MOTORCYCLE HANDBOOK: INTRODUCTION

Riding a motorcycle is fun and can be a great means of transportation.  But proper skills and knowledge are needed to ride safely in traffic conditions.

This 18th edition of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Motorcycle Operator Manual* contains tips and strategies to help riders manage risk.  The manual was written for novices and designed for use in licensing programs, but it contains valuable information for all two- and three-wheel motorcycle riders.  Topics covered include motorcycle controls, developing effective street strategies, group riding, riding with a passenger, and more.

Additional resources are available at MSF-USA.org, including the new MSF Basic eCourse, with interactive online exercises.  But the best way to learn to ride is through formal hands-on training, like with the MSF Basic RiderCourse, where you’ll learn how to properly operate a motorcycle with the help of MSF-certified Rider Coaches.

Making motorcycling safer, and as a result more fun, is our goal.

Image of the MSF presidents signature - Erik Pritchard

Erik Pritchard
President
Motorcycle Safety Foundation

*The original Motorcycle Operator Manual was developed by the National Public Services Research Institute under contract to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as part of a cooperative agreement between NHTSA and the MSF.  To continue helping state agencies with their licensing programs, the MSF offers the source files for this booklet to them at no charge.  Write to [email protected] for more information.

The information contained in this publication is offered for the benefit of those who have an interest in riding motorcycles.  The information has been compiled from publications, interviews, and observations of individuals and organizations familiar with the use of motorcycles, accessories, and training.  Because there are many differences in product design, riding styles, federal, state, and local laws, there may be organizations and individuals who hold differing opinions.  Consult your local regulatory agencies for information on motorcycle operation in your area.  Although the MSF will continue to research, field test, and publish responsible viewpoints on the subject, it disclaims any liability for the views expressed herein.

Distribution courtesy of Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Second Revision................. December 1978
Third Revision................. February 1981
Fourth Revision...................... January 1983
Fifth Revision........................ October 1987
Sixth Revision............................. April 1991
Seventh Revision................ September 1992
Eighth Revision..................... January 1999
Ninth Revision......................... March 2000
Tenth Revision....................... January 2002
Eleventh Revision........................ July 2002
Twelfth Revision......................... May 2004
Thirteenth Revision..................... June 2007
Fourteenth Revision................. March 2008
Fifteenth Revision....................... June 2009
Sixteenth Revision.................. January 2011
Seventeenth Revision............. February 2014
Eighteenth Revision............. June 2020

THE TOP FIVE REASONS MOTORCYCLISTS CRASH ON UTAH HIGHWAYS BASED ON 2016 STATISTICS PROVIDED BY THE UTAH DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY’S HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE:

  1. Failure to yield right of way
  2. Follow too closely
  3. Failed to keep in proper lane
  4. Speed too fast for conditions
  5. Ran off the road