California Motorcycle Handbook - Antevia

• Ride a little slower, especiallywhen taking curves, corners, orbumps.• Begin slowing sooner as youapproach a stop.• Open up a larger cushion ofspace ahead and to the sides.• Wait for larger gaps to cross,enter, or merge with traffic.Warn your passenger of thesespecial conditions: Starting,stopping quickly, turning sharply,or riding over bumps. Turn yourhead slightly to make yourselfunderstood, but keep your eyeson the road ahead.Carrying LoadsMost motorcycles are notdesigned to carry much cargo.Small loads can be carried safely,if positioned and fastenedproperly.• Keep the Load Low. Fastenloads securely, or put them insaddlebags. Stacking loadsagainst a sissybar or frame onthe back of the seat raises themotorcycle’s center of gravityand shifts its balance.• Keep the Load Forward. Placethe load over, or in front of, therear axle. Tank bags keep loadsforward, but use caution whenloading hard or sharp objects.Make sure the tank bag doesnot interfere with handlebars orcontrols. Mounting a loadbehind the rear axle affects howthe motorcycle turns andbrakes. It can also cause awobble.• Distribute the Load Evenly.Load saddlebags with about thesame weight. An uneven loadcan cause the motorcycle todrift to one side.• Secure the Load. Fasten theload securely with elastic cords(bungee cords or nets). Elasticcords with more than oneattachment point per side aremore secure. A tight load won’tcatch in the wheel or chain,causing it to lock up and skid.Ropes tend to stretch and knotscan come loose, permitting theload to shift or fall.• Check the Load. Stop andcheck the load often to makesure it has not worked loose ormoved.GROUP RIDINGIf you ride with others, do it in away that promotes safety anddoesn’t interfere with the flow oftraffic.Keep the Group SmallSmall groups make it easier andsafer for other drivers to getaround them. A small number isn’tseparated as easily by traffic orred lights. Some riders won’talways be hurrying to catch up.If your group is larger than fouror five riders, divide it into twoor more smaller groups.Keep the Group Together• Plan. The leader should lookahead for changes and signalearly so there is plenty of timefor everyone to follow. Start32