Obstacles

1. Avoid obstacles on the road such as pot holes, speed bumps, road debris, gravel,
    rocks and other solid objects.
 
2. If you can’t avoid an object, then rise to your feet and use your leg as shock
    absorbers.
 
3. Slow down as much as you can (as traffic will permit) to avoid an object.
 
4. Approach the object at a 90 degree angle.
 
5. Avoid fixating on the object.  Don’t forget that there may be other potential hazards. 
    Continue to SEE.
 
6. Rise slightly above your seat when approaching the object.
 
7. Squeeze both handgrips firmly.  Do not cover the brake or clutch levers.
 
8. Shift your weight to the rear.  Don’t pull back or jerk on the handlebars.  Slightly roll
    on the throttle when approaching the object.
 
9. Ease off the throttle as soon as your front tires hit the object.  You don’t want the rear
    tires throttling on the hazard.
 
10. Sit back down only when the motorcycle has been stabilized.
 
11. Continue to evaluate your surroundings and practice good riding techniques.


Lane Changes

1. Use the same common sense you would in a 4 wheel vehicle
 
2. Check your rear mirrors, check  your blind spots, use your turn signals.
 
3. Cancel your turn signal once you’ve completed your lane change.


Passing

1. Do not pass more than one vehicle at a time
 
2. Be weary of large vehicles that can cause sudden wind changes and blasts.
 
3. Check your mirrors and blind spots
 
4. Anticipate drivers who may be trying to pass you.

Hills

1. Use lower gears for going up and down steep hills
 
2. Give yourself more space when trying to stop in a down hill situation.
 
3. It can be tricky getting your bike to go in an uphill situation.  You’ll have to release
    the clutch while maintaining your brakes and perhaps even give the bike throttle, all
    at the same time.  Play with the friction zone in a hilly environment to master this
    technique.


Night Riding

1. When riding at night, everything we’ve talked about becomes more important.
 
2. Wear light reflective clothing so that other traffic can see you.
 
3. Use your lights, and even high beams when necessary.
 
4. Flash your brake lights when stopping and when waiting at intersections.
 
5. Maintain good vision by keeping your visors or eye goggles clear, clean and free of
    scratches.
 
6. Do not use tinted visors or lenses at night.



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