Overview
This lecture covers essential motorcycle safety practices, Alabama law requirements for motorcycle operation and licensing, riding strategies, handling dangerous situations, and special considerations for three-wheel motorcycles.
Motorcycle Licensing and Legal Requirements
- Alabama requires a driver license to operate any motor vehicle, including motorcycles and motor-driven cycles.
- Class M license allows operation of motorcycles; restricted licenses are available for ages 14–15 for smaller cycles.
- License must be carried at all times and shown on demand to law enforcement.
- Riders and passengers must wear approved helmets and shoes; passengers require footpegs; handlebar height is limited.
Preparing to Ride
- Wear DOT-compliant helmet, eye/face protection, and protective clothing.
- The T-CLOCS checklist (Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Stands) should be used before each ride.
- Ensure the motorcycle fits you and you know all controls.
Basic Vehicle Control
- Maintain proper posture and seating; keep knees against the tank, feet on footrests.
- Upshift and downshift gears smoothly, avoiding over-revving or lugging the engine.
- Use both brakes for maximum stopping power; front brake supplies about 70% of braking force.
Street Strategies & Visibility
- Use lane position strategically to increase visibility and space cushion.
- Maintain a minimum two-second following distance.
- Avoid riding in blind spots and discourage lane sharing.
- Use SEE (Search, Evaluate, Execute) to assess and respond to hazards.
Special Situations
- Intersections are high-risk; assume others do not see you and be prepared to brake.
- Wear bright/reflective gear and use headlight at all times to increase your visibility.
- Flash brake light when slowing unexpectedly or being followed closely.
- At night, reduce speed, increase following distance, and use high beam when safe.
Crash Avoidance & Handling Hazards
- For quick stops, apply both brakes simultaneously and progressively.
- Swerve only if stopping is not possible; separate braking and swerving.
- For slippery surfaces, reduce speed and avoid sudden moves; ride in car tire tracks when wet.
- Cross railroad tracks and gratings at an angle; relax if the bike weaves.
- If a mechanical problem occurs, maintain control and stop safely.
Carrying Passengers and Cargo
- Adjust tire pressure and suspension for extra weight.
- Passengers should wear proper gear, sit forward, hold on, and lean with you.
- Secure cargo low and forward, distribute weight evenly, and use proper straps.
Group Riding
- Staggered formation helps maintain a space cushion; never ride side-by-side.
- Place inexperienced riders behind the leader; communicate with hand signals.
- Plan routes, breaks, and meeting points in advance.
Being in Shape to Ride
- Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and riding ability even below legal limits.
- Fatigue reduces concentration; limit riding time, take breaks, and dress for the weather.
Three-Wheel Motorcycle Supplement
- Three-wheelers do not lean and steer differently than motorcycles.
- Reduce speed before turns, distribute loads within tip-over lines, and ride single file.
- Passengers should be properly seated; loads must be secure and not exceed capacity.
Key Terms & Definitions
- T-CLOCS — Pre-ride safety inspection (Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Stands).
- SEE — Search, Evaluate, Execute; a hazard detection and response strategy.
- Class M License — Authorizes operation of motorcycles and motor-driven cycles in Alabama.
- Staggered Formation — Group riding strategy for space and visibility.
- Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) — Amount of alcohol in the bloodstream.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the T-CLOCS checklist before each ride.
- Practice basic control and emergency maneuvers in a safe area.
- Study Alabama motorcycle laws and safe riding practices for the knowledge test.
- Consider enrolling in a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation training course.