AF Motorcycle Driving Theory flashcards

33 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Solid white centre line

A solid white line in the centre of the road must not be crossed or straddled, except to pass a stationary obstruction, a pedal cycle, or a horse.

Double white lines

Where the solid line is nearest the rider, crossing is prohibited except to pass a stationary obstruction or a slow-moving pedal cycle or horse, provided it is safe.

STOP sign rule

At a STOP sign the rider must bring the motorcycle to a complete stop at the line and give way to traffic on the major road before proceeding.

National speed limit signs

A white circle with a black diagonal band means the national limit applies: 60 mph on single carriageways and 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways for motorcycles.

Traffic light amber phase

An amber light means stop, unless the rider is so close to the line that stopping would be unsafe; red and amber together mean prepare to go but do not proceed.

Box junction rule

Do not enter a box junction unless the exit is clear; the exception is when turning right and blocked only by oncoming traffic or other right-turning vehicles.

Two-second rule

In dry conditions, leave at least a two-second gap behind the vehicle ahead; double it in rain and increase it greatly on ice or snow.

Lifesaver check

A shoulder glance over the relevant side before changing lane, joining a carriageway, or moving off, to check the blind spot mirrors do not cover.

Limit point

The furthest point of the road the rider can see clearly; the rider should be able to stop within that distance at all times.

Target fixation

Fixating on a hazard increases the risk of hitting it; the rider should look toward the escape route rather than at the obstacle.

Countersteering

At speeds above walking pace, pushing the handlebar on the side the rider wants to turn toward causes the machine to lean and turn that way.

Front brake effectiveness

The front brake provides most of the stopping power because weight transfers forward under braking; it should be applied progressively to avoid locking.

Tyre tread legal minimum

Motorcycles over 50cc must have at least 1 mm of tread across three-quarters of the tread breadth around the entire circumference.

Chain slack check

Chain tension should be set to the manufacturer's specification; too tight damages bearings and too loose risks the chain derailing.

Friction zone

The range of clutch lever travel where the clutch partially engages; used with the rear brake for slow-speed control and U-turns.

Engine braking

Rolling off the throttle in a lower gear slows the machine through engine compression, reducing brake fade on long descents.

Helmet fit check

The shell should not rotate independently of the scalp when twisted, and the fastened strap should allow no more than a finger's width under the chin.

Helmet replacement rule

A helmet should be replaced after any significant impact or drop, because the energy-absorbing liner may be damaged even when no external damage is visible.

CE armour placement

CE-approved armour at the shoulders, elbows, back and knees reduces impact injury; it is more protective than plain foam padding.

Visor and light rules

A tinted or dark visor must not be used at night or in poor light; the visor must be clear enough to see through safely.

Glove protection

Gloves with palm sliders and reinforced knuckles protect the hands, which are among the first contact points with the road in a fall.

Emergency braking technique

Apply both brakes firmly and progressively, keeping the machine upright where possible; the front brake supplies most of the stopping force.

Front wheel lock response

If the front wheel locks, release the front brake immediately and reapply smoothly; a locked front wheel causes loss of steering and a fall.

DR ABC sequence

The primary survey for a casualty: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation, performed in that order before further assessment.

Helmet removal rule

Do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless the airway is obstructed and cannot be cleared with the helmet in place, because of spinal injury risk.

Recovery position

An unconscious but breathing casualty is placed on their side to keep the airway clear; suspected spinal injury requires the casualty to be kept still.

Blood alcohol limit

In England and Wales the legal limit is 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood; Scotland applies a lower limit of 50 mg per 100 ml.

Unfit through drugs

Riding while unfit through drink or drugs is an offence even when below the prescribed limit, if the rider's ability to ride is impaired.

Medicine warning labels

Prescription and over-the-counter medicines can impair riding; the label warning must be heeded and the rider must not ride if affected.

Alcohol elimination

There is no reliable way to speed up the removal of alcohol from the body; only time reduces blood alcohol concentration.

MOT requirement

A motorcycle over three years old requires a current MOT certificate, together with valid insurance and vehicle tax, to be used on a public road.

Provisional licence rules

A provisional motorcycle licence holder must display L plates front and rear, must not carry a pillion passenger, and must not use a motorway.

CBT certificate validity

A compulsory basic training certificate is valid for two years; the rider must pass the theory and practical tests within that period to progress.