Honda CB500X - Owner's Manual > Safety Guidelines

Follow these guidelines to enhance your safety:

• Perform all routine and regular inspections specified in this manual.
• Stop the engine and keep sparks and flame away before filling the fuel tank.
• Do not run the engine in enclosed or partly enclosed areas. Carbon monoxide in exhaust gases is toxic and can kill you.

Always Wear a Helmet

It's a proven fact: helmets and protective apparel significantly reduce the number and severity of head and other injuries. So always wear an approved motorcycle helmet and protective apparel.

Before Riding

Make sure that you are physically fit, mentally focused and free of alcohol and drugs. Check that you and your passenger are both wearing an approved motorcycle helmet and protective apparel. Instruct your passenger on holding onto the seat strap or your waist, leaning with you in turns, and keeping their feet on the footpegs, even when the motorcycle is stopped.

Take Time to Learn & Practice

Even if you have ridden other motorcycles, practice riding in a safe area to become familiar with how this motorcycle works and handles, and to become accustomed to the motorcycle's size and weight.

We recommend that all riders take a certified course approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). New riders should start with the basic course, and even experienced riders will find the advanced course beneficial.

For information about the MSF training course nearest you, call the national toll-free number: (800) 446-9227.

USA Other riding tips can be found in the You and Your Motorcycle Riding Tips booklet that came with your motorcycle.

Ride Defensively

Always pay attention to other vehicles around you, and do not assume that other drivers see you. Be prepared to stop quickly or perform an evasive maneuver.

Make Yourself Easy to See

Make yourself more visible, especially at night, by wearing bright reflective clothing, positioning yourself so other drivers can see you, signaling before turning or changing lanes, and using your horn when necessary.

Ride within Your Limits

Never ride beyond your personal abilities or faster than conditions warrant. Fatigue and inattention can impair your ability to use good judgment and ride safely.

Don't Drink and Ride

Alcohol and riding don't mix. Even one alcoholic drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. Don't drink and ride, and don't let your friends drink and ride either.

Keep Your Honda in Safe Condition

It's important to keep your motorcycle properly maintained and in safe riding condition.

Inspect your motorcycle before every ride and perform all recommended maintenance. Never exceed load limits, and do not modify your motorcycle or install accessories that would make your motorcycle unsafe.

If You are Involved in a Crash

Personal safety is your first priority. If you or anyone else has been injured, take time to assess the severity of the injuries and whether it is safe to continue riding. Call for emergency assistance if needed. Also follow applicable laws and regulations if another person or vehicle is involved in the crash.

If you decide to continue riding, first turn the ignition switch to the OFF position, and evaluate the condition of your motorcycle. Inspect for fluid leaks, check the tightness of critical nuts and bolts, and check the handlebar, control levers, brakes, and wheels. Ride slowly and cautiously.

Your motorcycle may have suffered damage that is not immediately apparent. Have your motorcycle thoroughly checked at a qualified service facility as soon as possible.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and may lead to death.

If you run the engine in confined or even partly enclosed area, the air you breathe could contain a dangerous amount of carbon monoxide.

Never run your motorcycle inside a garage or other enclosure.

WARNING Running the engine of your motorcycle while in an enclosed or even partially enclosed area can cause a rapid build-up of toxic carbon monoxide gas.

Breathing this colorless, odorless gas can quickly cause unconsciousness and lead to death.

Only run your motorcycle's engine when it is located in a well ventilated area outdoors.

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