Because you need adequate traction to swerve safely, you should not brake and swerve at the same time. Instead, if you approach a hazard that requires you to brake and swerve, you should perform one action and then the other.

In Texas, a rider who is 21 years of age or older is not required to wear a helmet if they have completed a Motorcycle Operator Training Course that is approved by the Department of Public Safety. They may also be exempt from the statewide helmet requirement if they are covered by medical insurance. It is recommended that all motorcyclists wear safety helmets while riding, even if it is not required.

The greatest potential for conflict between your motorcycle and other traffic is at intersections. Be extra alert when riding somewhere where another vehicle may cross in front of your path of travel.

Face shields and goggles, being made of plastic, will develop scratches and become brittle as they age. Replace them regularly to ensure maximum protection and comfort.

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

If either of your tires go flat while you are riding, hold the handgrips firmly, ease off the throttle, and maintain a straight course. If you need to brake, gradually apply the brake to the tire that is not flat. As you slow down, edge to the side of the road, squeeze the clutch, and stop.

Most wobbles can be traced to improper loading, unsuitable accessories, or incorrect tire pressure. Do not try to accelerate out of a wobble.

Engine braking by smoothly downshifting can be a useful option for motorcyclists. If you choose to engine brake, apply your brake lights separately to let other drivers know that you are slowing down.

You should wear appropriate protective clothing when riding. Protective garments include sturdy pants and jackets that entirely cover your arms and legs, boots or heavy shoes that cover and support your ankles, and sturdy gloves.

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.

To stop quickly, apply both brakes at the same time.

Using both brakes even in normal stopping stops will help you develop the habit of always using both. Having this habit will serve you well in emergencies, where using both brakes may be critical.

The rear brake of a motorcycle is usually operated with the right foot.

Instead of mechanical turn signals, operators may use hand signals to indicate turns or stops. If an operator's left arm is extended straight out to the left, it means the operator plans to turn left or change lanes to the left.

You should avoid riding if you are tired. When making a long trip, take rest breaks at least every two hours to reduce the risk of becoming fatigued.

The added weight of a passenger will affect the handling of your motorcycle. Expect your motorcycle to accelerate more slowly than usual, turn more slowly than usual, and require extra space to come to a complete stop. Ride more slowly, start slowing sooner when approaching a stop, open up a larger space cushion, and wait for larger gaps when crossing, entering, or merging into traffic.

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.

A following distance of at least four seconds is recommended for beginning riders. Increase your following distance any time conditions are less than perfect.

A motorcycle passenger needs to understand how to ensure a safe ride ride for both themselves and the operator. An operator should never assume the passenger already knows what to do. Give a passenger complete instructions before every ride.

The brake light of a motorcycle is usually not as noticeable as the brake lights of a car. Flashing your brake light before slowing or stopping can help other drivers notice that you are about to brake.