Give Safety The Right Of Way - Yamaha Virago XV125S Owner's Manual

Q GIVE SAFETY THE RIGHT OF WAY
Motorcycles are fascinating vehicles, which can give you an unsurpassed feeling of power and
freedom. However, they also impose certain limits, which you must accept; even the best
motorcycle does not ignore the laws of physics.
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Regular care and maintenance are essential for preserving your motorcycle's value and operat-
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ing condition. Moreover, what is true for the motorcycle is also true for the rider: good perfor-
mance depends on being in good shape. Riding under the influence of medication, drugs and
3 alcohol is, of course, out of the question. Motorcycle riders - more than car drivers - must
always be at their mental and physical best. Under the influence of even small amounts of
alcohol, there is a tendency to take dangerous risks.
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Protective clothing is as essential for the motorcycle rider as seat belts are for car drivers and
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passengers. Always wear a complete motorcycle suit (whether made of leather or tear-resistant
synthetic materials with protectors), sturdy boots, motorcycle gloves and a properly fitting hel-
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met. Optimum protective wear, however, should not encourage carelessness. Though full-cov-
erage helmets and suits, in particular, create an illusion of total safety and protection, motorcy-
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clists will always be vulnerable. Riders who lack critical self-control run the risk of going too
fast and are apt to take chances. This is even more dangerous in wet weather. The good motor-
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cyclist rides safely, predictably and defensively - avoiding all dangers, including those caused
by others.
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Enjoy your ride!
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