To shift up to a higher gear, position your foot under the shift lever and lift.

Make sure your motorcycle's transmission is in neutral before you start the engine. Most motorcycles have a neutral indicator on the speedometer that lights up when the ignition switch is on and the cycle is in neutral.

Wearing a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmet can help protect you against head and neck injuries in the event of a crash. A jacket made of leather or sturdy synthetic material can also protect you against injuries.

The front brake of a motorcycle is more powerful that the rear brake and can provide at least 70 percent of the bike's total stopping power.

Traction may be poor on surfaces such as wet, snowy, icy, or muddy pavement; gravel roads; lane markings; and steel plates and utility hole covers.

The greatest potential for conflict between you and other traffic exists at intersections.

The belief that a helmet will restrict a wearer's vision is misguided. Any helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards will allow the wearer to see as far to the sides as is necessary for safe riding.

Before setting out on a ride, you should make sure that your motorcycle's fuel supply valve is open. If the fuel valve is closed, the engine may still start with the fuel that is remaining in the lines from a previous ride, but it will stall once the lines are empty.

Most motorcycle crashes occur in broad daylight, so wearing brightly-colored, reflective clothing while riding is advised no matter the time of day.

You should increase your following distance if it will take your motorcycle longer than normal to stop, if you can't see through the vehicle ahead of you, or if traffic is heavy and other vehicles are likely to try to squeeze in front of you.

Georgia law requires a rider to wear eye protection when on a moving motorcycle. A full face shield provides a rider with the best possible protection.

Following too closely, or "tailgating," can be a major factor in collisions caused by motorcycles. When riding behind another vehicle, maintain a safe following distance.

Some motorcycles have integrated braking systems that link the front and rear brakes together when the rider applies the rear brake pedal. It is important to consult your owner's manual for details on your specific motorcycle's braking system.

To remain aware of your surroundings, it is not enough to rely only on your mirrors. Motorcycles have blind spots just like any other vehicle.

Before beginning a ride, you should ask your passenger to mount the motorcycle only after the engine has been started. They should sit as far forward as they can without crowding you and hold onto the motorcycle's passenger handholds or onto your waist, hips, or belt. They should keep their legs away from the muffler, chains, and other moving parts.

Long-term exposure to wind and engine noise can damage your hearing, even if you wear a helmet. It is a good idea to use hearing protection every time you ride to help prevent hearing damage.

As with any other vehicle, the mirrors of a motorcycle have blind spots. Always turn your head to check for traffic in your blind spot before changing lanes.

If your front wheel locks while you are making a quick stop, release the front brake immediately and then re-apply it firmly. Use both the front and rear brakes if you need to stop quickly.

In general, a staggered formation is the best way for a group of riders to maintain close ranks while allowing adequate space cushions for each rider. A single-file formation is best when taking curves, turning, entering a highway, or exiting a highway.

All motorcycles are at least somewhat different. Before riding a motorcycle that is new to you, take the time to learn where all of the controls are. Ride the motorcycle in a controlled area to get used to it before taking it out on the road.

Jackets and pants should fit snugly enough that they do not flap in the wind, but also loosely enough that you are able to move freely.

Adjust the handlebars so your hands are even with or below your elbows. This positioning allows you to use the proper muscles for precision steering. Keep your feet on the footrests and your knees against the gas tank to help you maintain your balance when turning.

It is important to consistently check vehicles approaching your motorcycle from behind to determine if drivers are paying attention to you and your movements. Use your mirrors when stopping at an intersection to make sure approaching drivers are responding appropriately to your actions.

A plastic, shatter-resistant face shield provides maximum protection for your entire face, including your eyes, in the event of a crash. A windshield is not an adequate substitute.

When taking a long trip, be sure to schedule in frequent breaks to rest, even if you do not feel tired. Experienced operators seldom try to ride for longer than six hours a day. Wind, cold, and rain can make you tire quickly, so be sure to dress to protect yourself from the elements.