Vermont Castings MOTORCYCLE Manual page 39

2 
Welcome to the Sixteenth Edition of
the MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual
(MOM). Operating a motorcycle safely
in traffic requires special skills and
knowledge. The Motorcycle Safety
Foundation (MSF) has made this manual
available to help novice motorcyclists
reduce their risk of having a crash. The
manual conveys essential safe riding
information and has been designed
for use in licensing programs. While
designed for the novice, all motorcyclists
can benefit from the information this
manual contains.
The original Motorcycle Operator
Manual was developed by the National
Public Services Research Institute (NPSRI)
under contract to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
and within the terms of a cooperative
agreement between NHTSA and the
MSF. The manual and related tests
were used in a multi-year study of
improved motorcycle operator licensing
procedures, conducted by the California
Department of Motor Vehicles under
contract to NHTSA.
The purpose of this manual is to
educate riders and to help them avoid
crashes while safely operating either
a standard two-wheel motorcycle or a
three-wheel motorcycle.
This latest edition has undergone
significant improvements, and contains
new, more in-depth information,
designed to:
• Guide riders in preparing to ride
safely
• Develop effective street strategies
• Give riders more comprehensive
understanding of safe group riding
practices
• Describe in detail best practices for
carrying passengers and cargo
In promoting improved licensing
programs, the MSF works closely with
state licensing agencies. The Foundation
has helped more than half the states
in the nation adopt the Motorcycle
Operator Manual for use in their
licensing systems.
Improved licensing, along with high
quality motorcycle rider education and
increased public awareness, has the
potential to reduce crashes. Staff at the
Foundation are available to assist state,
private and governmental agencies in
efforts to improve motorcycle safety.
Tim Buche
President,
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
2 Jenner, Suite 150
Irvine, CA 92618-3806
www.msf-usa.org
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