Motorcycle handling questions Motorcycle theory test
This topic has 51 practice questions. Here are 10 of them with the right answer and why.
What should you do before starting a motorcycle engine?
- Check that the neutral lamp shows when the ignition is switched onRight answer
- Select first gear and apply the rear brake lightly
- Select first gear and apply the front brake firmly
- Check that your dipped headlights and tail light are on
Before starting the engine, make sure the motorcycle is in neutral. Do this by checking that the neutral warning light is lit when you switch on the ignition. If no neutral light is fitted, push the motorcycle forward to check that the rear wheel turns freely.
What should the motorcyclist do as they approach this junction?
- Stop, as the car has right of way
- Slow down and be ready to stopRight answer
- Dip their headlights and keep near the left-hand kerb
- Speed up to clear the junction without delay
Look out for road signs warning of side roads. A driver who's emerging may not be able to see a motorcyclist due to parked cars or heavy traffic. Ride defensively, slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary. Remember, no-one has priority at an unmarked crossroads.
What can motorcyclists do to improve their safety on the road?
- Anticipate the actions of othersRight answer
- Stay just above the speed limit
- Keep positioned close to the kerb
- Remain well below the speed limit
Always ride defensively. This means looking and planning ahead, as well as anticipating the actions of other road users.
What can cause a motorcycle to skid?
- Braking too gently
- Feathering the throttle
- Staying upright when cornering
- Braking too hardRight answer
To keep control of your motorcycle and prevent skidding, you should plan well ahead and avoid late, harsh braking. Try to avoid braking while changing direction, as the tyres may not have enough grip to cope with both together. Always consider how the road and weather conditions may affect your tyres’ grip.
It's very cold and the road looks wet. What should you do if you cannot hear any road noise as you ride?
- Continue riding at the same speed
- Ride slowly in as high a gear as possibleRight answer
- Ride in as low a gear as possible
- Brake sharply to see if the road is slippery
Frozen rain on the road is called black ice. It can be hard to see, but it can be indicated by a lack of road noise and your steering may also feel very light. Reduce your speed and avoid harsh braking or steering. Riding in as high a gear as possible can help reduce the risk of wheelspin.
When should you wear full protective clothing while riding a motorcycle?
- At all timesRight answer
- Only on faster, open roads
- Just on long journeys
- Only during bad weather
Protective clothing is designed to protect you from the cold and wet. It also gives you some protection from injury, so it's important that you always wear protective clothing when you ride.
What should you do before you start a journey in foggy conditions?
- Make sure that you have a spare visor with you
- Make sure that you have a warm drink with you
- Check that your lights are workingRight answer
- Check that the battery is fully charged
It's best to avoid riding in foggy weather. However, if you have to, there are some precautions you can take before setting off to help make your journey as safe as possible. These include checking that all your lights are clean and working, and that your visor is clean.
Where's the best place to park your motorcycle?
- On soft tarmac
- On bumpy ground
- On grass
- On firm, level groundRight answer
Parking your motorcycle on soft ground might cause the stand to sink in, and the machine could fall over. The ground should be level, as well as firm, to keep the motorcycle stable. Use off-road parking or motorcycle parking areas when they're available.
What should you do when you're riding in windy conditions?
- Stay close to large vehicles
- Keep your speed up
- Keep your speed downRight answer
- Stay close to the gutter
Strong winds can blow a motorcycle off course, and even across the road. In windy conditions, you need to slow down and avoid riding on exposed roads. You should also watch for gaps in buildings and hedges, where you may be affected by a sudden gust of wind.
Where should you normally position your motorcycle while you're riding on the road?
- Close to the kerb
- In the centre of your laneRight answer
- On the right of your lane
- Near the centre of the road
When you’re riding a motorcycle, it’s very important to ride where other road users can see you. In normal weather, you should ride in the centre of your lane. This will help you avoid uneven road surfaces in the gutter, and allow others to overtake on the right if they wish.