M1 - Motorcycle Motorcycle Handling and Control Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When executing a turn at speeds above 10-15 mph, what is the proper technique to initiate the lean?
- Lean your body in the direction of the turn while keeping the handlebars straight.
- Turn the handlebars in the same direction you want to go.
- Push forward on the handgrip in the direction you want the motorcycle to go. (Correct answer)
- Apply a small amount of rear brake to shift weight.
Correct answer: Push forward on the handgrip in the direction you want the motorcycle to go.
To turn a motorcycle at speed, you must use a technique called counter-steering. This involves pushing forward on the handgrip in the direction of the intended turn (push right to go right, push left to go left). This action causes the motorcycle to lean, which is necessary for cornering.
Question 2: You are approaching a corner and need to slow down. What is the recommended braking practice?
- Apply only the rear brake to avoid front-wheel lock-up.
- Apply only the front brake as it provides the most stopping power.
- Brake hard and late into the corner to maintain speed.
- Slow down before the turn by applying both brakes smoothly. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Slow down before the turn by applying both brakes smoothly.
The safest and most effective practice is to reduce your speed *before* entering the turn. This should be done by smoothly applying both the front and rear brakes. Braking while in the turn can upset the motorcycle's suspension and traction, increasing the risk of a skid.
Question 3: Which of the following is the BEST lane position for enhancing your visibility to other drivers and maintaining a space cushion?
- Always in the center of the lane (position 2).
- Always in the right portion of the lane (position 3).
- A position that varies depending on the current traffic and road conditions. (Correct answer)
- Directly in the blind spot of the car ahead to encourage them to move.
Correct answer: A position that varies depending on the current traffic and road conditions.
There is no single 'best' lane position; it is situational. A rider must constantly assess traffic, road hazards, and visibility to select the optimal position. This may mean being in the left, center, or right third of the lane to see, be seen, and have an escape path.
Question 4: While riding in a group, the leader extends their left arm straight out and then bends it down at a 90-degree angle with their palm facing backward. What does this signal mean?
- Slow down.
- Stop. (Correct answer)
- Hazard on the road.
- Single file formation.
Correct answer: Stop.
This is the standard hand signal for 'Stop'. The leader is indicating that the entire group needs to come to a stop. It's crucial for all riders in the group to know these signals to maintain safety and organization.
Question 5: If your rear wheel locks up and begins to skid while braking in a straight line, what is the correct response?
- Immediately release the rear brake and reapply it forcefully.
- Maintain pressure on the rear brake and steer in the direction of the skid.
- Quickly apply more front brake to compensate.
- Keep the rear brake applied and focus on keeping the motorcycle upright and straight. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Keep the rear brake applied and focus on keeping the motorcycle upright and straight.
If the rear wheel locks, you should not release the brake suddenly, as this can cause a dangerous 'high-side' crash. The proper technique is to keep the brake applied, which keeps the wheel from regaining traction abruptly, and use the handlebars to keep the motorcycle traveling in a straight line until you stop.
Question 6: A rider's body position is crucial for control. When cornering, what should you generally do with your body?
- Lean your upper body away from the turn to keep the bike upright.
- Sit perfectly straight and rigid, letting only the bike lean.
- Keep your knees away from the gas tank for more flexibility.
- Lean with the motorcycle into the turn, pressing your outside knee against the tank. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Lean with the motorcycle into the turn, pressing your outside knee against the tank.
Proper body position involves leaning with the motorcycle into the corner. This helps lower the combined center of gravity and improves stability. Pressing the outside knee against the tank helps lock you into the bike, providing better control and feedback.
M1 - Motorcycle Motorcycle Handling and Control Questions and Answers 1
When executing a turn at speeds above 10-15 mph, what is the proper technique to initiate the lean?