UK Motorcycle Theory Test Motorway Riding — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the minimum motorcycle engine size permitted on a UK motorway?
- Any size
- Over 50cc — learner motorcyclists on CBT with bikes up to 125cc can use motorways since 2018 Highway Code update (Correct answer)
- Over 125cc only
- Over 250cc only
Correct answer: Over 50cc — learner motorcyclists on CBT with bikes up to 125cc can use motorways since 2018 Highway Code update
Motorcycles over 50cc are permitted on motorways. Since June 2018, learner motorcyclists holding a CBT certificate riding motorcycles between 50cc and 125cc are also allowed on motorways. Mopeds (50cc and under) are not permitted on motorways.
Question 2: What should a motorcyclist do when joining a motorway via a slip road?
- Stop at the end of the slip road and wait for a gap
- Build speed on the slip road to match motorway traffic, check mirrors and blind spots, and merge safely (Correct answer)
- Ride slowly onto the motorway to be cautious
- Use the hard shoulder to accelerate
Correct answer: Build speed on the slip road to match motorway traffic, check mirrors and blind spots, and merge safely
Use the slip road to build speed to match the flow of motorway traffic. Check mirrors and do a lifesaver check over your shoulder. Merge smoothly into the left-hand lane without forcing other vehicles to brake or change lanes. Indicate to signal your intention.
Question 3: Why is riding fatigue a particular concern for motorcyclists on motorways?
- Motorways are shorter than other roads
- The monotony of motorway riding, wind buffeting, noise, and physical effort combine to cause fatigue more quickly (Correct answer)
- Fatigue only affects car drivers
- Motorcycles are immune to the effects of fatigue
Correct answer: The monotony of motorway riding, wind buffeting, noise, and physical effort combine to cause fatigue more quickly
Motorway riding involves constant wind buffeting, engine vibration, noise, and physical effort to maintain position. Combined with the monotony of straight, unchanging roads, this causes fatigue to develop faster than on varied roads. Regular breaks every 2 hours are essential.
Question 4: What lane should a motorcyclist normally use on a three-lane motorway?
- The right lane at all times
- The left lane (lane 1), moving to the middle or right lanes only to overtake (Correct answer)
- The middle lane at all times
- Any lane they choose
Correct answer: The left lane (lane 1), moving to the middle or right lanes only to overtake
Like all vehicles, motorcyclists should normally travel in the left lane (lane 1) and only use the middle or right lanes for overtaking. After overtaking, return to the left lane when safe. The right lane should only be used for overtaking traffic in the middle lane.
Question 5: What should you do if your motorcycle breaks down on a motorway?
- Stop in the running lane and wait for help
- Pull onto the hard shoulder (or emergency refuge area), activate hazard lights, and move behind the barrier if possible (Correct answer)
- Flag down another vehicle for help
- Try to repair the motorcycle on the hard shoulder
Correct answer: Pull onto the hard shoulder (or emergency refuge area), activate hazard lights, and move behind the barrier if possible
If your motorcycle breaks down, move to the hard shoulder or emergency refuge area. Switch on hazard lights, leave the motorcycle and move behind the barrier away from traffic. Walk to the nearest emergency phone or call 999. Do not attempt repairs on the hard shoulder.
Question 6: What do variable speed limit signs on a smart motorway indicate?
- Suggestions that can be ignored
- Mandatory speed limits that must be obeyed — enforced by cameras (Correct answer)
- Speed limits that only apply to lorries
- The minimum speed you should travel
Correct answer: Mandatory speed limits that must be obeyed — enforced by cameras
Variable speed limits displayed on overhead gantries on smart motorways are mandatory and enforced by speed cameras. They are set to manage traffic flow, reduce congestion, and respond to incidents. Exceeding them can result in a fine and penalty points.
UK Motorcycle Theory Test Motorway Riding
What is the minimum motorcycle engine size permitted on a UK motorway?