Safe Riding Tips

(Reprinted with copyright permission of the MSF)

Motorcycling is a fun, exciting and practical way to get around. But, like any other activity,
it has risks. The reality is that you are exposed and vulnerable; it is up to you to avoid
accidents and injury. Risk - and how you treat it - is what safe cycling is all about. To help
you reduce and manage risk, use the following tips as a guide:

1. Know your skills. Take a beginning or experienced RiderCourse from a
   Motorcycle Safety Foundation recognized training center. Call 1-800-446-
   9227 for the RiderCourse nearest you. The more you know, the better rider
   you become!

2. Know the rules of the road and respect other road users. Don’t forget,
   riding is a privilege. Get yourself and your motorcycle properly licensed; get
   insurance if required. Know the limits of your skills, your motorcycle, and
   the road conditions so you don’t ride over your head.
   

3. Ride with the right gear. A helmet, eye protection, sturdy jacket, pants
   boots, and gloves are your best defense against accident injury. It can
   happen to you!
   

4. Ride aware. A car turning left across your path is the most frequent
   accident. Three-fourths of motorcycle accidents involve collisions with other
   vehicles, the majority caused by the other driver. Intersections can be bad
   spots, so slow down and be prepared to react. We repeat: It can happen to
   you!
   

5. Ride to survive. Be seen and not hit. You aren’t as big as a Mack truck, but
   you can attract attention. Wear bright clothing, use your headlight and
   bright colored fairings, select a lane and a position within a lane to be seen,
   avoid rapid lane changes, and keep looking around - you don’t need
   surprises!