Vehicle control and braking
What the exam tests
This domain tests smooth control of an A2 motorcycle: moving off, low-speed balance, steering, cornering, using both brakes and performing an emergency stop. A2 machines are lighter and less powerful than full A machines, but the physics of grip, weight transfer and braking are the same.
Core rules
- Before moving off, check mirrors, blind spot, neutral or first gear, clutch and brake. Move off with smooth clutch release and gentle throttle.
- At walking pace, use the clutch friction zone, light rear brake and a little throttle. Keep your head up and look where you want to go.
- At road speed, steering is mainly by countersteering: a gentle push on the right bar leans the bike right, and a push on the left bar leans it left.
- Brake with both brakes. On dry asphalt the front brake provides most of the stopping power; the rear adds stability. Apply the front progressively rather than grabbing it.
- ABS prevents wheel lock but does not shorten every stop, especially on gravel or loose surfaces. Keep braking pressure applied and let the system work.
- Slow down before a bend, look through the curve, maintain a steady line and accelerate gently on exit. Avoid hard braking while leaned over.
- Use engine braking and a lower gear for long descents. Do not coast with the clutch pulled in.
Worked example
You are riding at 70 km/h on a wet road when a car pulls out. You are upright. Close the throttle, apply the front brake progressively and add light rear brake, keeping the bike straight and looking for an escape gap. At 70 km/h you cover about 19 m in one second, so the stop needs space and smooth pressure. If ABS pulses, keep squeezing; releasing the brake restarts the wheel and lengthens the stop.
Traps
Using only the rear brake; grabbing the front brake; braking hard mid-corner; target-fixating on the hazard instead of the escape route; forgetting that wet paint, manhole covers and gravel reduce grip sharply.