Motorcycle Handling
Cornering, counter-steering, hill starts, riding in groups and pillion passengers.
What this topic covers
Cornering, counter-steering, hill starts, riding in groups and pillion passengers. The full Motorcycle Theory Test app contains 57 questions on this topic, drawn from the official DVSA bank.
Worked examples
Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.
Example 1
As a safety measure before starting your engine, you should
- A. push the motorcycle forward to check the rear wheel turns freely ✓ correct
- B. engage first gear and apply the rear brake
- C. engage first gear and apply the front brake
- D. glance at the neutral light on your instrument panel ✓ correct
Explanation: Before starting the engine you should ensure the motorcycle is in neutral. This can be done by, moving the motorcycle to check that the rear wheel turns freely and making sure the neutral warning light is lit when the ignition is turned on.
Example 2
When riding a motorcycle you should wear full protective clothing
- A. at all times ✓ correct
- B. only on faster, open roads
- C. just on long journeys
- D. only during bad weather
Explanation: Protective clothing is designed to protect you from the cold and wet and also gives some protection from injury.
Example 3
Your motorcycle is parked on a two-way road. You should get on from the
- A. right and apply the rear brake
- B. left and leave the brakes alone
- C. left and apply the front brake ✓ correct
- D. right and leave the brakes alone
Explanation: When you get onto a motorcycle you should get on from the left side to avoid putting yourself in danger from passing traffic. Also apply the front brake to prevent the motorcycle rolling either forwards or backwards.
Example 4
The main causes of a motorcycle skidding are
- A. heavy and sharp braking ✓ correct
- B. excessive acceleration ✓ correct
- C. leaning too far when cornering ✓ correct
- D. riding in wet weather
- E. riding in the winter
Explanation: Skids are a lot easier to get into than they are to get out of. Riding at a speed that suits the conditions, looking ahead for hazards and braking in good time will all help you to avoid skidding or losing control of your vehicle.
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