Motorcycle Manual in Alaska

SUMMARY: Alaska Motorcycle Manual

You'll find an enormous amount of information on various topics in the Alaska motorcycle manual. A few of the topics you'll encounter include the types of AK motorcycle licenses, guidelines on safe motorcycle operation, the proper attire to wear when riding, and how to deal with mechanical problems, among other topics.

The Alaska Motorcycle Operator Manual (REV 2015), available from the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), offers a ton of relevant information for motorcycle riders.

Types of Motorcycle Licenses in AK

In the manual, you'll learn the difference between the types of motorcycle licenses. You'll also learn which vehicles require a full M1 motorcycle endorsement and which require a basic M2 endorsement.

The M1 designation will allow you to drive:

  • Motorcycles.
  • Motorized scooters.
  • Motor-driven cycles.
  • Motorized bicycles.

An M2 designation will authorize you to drive only:

  • Motorized scooters.
  • Motor-driven cycles.
  • Motorized bicycles.

Once you determine which designation you will need, you can study the appropriate sections of the manual before you take your written and driving tests.

You can also look online for other forms you may need before you go to the DMV.

Remember, you will also need to make sure that your motorcycle is properly registered and that you have adequate insurance.

Riding a Motorcycle Safely

The first and most important thing you will learn from the Alaska motorcycle manual is how to ride your motorcycle safely, and how to avoid accidents.

These are just a few motorcycle driving safety basics discussed in the DMV motorcycle handbook:

  • Maintaining proper distance.
  • Control of your motorcycle.
  • Other vehicles on the road.
  • Riding on dangerous surfaces.
  • Passenger transport.
  • Avoiding accidents.

The motorcycle manual covers skills you can use to ensure your own safety on the road, as well as the safety of other drivers. It covers new methods for maintaining your safety while riding on the streets, highways and freeways of Alaska.

Motorcycle Dress Code

Using gear can't prevent accidents, but it can help prevent a minor accident from inflicting major injuries to you or a passenger. Many inexperienced riders choose not to wear gear or helmets, thinking they are unnecessary. While helmets are not required by law in Alaska, they do save lives.

The Alaska DMV motorcycle handbook teaches:

  • Proper helmet choices.
  • Correct body gear.
  • Correct boot and clothing choices.
  • How to protect your eyes and face.
  • How to be more visible to other drivers.

Mechanical Problems

Many accidents involving motorcycles can be attributed to mechanical failure. Motorcycle drivers do not automatically know what they should do in case of a breakdown. Some mechanical failures happen so suddenly that there is not a lot of time to think.

The Alaska Motorcycle Manual teaches you tips on what to do in the event of:

  • Tire blowout.
  • Stuck throttle.
  • Airborne objects.
  • Chain stuck or broken.
  • Engine failure.
  • Animals in the road.

No two breakdowns are alike, but there are ways to deal with the instability caused by mechanical problems and to avoid accidents that result from them. Basic methods for controlling an unstable motorcycle are covered in the manual.

Other Topics

The Alaska Motorcycle Manual also covers:

  • Road rules.
  • Laws.
  • Tips for making your ride more pleasant.
  • Ideas for staying safe in the event of sudden weather changes.
  • Road changes.

Even if you have been riding motorcycles for many years, consider picking up a copy of the manual next time you are at your local AK DMV office. You may find a tip today that will save your life the next time you head out on the highway.

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