Germany Category A2 Theory Test flashcards

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

Right-before-left rule

At uncontrolled junctions with no priority signs, lights or officer, vehicles yield to traffic approaching from the right. The rule does not apply where a priority road sign or signal controls the junction.

Reaction distance formula

Reaction distance in metres equals speed in km/h divided by 10, multiplied by 3, assuming about one second of reaction time. At 50 km/h this gives roughly 15 metres.

Braking distance rule of thumb

Braking distance in metres is approximately the speed in km/h divided by 10, squared. At 50 km/h this is about 25 metres on dry asphalt; doubling speed quadruples the distance.

Two-second rule

Maintain at least two seconds of gap to the vehicle ahead in dry conditions. Double it to four seconds in rain and increase further on ice, snow or loose surfaces.

Countersteering

Above walking pace, pushing the right handlebar forward leans the motorcycle right and initiates a right turn. Steering input and lean direction are directly linked, not opposed.

Target fixation

A motorcycle tends to follow the rider's gaze. Looking at a hazard or the kerb pulls the bike toward it, so riders should look at the intended path through the corner.

Minimum tread depth

German law requires at least 1.6 mm of tread across the central three-quarters of a motorcycle tyre. Wet grip degrades noticeably below about 3 mm, so earlier replacement is advisable.

Cold tyre pressure check

Tyre pressure must be measured when the tyre is cold. A hot tyre reads higher and must never be bled down to the cold specification, because that leaves it under-inflated.

Chain slack adjustment

Chain slack is measured at the midpoint of the lower run and set to the manufacturer's specification. An over-tight chain damages wheel bearings and suspension, while a loose chain can derail.

Pillion passenger age

In Germany a pillion passenger must be at least seven years old and use a proper seat with footrests. Novice riders in the probationary period may not carry passengers.

Motorcycle trailer limits

Trailers may be towed only by motorcycles over 125 cm³, with a maximum trailer width of 1.0 m and a maximum speed of 60 km/h. Lights and plates must remain visible.

Alcohol limit for novices

Riders in the probationary period and riders under 21 have a 0.0‰ limit. For all other riders the limit is 0.5‰, and 1.1‰ is an absolute offence regardless of visible impairment.

Fatigue countermeasure

Coffee, fresh air and loud music do not restore alertness. Only sleep does, so the practical response is to stop, take a short nap of 15 to 20 minutes and then continue.

Fuel-efficient riding

Smooth acceleration, early upshifts, steady throttle and anticipation of traffic reduce fuel use. Correct tyre pressure and a clean air filter also lower consumption by reducing resistance.

Emergency call content

Call 112 and state the location, what happened, the number of injured people and the type of injuries. Wait for the dispatcher's questions before ending the call.

Motorway breakdown procedure

Move to the hard shoulder, switch on hazard lights, put on the high-visibility vest, place the warning triangle about 100 m behind, and wait behind the guardrail.

Helmet removal rule

Do not remove a crashed motorcyclist's helmet unless breathing is obstructed. Removing it can worsen a cervical spine injury, so leave it to trained emergency personnel.

Warning triangle distance

Place the warning triangle about 100 m behind the scene on motorways, about 50 m on country roads, and 50 to 100 m where visibility is limited by a bend or hill.

Green arrow at junctions

A green arrow sign permits turning right against a red light only after stopping at the line and yielding to crossing traffic. It does not grant priority over pedestrians or cyclists.

Flashing amber signal

Flashing amber means the traffic lights are out of order. The junction then reverts to the posted priority signs, or to the right-before-left rule if no signs are present.

Fog visibility limit

When visibility drops below 50 m due to fog, snow or rain, the maximum speed is 50 km/h on all roads. Riders must be able to stop within the visible distance.

Wet brake recovery

After riding through deep water, brakes lose effectiveness. Dry them by applying the brakes gently while riding slowly until normal braking force returns.

Overtaking a cyclist

When overtaking a cyclist, keep at least 1.5 m of lateral clearance in built-up areas and 2.0 m outside built-up areas. Reduce speed and check for oncoming traffic first.

Rescue lane formation

In a traffic jam, form a rescue lane between the leftmost lane and the next lane so emergency vehicles can pass. Forming it early is a legal duty, not a courtesy.

Parking distance from junction

Parking is prohibited within 5 m of junctions, pedestrian crossings and traffic lights. The limit exists to keep sightlines clear for all road users.

Insurance at the scene

Exchange insurance details after a crash and complete a European accident report. Do not admit fault at the scene; report the facts to your insurer, which assesses liability.

Hit-and-run offence

Leaving the scene of an accident, even with minor damage, is a criminal offence. Wait a reasonable time for the other party or report the incident to the police.

Helmet approval standard

Look for ECE 22.06 approval when buying a helmet. A helmet that has been dropped or involved in an impact may have a compressed liner and should be replaced.

Brake lever feel check

A firm brake lever and pedal indicate a healthy hydraulic system. A spongy lever suggests air in the system or low fluid and must be checked before riding.

Risk homeostasis

Fitting safety features such as ABS can lead riders to ride faster, cancelling the safety gain. The benefit only appears when riding behaviour stays constant after the upgrade.

Motorway merging

Use the acceleration lane to match traffic speed, signal, check the blind spot and merge without forcing other drivers to brake. Traffic already on the motorway has priority.

Turning across oncoming traffic

A rider turning left must yield to oncoming vehicles and to pedestrians crossing the road being entered. A rider turning right must yield to cyclists and pedestrians continuing straight.