Know and respect the rules of the road (see RULES OF THE ROAD section). Carefully read and observe the rules contained in the RIDING TIPS booklet accompanying this Owner's Manual. Read and familiarize yourself with the contents of the MOTORCYCLE HANDBOOK for your state.

Before starting engine, check for proper operation of brake, clutch, shifter, throttle controls, correct fuel and oil supply.

Use only Harley-Davidson approved parts and accessories. Use of certain other manufacturer's performance parts will void your new motorcycle warranty. See your Harley-Davidson dealer for details.

Refuel in a well ventilated area with the engine turned off.

Remove fuel filler cap slowly.

Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks when refueling or servicing the fuel system.

Always close the fuel supply valve when the engine is not running. This prevents flooding of the carburetor and the surrounding area with gasoline.

Do not fill fuel tank above the bottom of the filler neck insert.

Leave air space to allow for fuel expansion.

A new motorcycle must be operated according to the special break-in procedure. See Operation → Break-in Riding Rules.

Operate motorcycle only at moderate speed and out of traffic until you have become thoroughly familiar with its operation and handling characteristics under all conditions.

Do not exceed the legal speed limit or drive too fast for existing conditions. Always reduce speed when poor driving conditions exist. High speed increases the influence of any other condition affecting stability and increases the possibility of loss of control.

Pay strict attention to road surfaces and wind conditions. Any two wheeled vehicle may be subject to upsetting forces such as wind blasts from passing trucks, holes in the pavement, rough road surfaces, rider control error, etc. These forces may influence the handling characteristics of your motorcycle. If this happens, reduce speed and guide the motorcycle with a relaxed grip to a controlled condition. Do not brake abruptly or force the handlebar. This may aggravate an unstable condition.

Keep cargo weight concentrated close to the motorcycle and as low as possible to minimize the change in the motorcycle's center of gravity. Distribute weight evenly on both sides of the vehicle and do not load bulky items too far behind the rider or add weight to the handlebars or front forks. Do not exceed maximum specified load in each saddlebag.

Operate your motorcycle defensively. Remember, a motorcycle does not afford the same protection as an automobile in an accident. One of the most common accident situations occurs when the driver of the other vehicle fails to see or recognize a motorcycle and turns left into the on-coming motorcyclist. Operate only with headlamp on.

Wear an approved helmet, clothing, and foot gear suited for motorcycle riding. Bright or light colors are best for greater visibility in traffic, especially at night. Avoid loose, flowing garments and scarves.

When carrying passengers, it is your responsibility to instruct them on proper riding procedures. (See Riding Tips for Motorcyclist included in your Harley-Davidson Owner's Kit.)

Do not allow other individuals, under any circumstances, to operate your motorcycle unless you know they are experienced, licensed riders and are thoroughly familiar with the operation of your particular motorcycle.

Protect your motorcycle against theft. After parking your motorcycle, lock the steering head and remove ignition key from switch. Set security alarm if present.

Safe motorcycle operation requires alert mental judgment combined with a defensive driving attitude. Do not allow fatigue, alcohol or drugs to endanger your safety or that of others.

Vehicles equipped with a sound system should have the volume adjusted to a nondistracting level before operating vehicle.

Maintain your motorcycle in proper operating condition in accordance with Maintenance Scheduling → Regular Service Intervals → Regular Service Intervals: 2006 Police Models . Particularly important to motorcycle stability is proper tire inflation pressure, tread condition, and proper adjustment of wheel bearings and steering head bearings.

See a Harley-Davidson service manual for proper torque values.

Aftermarket fasteners may not have the specific property requirements to perform properly.

GVWR is the sum of the weight of the motorcycle, accessories, and the maximum weight of the rider, passenger and cargo that can be safely carried.

GAWR is the maximum weight that can be safely carried on each axle.

The GVWR and GAWR are shown on the information plate, located on the frame down tube.

Be sure all equipment required by federal, state and local law is installed and in good operating condition.