RTT - Riding Theory Motorcycle Handling and Control Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When approaching a right-hand bend, what is the generally recommended lane position to maximise your view through the corner?
- In the centre of the lane.
- Close to the right-hand side of the lane.
- Towards the left-hand side of the lane. (Correct answer)
- Whichever position feels most comfortable.
Correct answer: Towards the left-hand side of the lane.
Positioning yourself towards the left-hand side of the lane when approaching a right-hand bend gives you the best and earliest view around the corner, allowing you to see oncoming traffic and potential hazards sooner.
Question 2: To initiate a turn to the left at speeds above 10-15 mph, which action should a rider take?
- Lean their body to the left without steering input.
- Push forward on the right handlebar.
- Turn the handlebars to the left.
- Push forward on the left handlebar. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Push forward on the left handlebar.
This technique is known as counter-steering. To make the motorcycle lean and turn to the left, you must momentarily press forward on the left handlebar. This action causes the front wheel to steer slightly right, initiating a lean to the left.
Question 3: Which of the following is the PRIMARY reason for braking before entering a curve?
- To warm up the brake pads for better performance.
- To maintain control and stability through the turn. (Correct answer)
- To signal your intention to turn to following traffic.
- To shift the motorcycle's weight to the rear wheel.
Correct answer: To maintain control and stability through the turn.
Braking while cornering can destabilise the motorcycle and lead to a loss of traction. It is safest to adjust your speed by braking while the motorcycle is upright and travelling in a straight line before you begin to lean into the turn.
Question 4: You are riding in wet conditions. How should your braking technique be adjusted compared to riding in the dry?
- Use only the front brake for maximum stopping power.
- Apply the brakes much more sharply and later.
- Use only the rear brake to avoid a front-wheel skid.
- Apply both brakes more gently and progressively. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Apply both brakes more gently and progressively.
In wet conditions, traction is reduced. To avoid wheel lockup, braking should be done earlier and more gradually, applying progressive pressure to both the front and rear brakes. Some sources suggest applying equal pressure to both brakes in wet conditions.
Question 5: When braking normally for a stop, what is the correct sequence for applying the brakes?
- Apply the rear brake first, then the front brake.
- Apply the front brake slightly before the rear brake. (Correct answer)
- Apply both brakes simultaneously with equal pressure.
- Apply the front brake only for maximum efficiency.
Correct answer: Apply the front brake slightly before the rear brake.
Applying the front brake first helps to transfer weight forward onto the front tyre, increasing its grip. The rear brake can then be applied to help stabilize the motorcycle and contribute to the stopping force. The front brake provides the majority of the stopping power (around 70-80%).
Question 6: Which of the following road surfaces is most likely to reduce your motorcycle's stability and require careful control?
- Newly laid, dry tarmac.
- Loose gravel on a paved road. (Correct answer)
- A dry concrete motorway.
- A road with 'Shellgrip' high-friction surfacing.
Correct answer: Loose gravel on a paved road.
Loose surfaces like gravel significantly reduce the tyre's grip on the road, which can easily lead to a loss of stability and control, especially during turning or braking. Riders must be vigilant for such surfaces and adjust their riding accordingly.
RTT - Riding Theory Motorcycle Handling and Control Questions and Answers
When approaching a right-hand bend, what is the generally recommended lane position to maximise your view through the corner?