A motorcycle needs to lean in order to turn. To make this happen, press on the handgrip in the direction you want to turn.

To increase your chances of being seen at an intersection, leave your headlight turned on and ride in a lane position that most easily allows oncoming traffic to see you. Maintain a space cushion that allows you to take evasive action if necessary. Never assume that another driver sees you, even if you make eye contact with the driver.

You should clean and adjust both mirrors before starting your motorcycle. Adjust your mirrors so you can see the lane behind you and as much as possible of the lane next to you.

The cornering characteristics of a three-wheeled motorcycle or a motorcycle with a sidecar differ from those of a two-wheeled motorcycle.

Motorcycles generally have two brakes, one for the front wheel and one for the rear wheel.

Because of the presence of oil deposits, the center strip of a lane can be hazardous when wet. When rain starts to fall, it is best to ride in the tire tracks left by cars. It is advisable to reduce your speed on wet surfaces.

Loads carried in a sidecar should be secured so that they do not shift and affect the motorcycle's handling. Loads should be distributed toward the rear of the sidecar to reduce tipping of the nose of the sidecar in the event of a sudden left turn.

A skidding rear tire is a dangerous condition that can result in a violent crash and serious injury or death. Too much rear brake pressure can cause the rear wheel to lock. As soon as the rear wheel locks, your ability to change direction is lost. To regain control, the brake must be released.

Any U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmet is required to have an impact-resistant outer shell, an impact-absorbing inner liner, a comfort liner, and a chinstrap retention system.

When riding, keep your knees against the gas tank to help maintain your balance in turns. Sit so that you can use your arms to steer rather than to prop yourself up. Sit far enough forward that your arms are slightly bent when you hold the handgrips, and keep your feet firmly on the footrests.

To ride safely on a slippery surface, you should reduce your speed and avoid making sudden moves. Use both brakes if you must slow down or stop.

When riding, you should wear sturdy footwear that is high enough to cover and support your ankles. Short-heeled footwear is best because taller heels may catch on rough surfaces. Laces should be tucked in so that they can't be caught on anything.

A windshield is not an adequate substitute for the protection offered by goggles or a face shield. Most windshields will not protect your eyes from the wind.

Unlike drivers of larger vehicles, a motorcyclist has three lane position options in their travel lane. The rider should select whichever position is safest based on road and traffic conditions.

The three major factors that affect a person's blood alcohol content (BAC) are the amount of alcohol consumed, how fast the alcohol was consumed, and the drinker's body weight. It is illegal and dangerous to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Because it is more difficult to see and judge distances in the dark than in daylight, you should maintain an expanded following distance of at least three seconds when riding at night. It may take you longer than usual to realize the vehicle in front of you has stopped and you may need additional time to slow or stop to avoid hitting the vehicle.