2013 Polaris Vegas 8-Ball Owners Manual - Page 10
2013 Polaris Vegas 8-Ball Manual
Page 10 highlights
Safety Safe Riding Practices • Reduce speed when: - the road has potholes or is otherwise rough or uneven. - the road contains sand, dirt, gravel or other loose substances. - the road is wet, icy or oily. - the road contains painted surfaces, manhole covers, metal grating, railway crossings or other slippery surfaces. - weather is windy, rainy or otherwise causing slippery or rapidly changing conditions. - traffic is heavy, congested, not allowing sufficient space between vehicles or otherwise not flowing smoothly. - being passed in either direction by a large vehicle that produces a wind blast in its wake. • To maximize braking effectiveness, use the front and rear brakes together. Be aware of the following important information: - The rear brake provides 40% of the motorcycle's stopping power, at most. - To avoid skidding, apply the brakes gradually when the road is wet or rough, or contains loose or other slippery substances. - If possible, avoid applying the brakes while making a turn. Motorcycle tires have less traction during turns, so braking will increase the possibility of skidding. Bring the motorcycle to the upright position before applying the brakes. • To avoid loss of control: - Retract the sidestand fully before riding. Ground clearance is reduced when the motorcycle leans. - When approaching a curve, choose a speed and lean angle that will allow you to pass through the curve in your own lane without applying the brakes. - Do not allow components to contact the road surface when leaning in a curve. - Do not tow a trailer, which can make the motorcycle hard to handle. 8