Untitled Document

Secrets of Better Riding
By Kawasaki

Perfect Passengering
A passenger is not just a lifeless lump on the back, but can be an active participant in the ride. Here are some tips for becoming a co-rider.
· It's disconcerting for the rider to be adjusting helmet or gloves, then have the bike unexpectedly lurch as the passenger begins to mount. Do not mount the bike until the rider gives the nod.
· Always mount from the bike's left side as viewed from astride it.
· If you're tall enough, just swing a leg over and slide up onto the seat, if you're not tall enough, have the rider straighten the bike as you step up onto a peg or floorboard.
· If there's no backrest, it's acceptable to lightly hang onto the rider's hips. Or hang on a little tighter if you want to get to know the rider better.
· Remember, a lean is a turn - not a fall. To become more involved in the ride, adjust yourself slightly by looking over the rider's shoulder in the direction of the turn. If it's a left turn, for example, look over the left shoulder.
· Stay neutral. Other than the subtle weight shift described above, don't wiggle or bounce around. The worst thing a passenger can do is clamp their knees around the seat and attempt to change the bike's course.
· At stops, do not attempt to "help" by putting your feet down, as this unbalances the bike, Keep your feet up and your weight centered.
· Before dismounting, get the okay from the rider.

Carrying Things
There are six areas into which you can pack gear. Here's what to pack, where.
· Jacket pockets: For small items frequently needed such as keys, earplugs, moisture lotion, pocket camera.
· Tankbag: For items frequently used such as extra gloves, shield cleaner and rag, notebook, tire gauge, spare sweater.
· Fairing pockets: If your dresser has them, they're for any of the above items, but only those that will not be adversely effected by vibration.
· Passenger seat: When traveling solo, the rear portion of the seat can be used to haul a seat bag, duffel bag, tent or sleeping bag.
· Saddlebags: For heavy basic items such as clothing, shoes, extra tools, cooking gear.
· Trunk: Located high and behind the rear axle, it should be used only for lighter, less bulky items such as rainsuits, tent and sleeping bag.

Shifting
Clutch in, move the lever, clutch out - what could be simpler? These pointers are designed to have you shifting more effectively.
· For quicker shifts, preload the shift lever by pressing it toward the next gear with your foot. Now, as soon as you pull in the clutch, you're already in the act of shifting.
· For smoother shifts, do not close the throttle fully. Instead, adjust the throttle as you clutch and shift to match engine rpm with the speed required for the next gear. For up shifts you'll need less rpm, and downshifts, more.
· Use neutral at a stop. As you slow, continue downshifting to first gear. Once you've stopped, lift the shift lever up into neutral. Group Riding At rallies, parades and other events and on guided tours, it's sometimes necessary to ride in a group.
· Ride in two lines per lane, on either side of the grease strip in the center of the lane in a staggered pattern.
· To avoid getting too close to the rider ahead of you , use the Two-Second Rule. Begin counting as the bike ahead of you passes a given point; you should pass the same point until two seconds have passed.

Preride check Before riding, get into the habit of making daily and weekly preride checks. Listed here are general checks. Refer to your owner's manual for specific checks on your specific machine.
Daily
· Fuel supply: Check for adequate supply, and that the petcock (if supplied) is turned on.
· Engine oil: Check the sight glass or dipstick.
· Tire inflation: Check the bike's cold tire pressure, and adjust it according to the owner's manual.
Weekly
· Master cylinders: Note that the fluid in the break and clutch master cylinders is at the correct levers.
· Lights: Check the operation of head and taillights, brake light and signals.
· Battery: Check the electrolyte level.
· Drive chain: Check lubrication and slack according to the owner's manual.
· Cables: Check for adjustment and ease of operation.

A Hard Day's Ride Travel Strategies:
Here are some basics for when you're putting on long distances.
· Check it Twice: Make a master list of items to take on any given ride, then update it specifically for each ride.
· Dress for Success: You function best when you're warm, dry and comfortable. For this reason get the best protective gear you can get, and wear it each time you ride. This also applies to selecting a helmet.
· Go by Stopping: We tend to make mistakes when we're tired, hungry and uncomfortable. When you find yourself lagging late in the day, stop, rest and get something to eat. You'll go farther, and be safer, in the long run.