Motorcycle Loading
Panniers, top boxes, pillion safety and load limits on a motorcycle.
What this topic covers
Panniers, top boxes, pillion safety and load limits on a motorcycle. The full Motorcycle Theory Test app contains 33 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
If a trailer swerves or snakes when you are towing it you should
- A. ease off the throttle and reduce your speed ✓ correct
- B. let go of the handlebars and let it correct itself
- C. brake hard and hold the brake on
- D. increase your speed as quickly as possible
Explanation: Don’t be tempted to use harsh braking to stop swerving or snaking as this won’t help the situation. You should reduce your speed by easing off the throttle.
Example 2
To obtain the full category 'A' licence through the accelerated or direct access scheme, your motorcycle must be
- A. solo with maximum power 25kw (33 bhp)
- B. solo with maximum power of 11kw (14.6 bhp)
- C. fitted with a sidecar and have minimum power of 35kw (46.6 bhp)
- D. solo with minimum power of 35 kw (46.6 bhp) ✓ correct
Explanation: From the age of 21 you may take a category A test via the Direct or Accelerated Access schemes. The motorcycle you use for your practical test under the Direct or Accelerated Access scheme is one that has an engine with a minimum power output of 35 kw (46.6 bhp).
Example 3
Pillion passengers should
- A. give the rider directions
- B. lean with the rider when going round bends ✓ correct
- C. check the road behind for the rider
- D. give arm signals for the rider
Explanation: When riding with a pillion passenger, your motorcycle may feel unbalanced and the acceleration and braking distance may also be affected. Make sure your passenger knows they must lean with you while cornering. If they don’t, they could cause the motorcycle to become unstable and difficult to control.
Example 4
You are towing a trailer with your motorcycle. You should remember that your
- A. stopping distance may increase ✓ correct
- B. fuel consumption will improve
- C. tyre grip will increase
- D. stability will improve
Explanation: When you tow a trailer remember that you must obey the relevant speed limits. Ensure that the trailer is hitched correctly and that any load in the trailer is secure. You should also bear in mind that your stopping distance may increase.
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