A. Yes, as long as they have each other's consent to do so.

Wisconsin law provides that two — and no more than two — motorcycles may be ridden abreast in a single lane "with the consent of both drivers."

Still, it's not a great idea.

"From a safety standpoint, it's not a good procedure to do that," said Ron Thompson, manager of the Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program for the Department of Transportation.

He recommends that motorcyclists ride in a staggered formation in their lane, the first on the right, the second on the left, and so on in an alternating order.

"The reason for that is so that they have room to maneuver if something happens," Thompson said. Debris falling off a vehicle in front, potholes or other hazards can be more easily avoided if the motorcyclist can move aside within the lane.

It's generally better for visibility if a single motorcyclist rides in the center or left side of his lane, Thompson said.

The reader also wondered about other drivers giving motorcyclists enough room when they pass.

Passing vehicles must move entirely out of the motorcyclist's lane, Thompson said.

— Anita Clark

Have a concern? Look for Safe & Sound on Fridays in the Local section. Send questions to: aclark@madison.com; 608-252-6138; Safe and Sound, P.O. Box 8058, Madison, WI 53708.