Idaho Star User Manual

Defines terms like Motorcycle, Motorbike, Motor-Driven Cycle, and Motor Scooter.

Outlines the steps to obtain a motorcycle endorsement: tests and training.

Details about the motorcycle instruction permit, its validity, and restrictions.

Lists the fees associated with motorcycle endorsement and instruction permits.

Details essential protective gear like helmets, eye protection, and clothing.

Explains the necessity and benefits of wearing a DOT-approved helmet.

Guides on choosing the right helmet type, fit, and standards.

Discusses the role of faceshields and goggles in protecting rider's eyes.

Covers jacket, pants, boots, and gloves for protection and visibility.

Guidance on selecting a motorcycle that fits the rider's needs and abilities.

Lists mandatory equipment for motorcycles operated on Idaho roads.

Advice for riders borrowing or lending motorcycles to ensure safety and legality.

Steps to understand and operate all motorcycle controls before riding.

Detailed checks to perform on the motorcycle before every ride.

Tips on how to be seen by other road users, including clothing and lights.

Using signals, brake lights, and lane position to communicate with others.

Importance of maintaining space to respond to hazards and ensure safety.

Focus on scanning the road ahead to anticipate potential hazards.

Techniques for identifying and managing multiple hazards effectively.

Staying alert and ready to use crash-avoidance skills.

Covers body position for effective motorcycle control.

Details correct posture for seat, hands, knees, and feet on the motorcycle.

Step-by-step guide on how to shift gears upwards smoothly.

Step-by-step guide on how to shift gears downwards smoothly, including engine braking.

How to apply both front and rear brakes effectively for maximum stopping power.

Advice on braking safely while the motorcycle is leaned in a turn.

Explanation of how linked and integrated braking systems work.

How ABS prevents wheel lock-up and its limitations.

SLOOW, LOOK, ROLL, PRESS method for safe turning.

Using lane positions to increase visibility, avoid blind spots, and ensure safety.

Maintaining a safe following distance (3-second rule) and adjusting as needed.

Strategies for managing vehicles following too closely.

Techniques for safely passing other vehicles and being passed.

Steps for safely passing other vehicles, including lane changes and checks.

How to position yourself and react when another vehicle is passing you.

Discusses the dangers of lane sharing and how to discourage it.

How to manage merging traffic from entrance ramps.

Tips for positioning yourself to avoid blind spots and ensure escape routes.

Aggressively searching ahead, to the sides, and behind for potential hazards.

Locating hazards and potential conflicts into three categories.

Anticipating how hazards may affect you based on speed, distance, and direction.

Determining the best course of action based on identified hazards.

Taking action to create space and minimize harm from hazards.

Using headlights and lane position to be seen by other drivers.

Positioning to be seen and scanning at intersections with limited sight.

Procedures for stopping at stop signs and understanding traffic signals.

Rules regarding motorcycle interaction with traffic signals, including red lights.

How to safely pass parked vehicles, avoiding door openings and departing drivers.

Techniques for parking a motorcycle safely at the roadside.

Importance of bright and reflective clothing for rider visibility.

Keeping the headlight on at all times to increase visibility.

Proper use of turn signals to communicate intentions to other drivers.

Using the brake light, especially flashing it, to warn following traffic.

Importance of frequently checking mirrors for traffic behind.

Performing head checks to identify blind spots before changing lanes or passing.

Using the horn to get attention or warn others of danger.

Tips for seeing and being seen, and managing reduced visibility at night.

How to apply both brakes simultaneously for rapid stopping.

Procedure for releasing and reapplying the front brake during a skid.

Procedure for releasing and reapplying the rear brake during a skid.

Techniques for sudden changes in direction to avoid obstacles.

Strategies for safely navigating curves, including line choice and braking.

How to safely ride over bumps, potholes, and other uneven surfaces.

Techniques for riding on wet pavement, gravel, ice, and other slippery conditions.

Safe methods for crossing railroad tracks and pavement seams.

How to handle the weaving sensation when riding over grooves or gratings.

What to do if you experience a sudden tire failure while riding.

Steps to take if the throttle becomes stuck.

Causes and remedies for motorcycle wobble, and how to react.

Potential problems with chains, belts, or drive shafts and how to handle them.

What to do if the engine seizes due to lack of oil or overheating.

How to react if a dog chases your motorcycle.

Required equipment for carrying passengers, including seats and helmets.

How to instruct a passenger on safe riding practices and behavior.

Adjusting riding technique for the added weight and response of a passenger.

Tips for safely loading and securing cargo on the motorcycle.

Benefits of riding in smaller groups for safety and manageability.

Strategies for planning and maintaining group cohesion during rides.

Maintaining safe spacing within a group formation.

How a group should pass traffic on freeways and two-lane highways.

Explains how fitness, alertness, and avoiding substances impact riding ability.

Details the significant risks of alcohol and drug use on riding performance and safety.

How alcohol enters and affects the body, impacting mental and physical functions.

Explains BAC and the factors influencing it, affecting judgment and skills.

Idaho laws regarding DUI, legal limits, and criminal penalties for convictions.

Penalties for refusing BAC or drug tests under implied consent laws.

Details on ALS imposed by ITD for DUI-related offenses.

Strategies to reduce risks associated with drinking and riding.

Advice on choosing not to drink or ride, or arranging safe transport.

How to help friends avoid riding under the influence.

Statistics showing reduced crash risk associated with STAR training.

Overview of STAR courses designed to improve knowledge and skills.

3-hour course covering basic controls, starting, stopping, and balance.

17-hour course for novices covering fundamental skills and street strategies.

9-hour course for experienced riders on street strategies and emergency skills.

9-hour course for riders with 3+ months experience, focusing on advanced skills.

3-hour clinic to improve braking skills and confidence.

3-hour clinic to improve cornering skills and confidence.

16-hour course for experienced riders on vehicle control and maneuvers.

9-hour course for sidecar/trike operators on street and hazard skills.

How STAR courses can waive the skills test for endorsement.

Commitment to learning and complying with traffic laws and regulations.

Accepting riding as an activity with risks and committing to manage them.

Commitment to wearing appropriate gear for protection from elements and crashes.

Commitment to becoming an expert rider through SIPDE and scanning.

Commitment to practicing cornering skills, LOOKING and PRESSING.

Commitment to practicing quick stops and proper brake application.

Commitment to separating alcohol use from motorcycle riding.

Commitment to wait for developed skills before carrying passengers.

Commitment to waiting for skills before riding in groups.

Skills tested include control, acceleration, braking, turning, and decision making.

Examiners score safe speeds, path selection, stops, and turns/swerves.

Information for sidecar or trike operators regarding endorsements and skills.

Demonstrating a sharp left turn and a smooth, non-skidding stop.

Deductions for foot touching ground, boundary crossing, skidding, or incorrect stop.

Weaving past cones and performing a right U-turn.

Deductions for foot touching ground, hitting cones, or tire touching boundary.

Stabilizing speed and stopping as fast as safely possible.

Deductions for not stopping within distance or not reaching correct speed.

Stabilizing speed and swerving to avoid an obstacle line.

Deductions for touching obstacle/sideline or not reaching correct speed.

Grading based on cycle control, posture, attention, and ability to execute maneuvers.

Signs that indicate laws or regulations drivers must follow.

Signs that alert drivers to potential hazards or changes in road conditions.

Signs used in construction zones to guide and warn drivers.

Signs that provide directional or informational guidance to drivers.