that freedom comes maneuvering the machine.”
responsibility. All states require Successfully piloting a motorcycle is a
some form of license endorsement much more involved task than driving a
demonstrating you possess a minimum car. Motorcycling requires a fine sense
level of skill and knowledge. This of balance and a heightened sense of
booklet and other motorcycle awareness and position amidst other
publications can help prepare you to roadway users. A motorcycle responds
be successful. You might also consider more quickly to rider inputs than a car,
taking a formal hands-on training but is also more sensitive to outside
course, even if your state doesn’t require forces, like irregular road surfaces or
that you complete one. You’ll learn how crosswinds. A motorcycle is also less
to improve your riding skills and mental visible than a car due to its narrower
strategies, so you can be a safer, more profile, and offers far less protection by
alert rider. exposing its rider to other traffic and
The diagram above illustrates the the elements. All these risks can be
complex environment that awaits managed through study, training, and
practice.PREPARING TO RIDE 2
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 a helmet kept a rider from spotting
danger.
When you ride, your gear is “right”
if it protects you. In any crash, you have • Most crashes happenon short
trips (less than five miles long), just
a far better chance of avoiding serious
a few minutes after starting out.
injury if you wear:
• Most ridersare riding slower than
• A DOT-compliant helmet. 30 mph when a crash occurs. At
• Face or eye protection. these speeds, helmets can cut both
the number and the severity of head
• Protective clothing.
injuries by half.
Helmet Use No matter what the speed, helmeted
Crashes can occur — particularly riders are three times more likely to
among untrained, beginning riders. survive head injuries than those not
And one out of every five motorcycle wearing helmets at the time of the
crashes results in head or neck injuries. crash. The single most important thing
Head injuries are just as severe as neck you can do to improve your chances of
injuries — and far more common. Crash surviving a crash is to wear a securely-
analyses show that head and neck fastened, quality helmet.
injuries account for a majority of serious
Helmet Selection
and fatal injuries to motorcyclists.
Research also shows that, with few There are two primary types of
exceptions, head and neck injuries are helmets, providing two different levels
reduced by properly wearing a quality of coverage: three-quarter and full face.
helmet. Whichever style you choose, you can
Some riders don’t wear helmets get the most protection by making sure
because they think helmets will limit that the helmet:
their view to the sides. Others wear • Is designed to meet U.S.
helmets only on long trips or when Department of Transportation
riding at high speeds. But, here are (DOT) and state standards. Helmets
some facts to consider: with a label from the Snell Memorial
Foundation also give you an
• A DOT-compliant helmetlets assurance of quality.
you see as far to the sides as
necessary. A study of more than • Fits snugly,all the way around.
900 motorcycle crashes, where • Has no obvious defects such as
40% of the riders wore helmets, cracks, loose padding or frayed
did not find even one case in which straps.3 PREPARING TO RIDE
Whatever helmet you
decide on, keep it securely HELMETS
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 impact-resistant
faceshield can help protect
your whole face in a
crash. It also protects you Clothing
from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and
pebbles thrown up from cars ahead. The right clothing protects you in
These problems are distracting and a collision. It also provides comfort,
can be painful. If you have to deal as well as protection from heat, cold,
with them, you can’t devote your full debris and hot and moving parts of the
attention to the road. motorcycle. It can also make you more
visible to others.
Goggles protect your eyes, though
they won’t protect the rest of your face • Jacket and pantsshould cover
like a faceshield does. A windshield arms and legs completely. They
is not a substitute for a faceshield or should fit snugly enough to keep
goggles. Most windshields will not from flapping in the wind, yet
protect your eyes from the wind. Neither loosely enough to move freely.
will eyeglasses or sunglasses. Glasses Leather offers the most protection.
won’t keep your eyes from watering, Sturdy synthetic material provides
and they might blow off when you turn a lot of protection as well. Wear
your head while riding. a jacket even in warm weather to
prevent dehydration. Many are
To be effective, eye or faceshield designed to protect without getting
protection must: you overheated, even on summer
• Be freeof scratches. days. Some riders choose jackets
• Be resistantto penetration. and pants with rigid “body armor”
inserts in critical areas for additional
• Give a clear viewto either side. protection.
• Fasten securely,so it does not
• Boots or shoesshould be high
blow off.
and sturdy enough to cover your
• Permit airto pass through, to ankles and give them support. Soles
reduce fogging. should be made of hard, durable,
• Permit enough roomfor slip-resistant material. Keep heels
eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed. short so they do not catch on rough
Tinted eye protection should not be surfaces. Tuck in laces so they won’t
worn when little light is available. catch on your motorcycle.4
• Glovesallow a better grip and help KNOW YOUR
protect your hands in a crash. Your
gloves should be made of leather or
MOTORCYCLE
similar durable material. There are plenty of things on the
highway that can cause you trouble.
• Hearing protection reduces
Your motorcycle should not be one
noise while allowing you to hear
of them. To make sure that your
important sounds such as car horns
motorcycle won’t let you down:
or sirens. Long term exposure to
engine and wind noise can cause • Startwith the right motorcycle
permanent hearing damage even for you.
if you wear a full face helmet. • Readthe owner’s manual.
Whether you choose disposable
foam plugs or reusable custom • Be familiarwith the motorcycle
molded devices, be sure you adhere controls.
to state laws regarding hearing • Checkthe motorcycle before
protection. every ride.
In cold or wet weather, your clothes • Keepit in safe riding condition
should keep you warm and dry, as between rides.
well as protect you from injury. You
• Avoidadd-ons and modifications
cannot control a motorcycle well if
that make your motorcycle harder
you are numb. Riding for long periods
to handle.
in cold weather can cause severe chill
and fatigue. A winter jacket should The Right Motorcycle For You
resist wind and fit snugly at the neck,
First, make sure your motorcycle is
wrists and waist. Good-quality rainsuits
right for you. It should “fit” you. Your
designed for motorcycle riding resist
feet should reach the ground while
tearing apart or ballooning up at high
you are seated on the motorcycle, and
speeds.
the controls should be easy to operate.
Smaller motorcycles are usually easier
for beginners to operate.
CLOTHING At a minimum, your street-legal
motorcycle should have:
• Headlight, taillight and
brakelight.
TEST YOURSELF 1
A plastic shatter-resistant 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 455 PREPARING TO RIDE
• Front and rear brakes. involve riders with less than five months
of experience on their motorcycle.
• Turn signals.
• Horn. Get Familiar with the
• Two mirrors.
Motorcycle Controls
Make sure you are completely familiar
Borrowing and Lending with the motorcycle before you take
Borrowers and lenders of motorcycles, it out on the street. Be sure to review
beware. Crashes are more likely to occur the owner’s manual. This is particularly
among beginning riders — especially important if you are riding a borrowed
in the first months of riding. Riding motorcycle.
an unfamiliar motorcycle adds to the If you are going to use an unfamiliar
problem. If you borrow a motorcycle, motorcycle:
get familiar with it in a controlled area.
And if you lend your motorcycle to • Make all the checksyou would on
friends, make sure they are licensed and your own motorcycle.
know how to ride before allowing them • Find out where everything is,
out into traffic. particularly the turn signals, horn,
No matter how experienced you headlight switch, fuel-supply valve
may be, ride extra carefully on any and engine cut-off switch. Find and
motorcycle that’s new or unfamiliar operate these items without having
to you. More than half of all crashes to look for them.
MOTORCYCLE CONTROLS6
• Know the controls.Work the • Try the front and rear brake levers
throttle, clutch, brakes, and shifter a one at a time. Make sure each feels
few times before you start riding. firm and holds the motorcycle when
fully applied.
• Ride very cautiouslyand be aware
of surroundings. Accelerate gently, C — Controls
take turns more slowly and leave • Make sure the clutch and throttle
extra room for stopping. operate smoothly. The throttle
Check Your Motorcycle should snap back to fully closed
when released. The clutch should
A motorcycle needs more frequent feel tight and should operate
attention than a car. A minor technical smoothly.
failure on a car is seldom more than an
• Try the horn. Make sure it works.
inconvenience for the driver. The same
failure on a motorcycle may result in a L — Lights and Electrics
crash or having to leave your motorcycle • Check both headlight and taillight.
parked on the side of the road. If Test your switch to make sure both
anything’s wrong with your motorcycle, high and low beams work.
you’ll want to find out about it before
you get in traffic. • Turn on both right and left hand
turn signals. Make sure all lights are
The primary source of information working properly.
about how a motorcycle should be
• Try both brakes and make sure each
inspected and maintained is its owner’s
one turns on the brake light.
manual. Be sure to absorb all of its
important information. A motorcycle will • Clean and adjust your mirrors
continue to ride like new if it is properly before starting. It’s difficult to ride
maintained and routine inspections with one hand while you try to
become part of its maintenance cycle. adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror
so you can see the lane behind and
A pre-ride inspection only takes
as much as possible of the lane next
a few minutes and should be done
to you. When properly adjusted, a
before every ride to prevent problems. mirror may show the edge of your
It’s quick and easy to check the critical arm or shoulder – but it’s the road
components and should be as routine behind you and to the side that are
and automatic as checking the weather most important.
forecast before heading out for the day.
A convenient reminder developed by O — Oil and Other Fluids
MSF is T-CLOCSSM. There is a T-CLOCS • Check engine oil and transmission
“tear-out” sheet at the back of this fluid levels.
manual for you to keep with you when
• Check the brake hydraulic fluid and
you ride. A T-CLOCS inspection should coolant level weekly.
be conducted before every ride, and
includes checks of: • Be sure your fuel valve is open
before starting out. With the fuel
T — Tires and Wheels
valve closed, your motorcycle may
• Check tire inflation pressure, start with only the fuel that is still in
treadwear and general condition of the lines, but will stall once the lines
sidewalls and tread surface. are empty.7 PREPARING TO RIDE
• Look underneath the motorcycle for responsibility to look before pulling out.
signs of an oil or fuel leak. Both of you are at fault. Someone else
C — Chassis might be the first to start the chain of
events leading to a crash, but it doesn’t
• Check the front suspension. Ensure leave any of us free of responsibility.
there is no binding. The rear shocks
and springs should move smoothly. As a rider you can’t be sure that other
operators will see you or yield the right
• Be sure the chain or belt is adjusted of way. To lessen your chances of a
according to the manufacturer’s crash occurring:
specifications and that the sprockets
are not worn or damaged. • Be visible— wear proper clothing,
use your headlight, ride in the best
S — Stands
lane position to see and be seen.
• Ensure the side stand operates
• Communicate your intentions—
smoothly and that the spring holds
use the proper signals, brake light
it tightly in the up position. If
and lane position.
equipped, the center stand should
also be held firmly against the frame • Maintain an adequate space
whenever the motorcycle is moving. cushion — when following, being
followed, lane sharing, passing and
Additionally, regular maintenance
being passed.
such as tune-ups and oil changes are as
important for a motorcycle as routine • Search your pathof travel 12
checkups by your doctor are for you. seconds ahead.
Wear and tear is normal with use; • Identify and separatehazards.
routine maintenance will help prevent
costly breakdowns. The schedule for • Be prepared to act— remain alert
regular upkeep for motorcycle parts and know how to carry out proper
and controls is contained in your crash-avoidance skills.
motorcycle’s owner’s manual. Blame doesn’t matter when someone
is injured in a crash. The ability to ride
KNOW YOUR aware, make critical decisions and carry
RESPONSIBILITIES them out separates responsible riders
“Accident” implies an unforeseen from the rest. Remember, it is up to you
event that occurs without fault or to keep from being the cause of, or an
negligence. In traffic, that is not the unprepared participant in, any crash.
case. In fact, most people involved in a
crash can claim some responsibility for
TEST YOURSELF 2
what takes place.
More than half of all crashes:
Consider a situation where someone
decides to drive through an intersection A. Occur at speeds greater than
35mph.
on a yellow light turning red. Your
B. Happen at night.
light turns green. You pull into the
intersection without checking for C. Are caused by worn tires.
possible traffic. That is all it takes for the D. Involve riders who have less than
five months of experience on their
two of you to crash. It was the driver’s motorcycles.
responsibility to stop, and it was your Answer - page 45RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES 8
This manual cannot teach you how to control direction, speed or balance.
That’s something you can learn only through practice, preferably in a formal
course of instruction like an MSF RiderCourse. But control begins with knowing
your abilities and riding within them, along with knowing and obeying the rules
of the road.
BASIC VEHICLE CONTROL throttle. Also, adjust the handlebars
so your hands are even with or
Body Position below your elbows. This permits
To control a motorcycle well: you to use the proper muscles for
precision steering.
• Posture— Position yourself
comfortably so you are able to • Knees— Keep your knees against
operate all the controls and can use the gas tank to help you keep your
your arms to steer the motorcycle, balance as the motorcycle turns.
rather than to hold yourself up. • Feet— Keep your feet firmly on the
This helps you bond with your footrests to maintain balance. Don’t
motorcycle and allows you to react drag your feet. If your foot catches
quickly to hazards. on something, you could be injured
• Seat— Sit far enough forward so and it could affect your control of
that arms are slightly bent when the motorcycle. Keep your feet near
you hold the handgrips. Bending the controls so you can get to them
your arms permits you to press on fast if needed. Also, don’t let your
the handlebars without having to toes point downward — they may
stretch. get caught between the road and
the footrests.
• Hands— Hold the handgrips
firmly to keep your grip over rough Shifting Gears
surfaces. Start with your right There is more to shifting gears than
wrist flat. This will help you keep simply getting the motorcycle to pick
from accidentally using too much up speed smoothly. Learning to use the
gears when downshifting, turning or
HOLDING HANDGRIPS starting on hills is equally important for
safe motorcycle operation.
The gearshift lever is located in front
of the left footrest and is operated by
the left foot. To shift “up” to a higher
gear, position your foot under the
shift lever and lift. To downshift, press
the shift lever down. The shift lever
changes one gear each time it is lifted
or pressed down. Whenever the lever
is released, spring loading returns it to
center, where the mechanism resets
for the next shift up or down. A typical
gear pattern is 1-N-2-3-4-5. The N is9 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
for neutral, which is selected by either When downshifting, use a 3-step
a “half lift” from 1st gear or a “half process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you
press” from 2nd gear. Most motorcycles squeeze the clutch lever, 2) press the
have five gears, but some have four or shift lever down firmly, 3) ease out the
six gears. clutch lever as you roll on the throttle.
Once the shift is completed, release
SHIFTING GEARS the shift lever to permit it to reset for
the next shift. Rolling on the throttle
slightly while smoothly easing out the
clutch can help the engine come up
to speed more quickly and make the
downshift smoother. Shifting to a lower
gear causes an effect similar to using
the brakes. This is known as engine
braking. To use engine braking, shift
down one gear at a time and ease out
the clutch through the friction zone
between each downshift. Keep the
clutch in the friction zone until the
engine speed stabilizes. Then ease out
As your motorcycle increases
the lever fully until ready for the next
speed, you will need to shift up to a
downshift. Usually you shift gears one at
higher gear. Shift up well before the
a time, but it is possible to shift through
engine RPM reaches its maximum
more than one gear while the clutch is
recommended speed. As a general rule,
squeezed.
shift up soon enough to avoid over-
revving the engine, but not so soon to Remain in first gear while you are
cause the engine to lug. stopped so that you can move out
quickly if you need to.
When upshifting, use a 3-step
process: 1) Roll off the throttle as you Work toward a smooth, even clutch
squeeze the clutch lever, 2) lift the release, especially when downshifting. It
shift lever firmly as far as it will go, 3) is best to change gears before entering
smoothly ease out the clutch and adjust a turn. However, sometimes shifting
the throttle. Once the shift is completed, while in the turn is necessary. If so,
release the shift lever to permit it to remember to do so smoothly. A sudden
reset for the next shift. change in power to the rear wheel can
cause a skid.
You should shift down through the
gears with the clutch as you slow or Braking
stop, and can also shift down when you
need more power to accelerate. Improper braking technique remains
a significant contributing factor in many
Make certain you are riding slowly motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle
enough when you shift into a lower has two brake controls: one for the
gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, front wheel and one for the rear wheel.
and the rear wheel may skid. When Always use both brakes every time you
riding downhill or shifting into first gear slow or stop. The front brake is more
you may need to use the brakes to slow powerful and can provide at least 70%
enough before downshifting safely.10
of your total stopping power. The front road and traffic conditions, try to get the
brake is safe to use if you use it properly. motorcycle as perpendicular to the road
as possible, then brake. If conditions do
Maximum straight-line braking is
not allow, brake smoothly and gradually,
accomplished by fully applying both
but do not apply as much braking force
front and rear brakes without locking
as you would if the motorcycle were
either wheel.
straight up. As you slow, you can reduce
To do this: your lean angle, and as more traction
• Squeeze the front brake becomes available for braking, you can
smoothly, firmly and with more firmly apply the brakes, so that
progressively more force. Do not by the time the motorcycle is stopped,
grab the brake lever or use abrupt the motorcycle is straight up, and the
pressure. handlebars are squared.
• As the motorcycle’s weight
Linked and Integrated
transfers forward, more traction
becomes available at the front Braking Systems
wheel, so the front brake can be Some motorcycles have linked braking
applied harder after braking begins. which connects the front and rear
• Keep your knees against the brakes on the motorcycle and applies
tank and your eyes up, looking braking pressure to both brakes when
well ahead. This helps you stop the either the front lever or rear pedal is
motorcycle in a straight line. applied. An integrated braking system
is a variation of the linked system in
• Apply light-to-lighter pressure which partial front braking is applied
to the rear brake pedal to prevent a whenever the rear brake is activated.
rear wheel skid. As weight transfers Consult your owner’s manual for a
forward less traction is available detailed explanation on the operation
at the rear. Use less rear brake and effective use of these systems.
pressure.
Anti-Lock Braking Systems
Using both brakes for even “normal”
stops will permit you to develop the (ABS)
proper habit or skill of using both brakes ABS is designed to prevent wheel
properly in an emergency. Squeeze the lock-up and avoid skids when stopping
front brake and press down on the rear. in straight-line, panic situations. ABS
Grabbing at the front brake or jamming operates when maximum pressure on
down on the rear can cause the brakes both the front and rear brake controls
to lock, resulting in control problems. is applied. If electronic sensors detect
the possibility of a wheel lock, brake
Braking in a Corner hydraulic pressure is released then
Any time a motorcycle is leaned over, reapplied to maintain maximum braking
the amount of traction available for effectiveness.
braking is reduced. The greater the lean
The system is capable of releasing and
angle, the more the possibility of the
reapplying pressure more than 15 times
tires losing traction.
per second.
To stop as quickly and as safely as
possible in a curve, and depending on11 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
Turning In normal turns, the rider and the
motorcycle should lean together at the
Approach turns and curves with
same angle.
caution. Riders often try to take curves
or turns too fast. When they can’t hold
NORMAL TURNS
the turn, they end up crossing into
another lane of traffic or going off the
road. Or, they overreact and brake too
hard, causing a skid and loss of control.
Use four steps for better control:
• SLOW — Reduce speed before the
turn by closing the throttle and, if
necessary, applying both brakes.
• LOOK— Look through the turn
to where you want to go. Turn
just your head, not your shoulders,
and keep your eyes level with the
horizon.
• PRESS — To turn, the motorcycle
must lean. To lean the motor-
cycle, press on the handgrip in In slow, tight turns, counterbalance by
the direction of the turn. Press left leaning the motorcycle only and keeping
handgrip — lean left — go left. your body straight.
Press right handgrip — lean right
— go right. The higher the speed in SLOW, TIGHT TURNS
a turn, or the sharper the turn, the
greater the lean angle needs to be.
• ROLL — Roll on the throttle to
maintain or slightly increase speed.
This helps stabilize the motorcycle.
TEST YOURSELF 3
When riding, you should:
A. Turn your head and shoulders
to look through turns.
B. Keep your arms straight.
C. Keep your knees away from
the gas tank.
D. Turn just your head and eyes
to look where you are going.
Answer - page 4512
KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE • Avoid windblast from other vehicles.
The best protection you can have is • Provide an escape route.
distance — a “cushion of space” — • Set up for turns.
separating yourself from other vehicles
on the roadway. This will provide you Many motorcyclists consider the left
with a clear view of emerging traffic third of the lane – the left tire track of
situations, so that if someone else automobiles – to be their default lane
makes a mistake, you will have: position. You should then consider
varying your lane position as conditions
• More time to respond. warrant, keeping in mind that no
• More space to maneuver, including portion of the lane need be avoided —
an escape route if necessary. including the center.
You should position yourself in the
Lane Positions portion of the lane where you are most
Successful motorcyclists know that likely to be seen and you can maintain
they are safer when clearly seen. In a space cushion around you. Change
some ways the size of the motorcycle position as traffic situations change.
can work to your advantage. Each traffic Ride in path 2 or 3 if vehicles and other
lane gives a motorcycle three paths of potential problems are on your left
travel, as indicated in the illustration. only. Remain in path 1 or 2 if hazards
are on your right only. If vehicles are
Your lane position should help you:
being operated on both sides of you,
• Increase your ability to see and be the center of the lane, path 2, is usually
seen. your best option.
• Avoid others’ blind spots. Remember, the center third of the
lane is the place where debris and oil
• Avoid surface hazards. drippings from cars collect and where
• Protect your lane from other drivers. hazards such as manhole covers are
located. Unless the road is wet, the
• Communicate your intentions. average center strip permits adequate
LANE POSITIONS13 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
FOLLOWING
traction to ride on safely. You can thousand-one, one-thousand-two.”
operate to the left or right of the grease • If you reach the marker before
strip and still be within the center third you reach “two,” you are following
of the traffic lane. Avoid riding on big too closely.
buildups of oil and grease usually found
at busy intersections or tollbooths. A two-second following distance
leaves a minimum amount of space to
Experienced riders rely on their own stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops
best judgment and instincts. One suddenly. It also permits a better view of
absolute, however, is to avoid riding in potholes and other hazards in the road.
another vehicle’s blind spot.
A larger cushion of space is needed
Following Another Vehicle if your motorcycle will take longer
“Following too closely” is a factor in than normal to stop. If the pavement
crashes involving motorcyclists. In traffic, is slippery, if you cannot see through
motorcycles need as much distance the vehicle ahead, or if traffic is heavy
to stop as cars. Normally, a minimum and someone may squeeze in front of
of two seconds distance should be you, open up a three-second or more
maintained behind the vehicle ahead. following distance.
To gauge your following distance: Keep well behind the vehicle ahead
even when you are stopped. This will
• Pick out a marker,such as a make it easier to get out of the way
pavement marking or lamppost, on if someone bears down on you from
or near the road ahead. behind. It will also give you a cushion of
• When the rear bumperof the space if the vehicle ahead starts to back
vehicle ahead passes the marker, up for some reason.
count off the seconds: “one- When behind a car, ride where theYou can also read
