SAFETY FIRST
12
WARNING
Continually observe and react to
changes in road surface, traffic and
wind conditions. All two-wheeled
vehicles are subject to external
forces which may affect the handling,
stability or other aspect of the
motorcycle operation.
These forces include but are not
limited to:
- Wind draft from passing vehicles
- Potholes, uneven or damaged road
surfaces
- Bad weather
- Rider error.
Always operate the motorcycle at
moderate speed and away from
heavy traffic until you have become
thoroughly familiar with its handling
and operating characteristics. Never
exceed the legal speed limit.
Failure to follow the advice above
may lead to loss of motorcycle control
which could result in serious injury or
death.
Wobble/Weave
A weave is a relatively slow oscillation
of the rear of the motorcycle, while
a wobble is a rapid, possibly strong
shaking of the handlebar. These are
related but distinct stability problems
usually caused by excessive weight in
the wrong place, or by a mechanical
problem such as worn or loose bearings
or under-inflated or unevenly worn tires.
Your solution to both situations is
the same. Keep a firm hold on the
handlebars without locking arms or
fighting the steering. Smoothly ease off
the throttle to slow gradually. Do not
apply the brakes, and do not accelerate
to try to stop the wobble or weave. In
some cases, it helps to shift your body
weight forward by leaning over the tank.
Copyright © 2005 Motorcycle Safety
Foundation. All rights reserved. Used
with permission.