Motorcycle Safety Checklist

Motorcycle
Safety Checklist

Proper Attire for Riding

Helmets are the single most important item for motorcycle rider safety.
Gloves are great rider gear. It’s necessary for them to fit correctly.
Wear boots to support motorcycle when stopped and to protect your feet. Never wear open-toed shoes while riding.
Clothing should fit properly and be constructed of durable materials like leather or denim.
Passengers need to wear proper gear too, especially a helmet.
Sunglasses are not a requirement, but some form of protection from sun glare is recommended.

Pre-Ride Motorcycle Inspection

Gas and Oil

Check gas and oil levels.

Lights

Inspect all lights, including turn indicator lights and brake light.

Brake and Tires

Make sure brakes and tire pressure are safe.

Clean Mirrors

Clean mirrors and adjust them properly.

Routine Motorcycle Maintenance

Routine Inspection

Regular, routine inspection by a professional is necessary.

Change Oil

Change oil as recommended by the manufacturer.

Brake and Tires

Replace brakes and tires when they become worn and unsafe.

Verify

Verify that the frame is in good shape.

How to Ride Around Cars

Correct

Stay out of drivers’ blind spots.

Correct

Drive defensively and assume you are not visible to the drivers of nearby cars.

Correct

Ride with vigilance and prepare to stop at any time.

Do Not

Never ride next to a truck.

Do Not

Do not follow too closely.

Correct

Periodically take motorcycle safety courses (available online) to update your knowledge of the safest riding practices.

Using Proper Signals

Improve Visibility

Using hand signals in addition to signal lights and brake lights can improve visibility.

Left Turn

Palm and arm extending in a straight line to the left = a left turn.

Right Turn

Palm up perpendicular to the road, elbow bent in a 90° = a right turn.

Stop

Palm down perpendicular to the road, elbow bent in a 90° = a stop.