Wisconsin Motorcyclists Handbook Flashcards

Wisconsin Motorcyclists' Handbook Flashcards Use four steps for better control when turning: 1. SLOW: Reduce speed before the turn by closing the

throttle and, if necessary, applying both brakes.2. 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.3. LEAN: To turn, the motorcycle must

lean. To lean the motorcycle, press on the handgrip in the direction of the turn. Press left-lean left-go left. Press right-lean right-go right. Higher speeds and/or tighter turns

require the motorcycle to lean more.4. ROLL: Roll on the

throttle through the turn to stabilize suspension. Maintain steady speed or accelerate gradually through the turn. This will help keep the motorcycle stable. In normal turns, the rider and the motorcycle should lean together at the same angle.Type 1 MotorcycleVehicle that speeds in excess of 30 mph on a dry level hard surface road with no wind, with a power source as an integral part of the vehicle while carrying 150 lb. operator AND built with two wheels in tandem, seating for operator and may have a side car attach. No more than 3 wheels and 3 passengers.Five chances of being involved and seriously injured in a traffic crash are greater riding a cycle than driving

• A motorcycle is easily tipped over2. Weather and road

conditions make it difficult riding3. A motorcycle is small so other car drivers do not always see it.4. Other drivers disregard Rights of Cyclists5. In a crash, Motorcycle offers LITTLE protection

• reasons why you should always wear an approved

helmet

• Meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and

state standards. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) recommends helmets with a label from the Snell Memorial Foundation which gives you an added assurance of quality.2. Fits snugly, all the way around.3. Has no obvious defects such as cracks, loose padding or frayed straps.4.Whatever helmet you decide on, keep it securely fastened on your head when you ride.Once you have mounted the motorcycle, complete the

following checks before starting out:

1. Clutch and Throttle: Make sure they work smoothly. The

throttle should snap back when you let go. The clutch

should feel tight and smooth.2. Mirrors: Clean and adjust

both mirrors before starting. It's difficult to ride with one hand while you try to adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror so you can see the lane behind and as much as possible of the lane next to you. When properly adjusted, a mirror may

show the edge of your arm or shoulder: but it's the road

behind and to the side that's most important.3. Brakes: Try

the front and rear brake levers one at a time. Make sure each one feels firm and holds the motorcycle when the

brake is fully applied.4. Horn: Try the horn. Make sure it

works.Why should you keep your headlights always on? best way to help others see your motorcycle is to keep the headlight(s) on-at all times (although motorcycles sold in the U.S. since 1978 automatically have the headlights on when running.) Studies show that, during the day, a motorcycle with its light(s) on is twice as likely to be noticed. Use of the high beam during the day increases the

likelihood that oncoming drivers will see you. Use low beam at night, in inclement weather and when meeting and following other traffic.If you approach a blind intersectionmove to the portion of the lane that will bring you into another driver's field of vision at the earliest possible moment.

IF BRAKING IS REQUIRED, SEPARATE IT FROM

SWERVING.

Brake before or after-never while swerving.

Shifting Gears1. Shift down through the gears with the clutch as you slow or stop. Remain in first gear while you are stopped so that you can move out quickly if you need to2.you are riding slowly enough when you shift into a lower gear. If not, the motorcycle will lurch, and the rear wheel may skid.3. When riding downhill or shifting into first gear you may need to use the brakes to slow enough before downshifting safely.Work towards a smooth, even clutch release, especially when downshifting.4. It is best to change gears before entering a turn. However, sometimes shifting while in the turn is necessary. If so, remember to do so smoothly. A sudden change in power to the rear wheel can cause a skid.A four-second following distance leaves space to...stop or swerve if the driver ahead stops suddenly. It also permits a better view of potholes and other hazards in the road.EvaluateThink about how hazards can interact to create risks for you. Anticipate potential problems and have a plan to

reduce risks. Road and surface characteristics:Potholes,

guard rails, bridges, telephone poles and trees won't move into your path but may influence your riding strategy. Traffic

control devices:Look for traffic signals, including regulatory

signs, warning signs, and pavement markings to help you evaluate circumstances ahead. Vehicles and other

traffic:May move into your path and increase the likelihood

of a crash.When braking remember...1. Use both brakes every time you slow or stop. Using both brakes for even "normal" stops will permit you to develop the proper habit or skill of using both brakes properly in an emergency. Squeeze the front brake and press down on the rear. Grabbing at the front brake or jamming down on the rear can cause the brakes to lock, resulting in control problems.2. If you know the technique, using both brakes in a turn is possible, although it should be done very carefully.When leaning the motorcycle some of the traction is used for cornering. Less traction is available for stopping. A skid can occur if you apply too much brake. Also, using the front brake incorrectly on a slippery surface may be hazardous.Use caution and squeeze the brake lever, never grab.3.Some motorcycles have integrated braking systems that link the front and rear brakes together by applying the rear brake pedal. (Consult the owner's manual for a detailed explanation on the operation and effective use of these systems.)