Yamaha XT660XS Owner's Manual page 8

EXCESSIVE SPEED or undercor-
nering (insufficient lean angle for
the speed).
• Always obey the speed limit and
never travel faster than warrant-
ed by road and traffic conditions.
• Always signal before turning or
changing lanes. Make sure that
other motorists can see you.
G The posture of the operator is im-
portant for proper control. The op-
erator should keep both hands on
the handlebar and both feet on the
operator footrests during operation
to maintain control of the motor-
cycle.
G Never ride under the influence of
alcohol or other drugs.
Protective apparel
The majority of fatalities from motor-
cycle accidents are the result of head
injuries. The use of a safety helmet is
the single most critical factor in the pre-
vention or reduction of head injuries.
G
Always wear an approved helmet.
G
Wear a face shield or goggles.
Wind in your unprotected eyes
could contribute to an impairment
of vision that could delay seeing a
hazard.
G
The use of a jacket, heavy boots,
trousers, gloves, etc., is effective in
preventing or reducing abrasions
or lacerations.
G Never wear loose-fitting clothes,
otherwise they could catch on the
control levers, footrests, or wheels
and cause injury or accident.
G
Never touch the engine or exhaust
system during or after operation.
They become very hot and can
cause burns. Always wear protec-
tive clothing that covers your legs,
ankles, and feet.
Modifications
Modifications made to this motorcycle
not approved by Yamaha, or the re-
moval of original equipment, may ren-
der the motorcycle unsafe for use and
may cause severe personal injury.
Modifications may also make your
motorcycle illegal to use.
1-2
SAFETY INFORMATION
Loading and accessories
Adding accessories or cargo to your
motorcycle can adversely affect stabili-
ty and handling if the weight distribution
of the motorcycle is changed. To avoid
the possibility of an accident, use ex-
treme caution when adding cargo or
accessories to your motorcycle. Use
extra care when riding a motorcycle
that has added cargo or accessories.
Here are some general guidelines to
follow if loading cargo or adding acces-
sories to your motorcycle:
Loading
The total weight of the operator, acces-
sories and cargo must not exceed the
maximum load limit of 186 kg (410 lb).
When loading within this weight limit,
keep the following in mind:
G
Cargo and accessory
should be kept as low and close to
the motorcycle as possible. Make
sure to distribute the weight as
evenly as possible on both sides of
the motorcycle to minimize imbal-
ance or instability.
G
Shifting weights can create a sud-
den imbalance. Make sure that ac-
cessories and cargo are securely
1
weight