Vehicle Maintenance, Fuel, and Environmental Awareness
What this domain tests
This domain covers basic maintenance, correct fuel handling, and reducing the motorcycle's environmental impact. The exam links neglect to breakdowns and pollution.
Maintenance essentials
Check engine oil, brake fluid, coolant where fitted, tyre pressure, chain slack, and lights regularly. Clean and lubricate the chain, and replace worn brake pads before they damage the disc. A poorly maintained engine burns more fuel and emits more smoke. Keep the air filter clean and the spark plug in good condition.
Fuel and environment
Use the fuel grade recommended for your motorcycle. Do not overfill; spillage damages paint and pollutes the ground. Switch off the engine while refuelling and never use a naked flame. Do not store petrol in open containers. Dispose of used oil, batteries, and tyres at proper collection points, not in rivers or open ground. Avoid unnecessary idling and aggressive acceleration.
Worked example
Your motorcycle emits black smoke and has poor mileage. The likely cause is a rich fuel mixture or a clogged air filter. The correct action is to have the carburettor or fuel injection checked and the filter cleaned. Reasoning: too much fuel for the available air wastes fuel and increases emissions.
Traps that cost marks
Ignoring chain slack, using the wrong fuel, and dumping used oil are common. Assuming a noisy engine is normal and delaying service are also costly.