Mash Dirt Track 650 - Owner's Manual > Do not ride while under the influence
Before getting on your bike, make sure:
- You have not consumed alcohol or taken drugs.
- You are in good physical and mental condition.
- You have done the recommended pre-ride inspection.
- Start the engine in a well-ventilated area.
- The exhaust emits toxic and poisonous carbon monoxide.
Caution
Operating this motorcycle after consuming alcohol or drugs could seriously affect your judgment, could cause you to react more slowly, could affect your balance and perception and could result in an accident.
Safe riding principles
- Keep enough distance with the other vehicles around you as this gives you time to react.
- Always observe the rules of the road. Observe the posted speed limit, and signal your turns well in advance.
- Know your limits. Do not travel faster than you are able to safely control the vehicle. Always travel at a speed that is proper for the operating conditions, your ability and experience.
- Always inspect your motorcycle each time you use it to make sure it is in safe operating condition.
- Always follow the inspection and scheduled maintenance procedures described in this manual.
- Test your brakes after operating in wet conditions.
- Never attempt wheelies, jumps and other stunts, as these could cause damage to the motorcycle and cause loss of control.
- Always keep both hands on the handlebar and feet on the foot pegs during operation.
- Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while riding your motorcycle.
- Be aware that long travel distances can cause fatigue that can affect performance and awareness.
- Do not touch the engine or exhaust after riding as they will be extremely hot right after the engine has been turned off.
- Park the motorcycle away from fuel or flammable materials.
Being seen
- Many motorcycle accidents are caused by car drivers who do not see motorcycle riders on the road. To reduce the chance of an accident, follow these guidelines:
- Wear bright clothing to increase visibility. Bright orange, yellow or green jackets or vests and a brightly colored helmet can help others see you.
- Always use turn signals when you are planning to turn or merge to main roads, and turn off signal after completing turns.
- Flash brake lights whenever you are going to slow down quickly or where others may not expect you are going to slow down.
- Stay out of blind spots of other motorists.
- When you come to an intersection, move to the portion of your lane that will bring you into another driver's field of sight at the earliest possible moment.
Know your Motorcycle
- Get training if you are inexperienced.
- Beginners should get training from a certified instructor.
- Become familiar with the motorcycle at slow speeds first.
Even if you are an experienced rider, do not attempt to operate at maximum performance until you are very familiar with the vehicle.
- The equilibrium and stability of your motorcycle are affected by the manner in which you load it. It is very important that you do not install accessories that compromise the design and concept of the motorcycle. Doing so could alter the safety of your motorcycle.
See also:
Mash Dirt Track 650 - Owner's Manual > Loading & Carrying Passengers
You should avoid carrying passengers or large loads until you have gained sufficient experience riding alone. Extra weight changes handling, stability, braking performance, turns, Acceleration and deceleration. The load you carry on the motorcycle has an important effect on your safety, as well as the life of the motorcycle; therefore, apart from driver and passenger, it is advised to keep load to a minimum. If you decide to carry any load, take the following into account: Make sure the load is as light and as small as possible. Make sure the load does not interfere with any moving parts. Make sure the load does not interfere with your ability to move around in order to maintain proper equilibrium. Put the load as close as possible to the center of the motorcycle. Put only light load on rear rack, if installed. Do not attach load to handlebars, headlight or front forks. Properly secure all items. Inflate tires properly.