Secured loads should be low. Putting them too high up, such as on a sissy bar, can raise the motorcycle's center of gravity and upset its balance. Loads should be as evenly distributed as possible on each side of the motorcycle to avoid pulling the bike to one side.

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

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.

During normal turns, the motorcycle and the rider should be leaning together at the same angle. In slow, tight turns, only the motorcycle should lean while the rider keeps their body straight up.

Distances are difficult to judge in the dark because visual cues (like shadows and light contrasts) can be missing or distorted. You should allow a longer following distance when riding at night than you do when riding during the day.

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.

Strategies for making yourself more visible include wearing brightly-colored and reflective clothing, keeping your headlight on at all times, and varying your lane position as conditions demand.

To be effective, eye protection and face shields must be free of scratches; be resistant to penetration; give a clear view to either side; fasten securely; permit air to pass through; and permit enough room for eyeglasses or sunglasses to be worn underneath.

Because motorcycles are small in stature and have fewer and smaller lights than other vehicles, they can be difficult to see. For your safety, it is best to ride defensively and assume that others on the road do not see you.

You should always have your headlight on when riding, even during the day. This can make you twice as likely to be noticed by other drivers.

When preparing to pass another vehicle on the left, you should ride in the left portion of your lane. This lane position will provide you with the most effective view of the passing lane.

To regain control of a locked rear wheel, the brake must be released. However, if you accidentally lock the rear brake on a good traction surface, you can keep it locked until you have completely stopped.

Any approved helmet will allow a rider to see as far to the sides as is necessary for safe riding. Approved helmets will have labels and markings providing the manufacturer's name, relevant information and instructions, and information about the standards the helmet meets.

To ensure you are getting the best protection, you should choose a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state standards. It should fit you snugly all the way around and have no obvious defects, such as cracks, loose padding, or frayed straps.

Before riding while carrying a passenger, you should instruct your passenger to lean with you through turns and curves. They should hold onto your waist, hips, or belt.

Because of the presence of oil deposits, the center strip of a lane can be hazardous when wet. When rain starts to fall, it is best to ride in the tire tracks left by cars. It is advisable to reduce your speed on wet surfaces.

A properly chosen lane position should help you to see others and be seen by them. Avoid riding in another driver's blind spot for a long period of time.

A motorcycle's single brake light is not as noticeable as the two larger brake lights of a car or truck. It can be a good idea to flash your brake light to help others notice it, especially when you need to slow down more quickly than surrounding drivers may expect.

Your lane position affects a number of factors that are important to your safety on the road. Among other things, your position should help you increase your ability to see and be seen, avoid other drivers' blind spots, and set you up for any turns you plan to make.

If one of your tires fails, hold the handgrips firmly and begin to slow down by easing off the throttle while maintaining a straight course. If you must brake, gradually apply the brake of the tire that is still good, if you are sure of which tire that is. Edge toward the side of the road as you slow down, squeeze the clutch, and stop.

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.

Choose riding boots or shoes that are high and sturdy enough to cover and support your ankles. Choose footwear with soles made of hard, durable, slip-resistant material.

When riding in a group, it is generally best to use a staggered formation. Use your mirrors periodically to check on riders behind you. Both the lead and sweep riders should be experienced motorcyclists who know group riding procedures well. Maintain proper space cushions within the group of riders.

As little as one drink can have a significant effect on the abilities that you need for safe riding. You can be impaired even if you are well below the legal blood alcohol limit. No amount of alcohol is safe to consume before riding.

Check your brake levers individually before every ride. Make sure each one feels firm and holds the motorcycle when the brake is fully applied.