Driving a motorcycle is so different from driving a car that motorcycle riders have a separate manual (and a distinct class of driver license) dedicated to them. Because motorcycle riders are extremely vulnerable to other drivers who often don't see them, bikers have to learn an additional set of skills to protect themselves.

To help motorcycle riders share the roads safely with cars and reduce the risk of a crash, the New York DMV publishes a manual just for motorcyclists. The manual will help you pass the written and skills tests required for getting a motorcycle license.

The DMV points out, however, that since motorcyclists share the road with drivers of many types of vehicles, your written test will be based both on the motorcycle manual and the regular driver's manual. Combined with a motorcycle training course, plenty of practice, and safe riding habits, these manuals will help ensure your road trips get you where you're going.

The DMV also offers a brief cheat sheet, "Tips for Safer Motorcycling," as a quick reminder to riders that they need to take extra steps and precautions to protect their own safety when riding a motorcycle.

The manuals are available online in HTML format. Simply click on the links below to access them.

• New York Motorcycle Manual

• New York Driver's Manual and Study Guide

• Tips for Safer Motorcycling

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