Motorcycle Handling and Control Flashcards
7 cards from real RTT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Motorcycle Handling and Control flashcards as text
When riding through a curve, where should you position your body weight?
Answer: Shift weight toward the inside of the curve with the motorcycle
In a curve, your body and the motorcycle should lean together toward the inside of the turn for proper cornering balance.
What is 'target fixation' and why is it dangerous for motorcyclists?
Answer: The tendency to ride toward whatever you are staring at
Target fixation causes riders to unintentionally steer toward whatever they are focused on, making it critical to look where you want to go, not at the hazard.
What is the recommended technique for downshifting while braking on a motorcycle?
Answer: Apply brakes first, then downshift while releasing the clutch smoothly
Braking first slows the bike, then smooth downshifting with a controlled clutch release prevents rear wheel hop.
On a highway on-ramp, you notice a car merging into your lane. What is the best action?
Answer: Adjust your lane position and speed to increase your visibility and space
Adjusting your position and speed creates a buffer zone and maximizes your visibility to the merging driver.
Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in the center of a lane in heavy traffic?
Answer: Oil and debris accumulate in the center strip of most lanes
The center track of a lane collects oil drips, coolant, and debris from vehicles, making it the most slippery part of the lane.
When should you apply both brakes simultaneously on a motorcycle?
Answer: In most braking situations, applying both brakes together provides the most effective stopping power
Using both brakes together distributes braking force optimally; the front brake provides up to 70% of stopping power while the rear stabilizes the bike.
What happens to a motorcycle's handling if the rear tire is significantly under-inflated?
Answer: The motorcycle may weave or feel sluggish, especially at higher speeds
A significantly under-inflated rear tire causes instability, weaving, and poor handling, and increases the risk of a blowout.