The best way to deal with a tailgater is to get them in front of you. If you can do so safely, change lanes and let them pass. Increasing your speed may only encourage the driver to tailgate you at a higher speed.

Lengthen your following distance when traveling on a slippery surface. If it will take longer than usual for your motorcycle to stop, open up to a longer following distance.

Your owner's manual should be your primary source for information about your specific motorcycle. Your manual will include information about the motorcycle's specifications, operation, and suggested maintenance.

Passengers should get on a motorcycle only after the engine has been started and the transmission is put in neutral. They should sit as far forward as possible without hindering the operator's control of the motorcycle and should hold onto the operator's waist, hips, or belt.

If you need to stop quickly, apply both the front and rear brakes at the same time.

Braking in a turn is not as easy as braking on a straightaway. It is possible to use both brakes to brake in a turn, but the operator must know the proper technique and exercise great care.

A motorcycle may weave while riding over rain grooves or bridge gratings, but this is generally not dangerous. If your motorcycle begins to weave, simply relax and proceed straight ahead at a steady speed. Trying to ride in a zigzag pattern to compensate for the weave will only increase the hazard.

Do everything you safely can to avoid hitting an animal in the road. If you are in traffic, however, you should remain in your lane. Swerving into another lane of traffic to avoid hitting an animal can cause you to collide with another driver. Hitting something small is less dangerous than hitting something big.

Since all motorcycles are somewhat different, you should be very careful when using one that is new to you. Familiarize yourself with the motorcycle before setting off. Learn the gear pattern before riding by working the throttle, clutch, and brakes a few times.

Shifting to a lower gear causes an effect similar to using the brakes. For this reason, downshifting is also known as engine braking.

The added weight of a passenger in a sidecar will affect the handling of your motorcycle. Expect your motorcycle to require extra space to come to a complete stop.

Pre-ride motorcycle inspections are an important part of ensuring safe riding. Hydraulic fluids and coolants should be checked at least once a week.

Sturdy boots or shoes that are high enough to support the ankles can provide the best protection for motorcyclists. Laced up boots are best, but high-top boots or heavy shoes are fine. If a motorcyclist wears shoes that have long laces, they should be sure to securely tuck the laces away before riding.

If your throttle becomes stuck, try twisting it back and forth several times. If this does not free your throttle, immediately operate the engine cut-off switch and pull in the clutch at the same time.

High-quality rain suits designed for motorcycle riding will resist tearing and ballooning when a rider travels at high speeds.

Most wobbles are caused by improper loading of the motorcycle, unsuitable accessories, or incorrect tire pressure.

To be effective, an eye or face shield must be free of scratches; be resistant to penetration; allow clear views to both sides; fasten securely; permit air to pass through to prevent fogging; and allow room for eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed.

You should never count on eye contact to guarantee that a driver will yield to you. It is not uncommon for drivers to look directly at a motorcyclist but fail to consciously notice them.

When riding at night, use your high beam (unless you are following or meeting another car), take advantage of the headlights of other vehicles, and wear reflective materials to increase your visibility. You should always be flexible about your lane position, selecting whichever position will help you to see, be seen, and have an adequate space cushion.

Like any other vehicle, a motorcycle has blind spots that cannot be seen by a rider using their mirrors. A motorcyclist should always turn their head to check for vehicles or other hazards in their blind spot before changing lanes.

If you are not riding slowly enough when shifting into a lower gear, your motorcycle may lurch and the rear tire may skid, causing you to lose control of your motorcycle. Be sure that you are moving slowly enough before shifting into a lower gear.

When a group of motorcyclists is passing another vehicle on a two-lane road, the riders should pass the vehicle one at a time. Each motorcyclist should complete their pass before the next rider's pass begins.

Slow to a safe speed before beginning a turn and lean in the direction of the turn. Don't drag your feet on the roadway, as you could lose control if they catch on something. Always scan the roadway for other traffic.

Before every ride, you should check your motorcycle's tires, controls, chains, sprockets, shock absorbers, fasteners, and brakes. A small mechanical issue on a motorcycle can be extremely dangerous in traffic.

When riding, wear boots or shoes that are high and sturdy enough to cover and support your ankles. Heels should be short so they don't catch on rough surfaces. Laces should be tucked in so they can't catch onto the moving parts of the motorcycle.