Use both the front and rear brakes every time you slow or stop.

The gearshift lever of a motorcycle is located in front of the left footrest and is operated by the rider's left foot.

When making a turn, look through the turn to where you want to go. Turn only your head, not your shoulders, and keep your eyes level with the horizon.

Motorcycles have blind spots, just like any other vehicle. Always turn your head to check your blind spot before changing lanes. Head checks should be a regular part of your scanning routine.

The front brake is safe to use as long as it is used properly. The front brake of a motorcycle is more powerful than the rear brake, providing at least three-fourths of the total stopping power.

Maintaining a cushion of space on all sides of your motorcycle helps to ensure that you have time and space to react if another road user makes a mistake.

To reduce the risk of fatigue on a long trip, dress to protect yourself from tiring elements, such as wind, cold, and rain. Limit yourself to no more than six hours of riding per day and take rest brakes at least every two hours. Avoid using artificial stimulants, as these only result in extreme fatigue when they wear off.

A properly chosen lane position should provide a number of benefits, including an increased ability to see others and to be seen. It should help you avoid wind blasts, other drivers' blind spots, and surface hazards. Your lane position should discourage other drivers from trying to share your lane and provide you with an escape route, should a hazard arise. Choose a lane position that maximizes your space cushion.

A plastic, shatter-resistant face shield provides protection for your entire face in the event of a crash. Goggles will protect your eyes, but not the rest of your face. A windshield or eyeglasses are not a substitute for either goggles or a face shield.

Most motorcycle crashes happen on trips shorter than five miles, just a few minutes after the rider starts out.

A properly chosen lane position should provide a number of benefits, including an increased ability to see others and to be seen. It should help you avoid wind blasts, other drivers' blind spots, and surface hazards. Your lane position should discourage other drivers from trying to share your lane and provide you with an escape route, should a hazard arise.

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

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.

For your protection while riding, it is best to wear a jacket and pants that cover your arms and legs completely. Boots or shoes should be tall and sturdy enough to cover and support your ankles. Footwear should have low heels that will not catch on the foot pegs or rough road surfaces. Gloves made of leather or another durable material will help protect your hands in the event of a crash while providing you with an improved grip on the controls.

Long-term exposure to wind noise while riding can cause hearing damage, even if you wear a helmet. Use of proper hearing protection is recommended to prevent damage.

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.

There is no single lane position that you always need to avoid. Adjust your position in response to changing conditions on the road.

The faster you drink, the more alcohol will accumulate in your body. It is never safe to operate a motor vehicle after drinking alcohol in any amount.

While a staggered formation is usually best for group riding, a group should switch into a single-file formation when taking curves, turning, or entering or exiting a highway.

To minimize your chances of being in a crash, you should make yourself as visible as possible by wearing brightly-colored clothing when riding, even during the day.

You should use a turn signal every time you plan to turn or change lanes, even if you think no one else is around to see it.

When riding over an uneven surface, rising off of your seat will allow your joints to absorb some of the force of impact. This will make it less likely that the impact of the surface will throw you off of the motorcycle.

When traveling in a group, it is never recommended for motorcyclists to ride in pairs. Neither rider will have adequate room to maneuver to avoid hazards.

When you are being passed from behind, stay in the center portion of your lane. This will discourage the other driver from re-entering your lane before it is safe.

Motorcyclists often slow down by simply downshifting. Motorcyclists should be aware that slowing down in this manner does not activate the brake lights.