Kawasaki Z1000SX - Owner's Manual > Safe Riding Technique

Safe Operation / Safe Riding Technique

The points given below are applicable for everyday motorcycle use and should be carefully observed for safe and effective vehicle operation.

For safety, eye protection and a helmet are strongly recommended.

You should be aware of and verify the applicable safety regulations in force prior to riding your motorcycle.

Gloves and suitable footwear should also be used for added protection in case of a mishap.

A motorcycle does not provide the impact protection of an automobile, so defensive riding in addition to wearing protective apparel is extremely important. Do not let protective apparel give you a false sense of security.

When riding always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footpegs. Removing your hands from the handlebars or feet from the footpegs while riding can be hazardous. If you remove even one hand or foot, you can reduce your ability to control the motorcycle.

Before changing lanes, look over your shoulder to make sure the way is clear. Do not rely solely on the rear view mirror; you may misjudge a vehicle's distance and speed, or you may not see it at all.

In general your actions should be smooth as sudden acceleration, braking or turning may cause loss of control, especially when riding in wet conditions or on loose roadway surfaces, when the ability to maneuver will be reduced.

When going up steep slopes, shift to a lower gear so that there is plenty of power to spare rather than overloading the engine.

When applying the brakes, use both the front and rear brakes. Applying only one brake for sudden braking may cause the motorcycle to skid and lose control.

When going down long slopes, control vehicle speed by closing the throttle. Use the front and rear brakes for auxiliary braking.

In wet conditions, rely more on the throttle to control vehicle speed and less on the front and rear brakes.

The throttle should also be used judiciously to avoid skidding the rear wheel from too rapid acceleration or deceleration.

Riding at the proper rate of speed and avoiding unnecessarily fast acceleration are important not only for safety and low fuel consumption but also for long vehicle life and quieter operation.

On rough roads, exercise caution, slow down, and grip the fuel tank with knees for better stability.

When quick acceleration is necessary as in passing, shift to a lower gear to obtain the necessary power.

Do not downshift at too high an r/ min (rpm) to avoid damage from overrevving to the engine.

Avoiding unnecessary weaving is important to the safety of both the rider and other motorists.

    See also:

     Kawasaki Z1000SX - Owner's Manual > Safe Operation

     Kawasaki Z1000SX - Owner's Manual > Daily Safety Checks

    Check the following items each day before you ride. The time required is minimal, and habitual performance of these checks will help ensure you a safe, reliable ride. If any irregularities are found during these checks, refer to the Maintenance and Adjustment chapter or see your dealer for the action required to return the motorcycle to a safe operating condition.

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