Alertness questions Motorcycle theory test
This topic has 33 practice questions. Here are 10 of them with the right answer and why.
You're about to turn right. What should you do just before you turn?
- Give the correct signal
- Take a lifesaver glance over your shoulderRight answer
- Select the correct gear
- Get in position ready for the turn
When you're turning right, plan your approach to the junction. Signal and select the correct gear in good time. Just before you turn, take a lifesaver glance for a final check behind and to the side of you.
What's the ‘lifesaver’ when riding a motorcycle?
- A certificate every motorcyclist must have
- A final rearward glance before changing directionRight answer
- A part of the motorcycle tool kit
- A mirror fitted to check blind spots
This action makes you aware of what’s happening behind and alongside you. The lifesaver glance should be timed so that you still have time to react if it’s not safe to perform the manoeuvre.
What should you do when you see this road sign ahead?
- Continue at the same speed
- Slow down as you go around the bend
- Slow down as you come out of the bend
- Slow down before the bendRight answer
Always look for any advance warning of hazards, such as road signs and hazard warning lines. Use this information to plan ahead and to help you avoid the need for late, harsh braking. Your motorcycle should be upright and moving in a straight line when you brake. This will help you keep maximum control when dealing with the hazard.
What should you do if you're riding at night and are dazzled by the headlights of an oncoming car?
- Slow down or stopRight answer
- Close your eyes
- Flash your headlights
- Turn your head away
If you're dazzled by the headlights of an approaching vehicle, slow down or stop until your eyes have adjusted. A dirty or scratched visor could make the dazzle worse and further impair your vision.
When riding some motorcycles, your shoulders and arms can obstruct your view in the mirrors. What can you do to overcome this difficulty?
- Indicate earlier than normal
- Fit smaller mirrors
- Extend the mirror armsRight answer
- Brake earlier than normal
It’s essential that you have a clear view all around. Adjust your mirrors to give you the best view of the road behind. If your body obscures the view, try fitting mirrors with longer stems.
You're riding a motorcycle on the road. What should you do before using your mobile phone?
- Turn on the speaker phone function
- Stop in a safe placeRight answer
- Slow down to 20 mph
- Increase the separation distance to 4 seconds
It’s important that you’re in full control at all times. Even using a hands-free phone kit can distract your attention from the road. If you need to use a mobile phone, stop in a safe place before making the call.
You’re riding at night. You have your headlights on main beam. When should you dip your headlights if another vehicle overtakes you?
- When the other vehicle signals to overtake
- As soon as the other vehicle moves out to overtake
- As soon as the other vehicle passes youRight answer
- After the other vehicle pulls in front of you
At night, you should dip your headlights to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers or those ahead of you. If you’re being overtaken, dip your headlights as the other vehicle comes past. When you switch to dipped beam, your view of the road ahead will be reduced, so look ahead for hazards on your side of the road before you do so.
What should you do to move off safely from a parked position?
- Signal if other drivers will need to slow down
- Leave your motorcycle on its stand until it's safe to move off
- Give an arm signal as well as using your indicators
- Look over your shoulder just before you move offRight answer
Just before you move off from the side of the road, you should take a look over your shoulder to check your blind spot. This will help you to see any road user who’s not visible in your mirrors.
What will happen if you become very cold while you're riding your motorcycle?
- You'll be more alert
- You'll be more relaxed
- You'll react more quickly
- You'll lose concentrationRight answer
It can be difficult to keep warm when riding a motorcycle. It's well worth buying good-quality motorcycle clothing, which will help to keep you warm and is essential for your safety. If you become very cold while riding, you'll find it difficult to concentrate on the road.
What should you do if you’re riding at night and are dazzled by the headlights of an approaching vehicle?
- Switch off your headlights
- Switch to main beam
- Slow down and stop if necessaryRight answer
- Flash your headlights
If your view of the road ahead is restricted because you’re being dazzled by approaching headlights, slow down and, if you need to, find a safe place to stop until your vision is restored.