CA Motorcycle Permit Test flashcards

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

Countersteering

At speeds above about 12 mph, pushing the handlebar grip on the side you want to turn causes the bike to lean and turn in that direction.

Two-second following rule

Stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead in good conditions; add a second in rain or on gravel to allow reaction time.

Front brake power

The front brake provides most of a motorcycle's stopping force on pavement; squeeze it progressively while also using the rear brake.

Braking in a curve

Complete most braking before entering a curve, then maintain a steady throttle through the lean and accelerate gently toward the exit.

Swerving technique

Keep the bike upright, push the grip toward the direction of the swerve, then push the opposite grip to straighten and continue.

Traction budget

Lean angle, braking, and acceleration all use available tire grip; combining hard braking with deep lean risks a slide.

Oily lane center

Oil and fluids drip from cars into the middle of a lane, especially at intersections, so the wheel tracks usually offer better grip.

Stopped at intersection

Keep the bike in first gear, hold the front brake, and watch mirrors so you can move if traffic approaches from behind.

Full lane right

A motorcycle is entitled to the entire width of a lane, and no other vehicle may share that lane or pass within it.

Lane splitting limits

California permits lane splitting only when done safely and within legal limits; splitting at excessive speed or recklessly can be cited.

Helmet law

California requires a DOT-compliant helmet for every rider and passenger, plus eye protection unless the motorcycle has a windshield.

Hand signals

Hand signals may substitute for turn signals when a motorcycle's signals are not working, and must be given clearly before turning.

Passenger requirements

A passenger needs a proper seat and footrests; carrying someone on a motorcycle not designed for two people is illegal.

Headlight always on

California requires motorcycle headlights to be on at all times while riding, day or night, to increase visibility to other drivers.

Single rider per lane

In California, only one motorcycle may occupy a lane at a time; two riders may not ride side by side in the same lane.

Prohibited surfaces

Motorcycles may not be ridden on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, or bicycle lanes except where the law expressly allows it.

Rider invisibility

Assume drivers do not see you; position yourself where you appear in their mirrors and avoid lingering in blind spots.

Left-turn hazard

A vehicle turning left across your path is a leading cause of motorcycle crashes; watch front wheels and be ready to brake or swerve.

Twelve-second scan

Look about twelve seconds ahead to spot hazards early and identify escape routes, while keeping a cushion on all sides.

Slippery surfaces

Gravel, sand, wet leaves, painted lines, and metal grates reduce traction; cross them upright and avoid braking while on them.

Wind and trucks

Large trucks create buffeting and wind gusts push the bike; increase following distance and countersteer into the gust to stay steady.

Door zone

When passing parked cars, ride outside the door zone and watch for doors opening or vehicles pulling out into your path.

Night riding caution

At night, reduce speed and increase following distance because headlight range limits how early you can see hazards.

Blind spot check

If you cannot see a driver's face in their mirror, they likely cannot see you; move out of that blind spot promptly.

Motorcycle permit rules

A California motorcycle permit allows riding only in daylight, without passengers, and not on freeways until a license is obtained.

Class M1 license

A Class M1 license permits operating motorcycles and mopeds; a Class M2 license covers mopeds only.

Under-21 course

Applicants under 21 must complete a California Motorcyclist Safety Program course before receiving a motorcycle permit or license.

DOT helmet standard

A legal helmet must meet FMVSS 218 and carry a DOT label; novelty helmets do not satisfy California's helmet requirement.

Required equipment

Motorcycles need a working headlight, taillight, brake light, horn, mirror, and turn signals if the bike was originally equipped with them.

Permit passenger ban

A rider holding only a motorcycle permit may not carry passengers and may not ride on freeways or at night.

Minimum insurance

A motorcycle must carry at least the state minimum liability insurance to be operated legally on public roads in California.

Plate visibility

A motorcycle must be registered with a license plate that is properly mounted and clearly visible; obscured plates violate the law.