Japan Large Motorcycle Theory flashcards

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

Large motorcycle definition

A two-wheeled vehicle with engine displacement over 400 cc, requiring a large motorcycle licence obtained at age 18 or older.

Expressway passenger rule

A rider may carry a passenger on the expressway only if aged 20 or older and holding the licence for at least 3 years.

General road speed limit

The default limit is 60 km/h unless signs indicate otherwise; expressway limits may reach 100 km/h where posted.

Right-turn priority

A motorcycle turning right must yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning left at an intersection.

Two-second following rule

Maintain at least the distance travelled in 2 seconds at speeds up to 60 km/h, increasing to 3 seconds in rain.

Front brake share

The front brake provides roughly 70-80% of stopping force on dry pavement; apply both brakes progressively.

Cornering sequence

Slow before the curve while upright, look through the turn, maintain constant throttle, and accelerate gently after the apex.

Target fixation

The tendency to steer toward whatever the rider stares at; keep eyes on the escape path, not the hazard.

Chain slack specification

Typical free play is 20-30 mm at the chain midpoint; adjust at the rear axle and check for tight spots.

Tyre replacement threshold

Replace tyres when tread depth reaches 1.6 mm or the wear indicator shows; check pressure cold before every ride.

Brake fluid interval

DOT 4 fluid absorbs moisture and should be replaced every 2 years regardless of mileage to maintain braking performance.

Shaken inspection cycle

Motorcycles over 250 cc require inspection every 2 years; 125-250 cc every 3 years; 50-125 cc are exempt.

Battery voltage check

A 12 V battery at rest should read about 12.6 V; charging voltage with the engine running is 13.5-14.5 V.

No-entry sign

A red circle with a white horizontal bar prohibits entry; a blue circle with a white arrow marks a one-way direction.

Solid yellow center line

A solid yellow center line prohibits passing and crossing; a broken white line permits lane changes when safe.

Flashing red signal

At a railway crossing a flashing red signal means stop; a flashing yellow at an intersection means proceed with caution.

Motorcycle-only lane sign

A blue circle with a motorcycle symbol designates a lane reserved for motorcycles; other vehicles may not enter except to turn.

Emergency braking technique

Squeeze both brakes firmly and progressively while upright; if ABS engages, maintain lever pressure and steer.

Front-wheel lock recovery

If the front wheel locks, release the brake lever immediately and reapply pressure progressively to regain control.

Hazard scanning distance

Look 12-15 seconds ahead, about 100 m at 60 km/h, and check mirrors every 5-8 seconds.

Tyre blowout response

Hold the bars firmly, avoid hard braking, ease off the throttle gradually, and steer to the shoulder before stopping.

Helmet requirement

Both rider and passenger must wear a properly fastened approved helmet on all roads at all times.

Passenger seating rule

A passenger must sit astride the seat facing forward with feet on the footrests; side-saddle riding is prohibited.

Cargo weight limit

Load must not exceed 60 kg on a large motorcycle and must be securely fastened without obstructing lights or mirrors.

Minimum passenger age

A passenger under 16 may not ride on a motorcycle, and children under 6 must not be carried.

Six-point penalty

Reaching 6 points within one year triggers a 30-day licence suspension; 9 points triggers 60 days and 12 points 90 days.

Drunk riding penalty

Drunk riding carries 25 points and immediate licence revocation, with a mandatory 3-year wait before re-acquiring a licence.

Points cancellation period

Points are cancelled after 1 year without violations, or after 3 years for a licence with no violations in that period.

Gold licence renewal

A gold licence is valid for 5 years and requires no violations in the previous 5 years before renewal.

Idling stop rule

Turn off the engine when stopped for more than about 30 seconds to reduce emissions and noise in line with local ordinances.

Exhaust noise regulation

Modifying the exhaust to increase noise violates the Road Transport Vehicle Act and can cause inspection failure and fines.

Environmental riding

Smooth acceleration and steady speed reduce fuel consumption and emissions; avoid unnecessary high-rev riding.

Illegal parking consequence

Parking on sidewalks or in front of shops can result in a fine and the motorcycle being towed away.