Girl on motorcycle ()
Before you hop on your motorcycle, make sure you’re aware of all the rules that go into owning and driving your motorcycle.
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
To obtain a motorcycle endorsement on a military-issued overseas license (USAREUR, SETAF, SHAPE or USAFE), military personnel, dependents and civilians must be at least 18, have motorcycle endorsements on their valid licenses issued by a U.S. state territory or host nation, and current Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) training cards. Regulations frequently change; contact the local licensing and testing center about MSF course regulations, mentor rides and other local, base or country requirements.
IMPORTANT EQUIPMENT
You should store an EC regulation warning triangle and first-aid kit on your motorcycle, along with a reflective vest. You should always drive with headlights on. Inspecting your bike before each ride ensures equipment is working, fluids are adequately filled and tires are without cuts, foreign objects and filled to the proper pressure.
REQUIRED ATTIRE
U.S. active duty, civilian and dependent riders and passengers are required to wear crash helmets with ECE 22.05 regulation, brightly colored gear (and reflective shirts or vests at night), long-sleeved shirts, long pants, eye and hand protection, and boots that cover ankles.
HIGHLY-RECOMMENDED ATTIRE
Wear gear designed with body armor to protect vulnerable shoulders, elbows, back, knees and ankles. Other recommended items include full-face shields or goggles with safety glass; gloves or gauntlets that cover forearms; and sturdy boots with nonskid soles and reinforced toes.
ROAD RULES
Motorcycle riders must abide by the same laws as vehicle drivers. Though legal and common in most European countries, lane splitting is dangerous and should be avoided.
FOCUS
Distractions increase the risk of dropping your bike. Most EU countries prohibit talking on your cellphone while driving without a hands-free device. Some countries have also outlawed the use of in-helmet communication devices. Always be ready to execute maneuvers to avoid roadway hazards, and follow diagonal or file formations when riding in groups.
INTERSECTIONS
Nearly half of motorcycle accidents happen in intersections. Be alert to vehicles approaching, stay out of blind spots and always signal.
PASSENGERS
Ensure that your bike is designed and equipped to carry a passenger. Proper foot pegs and backrest will increase safety and comfort for your passenger. Extra weight will affect procedures including braking, passing, maneuvering around corners and starting from a stop. Instruct the passenger in proper balance on the bike and to refrain from making sudden movements.
RIDING WITH BUDDIES
Discuss the route, schedule, rest/ fuel stops and establish hand signals before setting out. Experienced riders in group rides should take the lead and tail positions. Smaller groups are better controlled. The leader should ride in the left third of the lane, the second rider stays a minimum of one second behind, and the rest of the group follows this pattern. Ride in single-file formation on curves or in limited visibility.
For more safety tips, visit www.msf-usa.org.
RIDERS MUST CARRY
• U.S.-military-issued overseas driver’s license with endorsement
• Valid stateside driver’s license with endorsement
• Motorcycle Safety Foundation training card
• Original bike registration and proof of ownership
• Bike insurance certificate
• Passports
