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Motorcycle study notes

Motorcycle Loading

Pillion passengers, panniers, top boxes, towing and the effect of a load on handling.

What this topic covers

Pillion passengers, panniers, top boxes, towing and the effect of a load on handling. The full Motorcycle Theory Test app contains 29 questions on this topic.

In the app's syllabus: Stability, Towing regulations.

Worked examples

Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.

Example 1

What should you do if a trailer you're towing swerves or snakes?

A. Accelerate until it stabilises itself
B. Brake hard and hold the brake on
C. Let go of the handlebars and let it correct itself
D. Ease off the throttle and reduce your speed ✓ correct

Explanation: Do not be tempted to use harsh braking to stop swerving or snaking, as this could make things worse. You should reduce your speed gradually by easing off the throttle.

Example 2

You hold a provisional motorcycle licence. Are you allowed to carry a pillion passenger?

A. Only if the passenger is under 21
B. Not unless you're undergoing training
C. Not at any time ✓ correct
D. Only if the passenger holds a full licence

Explanation: You're not allowed to carry a pillion passenger until you hold a full motorcycle licence for the category of motorcycle that you're riding. Even when you've passed your test, do not carry a passenger if you're not confident that you can do so safely. You're responsible for their safety.

Example 3

What should you do before fitting a sidecar to a motorcycle?

A. Check that the motorcycle is suitable ✓ correct
B. Pass the extended motorcycle test
C. Have the engine tuned
D. Have the wheels balanced

Explanation: If you want to fit a sidecar to your motorcycle, check that the motorcycle is suitable and can cope with the extra load. Make sure that the sidecar is securely fixed and properly aligned. If your motorcycle was registered on or after 1 August 1981, the sidecar must be fitted on the left-hand side of the motorcycle.

Example 4

What should you check when you fit a sidecar to your motorcycle?

A. That the sidecar has a spare wheel
B. That the sidecar has a waterproof cover
C. That the sidecar is correctly aligned ✓ correct
D. That the sidecar has a registration plate

Explanation: If the sidecar is not correctly aligned with the mounting points, the outfit will be difficult to control and could be dangerous. Riding with a sidecar attached requires a different technique from riding a solo motorcycle. You should keep your speed down while learning this skill.

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More Motorcycle study notes

Get all 29 questions on this topic in the Motorcycle Theory Test app.