Ask a Trooper: Skills and equipment for motorcyclists

Question: With summer being upon us, can you get some information out in regards to motorcycle safety?

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Answer: Operating a motorcycle requires different skills than driving a car, so there are some additional requirements for motorcycle riders:

• Motorcyclists are entitled to the full use of their lanes and have all the rights and duties of other drivers.

• Operators must have a valid license with a motorcycle endorsement or instruction permit.

• Riders must wear eye protection, such as a face shield, goggles or glasses. Windshields do not meet legal requirements.

• Careless and reckless driving applies to motorcyclists and includes “wheelies,” “stoppies,” standing on the seat, etc.

• Riders and passengers under the age of 18 must wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet.

• A motorcyclist may only ride on a permanent seat. Passengers may ride on a passenger seat or in a sidecar.

• Motorcyclists are provided with an affirmative defense when proceeding through an unchanging red light that has shown red for an unreasonable time if no vehicle or pedestrian is approaching the street.

• The headlight must be on at all times when riding.

• At least one brake is required, either front or rear, which may be operated by hand or foot.

• A rear-view mirror and horn are required equipment.

• If the bike has a passenger seat, it must also have passenger footrests.

• The muffler shall blend the exhaust noise into the overall vehicle noise and the exhaust system shall not emit or produce a sharp popping or crackling sound.

• The license plate must be securely fastened to prevent swinging and be in an upright position. It must be displayed horizontally or vertically with letters and numbers facing outward from the motorcycle.

• Turn signals must be visible 100 feet to the front and rear during daytime and nighttime.

• Motorcycles are required to have at least one but not more than four headlights with both high and low beam.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. (Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)