Safe Riding: Positioning, Braking, Cornering, and Hazard Avoidance
This domain tests lane positioning, braking technique, cornering lines, and hazard avoidance. Expect questions on following distance, which brake does most of the work, and what to do when a curve tightens or a hazard appears.
Positioning and following
- Use the full lane; choose left, center, or right for visibility and escape space. Avoid the oily center at intersections.
- Keep at least a two-second following distance and add time for rain, night, or gravel.
Braking and cornering
- Use both brakes; the front brake provides most stopping power. Squeeze progressively rather than grabbing.
- Slow before the curve, look through the turn, and roll on gently as you exit. Do not brake hard while leaned.
Hazard avoidance
- Swerve or brake, not both at maximum. Pick an escape path and keep the bike upright over slick or uneven surfaces.
Worked example
A rider enters a right-hand curve and realizes it is tighter than expected. He looks through the curve toward the exit, avoids grabbing the front brake, and gently reduces speed before adding throttle. If he had to stop, he would straighten the bike first, then brake firmly with both brakes. Reasoning: tires have limited traction while leaned; separating braking from leaning preserves grip and stability.
Traps that cost marks
Braking hard in a lean; staring at the hazard instead of the escape path; using only the rear brake; following too closely to see around a vehicle; entering a curve too fast.