Motorcycle Vehicle Knowledge and Maintenance
Motorcycle Vehicle Knowledge and Maintenance
This domain tests pre-ride checks and basic fault recognition. A motorcycle is more sensitive than a car to tyre pressure, chain condition and brake adjustment, so small maintenance faults become safety faults quickly.
Core rules
- Check tyre pressure when tyres are cold, using the pressure in the owner's manual; check tread depth and sidewall damage.
- Check chain slack and lubrication; a dry or over-tight chain can fail or damage bearings.
- Test both brakes at walking speed and check brake fluid level and pad wear.
- Check lights, horn, mirrors, indicators and reflectors before every ride.
- Check oil and fuel levels, cables for fraying, and the battery terminals for looseness.
Worked example
A rider notices the chain looks tight and adds no lubricant. The correct action is to consult the manual, adjust slack to specification and lubricate the chain. The reasoning: an over-tight chain loads the output bearing and suspension, while a dry chain wears rapidly and can snap. Tightening by feel alone is not a specification.
Traps that cost marks
- Checking tyre pressure after a long ride when tyres are hot.
- Ignoring a spongy brake lever or low brake fluid.
- Using the wrong oil or overfilling the engine.
- Treating a flickering indicator or dim headlight as a minor issue.