If you cannot avoid riding over an obstacle or uneven surface, you should approach it at as close to a 90-degree angle as possible. Slow down as much as you can, make sure that your motorcycle is upright, and rise slightly off your seat so your knees can absorb some of the force of impact. Just before contact, roll on the throttle slightly to lighten the front end.

When riding, you should securely tuck in the laces of your footwear so that they will not catch on your motorcycle.

When approaching railroad tracks that cross your lane at an angle, it is best to simply cross the tracks while riding straight within your lane. Turning to cross the tracks at a 90-degree angle could be dangerous because you could end up crossing into another lane of traffic.

Before entering a turn, a motorcyclist should reduce their speed by closing the throttle and, if necessary, applying both brakes.

When turning, look through the turn to where you want to go by turning only your head. Keep your knees against the gas tank to help maintain your balance while turning. Your arms should be slightly bent any time you are holding the handgrips.

Maintaining an adequate following distance ensures that you will have enough space to stop or swerve out of the way if the vehicle ahead of you stops suddenly. A space cushion also provides you with a better view of any hazards on the road surface, such as potholes.

When slowing or stopping on a surface with reduced traction, you should use caution and apply the brakes more gently than usual.

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.

When you are being passed from behind or by an oncoming vehicle, stay in the center portion of your lane. Riding any closer to the passing vehicle can put you in danger.

You should use both brakes every time you slow down or stop. Always apply the brakes simultaneously.

While a staggered formation is generally recommended, riders in a group should move into a single-file formation when taking curves, taking turns, entering a highway, or leaving a highway.

There is no single lane position that is always best and no single lane position that should always be avoided. You should vary your lane position in response to changes in riding conditions.

To ride safely at night, you should reduce your speed, use your high beam headlight when you are not riding near other vehicles, and increase your following distance. Take advantage of vehicles ahead of you to provide clues about the upcoming road. Their headlights may help to illuminate the road ahead and their taillights will bounce up and down if the vehicle is being driven over bumps on the road.

Choosing a brightly-colored helmet is recommended. Not only will the helmet protect you in the case of a crash, but the bright color of the helmet will help other road users see you.

Always simultaneously use both brakes to stop. The brakes are most effective when used at the same time.

Heavier items should be loaded in front of the tank bag. You should try to place the load over or in front of the rear axle. Putting the load behind the rear axle may affect your control.

Under normal conditions, you should maintain a following distance of at least two seconds. Increase your following distance any time conditions are less than perfect.

Any time a driver may be tempted to try to squeeze into your lane next to you, ride in the center portion of the lane to discourage them from doing so.

A plastic, impact-resistant face shield provides the greatest degree of protection for a wearer's eyes and face. Eyeglasses or sunglasses are not an adequate substitute. In Vermont, you are not legally required to wear eye or face protection if your motorcycle has a windshield, though it is recommended.

Like any other vehicle, motorcycles have blind spots. Always turn your head to check for traffic in your blind spot before changing lanes.