The Sport Of Motorcycling - Suzuki 2004 VL800 Owner's Manual

THE SPORT OF
MOTORCYCLING
Your motorcycle and this owner's
manual have been designed by
people like you who enjoy motor-
cycling. People become motorcy-
clists for many reasons. For
starters, street riding is fun and
invigorating. But no matter why
you became a motorcyclist, ~r
how experienced you are, you will
eventually face some challenging
situations.
In preparing for these challenges,
you will be fine-tuning your coo~-
dination, concentration, and atti-
tude. Learning the skills and
strategies associated with motor-
cycling is the basis for safely par-
ticipating in this sport. Many
motorcyclists find that as they
become better riders, they also
get more enjoyment fro~ the free-
dom unique to motorcycling.
Please remember:
Most accidents can be avoided.
The most common type of motor-
cycle accident in the U.S. occurs
when a car traveling toward a
motorcycle turns left in front of the
motorcycle. Is that because other
drivers are out to get motorcy-
clists? No. Other drivers simply
don't always notice motorcyclists.
Ride defensively. Wise motorcy-
clists use a strategy of assuming
they are invisible to other drivers,
even in broad daylight. Pay care-
ful attention to other motorists,
especially at intersectio~s,
because they may not be paying
attention to you. Select a lane
position that gives you the best
view of others, and other motor-
ists the best view of you. Wear
bright, reflective clothing. Put
reflective strips on your helmet.
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