Section 4: Vehicle Control Skills

This Section Covers

  • Getting Started – 4.1
  • Riding in a Straight Line – 4.2
  • Shifting Gears – 4.3
  • Stopping – 4.4
  • Turning – 4.5

The following section offers basic riding information on getting started, shifting gears, stopping, straight-line riding and turning. These basic skills are important to learn before moving onto more complex skills.

4.1 – Getting Started

Pre-trip Inspection - “TCLOCS

(TCLOCS is a Service Mark of MSF)

T = Tires and Wheels
  • Air pressure
  • Tread
  • Cracks, dents, loose spokes
  • Bearings
  • Brakes
C = Controls
  • Levers
  • Switches
  • Cables
  • Hoses
  • Throttle
L = Lights and Electrics
  • Working condition
O = Oil and Other Fluids

(Coolant, hydraulic fluid, fuel)

  • Levels
  • Leaks
C = Chassis
  • Suspension
  • Drive components (chain, belt, or driveshaft)
S = Stands
  • Side stand
  • Center stand

Mounting the Motorcycle

To mount the motorcycle, stand on the left side of the motorcycle. Keep your eyes up toward the horizon. Grasp both handgrips, squeeze the front brake to keep the motorcycle from rolling, and swing your right leg over the seat. Sit and straighten the bike; raise the side stand with your foot.

Starting the Engine

  1. Turn the fuel valve (if equipped) and ignition switch ON.
  2. Shift to NEUTRAL. Do not rely on the indicator light. Rock the motorcycle back and forth without squeezing the clutch lever. If the motorcycle rolls freely, it’s in neutral.
  3. Turn the engine cut-off switch to ON.
  4. Turn the choke ON for cold starts. Many motorcycles require squeezing the clutch before the starter will operate. This is also a good precaution against accidentally starting the bike in gear and reduces the load on the starter motor.
  5. Press the starter button. Avoid using the throttle; the motorcycle should start without it. Many motorcycles have a safety mechanism that cuts power to the motor if the bike is placed in gear with the side stand down; so if you haven’t brought the side stand up, do it now. If the motor doesn’t start in the first 5 to 8 seconds, stop and repeat these steps.

Stopping the Engine, Dismounting and Securing the Motorcycle

  1. Turn the engine cut-off switch to OFF. Turn the ignition OFF. Turn the fuel valve OFF if your motorcycle has one. Make sure all lights are off.
  2. To dismount, put the side stand down. Lean the motorcycle onto the side stand. While looking up and grasping both handgrips squeeze the front brake and swing your right leg over. Turn the handlebar fully toward the side stand for stability.
  3. After dismounting engage the fork lock or other security device, and then remove ignition key.